Palmer-Moose Creek Railroad Trail
Get ready for an exhilarating ride along the scenic Palmer-Moose Creek Railroad Trail. This non-motorized trail, which spans approximately 6 miles end-to-end, retraces the tracks of an old railway bed adjacent to the stunning Matanuska River. Accessible from either downtown Palmer or Moose Creek, the trail unveils diverse landscapes and serves as a year-round sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts.
Running parallel to the Matanuska River, the trail is predominantly flat, making for an easy and enjoyable journey. Starting from the Palmer side, the first half of the trail escorts you beneath towering bluffs on the river's north side, an awe-inspiring spectacle.
As you progress towards the second half of the trail, the terrain becomes more stable. Here, the trail meanders through expansive stands of cottonwood, birch, and spruce, creating a serene environment that contrasts with the rugged bluffs of the earlier section.
Peeking through the vegetation, riders can occasionally glimpse the rushing Matanuska River and the southern Chugach Mountain range's stunning profile.
In the summer months, the Palmer-Moose Creek Railroad Trail is bustling with hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, while winter draws enthusiasts for mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and skijoring.
However, please refrain from using the trail if you observe that your activities leave prints in any muddy areas. This helps in maintaining the trail's quality. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times.
The trail experiences periodic erosion, and visitors are urged to exercise caution, especially after rain when loose rocks may tumble down embankments. Landslides have washed out sections of the trail in the past, necessitating repairs, so please stay alert.
Directions to the Palmer-Moose Creek Railroad Trail from Wasilla, Alaska
Embarking on your biking adventure from Wasilla? The trailhead at Palmer is a straightforward 16-mile journey away.
- Begin by heading south on AK-3 S.
- After approximately 6 miles, take the exit towards Trunk Rd.
- Keep right at the fork and follow signs for Palmer City Center, merging onto E Trunk Rd.
- After around 9 miles, continue onto E Fireweed Ave.
- Then, turn right onto S Denali St.
- In just under half a mile, turn left onto W Elmwood Ave.
- Continue for about half a mile, and you will find the trailhead on your right.
We hope you enjoy your bicycle ride on the Palmer-Moose Creek Railroad Trail. Please respect the trail and its surroundings, ensuring its preservation for future riders. Happy cycling!