Trail head to Bird Creek Trail

Where can we go hiking that is not far from Anchorage?

There are many places to enjoy hiking around Anchorage. The Chugach State Park has many trails in and just outside of Anchorage's city limits. Flattop is the most hiked mountain in all of Alaska due to its location in Anchorage. You can also check out some of the Municipality of Anchorage Parks and Recreation areas like Kincaid Park.

Trail through forest

Where can I go backpacking in Alaska?

 

There are two different types of backpacking in Alaska's wilderness. You can either stick to the trails or go off trail and navigate your own expedition. All public land agencies in Alaska have maintained trails as well as off trail opportunities. You may need a back country permit for some areas, so once you figure out where you want to go contact the managing agency for more information and to get the latest updates/reports.

Alyeska mountain top peaking through low cloud cover

Are there mountain biking opportunities in Alaska?

Alaska and Anchorage in particular is home to many biking/multi-use trails. Kincaid Park in Anchorage is very popular as well as the hill side trail system. Most agencies have biking/muti-use trails and once you figure out where you want to go, then contact the agency to find out the specifics of the trail and the latest updates/reports.

Winter cabin

Where are the public use cabins?

Both state and federal public land agencies have public use wilderness cabins. Cabins are located throughout Alaska on trails, lakes, streams, ocean shorelines and in alpine areas. Since these cabins are managed by different agencies the agencies all have their own guidelines for rental. It is best to first decide where you want to go in Alaska (like north to Fairbanks or south to Seward) and then find out which agency or agencies are in the area and where the cabins are located. Alaska also features several campgrounds.

Sport fisherman at Bird Creek

Where can I sport fish in Alaska?

Fishing opportunities are everywhere in Alaska. The most popular areas are going to be the areas that are connected along the road system, but many places like the Bristol Bay area are not along the road system and are world class fishing spots. The Department of Fish and Game has Sport Fishing Regulations for every part of Alaska. It very important that you pick up the regulations to educate yourself on what you can and can not do, also the regulations tend to change during the summer and keeping up to date with public notices is a must. Some public land agencies may also have specific regulations for the particular park/area so it is essential to contact the agency for the latest updates and reports.  Don't forget about getting a fishing license too.

Seaside glacier

Where can you kayak/canoe in Alaska?

Many people go down south to the Kenai Peninsula to kayak around Resurrection Bay by the seaside community of Seward. With over 3 million lakes in Alaska there are endless opportunities for canoeing/kayaking. Finding a area that you would like to explore first is always the best start to planning your trip.

Bird watching is a year long activity

What safety concerns do I need to know about the wildlife of Alaska?

Alaska is unique with its abundance of wildlife that strive in the Last Frontier. Some wildlife safety tips:

To avoid the bears make sure to: 

• Make noise while hiking to alert bears of your presence.
• Use bear Resistant Food Containers and store them 100 yards from cooking areas and tent sites.
• Be alert for bears and alter your activity to avoid them.
• Never run from a bear.
• Pepper spray can be carried as an added precaution. However, it is useful only as a last resort in the event of an emergency, and should not be viewed as substitute for proper backcountry behavior.
• Also check out our Bear Safety page at http://alaskacenters.gov/bear-safety.cfm
  

Tips for all other wildlife:

• Do not feed or allow wildlife to obtain human foods.
• Maintain a minimum of 300 yards distance from bears.
• Do not approach or follow wildlife. Maintain a minimum of 25 yards distance from all other animals, dens, and nests.
• If your presence alters an animal's behavior, you are too close.
• Also check out our Wildlife Etiquette page at http://alaskacenters.gov/wildlife-etiquette.cfm
  

Caribou on the tundra

Where can I find information on hunting in Alaska?

Hunting draws many people to Alaska every year. Get a hold of the Department of Fish and Game for more information.

Phone: 907-465-4100

Mail: ADF&G Headquarters
1255 West 8th St
P.O. Box 115526
Juneau, AK 99811-5526

Fax: 907-465-2332

Online: http://www.adfg.alaska.gov

Chris Smith

Groomed trail

Where can you cross-country ski in Alaska?

Kincaid park and the hill side trail system are great places to cross-country ski with a variety of trails and levels ranging from beginner to the elite athlete. These two parks have some of the best trails because they are regularly maintained, groomed and have a good portion of the trails that are lit. Most city trails are compatable for skate skiing and track skiing.

Snowmachiner on trail

Where can you snowmachine in Alaska?

Snowmaching in Alaska is available on many public use areas as long as there is enough snow cover. Make sure that you check with the agency first to get the latest updates and reports. And if you are riding in the back country avalanche training is a skill that can mean the difference between life and death.

Can I carry firearms in Alaska?

Answers vary depending on which land agency manages the area in question. So contact the agency itself for more information on restrictions. Remember to follow the state laws along with the agencies resrictions.