Eagle River Greenbelt Path

The feel

This is a flat, easy path through forest along the lower Eagle River, starting from Briggs Bridge. It follows an old roadbed with boardwalks, and the river comes into view along the way.

Bears, moose and snowshoe hares live in the area, so keep an eye out. Wet weather leaves muddy sections. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the path is popular with cross-country skiers, hikers and horseback riders.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 4.5 miles total, from 190 ft at the trailhead to 351 ft at the top. A flat old roadbed with boardwalks; just past 2.1 miles the trail runs into the river, which is usually shallow and slow-moving, so you wade to the far side.

Time

About 2 hours.

Parking

The trailhead is at the end of an unpaved road cutting right and downhill, just before Briggs Bridge on Eagle River Loop Road. In winter the road may be gated or unplowed, and hikers often park at a small turnoff and walk about 0.2 miles in.

Fees and passes

$5 day use for parking at the Briggs Bridge access.

Dogs

Welcome on leash.

Kids

Rated easy.

Hazards

Muddy sections in wet weather, bears and moose, and a river crossing just past 2.1 miles. In winter an ice bridge forms there.

Bathrooms and water

The trailhead has restroom facilities.

Season and access

The trail is used year-round.

Mingo says

Go from January through August. Wear footwear that can handle mud, and bring bug spray in the warmer months.

Before you go

• Pay the $5 parking fee at the Briggs Bridge access, or use an Alaska State Parks pass.
• In winter, allow for the gated road and the walk of about 0.2 miles in.
• Check the ice bridge before you cross the river in winter.

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