Bird-to-Gird Path

The feel

The path is paved and follows Turnagain Arm, connecting Girdwood, Bird and Indian. It passes big conifer trees and small waterfalls fed by glacier runoff, with snow-capped mountains in view. Interpretive pullouts with telescopes cover geological features and wildlife, and beluga whales have been spotted from the path.

Dog walkers, hikers and kids are common in summer, and the trail suits all levels of riders, from road bikers to mountain bikers. The bore tide may be visible coming up Turnagain Arm, and surfers attempt to ride it. The path gradually climbs 1000 feet in elevation.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Paved, 12 to 13 miles one way along Turnagain Arm, with 1,017 feet of gain. The steep hills are narrower than the rest of the path.

Time

90-120 minutes by bike, 6 hours on foot.

Crowds and best time

Dog walkers, hikers and kids are common in summer.

Parking

Numerous locations along the Seward Highway, including the lots in Bird by the campground, Bird Creek Point State Parking area, the Girdwood Mall and the Bird Ridge Trailhead at the far western end.

Dogs

Dog walkers are common on the path.

Kids

Kids are common on the path in summer.

Hazards

Steep grades, with the steep hills narrower than the rest of the path. In winter the trail is not plowed or maintained.

Bathrooms and water

A few restrooms along the way, plus multiple covered picnic locations.

Season and access

Used all year. In winter people nordic ski it after fresh snow and fat bikers ride it.

Mingo says

Summer is the season to ride, with winter left to nordic skiers and fat bikers. Pick a start near where you want to finish, since parking is spread out along the route.

Before you go

• Park at the Bird campground lots, Bird Creek Point State Parking area, the Girdwood Mall or the Bird Ridge Trailhead.
• Plan your stops around the few restrooms along the way.
• Bring skis or a fat bike in winter, because the trail is not plowed or maintained.

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