Best Places To Visit In Alaska For Bike Riding

Alaska evokes images of arctic scenery and quaint fishing towns. If you’ve ever wanted to explore this scenery up close, a bike is undoubtedly the best way to explore Alaska. Indeed, Alaska is one of the most bike-friendly destinations in the U.S., and it’s one of the most exciting if you’re a nature enthusiast. Find out why eBike riders flock to cities like Anchorage and Juneau to see wildlife and explore bike trails.

Is Alaska Bike Friendly?

In a word, yes. Alaska is an incredibly bike-friendly area, as is proven by its many designated biking trails and certified Bike Friendly Communities that are recognized by the League of American Bicyclists. These features are just part of the appeal, though. The real draw is the beautiful nature that can be explored via eBike throughout cities in Alaska. Whether you’re riding a mountain bike or an eBike, you can enjoy this majestic scenery.

Best National Parks for Bike Riding

There are many Alaska National Parks that invite visitors to explore secluded forests and other natural environments. It should be noted, though, that bikes are usually not allowed on any trail in any National Park. Instead, bikes should be ridden on the road with cars and other motor vehicles. This makes the utility of an eBike apparent — if you struggle to keep up with traffic in a National Park, you can rely on your eBike’s power to help you along.

Best Nature Trails for Bike Riding

The only exception to the aforementioned no-bikes-on-trails rule is the Wrangell-Saint Elias National Park. Located in the south central part of Alaska, this National Park is a nature preserve that spans an expansive 13.2 million acres. Unlike any other National Park in Alaska, it features bike trails that you can enjoy with your eBike. Some of these trails include the Root Glacier Trail, which leads riders along one of the preserve’s crystalline lakes. At 8.25 miles long, the Bonanza Mine Trail is equally enticing, guiding riders through the hills and mountains of the preserve.

How to Spot Wildlife While Biking in Alaska

Many people visit Alaska with the hope of seeing wondrous wildlife, but these views are likely to elude you if you aren’t looking in the right place. You should bike to an area such as the Denali Park Road where wildlife is known to hang out. There are regular reports from this area of grizzly bear sightings — so be sure to keep a safe distance. Other wildlife you might see include wolves, moose, caribou, or Dall sheep.

Exploring Juneau by Bike

Juneau is a unique city, and it’s known for being quite bike-friendly. You’ll find that there are many paved shoulders and bike lanes to accommodate bicyclists throughout the city. To explore the city by bike, you should start by biking along the Brotherhood Bridge. This underpass will lead you to the University of Alaska Southeast campus, where you can explore events and exhibitions.

Exploring Anchorage by Bike

You can explore Anchorage by bike, too, by taking the Chester Creek Trail. This trail leads to a perfect viewing spot for the Northern Lights on nights when they’re shining. It’s only four miles long, too, meaning that it’s an easy midday trek for bicyclists of any skill level. If you take it to the end, you’ll encounter Goose Lake, where you can take a dip or enjoy some lunch.

Alaska eBike Laws

Alaska eBike laws are unique because eBikes are technically defined as motor vehicles. Under this definition, they are regulated more like cars than bicycles, which can lead to some confusion. In order to legally operate an eBike, riders need to obtain an M2 permit, and they must be 14 years old or older — with parental permission.