Article Overview: Mountain biking Alaska
Mountain biking in Alaska will open up the states secrets to you in a way thats only possible on two wheels. Epic trails are scattered all over the last frontier. You can take a mountain bike where you would never think to drive or even hike. From a vast network of old logging roads in the southeast, to miner two tracks, dirt roads, and everything in between. Alaska is an absolute haven for mountain bikers. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world off road biking in Alaska. We’ll explore mountain biking, fat-tire biking, and Heli-biking!
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We’ve helped showcase the grandeur of this wild place for National Geographic, Discovery, Disney, Animal Planet, and more. Now we want to share our knowledge and real life experiences with you!
My Experience Mountain Biking in Alaska
While I grew up on bikes, it wasn’t I moved to the pacific northwest that I really learned how to maintain bike. A fellow tv friend of mine sold me his old bike and showed me the ropes. We would go riding on Mt. Hood and in the forests that surround Mt. St. Helens. I feel in love with it. I appreciate any adrenaline pumping activity that gets me outdoors, but beyond that I love the blinders mountain biking puts on me. When you’re barreling down a single track trail on the side of a mountain, it demands a hundred percent of your attention. There are very few things left in my life that can provide that kind of escape.
While the majority of my biking adventures has been done in the lower 48, I’ve taken advantage of my time working in Alaska. I was introduced to fat tire biking on the beaches of Homer. I’ve plotted future routes on old logging roads in the southeast. I’ve built up knowledge and local tips for the past decade for when I can put the camera down and focus on a proper mountain biking excursion in Alaska. The following article is a culmination of all my first hand experience and research.
Mountain Biking Alaska
Table of Contents: Mountain Biking Alaska
The Basics
Mountain biking in Alaska can be a thrilling adventure that takes riders through rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes, but it’s crucial to be prepared for the challenges of the wilderness.
With Alaska’s unpredictable weather, a light waterproof jacket is good to have on hand. Additionally, riders should carry ample food and water to sustain themselves during long rides in remote areas. Basic bike repair skills, like changing a tire, are invaluable for handling an unexpected flat on top a mountain or 40 miles down the Denali road.
Something else that makes mountain biking in Alaska unique, is its abundant wildlife population. While I’ve filmed bear hunts where we don’t even see the bears we want to see, they’re unpredictable creatures and you don’t want to come upon one while mountain biking in Alaska. It’s not a bad idea to carry bear spray and know how to react in the event of an encounter. Make noise, be loud, and don’t f*ck with their cubs.
Alaska’s mountain biking season typically runs from late spring to early fall, depending on snowmelt and trail conditions. Alaska’s breakup season can be brutal on trails, leaving them muddy slogs that are a pain in the ass to navigate. However, Once summer is in full swing mountain bikers can explore a wide variety of trails that range from beginner-friendly routes to technical and demanding terrain. Make sure you know what you’re getting into before you hit the trail
Fat-Tire Biking in Alaska
Fat tire biking in Alaska is an excellent way to bike Alaska during winter or shoulder months when mountain biking isn’t an option. Fat tire biking involves riding specialized bicycles that are equipped with super wide tires that are designed to traverse tough terrain like snow, sand, mud, and gravel. Shit you wouldn’t normally stand a chance in on a regular bike.
Depending on who you ask and how far back you go, some folks will tell you that fat tire biking originated in Alaska. The first fat tire bikes were developed by Steve Baker in the 1980’s to help traverse the snow landscapes. Since then theres been a lot of innovation and it has evolved into a super popular year round sport. Glide over snowy trails and frozen lakes in the winter or tackle muddy sandy terrain in the summer. Or you could always just use the established mountain biking trails in Alaska.
