Campbell Airstrip Loop

The feel

This is a loop around the historic WWII Campbell Tract airstrip, starting from the Smokejumper Trailhead. It follows the perimeter of the old Army-Air Force garrison on improved and natural surface trails. The woods hold moose, bears and lynx, along with coyotes, owls and bald eagles.

The tract covers 730 acres with a 25-mile trail system, and more than 500,000 people visit each year. The trails are open all year to walking, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowshoeing and horseback riding.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 3.4 miles, with 72 ft of gain. Gravel and natural surface around the airstrip garrison perimeter.

Time

About 1.5 hours.

Crowds and best time

More than 500,000 visitors a year use Campbell Tract. The loop is open all year.

Parking

Smokejumper Trailhead, on the left off BLM Road. It has a visitor information kiosk and approximately 10 accessible parking spaces, and the lot is plowed in winter.

Dogs

Must be on a leash.

Kids

Rated easy, on accessible gravel surfaces.

Hazards

Bears and moose live here. Travel in groups, make noise and carry bear spray.

Season and access

Open year-round to non-motorized use. From the Seward Highway south, exit at Dowling Road, go east to Elmore Road, turn right, then turn left onto BLM Road.

Mingo says

Come in summer to walk or bike the gravel, or in winter to ski or snowshoe the same loop. Skijoring is another winter option here.

Before you go

• From the Seward Highway, take Dowling Road east to Elmore Road, turn right, then left onto BLM Road.
• Bring bear spray, and keep your dog on a leash.
• Leave camping, fires and alcohol out of your plans; they are prohibited on Campbell Tract.
• Stay off the airstrip; entry is prohibited.

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