Sisson Loop

The feel

Sisson Loop is a Kincaid Park nordic trail that winds through forest near the coast and the airport. You get views of landing planes. Moose are frequent here, and the park is also home to black and brown bears and bald eagles.

The route passes the ruins of the Nike Site Point Missile Launch Area, a top sight along the way. Views reach across Cook Inlet to Mt. Susitna and Fire Island, with Denali and Mt. Foraker on a clear day. In July some stretches are muddy and overgrown, and the bugs are relentless. The park covers 1,400 acres with 60 kilometers of trails.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 6.7 to 7.3 miles, with 364 to 593 ft of gain and a top elevation of 210 ft. Forest trail near the coast, groomed for nordic skiing in winter.

Time

About 2 hours 42 minutes to 3 hours.

Crowds and best time

Popular for cross-country skiing, hiking and running. The best months are May through September.

Parking

The main Raspberry Road staging area is free and has a large lot. A gate west of the trailhead is locked about 10 p.m.

Fees and passes

Parking is free.

Dogs

Leashed dogs are allowed in Kincaid Park.

Kids

Rated moderate.

Hazards

Moose on the trail, bear scat reported, and muddy, overgrown stretches in July. Relentless bugs in summer.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms are available, and the main parking lot has wheelchair accessible ones.

Season and access

In winter this route is ski only, and walkers and dogs are kept off groomed ski trails. Raspberry Road gates are open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, 11 p.m. June to August.

Mingo says

Go from May through September, when the trail is open to walkers. Expect mud and relentless bugs in July. In winter the groomed trail belongs to skiers, so walkers should plan around that.

Before you go

• Know the gate hours: Raspberry Road is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and 11 p.m. June to August.
• The Jodhpur Gate closes at 9 p.m., and the Outdoor Center is open 12:30 to 8 p.m.
• Keep your dog leashed.

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