The best cycling routes around Fairbanks

There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Fairbanks, offering a variety of experiences from easy city loops to more challenging rides with significant elevation.

Yes, Fairbanks offers many easy routes. For a shorter, accessible ride, consider the Ballaine Lake – Ballaine Lake & Picnic Shelter loop from University of Alaska Fairbanks, which is just over 5 miles. The Moose Antler Arch loop from University of Alaska Museum of the North is another easy option, spanning about 14.6 miles and exploring local landmarks.

Fairbanks' touring cycling routes feature a mix of terrain. You'll find flat riverside paths, routes through boreal forest, and paths offering views of the distant Alaskan Range. Some routes, like the Large Animal Research Station – Ballaine Lake loop from University of Alaska Fairbanks, include significant elevation gain, while many others are relatively flat.

Many routes offer views of the Chena River and the distant Alaskan Range. You can cycle past the Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, known for wildlife viewing, or explore the area around the Large Animal Research Station. The Chena River Greenway also provides serene views of the river and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Fairbanks are loops. Popular options include the Moose Antler Arch loop from University of Alaska Museum of the North and the Pioneer Park – Moose Antler Arch loop from Carlson Center, both offering circular paths to explore the city and its surroundings.

The touring cycling routes in Fairbanks are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from urban trails to routes with scenic views of the Alaskan wilderness, and the accessibility of different difficulty levels.

Absolutely. Routes like the Pioneer Park – Moose Antler Arch loop from Carlson Center will take you past Pioneer Park, which offers a glimpse into Fairbanks' frontier past with preserved buildings and exhibits, including the Harding Railroad Car (1905).

For more experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, the Large Animal Research Station – Ballaine Lake loop from University of Alaska Fairbanks is a difficult 26.9-mile route with significant elevation gain. Another good option is the Bike loop from Fairbanks, which covers about 20.5 miles.

The summer months are ideal for touring cycling in Fairbanks, thanks to the 'midnight sun' providing extended daylight hours for long rides. The weather is generally mild, making it comfortable for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.

Yes, Fairbanks embraces winter cycling. Local clubs organize fatbike tours on snow-packed trails, and several shops offer fatbike rentals, making it accessible to experience the unique winter landscape on two wheels.

Several routes incorporate the University of Alaska Fairbanks area. The Moose Antler Arch loop from University of Alaska Museum of the North starts near the campus, and the Large Animal Research Station – Ballaine Lake loop from University of Alaska Fairbanks also explores this area, offering access to the UAF trail system.

Fairbanks is rich in wildlife. Along the Chena River and in areas like Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, you might spot various bird species and migrating waterfowl. Moose are frequent visitors to the UAF trail system, and other wildlife like foxes and beavers can sometimes be seen along the Chena River.