Hillside Park - Mountain Bike Trail

Hillside Park has a network of hand-built singletrack trails ideal for an aerobic mountain biking challenge.

All the Hillside Park trails are Singletrack Advocates’ projects. They were all built with mountain bikers in mind, as the goal was to have an easily accessible technical single track for mountain biking in Anchorage. The loop is also one of the most challenging cross-country ski areas in Alaska. It has different terrains that offer enough technical challenges for intermediate and pro mountain bikers looking to have fun or hone their riding skills. Here are details about the mountain biking route, including its various interesting features.

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The trails on Hillside Park loop are such a treat to any mountain biker who loves technical rides. They are wooded and hilly, with a few strenuous parts like Spencer and Randy’s loops. You will do a lot of climbing and descending, which can be hell for a beginner rider. We recommend the biking route for intermediate and experienced riders only.

Besides mountain biking, the loop is used for skiing, hence why part of the trails are lighted. You can begin your biking adventure from the Hilltop ski area. Ride up Drone Lane and onto Queen Bee Loop. Keep right and ride south to Janice’s Jive. The climbing and descending begin at this point.

Ride on to the Hive, which is a section of the loop that twists and turns around the hillsides. Descend the open and grassy slopes to get to Yellow Jacket, an inner section of the loop. Do a few short climbs through the meadows, shrubs, and tall grass to get to Hornet’s Nest, which is more technical to descend than the Hive. The descent leads to Stinger, the most strenuous and fun part of the route. Its short steps and non-stop turns will give you less time to recover.

At Stinger’s bottom is Janice’s Jive, which is a smooth transition to Queen Bee’s inside section. Ride on to Drone Lane’s intersection to get back to the beginning of the route.

Additional Trail Features

•       A trail kiosk.
•       A gas line.

Sights of Interest, landscapes, views

You will enjoy various stunning views of biking on the Hillside Park loop. One mind-blowing sighting is the mountain in Chugach State Park. You will also get amazing views of Anchorage when you descend the open and grassy slopes.

Moreover, the park has various wildlife, including bears and moose.

Recommendations/precautions

•       Beware of bears, moose, and other wildlife. Ride in a group or make some noise to avoid catching an animal off-guard.
•       You can access the park’s trail from two points; Hilltop Ski Area and Prospect Heights Parking Area.
•       Carry your own water.
•       Since the trail is pretty technical, ensure your bike is in top shape, especially the brakes.