Anchorage: Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Bike Tour & Wildlife

Summary

Bike Anchorage’s wild coast past moose, mountains and old stories

You’ll pedal Anchorage’s Tony Knowles Coastal Trail with a local guide, watching for moose in Kincaid Park and pausing at Earthquake Park to hear stories from Alaska’s past. Expect salty breezes off Cook Inlet, glimpses of Denali if you’re lucky, snacks along the way — plus pickup so you don’t have to worry about logistics.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of the van at Kincaid Park, helmets in hand and that sharp spruce smell in the air — I remember my shoes crunching on gravel while our guide, Jamie, checked our bikes. She pointed out a hill that used to hide missile silos (which I honestly would’ve missed), then nudged us toward the trail. The first few minutes were all shade and birdsong, with someone up ahead laughing about bear spray — turns out you don’t need it here, but moose? Yeah, keep your eyes open.

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail sort of unspools beneath you. One minute you’re coasting under cottonwoods, the next there’s this sudden view: Cook Inlet stretching flat and silver, mountains stacked behind it. Jamie stopped us at Point Woronzof so we could try to spot Denali — no luck for me that day (clouds), but she swore it’s there if you’re patient. The wind picked up and I could taste salt on my lips. It felt like the kind of place where time just slips sideways for a bit.

Earthquake Park was next — not exactly cheerful history but weirdly fascinating. Jamie told us about the 1964 quake while we stood on ground that still looked unsettled. There’s something sobering about seeing trees all tilted and remembering how much can change in a few minutes. After that we cruised down to Westchester Lagoon; salmon were running (tiny splashes everywhere) and a kid waved at us from the bird sanctuary boardwalk. My legs were tired by then but I didn’t really want to stop pedaling yet.

I still think about how quiet it got sometimes between stops — just tire hum and wind. Anchorage felt both close and far away at once. So yeah, if you’re looking for a day trip from Anchorage that feels part city, part wild edge-of-everything… this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Leisurely bike ride along coastal trail

• Begin at Kincaid Park wooded hills
• See Cold War missile silos and watch for moose
• Get fitted for helmet and bike
• Bike to Point Woronzof for views
• View Denali and Cook Inlet panorama
• Learn about 1964 Good Friday earthquake
• Stop at Westchester Lagoon bird sanctuary
• Watch salmon spawning (seasonal)
• Experience Cook Inlet and Anchorage history

Top questions

How long is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail bike tour?

The ride covers the main stretch from Kincaid Park through Anchorage with several stops; expect a leisurely half-day outing.

Is hotel pickup included for this Anchorage bike tour?

Yes, round-trip transportation from downtown Anchorage is included in your booking.

Are bikes and helmets provided on the tour?

Yes, high-quality bikes fitted to your size plus helmets are provided by the guides.

Will I see wildlife like moose on this day trip?

You might spot moose along the trail—especially near Kincaid Park—but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

What happens if it rains during the Tony Knowles bike tour?

The tour operates in all weather; rain jackets are provided if needed—just dress appropriately for conditions.

Is this Anchorage bike tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for all fitness levels with easy pacing and plenty of stops along the way.

Does this tour include lunch or snacks?

Snacks are included during your ride; lunch is not provided.

What age is required to join this bike tour?

The minimum age is 10 years old; children must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip pickup from downtown Anchorage in a Mercedes Sprinter van, use of a quality bike with helmet and rain jacket if needed, snacks along the route, all taxes and fees covered, plus friendly narration from your local biking guide before drop-off back downtown.