Arnold L. Muldoon Park

A Forest Retreat in the City

Found on E Northern Lights Boulevard in Anchorage, Arnold L. Muldoon Park is a local park that's bigger than a football field and packs in plenty of outdoor goodness. It's like finding a forest hideaway without having to leave the city limits - a breath of fresh air in the middle of urban Anchorage.

Hit the Trails

The heart of this park is definitely its network of trails. If you're short on time or just want a quick workout, there's a fitness loop that circles the park in about a mile - fantastic for a lunch break jog or an easy morning walk.

Looking for something more substantial? The trails here don't exist in isolation - they connect to the paved Chester Creek trail and the more extensive Russian Jack Springs trail system when you're up for pushing yourself further. The park is also part of the greater Moose Loop network, so your adventure can be as long or short as you like.

Trail Details

The paths offer a nice mix of surfaces - some paved asphalt sections for smooth going and sand/dirt trails for a more natural feel. With moderate slopes and widths between 4 and 8 feet, there's nothing too technically challenging here, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

One of the best things about these trails is the forest canopy overhead. The shade keeps things cool even when the Alaskan summer sun is doing its thing. The trees also create this peaceful bubble where city noise fades away, and you can actually hear yourself think while taking in the seasonal vegetation and flowers. Some sections even have lighting, which comes in handy during those short winter days or for evening strolls.

What's Available

Scattered along the trails are outdoor fitness stations where you can stop for some strength training between stretches of walking or running. There's something refreshing about doing pull-ups with trees all around instead of gym walls.

Feel free to bring your four-legged friend along - just keep them leashed. You'll come across picnic areas throughout the park that make great spots to catch your breath, enjoy a packed lunch, or meet up with friends. And yes, there are trash cans around, so you can keep this beautiful spot clean.

Beyond the Basics

The park isn't just about trails. Open grassy areas provide space for impromptu frisbee games, photography sessions, or just lying back and cloud-watching. In winter, the park transforms into a quiet wonderland for cold-weather enjoyment.

Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife making appearances, and if you're into modern-day treasure hunting, there are geocaches hidden throughout the park waiting to be discovered.

Getting There

You can reach the park via public transportation - Route 10 stops at the intersection of Northern Lights Boulevard and Muldoon Road. If you're driving, no worries about finding street parking; there's a dedicated lot for visitors.