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Routes
Running Trails
United States
Alaska
Kenai Peninsula Borough

Hope

Routes
Running Trails
United States
Alaska
Kenai Peninsula Borough

Hope

The best running trails around Hope

By Fede from komoot

ยท

Updated June 4, 2026

If you've ever tried planning your jogging around Hope, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails and paths, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it, and that's exactly why we've put together this guide.

Our komoot community has mapped, run, and reviewed the best jogging routes in the area, so you don't have to guess. This isn't just a recycled list; it's a curated shortlist of the trails that truly deliver, saving you the guesswork and getting you straight to the good stuff. Hope itself is defined by its mountainous backdrops, lush river valleys, and dense rainforests, sitting at the confluence of the Fraser and Coquihalla rivers with Kawkawa Lake nearby. While the region offers diverse landscapes, be prepared: the standout routes here are generally on the more challenging side.

If you're looking for a substantial, challenging run that local runners love, we'd start with the Bird to Gird Trail, a 14.3 miles (23.0 km) route with a steady climb that offers a true test of endurance. For a shorter, but equally demanding experience with significant elevation, the Bird Ridge Trail loop from Bird Creek at 4.0 miles (6.5 km) is a fantastic option. More than 19 runners have already used komoot to explore Hope's varied terrain, so dive in and find your next favorite route!

If you only do 2 of these routes

  1. 1

    Bird to Gird Trail

  2. 2

    Bird to Gird Pathway

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Bird to Gird Trail

23.0ย km

150ย m

Hard

Bird to Gird Pathway

20.2ย km

160ย m

Hard

1.

Bird to Gird Trail

23.0km

02:23

150m

150m

If you're looking for a truly scenic and challenging paved route, the Bird to Gird Trail delivers a memorable experience along Turnagain Arm. This 14.3-mile (23.0 km) jogging route features 494 feet (150 metres) of elevation gain, winding through diverse landscapes from dense forests to open coastal views. Expect undulating terrain with some steep sections, particularly east of Bird Point, but also flat stretches built on an old rail bed. The journey offers constant visual rewards, including glimpses of glaciers, mountains, and the unique "ethereal forest of dead, skeletal trees" that stands as a testament to the 1964 earthquake.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with multiple access points like Bird Point Access. The trail is fully paved and wheelchair accessible, equipped with numerous rest stops, benches, and picnic tables for your convenience. While it's a popular spot for joggers, you'll share the path with walkers and cyclists. Given its length and difficulty, allow approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes for a complete jogging trip, and consider starting early to enjoy the views and wildlife in peace.

Designated as a National Recreation Trail, the Bird to Gird Trail is celebrated for its world-class outdoor experience and abundant wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for beluga whales in the inlet, Dall sheep on the mountainsides, and various birdlife, especially from mid-May to July. The trail also boasts interpretive signs that provide insights into the local geology, wildlife, and history, enriching your run with educational tidbits about this stunning Alaskan landscape.

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2.

Bird to Gird Pathway

20.2km

02:06

160m

160m

The Bird to Gird Pathway offers a truly unique jogging experience, tracing the stunning Turnagain Arm with ever-present views of glacier-covered mountains and the Chugach State Park. You'll navigate a paved surface that winds through spruce and birch forests, occasionally passing marshy tidewater turf, all while keeping an eye out for beluga whales in the inlet or moose on land. This 12.5-mile (20.2 km) route, rated difficult, provides a dynamic journey that feels both wild and accessible.

Planning your run on the Bird to Gird Pathway is straightforward, though you should be prepared for its length and elevation. The trail has 535 feet (163 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete, so bring water and snacks. Parking is available at spots like Bird Point, and you'll find convenient rest stops with benches and restrooms along the way. While accessible year-round, the trail is not maintained in winter, so aim for warmer months for the best jogging conditions.

What makes this route stand out is its status as a designated National Recreation Trail, recognized for its exceptional beauty and infrastructure. The pathway largely follows the old Seward Highway alignment, contributing to its impressive vistas. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs detailing local geology and wildlife, and you might even spot mountain goats or bald eagles. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Alaska's dramatic coastal landscape.

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Tips from the Community

Lisa
September 7, 2023, Forested section of trail

Wildlife encounters are possible anywhere along the length of the Bird to Gird Trail, but they seem more likely in this section, which has a particularly winding, forested section of trail. Some runners and bikers carry bear spray because of that.

