The best traffic-free bike rides in Chugach State Park
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No traffic touring cycling routes in Chugach State Park traverse a vast wilderness characterized by rugged mountains, lush valleys, and expansive glaciers. The park features diverse ecosystems, including boreal woodlands and alpine tundras, with elevations ranging from sea-level mudflats to mile-high peaks. Glacial lakes like Eklutna Lake and the Eagle River Valley offer scenic routes, while the Chugach Mountains provide panoramic views of the surrounding Alaskan landscape.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Chugach State Park
- The most popularโฆ
Last updated: April 27, 2026
13
riders
16.4km
01:34
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
14.5km
01:27
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
7.30km
00:42
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
9.32km
00:53
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
6.52km
00:39
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Significant non-motorized trail improvements have been made this summer (no more washed-out segments). Lakeside path is open to just beyond 5 miles as crews continue trail work as of 8/29/24)
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This is sometimes called the German bridge, because it was funded by the German Club of Anchorage. It's a popular biking destination and non-technical enough that a confident rider can do it on almost any bike with good tires. There's even a bike rack here so you can park your ride and hike the rest of the way to Hidden Lake if you so desire. (Biking is only allowed on the south side of the bridge.)
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This powerline maintenance road is hugely popular and leads to some great side hikes. It's best-suited for mountain bikes, but as long as you're not on skinny road tires the biking is surprisingly decent. Once you get a few miles down the valley, the trail does start to narrow and get rockier, so let your comfort level be the guide for how far you bike. Please also be aware of how to handle encounters with wildlife like bears and moose, as they're pretty commonly seen in this valley.
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This bowl contains the first of two trailside lakes, and it's a really pleasant destination for camping or a picnic. The trail continues on to the pass but at this point is getting really narrow and rocky compared to the way it started out; there may be some little creeks running across the trail, too. So if you're not on a mountain bike, the ride probably won't be much fun from this point onward (and honestly, you might even want to turn around sooner).
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This is a super-popular place to watch for moose, which tend to congregate in the valley during the fall rut. Bring binoculars to help you tell what you're looking at; I've spent long minutes staring at what turned out to be somewhat moosey-looking bushes. You may see people looking for moose here during spring and summer, too; they're just harder to spot.
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This trail is actually a dirt road, and as long as conditions are dry it's surprisingly decent biking as long as you don't have skinny road tires. The trail actually continues to some primitive campgrounds past the far end of the lake and is great for bikepacking, but if you're not on a mountain bike you might want to leave yourself an out to turn around not along after crossing Bold Creek (on a bridge). Watch out for ATV traffic that is allowed on the road/trail Sunday through Wednesday. There are a series of foot- and bike-traffic-only detours from the road that help separate you from the motorized traffic on those days, but those side trails are sometimes washed out, so you if you go that way there could be stretches where you have to dismount your bike and push it.
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This is the gravel shore of Eklutna Lake, which is absolutely lousy for riding on most bikes but wonderful for a pre- or post-ride picnic and marveling at the lake, which really is a gem of the greater Anchorage area. Interestingly, it's also the drinking water reservoir for Anchorage.
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Once upon a time you would have had to splash through the creek and get your feet wet. Nowadays, you can jog easily across what is often called the "German Bridge," because a German Club funded its construction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Chugach State Park?
Chugach State Park offers a wide selection of no-traffic touring cycling routes, with over 50 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including more than 30 easy routes and 20 moderate ones, ensuring a suitable ride for almost every cyclist.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Chugach State Park?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Chugach State Park feature diverse terrain. You'll find everything from mostly paved, flat trails like the Eklutna Lakeside Trail, ideal for leisurely rides, to more challenging unpaved segments with moderate elevation changes, such as parts of the Powerline Pass Trail. The park's landscape includes temperate rainforests, boreal woodlands, and alpine tundras, providing varied scenery throughout your ride.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes in Chugach State Park?
Yes, Chugach State Park has several family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes. The Eklutna Lakeside Trail is particularly popular, offering a mostly paved, easy ride with minimal elevation gain, perfect for families with children. Its scenic views and gentle gradient make it an enjoyable experience for all ages.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Chugach State Park is rich in natural beauty. Along your no-traffic cycling routes, you can encounter stunning features like Eklutna Lake and the Eklutna Glacier. Other notable attractions include Thunderbird Falls, a beautiful waterfall, and the panoramic views from Glen Alps Trailhead, which offers vistas of Anchorage, the Alaska Range, and Cook Inlet. You might also spot wildlife such as moose and Dall sheep.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Chugach State Park?
The best time for touring cycling in Chugach State Park is generally during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall (May to September). During this period, trails are typically clear of snow, and the weather is more favorable. Summer offers long daylight hours and lush scenery, while early fall brings vibrant autumn colors.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic touring cycling in the park?
Yes, there are loop options available for no-traffic touring cycling. For example, the South Fork Falls Overlook loop from Eagle Crossing Homeowner's Association provides a moderate, circular route. Additionally, the Janice's Jive โ Gasline Trail loop from Far North Bicentennial Park offers another moderate loop experience, allowing you to start and end at the same point.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Chugach State Park?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Chugach State Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the park's stunning natural beauty, the tranquility of the car-free trails, and the diverse landscapes that range from glacial lakes to mountain vistas. The accessibility from Anchorage while feeling completely immersed in wilderness is also a frequently highlighted aspect.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many trails within Chugach State Park are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are permitted on leash on most multi-use trails. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them to maintain the pristine environment for all users.
Is parking available at the trailheads for these no-traffic routes?
Yes, parking is generally available at major trailheads throughout Chugach State Park, including those that access no-traffic touring cycling routes. Popular starting points like the Eklutna Lake entrance and Glen Alps Trailhead offer designated parking areas. Some parking areas may require a day-use fee or a State Parks pass.
Can I access Chugach State Park's no-traffic cycling routes using public transport?
While Chugach State Park is easily accessible by car from Anchorage, direct public transport options to many specific trailheads within the park are limited. However, some routes, particularly those closer to Anchorage or connecting to urban bike paths (like the 'Mountains to Sea' concept), might be reachable with a combination of public transport and a short ride. It's advisable to check local transit schedules and routes for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Absolutely. Chugach State Park is home to over 30 easy touring cycling routes that are perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. The Eklutna Lakeside Trail is an excellent choice, offering a relatively flat and well-maintained path with beautiful scenery, making it very accessible for less experienced cyclists.
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