Valley of the Moon Park

Location and Overview

Valley of the Moon Park is a 21.78-acre community-use park located between downtown and midtown Anchorage, Alaska, along the Chester Creek Greenbelt. The park borders both the South Addition and North Star neighborhoods, with Chester Creek running along its southern border on the western two-thirds of the park.

The northern border continues along 16th and 17th Avenues.

History and Development

Developed in stages since 1960, when the Municipality of Anchorage acquired the land as part of the Chester Creek Greenbelt, Valley of the Moon Park has become one of Anchorage's most popular parks.

In 2010, the Municipality invested $500,000 in improvements, including the addition of a second picnic shelter, upgraded play equipment, improved ADA accessibility, and landscaping and stream bank restoration.

Natural Environment

The park features a mix of developed areas and natural spaces, with approximately half of the park remaining undeveloped and heavily wooded with birch, poplar, and spruce forest.

Visitor Experience

The park sees significant use, with upwards of 100,000 visitors each summer. It serves as a venue for various community events and recreational activities.

Valley of the Moon Park is connected to the larger Chester Creek Trail system, which was developed in the 1970s as part of an effort to connect children to schools, parks, and libraries throughout Anchorage.