Lowenfels-Hoersting Family Nature Trail

The feel

This is a short boreal forest path at the south end of the Alaska Botanical Garden, which covers 110 acres. It is easy, about 1 mile out and back with roughly 60 ft of gain, and few other people are on the trail.

The trail was shortened away from Campbell Creek to reduce the chance of bear encounters there, and bears are still active in the Garden and along the surrounding Campbell Track. Bald eagles can be watched taking salmon from Campbell Creek, and the trail itself was built for tanks during WWII.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, about 1 to 1.2 miles, with roughly 60 ft of gain, from 312 ft at the start to 360 ft at the top. A boreal forest path.

Time

About 32 minutes to 0.5 hr on the trail. The Garden as a whole is a 1 to 2 hour visit.

Crowds and best time

Few other people. The best months are May through September.

Parking

The address is 4601 Campbell Airstrip Rd, Anchorage. Parking is shared with the Benny Benson School.

Fees and passes

Garden admission applies. From September 11 to October 18 a fee applies per person, and members and kids 6 and under are free.

Dogs

Not allowed. Only service animals are permitted in the Garden.

Kids

Rated easy, and kids 6 and under are free.

Hazards

Bears are active in the Garden and along the surrounding Campbell Track, and staff carry bear spray. Dense, biting insects were found on the trail in July.

Season and access

The Garden is open year-round to the public. From September 11 to October 18 it is open Friday to Sunday, with last entry 30 minutes before close.

Mingo says

Go between May and September, when the trail is at its best. Plan for insects in July, when biting bugs showed up on the trail.

Before you go

• Leave the dog at home, since only service animals are allowed in the Garden.
• Do not bring food beyond the Nursery.
• Use the free bug repellent the Garden offers.
• Call the main office at (907) 770-3692 to confirm hours before you drive out.

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