Goose Lake Park

A Peaceful Retreat in the City

Tucked away in central Anchorage near the University of Alaska campus lies Goose Lake Park, a little natural haven that feels miles away from city life. The heart of the park is its glacially-formed kettle lake, stretching about 0.3 miles long at an elevation of 141 feet. From here, you can see beautiful views of the Chugach Mountains in the distance. Despite being within city limits, the park offers a genuine taste of Alaska's natural beauty.

Year-Round Outdoor Fun

When summer rolls around, Goose Lake transforms into one of Anchorage's favorite swimming destinations. The sandy beach area is a good spot to spread out a towel and enjoy the Alaska summer sun. There's a gazebo nearby and BBQ grills where you can prepare food by the lake. In winter, the lake freezes over to become a natural ice skating rink - you can bring your skates and enjoy the frozen surface.

A 3-mile paved trail circles the lake, making it ideal for everything from casual strolls to morning jogs. The smooth, even surface means everyone can enjoy it, regardless of ability. Winter visitors will find the trails maintained for cross-country skiing - a nice way to see the park in its snow-covered state.

Wildlife at Your Doorstep

True to its name, the park is home to plenty of Canada geese, but they're just the beginning of the wildlife you might encounter. Keep your eyes peeled for Pacific loons that nest at the far end of the lake from mid-May through mid-September. Mallard ducks and other waterfowl also make regular appearances, creating a small but vibrant ecosystem.

The surrounding woods showcase Alaska's native plant life, including Labrador tea, wintergreen, and usnea. It's no wonder university students and faculty often wander over between classes - it's a great place to clear your head or get some exercise in a natural setting.

Everything You Need for a Day Out

If you're bringing the kids along, they'll love the small playground near the beach area. For group gatherings, you'll come across picnic tables strategically placed throughout the park - meant for family reunions or casual meet-ups with friends.

The park provides portable restrooms that are kept clean and well-maintained. Multiple parking lots make it easy to access the park from different directions, so you won't have to trek far to reach the trails or beach.

Dog owners will appreciate how pet-friendly the park is - many locals bring their four-legged friends for exercise, however be aware that some dogs might be off-leash. During summer swimming season, lifeguards watch over the beach area, adding an extra layer of safety for water enthusiasts.

Special Occasions

If you time your visit right, you might catch one of the special events that use the park as a backdrop, including the legendary Iditarod Sled Dog Race. Watching the mushers and their teams navigate through this beautiful setting is an authentically Alaskan experience you won't soon forget.