Steese Highway Path
Fairbanks
The feel
This is a paved shared-use path alongside the in-town Steese Highway, several miles long. It is practical rather than scenic, and it is useful for connecting downtown to the Johansen and Farmers Loop paths.
The path is part of the state DOT's ADA and resurfacing program for Fairbanks shared-use paths. The planned work runs from Airport Way to Johansen Expressway on the west side only, on the existing path with no extensions. Most segments are in developed areas with little vegetation.
What to expect
- Route and terrain
- Paved shared-use path alongside the in-town Steese Highway, several miles in the in-town segment. Rated beginner.
- Hazards
- The resurfacing project covers the west side from Airport Way to Johansen Expressway and includes new curb ramps, approaches, curbs and gutters.
- Season and access
- Open year-round and plowed in winter.
Mingo says
It works in any season because it is plowed in winter. Treat it as a practical ride, not a scenic one.
Before you go
- Find the DOT&PF office at 2301 Peger Road in Fairbanks.
- Call DOT&PF Engineering Manager Ivet Hall at (907) 451-5386 for the status of the resurfacing.
- Expect the west side between Airport Way and Johansen Expressway to be widened to 8 to 11 feet with new asphalt.
Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.
Today
Getting there
- Season
- Year-round, plowed in winter
- Drive from Anchorage
- Full day, 6h34 to Fairbanks
- Drive from Fairbanks
- in town
- Distance
- Several miles, in-town segment
- Surface
- paved
- Difficulty
- Beginner
Part of Fairbanks & the Interior.