Back to trails

Cranberry Trail

The feel

This borough loop runs through boreal forest on the ridge above Goldstream Valley, starting from the lot at the end of Toboggan Lane. It is a non-motorized trail in the hills north of the valley, with a well-defined loop and scenery that includes butterflies.

You are unlikely to meet many other people. Getting started is the tricky part, since the first stretch of navigation and the parking can be confusing.

What to expect

Route and terrain
Loop of 2.5 miles with about 498 ft of gain through boreal forest on a ridge, rated moderate.
Time
About 1.5 hours.
Crowds and best time
Unlikely to meet many other people. January through May is the best window.
Parking
The lot at the end of Toboggan Lane; parking can be confusing to find.
Dogs
Welcome, on a leash.
Hazards
Confusing navigation at the start of the loop.
Season and access
Best January through May. Non-motorized.

Mingo says

Aim for January through May, the best window for this loop. Plan extra time at the start to get your bearings.

Before you go

  • Screenshot a trail map before you leave, since the first stretch is easy to misread.
  • Find the lot at the end of Toboggan Lane.
  • Keep your dog on a leash.

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

Today

Getting there

Distance
2.5 mi
Elevation gain
498 ft
Route
Loop
Difficulty
Moderate
Dogs
Allowed
High point
1564 ft
Drive from Anchorage
Full day, 6h34 to Fairbanks
Drive from Fairbanks
in town
Open in Maps ↗

What it is like

Aurora outlook for Fairbanks

🦟 Bugs: Low (breezy/high) Bears: Common, make noise

Nearby

Sources