1

0

Lisa
September 7, 2023, Bird to Gird Trail (eastern end)

This end of the Bird to Gird Trail sits in the funky little ski town of Girdwood โ€” the "Gird" part of this title. The paved trail ties in to the offices of Chugach National Forest (to the north) and a gas station to the south, which serves as a major landmark/turnoff for drivers trying to get to Girdwood. There is limited bus service in Girdwood, but no regular public transport between Girdwood and Anchorage.

0

0

Lisa
September 7, 2023, Bird Point Access

This marks the intersection of the Bird to Gird Trail with an access trail from Bird Point on the far side of the highway. Bird Point has a good-size parking lot and is a good starting/ending place for a run, or just a spot to read up on bore tides and enjoy a nice viewing platform across the water. From here, you reach the point via a tunnel that passes underneath the highway.

1

0

Lisa
September 7, 2023, Bird to Gird Trail (western end)

Although this paved multi-use trail is popularly known as the Bird to Gird Trail, it actually extends farther went that Bird, starting here near the small community of Indian. If you were to run out and back along the whole length of the trail, it'd be roughly equivalent to a marathon โ€” if marathons came with dramatic mountains on one side and sweeping views across the waters of Turnagain Arm on the other.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of terrain can I expect on running trails around Hope?

Hope's running trails offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find routes winding through dense, green rainforests and along scenic river valleys, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cascade Mountains. While some trails, like the ones featured in this guide, are quite challenging with significant elevation, other areas like the historic Othello Tunnels offer relatively flat, multi-use pathways.

Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running routes in Hope?

While the routes highlighted in this guide are considered difficult, Hope offers several options suitable for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed run. The Othello Tunnels provide a unique, relatively flat path through historic tunnels. Additionally, the Rotary Nature Trail runs alongside the Fraser River, offering an easy, flat jog, and a hidden trail around Kawkawa Lake provides a pleasant route through temperate rainforest.

What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features to look out for while jogging in Hope?

Hope is rich with natural beauty. You can enjoy expansive views over the town from the Hope Lookout Trail, or panoramic vistas from 6,000 feet on the Hope Mountain Summit Trail. The region is bordered by the Fraser and Coquihalla rivers, and the beautiful Kawkawa Lake. Don't miss the dramatic Coquihalla Canyon, home to the historic Othello Tunnels, or the stunning McHugh Falls and Overlook.

Are there any circular running routes available in the Hope area?

Yes, there are circular options for runners. For instance, the Bird Ridge Point loop from Indian Creek is a notable circular trail. Additionally, the hidden trail around Kawkawa Lake offers a pleasant loop through the temperate rainforest.

Can I bring my dog on the running trails around Hope?

Many outdoor trails in Hope are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a run with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them. Specific regulations may vary by trail, so it's always a good idea to check local signage.

What are the typical lengths and durations of running routes in Hope?

Running routes in Hope vary significantly in length and duration. For example, the Bird to Gird Trail is a challenging 14.3 miles (23.0 km) route that typically takes around 2 hours 23 minutes to complete. Shorter options like the Bird Ridge Trail loop from Indian Creek cover about 2.5 miles (4.0 km) and can be completed in just over an hour.

Are there any family-friendly options for jogging or walking with children in Hope?

Absolutely. For families, the Othello Tunnels offer a unique and relatively flat experience suitable for all ages. Kawkawa Lake Park provides a peaceful setting with amenities like a swimming beach and picnic tables, and its surrounding trail is great for a leisurely family jog. The Rotary Nature Trail is another easy, flat option along the Fraser River.

Where can I find parking for the running trails in Hope?

Parking is available at various trailheads and attractions. For example, Rainbow Trailhead and parking is a designated spot. Kawkawa Lake Park and Rotary Centennial Park also offer convenient access and parking for their respective trails.

What makes the running experience in Hope unique?

Hope offers a truly unique running experience due to its blend of dramatic landscapes and historical features. You can jog through lush rainforests, along powerful rivers, or even through the historic Othello Tunnels. The mountainous backdrops and diverse terrain provide a constantly changing and engaging environment for runners of all levels.

What do other runners say about the trails in Hope?

The running routes around Hope are popular among the komoot community, with over 19 runners having explored the varied terrain. Users often praise the challenging nature of the trails and the stunning natural scenery, from mountainous vistas to serene river paths.

Are there any waterfalls to see along the running routes?

Yes, you can incorporate a visit to a beautiful waterfall into your running adventure. The McHugh Falls and Overlook is a notable natural feature in the area, offering a scenic stop or destination during your run.

What is the best time of year to go running in Hope?

Hope's lush rainforests and diverse landscapes make it an appealing destination for running throughout much of the year. While challenging trails with significant elevation might be best enjoyed in milder seasons, the beauty of the region, especially along rivers and lakes, can be appreciated in various conditions. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.

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