Anchorage Parks and Recreation

Trail Safety Tips

Trail Safety Tips

As a Trail Watch volunteer, you set an example for safe and appropriate trail behaviors for all users. Please remember the following guidelines:

Trail Safety

  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • Walk confidently.
  • Look people in the eye as you pass them. This lets others know you are aware of their presence.
  • Wear shoes and clothing that allow freedom of movement.
  • Do not wear head phones while exercising. Being able to hear will allow you to sense someone that you may not be able to see such as a passing cyclist.
  • Lock your vehicle. Do not leave valuables such as purses, wallets, or cell phones inside.
  • Carry a cell phone in case of emergency.
  • If approached by a stranger, do not allow yourself to be distracted.

Moose never should be taken lightly

Moose may seem slow and docile, however they can explode with speeds that catch most by surprise. Bull moose are more agitated and aggressive in the mating season known as the "Rut" during autumn.They may also become aggressive protecting the cows they have gathered for mating.

Trail Watch volunteers and the public should be moose aware and be cautious when near moose. If a moose is encountered, back off, be prepared to get off the trail, and put trees between you and the moose.  If it is a cow, look for the chocolate colored calves and avoid getting between her and the calves.  For more information on moose visit the Alaska Fish and Game website.

Bear Aware - Know Before You Go

Are you bear aware? When you venture out  in Anchorage, whether it is on a backwoods trail, a heavily used park trail, or a paved trail, you are traveling in bear country. How you behave often dictates the outcome of an encounter with a bear. When traveling through bear country, make your presence known, especially in areas where there is dense vegetation. Log on to the Fish & Game website to learn more about bear safety, or what to do in the event you encounter a bear.

Summer Trail Etiquette

  • Be considerate of others.
  • Give an audible warning before blind turns and when passing others.
  • Bicyclists should give an audible warning and stop for all equestrians.
  • Keep right except to pass.
  • Use authorized trails. Respect closures.
  • Keep dogs on a leash.
  • Use caution around dogs, horses and wildlife.
  • Minimize trail erosion. Avoid muddy trails and shortcuts.
  • Don’t litter. Pack out what you pack in.

Winter Trail Etiquette

  • Be considerate of others.
  • Do not take dogs, horses or mountain bikes on designated ski trails.
  • Travel in the indicated direction of traffic to help prevent accidents and damage to the tracks.
  • Do not skate ski across diagonal or classical ski tracks.
  • Don't become a trail obstacle, whether skiing as a group or stopping where other skiers can not see you.
  • Dog mushing trails are closed to all other users due to the speeds of the dog teams and safety reasons.
  • Watch for grooming and maintenance equipment any time of the day or night.
  • You were once a beginner. Please be respectful and considerate of others' ability. If you fall, please fill in the hole.
  • Be prepared to be safe. Be aware of conditions and plan your trail experience accordingly.

Trail Watch Emergency Numbers

Crime in progress, serious injury, life threatening injury

9-1-1  APD Emergency
Dispatch

Suspicious activity (strange behavior, threatening presence, loitering)

786-8900  APD Non-emergency hotline

Incidents involving domestic animals

343-8119  MOA Animal Control

Sidewalk, street trail & bike lane obstruction & hazards

343-8277  MOA Street
Maintenance

Trail erosion, trail obstruction, graffiti, trail / park hazards

343-4554  MOA Park & Trail
Maintenance; ANCWorks (click on "Other")

Homeless Camps

ANCWorks site

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