Tikishla Park

Natural Landscape

Found in the Airport Heights neighborhood of Anchorage, Alaska, Tikishla Park spans a generous 105 acres along the Chester Creek Greenbelt. Officially designated as a Natural Resource Use Area, this park offers a refreshing escape from city life without having to venture far from home.

More than 80 acres of the park are dedicated to preserving nature in its purest form - think lush forests, meandering streams, open meadows, and vital wetlands. The Middle and South Forks of Chester Creek wind through the landscape, surrounded by Class A wetlands and diverse habitats that not only look beautiful but serve crucial environmental purposes like flood control. Just a heads-up: moose sometimes wander through the park, so keep your eyes peeled and maintain a respectful distance when walking or running the trails.

Recreational Facilities

While nature takes center stage in most of Tikishla, about 20 acres have been thoughtfully developed for recreation. The park strikes a nice balance, functioning as both a neighborhood green space and a little league complex where future baseball stars can hone their skills.

One of the park's standout features is the Chester Creek Trail, a well-maintained multi-use path that connects Tikishla to Anchorage's broader trail network. Whether you're looking for a casual stroll, a vigorous run, or a place to walk your four-legged friend, these trails are well-suited for your needs.

If you're feeling competitive, grab some friends and head to the basketball court for a pickup game. During Alaska's snowy months, the park transforms to include a hockey area where you can practice your slap shot or simply enjoy some ice time.

Playground Areas

Tikishla has four different play structures that cater to various ages and abilities. The playground equipment looks relatively new and is kept in great condition, making it a safe bet for families with children of any age.

Parents of toddlers will appreciate the areas specifically designed for little ones, including a simple but practical swing set for babies. The artificial turf surface provides good cushioning for inevitable tumbles, though it can get warm on those rare sunny Alaskan days.

Amenities

Planning to spend the day? You can find picnic tables scattered around the park - excellent for lunch breaks or family gatherings. When nature calls, portable toilets are available on-site.

Dog owners can let their pets burn off energy in the enclosed dog area, a secure space where four-legged friends can play off-leash. Overall, the park maintains a clean, well-kept appearance, creating a welcoming environment for everyone who visits.

Community History

Tikishla's story speaks volumes about community spirit. Back in 1973, neighborhood residents took matters into their own hands, voluntarily assessing their properties to help purchase 6 acres of parkland. This grassroots effort marked the first citizen-initiated park district petition in Anchorage's history - pretty impressive!

The park began taking shape in 1983, with a playground dedication following two years later in 1985.

Future Development

Looking ahead, Tikishla continues to evolve. A comprehensive master plan approved in 2018 maps out a 20-year vision for the park's future, focusing on thoughtful management and maintenance.

The plan thoughtfully balances new recreational opportunities with conservation efforts, ensuring that as the park grows, its natural character remains protected for generations to come.