Tony Knowles Coastal Trail | Anchorage

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a scenic, multi-use trail running along the coastline of Anchorage, spanning approximately 11 miles (17.7 km) from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park. Named after former Alaska Governor Tony Knowles, it offers both recreational and interpretive experiences, connecting the city to the Chugach Mountains, Cook Inlet, and coastal wetlands. The trail is one of Anchorage’s most popular outdoor attractions for both locals and visitors.

Geography and Landscape

Route – The trail stretches from Downtown Anchorage near Westchester Lagoon, along the coastal edge, through parks and wetlands, ultimately reaching Kincaid Park at the southern tip of Anchorage.

Coastal Views – Offers sweeping vistas of Cook Inlet, distant Mount Susitna, and the Alaska Range across the water on clear days.

Wetlands and Wildlife Habitats – Sections pass through tidal flats, estuaries, and wetlands, which are home to migratory birds and coastal wildlife.

Forested Sections – Portions of the trail wind through spruce and birch forests, providing shade and diverse scenery.

Wildlife and Ecology
The trail traverses ecologically rich habitats, allowing for frequent wildlife observation:

Birds – Bald eagles, sandpipers, geese, and other migratory species can be seen along tidal flats and wetlands.

Mammals – Moose occasionally graze near trail edges, and foxes or small mammals are sometimes spotted in forested stretches.

Marine Life – The tidal flats of Cook Inlet occasionally reveal seals and other coastal creatures during low tide.

Recreational Activities

Cycling and Walking – The trail’s paved sections make it ideal for biking, running, walking, and rollerblading.

Cross-Country Skiing – In winter, snow-covered sections are used for skiing and snowshoeing.

Fitness and Leisure – Benches, scenic viewpoints, and interpretive signs encourage leisurely stops or vigorous exercise.

Photography and Nature Observation – Scenic vistas, wildlife sightings, and sunsets over the inlet make the trail a favorite for photographers.

Visitor Experience

Accessibility – The trail is mostly paved and well-maintained, with easy access points in downtown Anchorage, Earthquake Park, and Kincaid Park.

Layered Scenic Experience – Visitors move from urban waterfronts to natural wetlands, coastal views, and forested parklands, experiencing a seamless blend of city and wilderness.

Community Engagement – Seasonal events, guided walks, and recreational programs often take place along the trail, fostering local connection to nature.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Urban Recreation – The trail reflects Anchorage’s commitment to providing accessible outdoor recreation within urban proximity.

Historical Context – Portions pass near areas affected by the 1964 Alaska earthquake, with interpretive markers describing the event and its impact on the landscape.

Atmosphere and Impressions
The trail exudes a sense of openness and variety, moving from bustling city edges to serene coastal flats. Tidal patterns, migrating birds, and distant mountain silhouettes provide ever-changing vistas. Visitors often feel both the vitality of the city and the tranquility of nature, making it a layered, immersive outdoor experience.

Legacy
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a model of urban-wilderness integration, offering Anchorage residents and visitors a space to exercise, observe wildlife, and connect with Alaska’s coastal ecosystems. Its accessibility, scenic diversity, and recreational versatility make it a defining feature of Anchorage’s outdoor landscape.