Alaska’s Chugach State Park, the third-largest state park in the United States, has adopted a new winter policy allowing fat-tire bicycles on many of its trails. Fat bikes, defined by tires at least 3.7 inches wide and ridden with low pressures (20 psi or less), have become increasingly popular in Alaska for their ability to roll smoothly over compact snow.
Located about 20 minutes east of Anchorage, Chugach State Park has long been attractive to fat-bike riders, though until now access was limited in some areas. As the sport has grown in the Anchorage area and beyond, more riders have sought places to ride during the snowy months, prompting the park to revisit its rules.
Chugach began issuing permits for fat-tire biking in 2011, but rising demand led park managers to expand access. Under the new policy enacted in November, many of the park’s most popular trails are now open to unlimited fat-tire bike use throughout the winter season. This change simplifies access for riders and removes the need for special permits on those routes.
Park officials and trail users report that fat-tire bikes ridden on packed snow have relatively low environmental impact. When used on established, compacted trails, fat bikes typically do not damage vegetation or trail surfaces, and their presence has not created notable conflicts with cross-country skiers who also frequent the park.
The decision reflects both growing interest in winter cycling and careful consideration of multiuse trail dynamics. By allowing fat-tire bikes on designated trails, Chugach State Park aims to provide safe, sustainable recreational opportunities for a broader range of users while maintaining conditions for skiers and other winter visitors.
Visitors planning to ride should follow standard trail etiquette—yield to skiers when appropriate, stay on maintained routes, and avoid creating new tracks that could damage sensitive areas. Observing these practices helps preserve trail quality for everyone and supports the park’s goal of balanced, year-round recreation.