What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Upper East Grapefruit Trail
This trail offers gorgeous views but is also perfect for anyone looking for great rock climbing locations.
Length: 1.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Wander Lake Trail
This scenic trail meanders around Wander Lake and is excellent for spotting migratory birds.
Length: 1.4 miles
Intensity: Easy
Windy Creek Trail
Visitors to this trail can take in the spectacular landscape or enjoy some wildlife photography.
Length: 8.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fossil Gap Trail
This trail crosses several creeks and passes through dense spruce forests.
Length: 8.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Lingonberry Loop
This gentle trail is great for hiking or trail running, and it’s also a fantastic snowshoeing option during the winter months.
Length: 1.3 miles
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
The Chena River, which flows through Fairbanks, is one of the most popular locations for fishing. There are many areas where anglers can fish from the banks, and flyfishing is also a fantastic option. Common catches include trout and Arctic grayling, and salmon are seen during certain seasons.
Climbing
Grapefruit Rocks, one of the most popular climbing areas in all of Alaska, is located near Windy Creek Trail. The rocks offer more than 100 climbing routes, and there are several nearby areas that are excellent for bouldering. Fox Creek, which is also nearby, features several excellent ice climbs during the winter.
Wildlife Viewing
Windy Creek Trail and nearby Denali National Park are both superb locations to view wildlife. Visitors can often spot a range of native and migratory birds and many small mammals such as beavers, squirrels, martens, foxes, marmots, bats, and porcupines. The area is also home to both brown and black bears, elk, moose, caribou, lynx, and wolves.
Picnicking
One of the most popular picnic areas in the region is Olnes Pond Campground, which offers a picnic shelter that can be reserved. The area also provides easy access to fishing and hiking options. There are also several picnic areas, which feature tables and offer beautiful views throughout the Chena River State Recreation Area.
Snowmobiling
During the winter months, many people use the Windy Creek Trail for snowmobiling. Many other local trails can also be used for snowmobiling as long as there is adequate snow cover. Keep in mind that OHV vehicles are generally prohibited from these trails during the warmer seasons.