Winter Biking in Anchorage

Winter biking opens up a snowy wonderland for cyclists. Chunky frames and wide tires provide stability in all conditions. Studded tires and even electric motors can further kit out a bike to float across fluffy snow and roll surefooted over icy spots. Winter biking in Anchorage has taken off with everyone from commuters to backcountry explorers. Year-round rentals are available locally for anyone ready to give it a try. The city and local cross-country ski organization maintain 130 miles along 40 different trails within metro limits, making Anchorage a great place for winter biking. Additionally, Chugach State Park has several trails open for winter biking.

Winter Fat Tire Bike Rentals & Tours in Anchorage

Tour the Anchorage and the surrounding areas with the expertise of local shops and guides, such as Pablo's, Alaska Trail Guides, and Greatland Adventures. Adventure seems limitless with options to cruise trails within the city, traverse terrain only accessible during winter, or fly over the Chugach and cycle among glaciers. For those interested in independent pursuits, Alaska eBike Electronic Bike Rentals, Downtown Bicycle Rentals, and Trek Bicycle Store of Alaska all offer winter bike rentals.

Anchorage Winter Bike Events

Ready to join a few pedal-powered pals? Winter biking events bring the biking community together. The Icy River Rampage, Frosty Bottom, and Big Fat Ride each run through the heart of the city on winter trails. Longer races include famous rides like the Susitna 100, Little Su 50K, and Iditarod Trail Invitational pit the best bikers against wilderness courses.

Is Anchorage the Birthplace of the Fat Tire Bike?

Many years ago, inventive Alaskans scrounged big tires and swapped them on to mountain bikes to keep riding year-round. Winter bikes gained prominence in Alaska in 1987 with the first winter bike race along the Iditarod trail. The Icicle Quad built in 1989 was built locally by Steve Baker, and many consider it the first purpose-built fat tire bicycle. The intentionally wider frame used four tires, with two rims fused together on front and back. Today, this pioneering design hangs in the Fatbike Hall of Fame at Speedway Cycles in Anchorage.