Badger Road / North Pole Path (Matt Glover Bike Path)

The feel

This is a paved, separated path along the Richardson Highway that links Fairbanks and North Pole, about 5 mi from Airport Way to Badger Road. It connects the Badger Road bike path to the Fairbanks system for the first time. Before it was built, there was no dedicated bike or pedestrian route between the two towns, and cyclists would ride on the highway shoulder.

The path carries the name of Matt Glover, who was 48, worked at the railroad in Fairbanks, lived in North Pole and was an avid member of the Fairbanks Cycling Club. He commuted by bicycle in all weather, and he was struck by a car while biking to work on the Richardson Highway. He died five weeks later. The path was dedicated in May near the front gate of Fort Wainwright, followed by a community ride hosted by the Fairbanks Cycle Club.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Paved, separated path along the Richardson Highway, about 5 mi from Airport Way to Badger Road. Rated beginner.

Hazards

Wear highly visible clothing and stay in the proper areas.

Season and access

Open year-round and plowed in winter.

Mingo says

Ride it in any month, since the path is plowed in winter. It is new, finished in the fall before its May dedication.

Before you go

• Ride in highly visible clothing, as Sen. Robert Myers urged.
• Stay in the proper areas of the path.
• Use the path rather than the highway shoulder.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.