Birch Hill Recreation Area Singletrack

The feel

Birch Hill has flowy summer singletrack on the same hillside as one of Fairbanks' premier Nordic ski trail systems. About 32 miles of summer singletrack run across 21 mapped trails, including Chinook, Blackhawk Loop and White Bear.

In summer the hill is open to non-motorized use, so bikers share it with runners, hikers and disc golfers. Half the area is military land on Fort Wainwright. The Nordic Ski Club built and maintains the ski trails on both sides of the hill.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Singletrack, rated Intermediate. About 32 miles of summer singletrack across 21 mapped trails. The White Bear loop is an easy 10.1 km route.

Crowds and best time

Runners, hikers and disc golfers use the hill in summer.

Parking

The main lot is at 101 Wilderness Drive. The White Bear loop starts right next to a parking lot.

Fees and passes

No fee to use the trails on either side of the hill, though donations are encouraged.

Season and access

Late May to September. The trails are ski-only from mid-October to mid-April.

Mingo says

Ride from late May through September, once the snow is gone. Be off the hill by mid-October, when the grooming starts and the trails go ski-only.

Before you go

• Park at the main lot, 101 Wilderness Drive.
• Bring a donation for the Nordic Ski Club, which maintains the trails.
• Remember half the area is Fort Wainwright land.

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