Campbell Tract Loop National Recreation Trail

The feel

The loop follows the perimeter of the historic WWII Army-Air Force airstrip garrison, and it begins and ends at the Smokejumper Trailhead. The trails are improved and natural surface, open year-round to non-motorized use. Walkers, hikers and mountain bikers share them with skiers, snowshoers, skijorers and riders on horseback.

The woods hold plenty of wildlife, including lynx, coyotes, black and brown bears, moose, owls and bald eagles. Campbell Tract covers 730 acres with a 25-mile trail system, and more than 500,000 people visit each year, so the loop is well used.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 3.4 miles, with 167 ft of gain. Improved and natural surface trail 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

Pick your season by how you want to move. Summer suits walking and mountain biking, and winter suits skiing, snowshoeing and skijoring.

Before you go

• Follow Dowling Road east to Elmore Road, turn right, then left onto BLM Road, and park at the Smokejumper Trailhead on the left.
• Carry bear spray and keep your dog on a leash.
• Leave camping, fires and alcohol at home, because they are prohibited on Campbell Tract.
• Stay off the airstrip itself; entry is prohibited.

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