Coastal Trail - Elderberry Park

Imagine a cozy green oasis of just 1.5 acres, nestled in the historic South Addition neighborhood, offering some of the best views in Alaska. Coastal Trail — Elderberry Park is more than just a place to relax; it is the primary gateway to the famous Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. From here in the city of Anchorage, visitors can admire the majestic Cook Inlet, the silhouette of Mount Susitna, and the distant peaks of the Kenai Peninsula.

Coastal Trail – Elderberry Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This park in the USA combines natural charm with historical value. On its grounds sits the Oscar Anderson House Museum — one of the city's oldest homes, which serves as a living reminder of the settlers' early years. Surrounded by dense trees and elderberry bushes, the park creates a sense of seclusion while remaining within walking distance of the bustling downtown.

Elderberry Park is perfect for families, thanks to its modern play areas designed for children of various ages. You’ll often find both tourists and locals here, drawn by the inspiration and fresh sea air. This spot is rightfully considered a gem of the coastal area, offering a harmonious blend of active recreation and quiet nature contemplation.

For up-to-date information on trail conditions and park events, you can contact the Anchorage Parks and Recreation Department. Below are the official contact details and resources.

Please note that access to the trail and the park grounds is free at all times, though some additional services may have their own limitations.

In this picturesque location, everyone will find something to enjoy: from high-energy workouts to peaceful nature watching. The paved surface of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is ideal for cycling, rollerblading, or running. Many tourists choose to rent bikes nearby to zoom past glaciers and pebble beaches while enjoying the sea breeze.

Wildlife viewing deserves special mention. If you're lucky, you can spot beluga whales in the inlet right from the shore, while moose and bald eagles are frequently seen in the wooded sections of the park. It’s a paradise for photographers, especially during sunset, when the sky over Mount Susitna turns incredible shades of pink and orange.

For those traveling with children, the park features excellent playgrounds, and a small picnic area allows for an outdoor lunch. In winter, the trail is transformed into a popular spot for cross-country skiing, offering quiet, peaceful snowy landscapes in the heart of Alaska.

Elderberry Park is located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible for tourists. If you are staying downtown, it’s just about a two-and-a-half-block walk west of W. 5th Ave (the Hotel Captain Cook serves as a good landmark). Signs for the Coastal Trail will help you find the start of the route quickly.

For those traveling by car, you can take Minnesota Drive or Tudor Road, heading west toward the coast. However, keep in mind that parking at the park is extremely limited, with only about 10 spaces, so during peak hours, it is better to use a taxi or rent a bike downtown.

Public transportation is also a convenient option: bus routes to Minnesota Dr will bring you within walking distance of the site. In winter, parking is usually less of a problem, but you should be cautious of snowdrifts and icy paths.

The history of this site dates back to 1917, when the land was purchased from the U.S. government. The park gets its name from the abundance of elderberry bushes that still decorate its landscape today. Interestingly, under the terms of the land transfer, if the area ever ceases to be used as a park, it must return to federal ownership.

In 1976, the park became home to one of the city's most significant historical structures — the Oscar Anderson House. Built in 1915, the house was moved here to be preserved as a museum. Today, it is considered one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city and offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Alaska's early settlers.

The Coastal Trail itself is named after Tony Knowles, a former Governor of Alaska. The route partially follows the bed of the old Alaska Northern Railway. Another important historical and geological fact: the trail runs along a fault line formed after the catastrophic 9.2-magnitude earthquake of 1964, serving as a reminder of the incredible natural forces of this region.

To simply enjoy the atmosphere of Elderberry Park and snap a few panoramic photos, 30–40 minutes will be enough. However, most visitors stay longer to walk or bike a portion of the coastal trail. A walk along a 2–4 mile segment one way usually takes 1 to 3 hours.

If you are planning a full family outing with a picnic and time at the playgrounds, it’s worth setting aside about 4 hours. For those who decide to tackle all 11 miles of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail on foot, the journey can take 4–6 hours, while the entire route can be easily covered by bike in 1–2 hours.

Elderberry Park and the Coastal Trail are open to visitors 24 hours a day. You can come here early in the morning to catch the sunrise or late in the evening for stargazing or watching the sunset.

However, keep in mind the seasonality of certain amenities: public restrooms are only open from May to September. The Oscar Anderson House Museum also primarily welcomes visitors during the summer months with a specific tour schedule that should be checked in advance.

The park's location in the historic center makes it easy to combine a trail walk with visits to other iconic sites. You can reach architectural monuments and museums that reveal the history of Alaska's settlement and the development of the region's railroads in just a few minutes.

A stroll around Elderberry Park is an excellent way to feel the atmosphere of a city where wilderness meets modern urban neighborhoods.