Mountain Biking Trails in Alaska
There are an endless amount of mountain biking trails in Alaska, most if not all are suitable for fat tire bikes as well. Here’s a who’s who list of mountain biking trials and areas throughout Alaska:
Anchorage & surrounding area
- Powderline Pass Trail: This 13 mile mountain biking trail is just outside of Anchorage, Alaska in the Chugach State Park. It’s an old jeep trail that stretches from the Flattop Trailhead to the town of Indian, Alaska. Initially wide-open with gravel doubletrack, it becomes steeper and rockier as it ascends to the saddle, a popular turnaround point for most riders. While the trail continues to Indian, its a steep downhill only suitable for experienced cyclists.
- Eklutna Lakeside Trail: Meandering along the picturesque Eklutna Lake, this 13-mile trail offers stunning views of the Chugach Mountains.
- Gold Mint Trail, Hatchers Pass: Initially gravel, the trail transitions into singletrack, occasionally shared with hikers. Gradual climb outbound, descent on the return, short technical rocky sections. Expansive valley vistas views.
- Kincaid Park, Anchorage: Enjoy mountain biking in the heart of Anchorage, Alaska. With trails catering to all skill levels, from gentle paths to challenging singletracks, riders will enjoy panoramic views of Cook Inlet and the surrounding mountains.
- Far North Bicentennial Park: Just east of Anchorage this mountain biking haven in Alaska offers diverse trails catering to all levels, from wooded paths to open meadows. Super beary so carry spray.
- Other Epic Hatchers Pass Trails: Hatchers Pass is an excellent place to go mountain biking in Alaska. Archangel Vally, Craggie Creek Trail, and Eska Falls Trail are all wonderful.
- Iditarod and Flathorn Lake Winter Trail: This 40 mile fat tire biking trail follows the Iditarod Trail to Flathorn Lake. Recommended to be done as a shuttle.
Kenai Peninsula
- Resurrection Pass, Cooper Landing: This 39 mile epic mountain biking trail in Alaska links the town of Hope to Cooper Landing. It offers stunning backcountry single track both above and below the tree-line, passing by lakes, rivers, and cabins along the way. While mostly non-technical, there’s one notable climb from Swan Lake to Devil’s Pass that presents some rocks and elevation gain.
- Lost Lake Trail, Seward: Breathtaking views of mountains and a mix of forest and tundra, it’s an unforgettable ride. Many opt for an out-and-back route, or it can be part of a larger loop with the Primrose Trail. The trail starts at the Lost Lake trailhead.
- Johnson Pass Trail, Portage: While the 24 mile trail is typically ridden from north to south, both ends offer enjoyable descents.By mid to late June, expect some overgrowth, downed trees and shallow water crossings. Fast and flowy sections, interspersed with rocky and rooty gardens. Limited riding above the tree line.
- Upper Russian Lake, Cooper Landing: Embark on a stunning 22 mile backcountry mountain biking adventure in Alaska with this trail on the Kenai Peninsula. While long, the ride boasts spectacular views without technical challenges. Enjoy a mostly downhill journey from Cooper Lake to Russian River Campground.
Fairbanks & Surrounding Area
- McKay Creek Trail: Starting at milepost 42.5 on the Steese Highway, this 27.5 mile mountain biking trail in Alaska ascends steeply to a ridge. It passes through spruce forests and open meadows to meet the Lower Nome Creek Trail. The trail concludes with a climb to its junction with the Trail Creek Trail.
- Denali Road to Wonder Lake Campground: This iconic route offers cyclists the opportunity to pedal through the heart of Denali National Park, surrounded by towering peaks, vast tundra, and abundant wildlife. The journey covers approximately 92 miles round trip, providing ample opportunities to soak in breathtaking views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak.
- Stampede Trail: This 49 mile mountain biking trail in the heart of Alaska is also great for fat-fire biking. Starting at the end of Stampede Road, this OHV trail leads into Denali National Park, passing numerous campsites and stream crossings. Expect wet feet as you navigate Fish Creek and traverse boggy sections. Crossing the Savage River at mile 7.5, the trail eventually reaches the Teklanika River at mile 10, which may be passable with low water levels.
