Big Whizzy Loop

The feel

Big Whizzy is a short forested loop in the UAF trail network. You reach it on the Commuter Trail from the Lookout Point lot. It is popular for hiking, mountain biking and snowshoeing, and it suits kids and leashed dogs.

The woods have wildflowers, and moose are very common on the UAF trails, where hostile encounters have happened, so keep your distance and cede the trail. All of North Campus is about 1,100 acres of largely forested land, and in summer its trails are open to all non-motorized use.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 1.7 miles, with 206 to 269 ft of gain. Forest trail, reached on the Commuter Trail.

Time

About 1 hour.

Crowds and best time

Best March through October.

Parking

The Lookout Point lot on Tanana Loop.

Dogs

Welcome on a leash.

Kids

Rated easy and kid-friendly.

Hazards

Moose are very common; keep your distance and cede the trail.

Season and access

Best March through October. In winter the loop is a groomed ski trail, and walking, snowshoeing, biking and dogs are not allowed on designated ski trails.

Mingo says

Go between March and October. If you come in winter, ski it, since the loop is groomed for skis and closed to walkers and dogs.

Before you go

• Park at the Lookout Point lot on Tanana Loop, then take the Commuter Trail.
• Keep dogs leashed.
• Stay on designated trails; no camping, no fires, no hunting or trapping.

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