Why the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Is a Must-Do in Anchorage?
Planning a trip to Anchorage and looking for the perfect mix of nature, wildlife, and easy access from the city? The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail delivers all that and more. This scenic 11-mile trail hugs the Cook Inlet shoreline, offering jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks, moose sightings, and bird watching opportunities. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail—where to start, how to rent a bike, the best scenic stops, bird-watching tips, and even top tours.
What Makes the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Special for Us
For Chris and me, a visit to Anchorage isn’t complete without time on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.
As photographers and wildlife lovers, we consider it one of the best bird watching spots in Anchorage. From the trail, you’ll enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the Anchorage skyline, framed by mountains and coastal scenery.
While biking is the most popular way to explore it, we prefer walking—especially during bird season. We’ve watched seagulls with their chicks and spotted sandhill cranes feeding in the tall grass. It’s also a great place to see moose near the city or catch bald eagles in flight.
The trail starts in downtown, so if you’re exploring Anchorage without a car, it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding places to visit.
Even if you have just a couple hours or a full day, the Tony Knowles Trail should be on your Anchorage itinerary.
Whether you want to bike, walk, run, bird-watch, or simply relax on a bench with panoramic views, this trail is one of the best free things to do in Anchorage.
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Map and Overview
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is one of Anchorage’s most scenic and beloved trails. It runs 11 miles one way, from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park. The trail follows the shoreline of Cook Inlet, offering stunning views of mountains, water, and wildlife. It’s a multi-use trail, open to walkers, runners, cyclists, and skiers in winter.
The trail is paved, well-marked, and relatively flat, making it great for all skill levels. It winds through forests, marshes, coastal bluffs, and neighborhoods, always with something new to see. Many locals use it for daily exercise, and visitors come to enjoy the beauty and wildlife along the route.
There are several access points along the trail, so you don’t have to do the full 11 miles. The most popular starting point is near Westchester Lagoon in downtown Anchorage. From there, you can head south and explore as much or as little as you’d like.
For planning your visit, you can download the official Tony Knowles Coastal Trail map from the Municipality of Anchorage or pick up a printed map at the Anchorage Visitor Information Center. You can also check map on the Pablo’s Bicycyle Rentals, which is only 1 block from Elderberry Park. The map marks all key trailheads, bathrooms, scenic viewpoints, and connections to other trails.
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Bike Rentals
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is over 11 miles long. The most popular way to explore it is by bike. It’s mostly flat and well-paved, which makes biking easy and enjoyable for all skill levels.
If you’re staying in downtown Anchorage, you can easily rent a bike nearby. Popular rental shops include Pablo’s Bike Rentals and Downtown Bicycle Rental. Both are located close to the trailhead near West 2nd Avenue.
They offer everything you need: bikes, helmets, locks, and maps. Some also rent e-bikes, which are great if you want less effort and more scenery.
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Scenic Bike Tours
Prefer a guided experience? Consider a scenic bike tour. Several local operators offer small group tours along the trail with a knowledgeable guide. They’ll stop at scenic points and share stories about the area, history, and wildlife.
Tours usually last 2,5–4 hours and are a great way to learn while riding. They’re perfect if it’s your first time in Anchorage or you don’t want to plan it yourself. You can choose between Scenic Bike Tour or Go eBike Tour.
If biking isn’t for you, don’t worry. The trail is also great for walking. Just choose a shorter section and enjoy at your own pace.
Top Stops and Scenic Highlights Along the Trail
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is packed with scenic stops. Whether you walk or bike, plan to stop and soak in the views.
- Westchester Lagoon. This is one of the best places to start your walk or ride. It’s a popular bird-watching spot and a peaceful place to relax. In summer, you can spot ducks, seagulls, and even sandhill cranes with their chicks.
- Earthquake Park. Just a short ride from downtown, this park marks the site of the devastating 1964 earthquake. You’ll find informative signs, walking paths, and views of Cook Inlet. It’s a mix of history and nature in one stop.
- Point Woronzof. This scenic overlook is known for its views of Denali on clear days. It’s also a fantastic spot for watching planes take off and land at the nearby airport. Sunset views here are stunning.
- Kincaid Park Entrance. The trail ends at Kincaid Park. This huge city park is full of forest trails, moose sightings, and open views of Cook Inlet. It’s a great reward after your ride.
- Cook Inlet Vistas. Throughout the trail, you’ll see sweeping views of Cook Inlet, framed by the Chugach Mountains. Look for beluga whales in the water and bald eagles overhead.
Bird-Watching Along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
If you’re a bird lover, this trail is a must. It’s one of the best bird-watching spots in Anchorage. And the best part? You don’t even need a car to enjoy it.
The trail runs through a variety of habitats—wetlands, forests, lagoons, and coastline. That means you can spot a wide range of species in one place.
In spring and summer, the bird activity is at its peak. You’ll hear the songs before you even see them.
What birds can you see?
You might spot sandhill cranes feeding in the grass near Westchester Lagoon. Look for their fuzzy, orange chicks in June. Mallards, geese, gulls, and Arctic terns are everywhere. You might even catch a glimpse of a bald eagle soaring above the trees or a great horned owl in the early evening.
Westchester Lagoon is one of the top birding spots on the trail. The shallow waters and marshy areas attract many waterfowl. You’ll often see local birders with binoculars or cameras here.
Point Woronzof is another good area to watch seabirds and shorebirds along the mudflats. Look closely—you might also spot a moose in the distance!
Bring good pair of binoculars or a zoom lens if you have one. But even with the naked eye, you’ll enjoy the variety.
Wildlife You Might See on the Trail
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail isn’t just for birds. It’s one of the best places in Anchorage to spot wildlife—right from the city.
One of the most exciting animals you might encounter is the moose. Yes, moose love this trail too. They often graze near Westchester Lagoon, munch on shrubs along the trail, or even cross your path. We’ve seen them early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
Seeing a moose up close can be a highlight of your Alaska trip—but always keep a safe distance. Never approach a moose. They may look calm, but they can be unpredictable, especially cows with calves. For more details on how to behave, check out our tips on moose encounters in Alaska.
Other animals you might see include red foxes, especially near wooded areas. Bald eagles perch in the tall trees, and beluga whales are sometimes visible in Cook Inlet from Point Woronzof, especially at high tide.
Always stay aware of your surroundings. And don’t wear headphones—you might miss something amazing rustling nearby.
Accessibility and Family-Friendly Tips
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is one of the most accessible outdoor attractions in Anchorage. It starts right near downtown and stretches along the coastline for 11 scenic miles. It’s fully paved, which makes it easy for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy.
The trail is wheelchair and stroller-friendly. You’ll find wide, smooth paths without steep climbs. Families with young kids can bring bikes, scooters, or wagons. There are several benches and rest areas along the route to stop and relax.
There are also restrooms at several points, like Westchester Lagoon and Kincaid Park, which makes it easier to plan a family outing.
Bring snacks, sunscreen, and layers for changing weather. And don’t forget binoculars—for birds, moose, and more!
This trail is a great option for families, couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking for an easy outdoor escape—right in the city.
Final Thoughts
The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is more than just a city path. It’s a peaceful escape into nature, with amazing views, fresh air, and wildlife—just steps from downtown Anchorage. For us, no visit to Anchorage feels complete without walking or biking at least a portion of this scenic trail.
Whether you’re a photographer, bird lover, moose spotter, or just someone who enjoys quiet moments with a view—this trail delivers. And the best part? You don’t need a car to enjoy it.
So pack a light jacket, grab your camera or binoculars, and spend a few hours exploring one of the best outdoor activities Anchorage has to offer.
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