Best Hikes in Fairbanks, Alaska
Easy & Scenic Trails
Creamer’s Field
Once a privately owned dairy farm, Creamer’s Field is now a public nature preserve with a rich history. It features boardwalk trails through diverse ecosystems, educational signs about Alaskan wildlife, and great birdwatching opportunities.
UAF Trails
Located behind the University of Alaska Fairbanks, this network of trails offers a mix of wooded and open paths. The trails have maps posted along the way, and it’s a peaceful area with fewer crowds.
Wander Lake Trail (1 Mile)
A short, easy trail with beautiful birdwatching. You can often spot beavers in the pond, and there are informative billboards about the ecosystem. It’s located near Creamer’s Field and Wedgwood.
Moderate Hikes with Great Views
Ester Dome
A great place to take sunset photos. It has some steep sections but is a nice spot for exercise. If you don’t want to hike, you can drive to the top for the views.
Murphy Dome
Similar to Ester Dome but at a higher elevation. It’s a great spot for Northern Lights viewing. If you drive up in winter, be careful of icy roads and moose crossings.
Birch Hill
A wide, open area great for walking, skiing, and running. The hill is covered with birch trees, making it beautiful in summer and autumn. There’s also a rental area for events like weddings.
Chena Lakes Recreation Area
This recreation area offers hiking, swimming, fishing, and camping. The walking and biking paths are free to use, and there’s a lot to see and do.
Tanana Lakes Recreation Area
Smaller than Chena Lakes but offers similar activities, including trails, fishing, and water recreation.
Popular & Adventurous Trails
Angel Rocks (3 Miles)
One of the most popular hikes in Fairbanks. It features volcanic rock formations and is family-friendly, though some parts have moderate inclines.
Angel Rocks to Chena Hot Springs (9 Miles)
Extends past Angel Rocks for a full-day adventure. This trail has a challenging uphill climb, but the ridge-top views are worth it. It ends at Chena Hot Springs, where you can relax in the warm water. If you’re hiking with someone, you can park a car at Chena Hot Springs and drive back to Angel Rocks afterward.
Wickersham Dome (Summit Trail) – 7 Miles
A steady uphill climb with panoramic views. This is also a great spot for Northern Lights viewing. The trail leads to Lee’s Cabin, a remote Alaskan stay.
Granite Tors Trail (15 Miles)
Begins with an easy 2-mile loop before a steep climb. The trail features breathtaking volcanic rock formations and is a great spot for backpacking and camping.
Stiles Creek Trail
This longer trail leads to a cabin you can rent. Once at the top, you get panoramic views of the valley below.
Table Top Mountain
A scenic hike with expansive views. Best hiked on clear days to fully enjoy the landscape.
Plan Your Hike
Most of these trails are listed on AllTrails, where you can find:
Trailhead locations
Current conditions updated by hikers
Best times to visit
Check the latest weather conditions and pack accordingly—Fairbanks’ trails can be muddy in spring, beautiful in summer, and icy in winter.
Got a favorite hike in Fairbanks? Let me know in the comments! ⛰️