Mountain Biking Rentals and Tour Companies in Alaska
There are a ton of tour companies and bike shops throughout Alaska that cater to mountain bikers. These companies can provide valuable expertise and local support on current trail conditions and recommendations. Here’s a list of some trusted mountain, fat-tire, and e bike, rental/tour companies in Alaska.
- Alaska Trail Guides: (Anchorage) They do it all. E-bike rentals, Mountain biking clinics, winter fat-tire bikes, even a Brew and Bike tour. Phone: (907) 317-5707 Email: info@alaskatrailguides.com
- Downtown Bicycle Rental: (Anchorage) Great bike shop in the heart of the city. They run a mountain bike shuttle to Flattop mountain, rent, and sell all sorts of bikes. Phone: 907-279-3334
- Pablo’s Bike Rentals: (Anchorage) Located right off the Tosdfsdf Pablo’s has a large selection of bikes, including tandem options. Phone: (907) 277 BIKE (2453) Email: hello@pablobicyclerentals.com
- Cycle Alaska: (Juneau) They have two shops that do it all. Full service repair shop, rentals, and tours. Dock shop only open in the summer. Phone: (907) 780-2253 Email: rentals@cycleak.com
- Goldstream Sports: (Fairbanks) A great cycling resource in Fairbanks, Alaska. In addition to a speedy repair shop and they carry the latest line of road, mountain, and fat bikes that Trek builds. Phone: (907) 455-6520
- Bankstown Bike & Ski: (Fairbanks) Bankstown rents Fat-tire, Gravel, mountain, and E-bikes. Phone: (907) 947-2453
- Canoe Alaska: (Fairbanks) While their focus might be on water sports, this Fairbanks bike rental company offers a slew of different rental options. Or pair a bike rental with a paddle trip! Phone: (907) 457-2453
Heli-Bike Alaska
Heli-bking or Helicopter biking in Alaska is the ultimate mountain biking experience. It combines the thrill of a helicopter flight with epic mountain biking in remote backcountry locations. It’s an exhilarating adventure sport that offers access to rugged terrain inaccessible by traditional means. While some folks like to say they prefer a “full ride”, tough inclines that payoff with long downhills, we have the need. Sometimes you don’t wanna work hard to get to the top, you just wanna speed down!
Popular heli-biking locations include the Chugach Mountains near Anchorage and the Talkeetna Mountains. Guided tours led by experienced local guides ensure safety and provide insights into the region’s ecology. Participants are flown to high-elevation drop-off points, where they begin their descent down challenging trails. This type of mountain biking in Alaska is usually for riders with at least an intermediate skill level.
Heli-Biking Tours
Talkeetna Gear Shop: Talkeetna Gear shop is a great resource for mountain biking in Alaska. For their heli-biking tour they use fat tire bikes to explore the Denali foothills. You’ll pass by historic gold mining claims, mountain views, and creek crossings. They offer an 11mile tour and a 26 miles tour. Both are for Advanced riders. Phone: 907-733-3618. Email: talkeetnagearshop@gmail.com
AK HeliBike: This ones for riders that really want an extreme experience. Excursions try to get in 5-7 runs with elevation drops ranging from 1000-3000 feet. They’re based out of Glacier View and do custom trips in the Chugach Mountains and Talkeetna. Advanced riders only. Book on their website.
Icy Strait Aviation: These folks offer a helicopter-biking and hiking tour, the only one in Southeast Alaska. the tour takes riders to a secluded mountain peak on Chichagof Island. An experienced guide will take you down a wide gravel road. This is a nice Heli-biking tour for beginners and intermediate riders. Phone: 907-830-2599. Email: info@icystraitaviation.com
Mountain Biking in Alaska Map
Here’s a map of some popular mountain biking tails, rental shops, and tour companies in Alaska.
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