Kincaid Park

Natural Landscape

Nestled at the southwest tip of the Anchorage Bowl, Kincaid Park sprawls across 1,516 acres of Alaska's stunning terrain. This vast municipal park features rolling, forested hills that extend throughout the landscape.

The park sits on an ancient, rugged moraine that rewards you with jaw-dropping views on clear days. On clear days, you can see Denali, Mount Susitna (locally known as Sleeping Lady), Fire Island, and Cook Inlet. The beach areas offer peaceful spots to rest, particularly beautiful during sunset.

History

Before becoming the outdoor haven it is today, this land served a very different purpose. Once a Cold War-era Nike-Hercules missile base, Kincaid Park was established in 1978 and is now a year-round destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Trail System

The heart of Kincaid is undoubtedly its impressive network of trails - about 60 kilometers of interconnected paths that cater to all sorts of activities. In winter, nearly 40 miles of these trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, with about 12 miles lit for evening use.

If you're looking to extend your journey, the park connects to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a paved path ideal for walking, biking, or roller blading that stretches all the way to downtown Anchorage along the Cook Inlet shoreline.

Whether you're a beginner looking for an easy stroll or an experienced outdoorsperson seeking a challenge, there's a trail for you here. Many paths lead to beach areas where you can pause and take in those stunning water views.

Wildlife and Environment

The park is predominantly covered in mature forests of birch, cottonwood, and spruce - a fantastic habitat for Alaska's iconic wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, black bears, lynx, and bald eagles that call this place home.

Moose sightings are particularly common around the park. Early morning is your best bet for wildlife watching, but remember to keep a respectful and safe distance, especially from moose and bears. They're wild animals, after all, and this is their home too.

Recreational Opportunities

Kincaid is known for its Nordic skiing facilities. The park has hosted numerous major competitions, including U.S. National Championships and Olympic trials.

Come summer, these same trails transform into perfect routes for hiking, biking, and running. Beyond the trails, you'll come across specialized areas for archery, biathlon, motocross, and a fantastic disc golf course with layouts for both amateurs and pros.

The park doesn't stop there - it also features soccer fields, a playground near the chalet that's a hit with the little ones, and a sledding hill that brings out the kid in everyone during winter months.

Facilities

At the heart of the park stands a welcoming chalet that represents both an information hub and community gathering space. You'll discover indoor restrooms here, while portable toilets are conveniently located at various trailheads within the park.

Need a break? Picnic areas are scattered throughout Kincaid, offering peaceful spots to refuel and relax surrounded by nature. And yes, you can bring your four-legged friends - the park is dog-friendly, however pets need to stay on leash to protect both wildlife and other visitors.

Unique Features

Perhaps one of the most surprising elements of Kincaid is the large sand dune in its southwest corner. It's an unexpected desert-like surprise in the middle of Alaska's lush landscape.

What makes Kincaid truly special is how it manages to feel like a wilderness escape despite being just minutes from downtown Anchorage and right next to the international airport. Step into the park, and the city seems to fade away, leaving you immersed in Alaska's natural beauty.