Boots in the Snow - A short review of two-wheel drive accessible trails near Fairbanks

by Tanner Purdy

The Alaskan spirit is one of adventure, and for many people, the enjoyment of isolation. There is something about disappearing into the wilderness that evokes freedom and peace. However, Fairbank’s rough winter roads can make that adventuring near impossible without the right vehicle. Something with four-wheel drive and clearance is the dream, but not a dream we are all living. I, like many others, sacrificed four-wheel drive for price and convenience, a decision I quickly came to regret. But that won’t stop me and Larry, my stone grey, front-wheel drive, manual, gumdrop of a vehicle. Luckily, there are trail systems near the edges of town that you won’t have to risk the ditch to explore. 

One of my favorite trail systems is the one connected to campus. The trails all weave and interlock north of campus, but there are two main access points. One access is at the Ski Hut just past the Arctic Research building. From there you can follow the walking trail signs up to and beyond Smiths Lake. The other access point is on the road behind the Cutler Apartment Complex. Those trails lead deeper and deeper into the woods connecting to the ski trails near Ballaine Lake. The miles of trails and crossroads after crossroads offer the perfect place for a quick woods break or an hours-long walk. 

Towards the other end of town is the Tanana Lakes Recreation Area. Take note, you must use the access off the end of Cushman, as access on the Lathrop street end is closed.  Google maps might try to take you the wrong way. Although the road is not smooth by any means, my car still had no trouble bumping along. In the afternoon on a Tuesday, the parking lots were empty. Trails split off in multiple directions opening onto the frozen lake. One end is populated by a couple ice fishing sheds near a skating loop. The other end is open and empty with multi-use walking and skiing trails snaking along it. Small forest patches loosely separating wide open snow flats create pockets away from the world. The open space makes you feel further from Fairbanks than you really are, creating the perfect illusion for those who are two-wheel trapped.  

My third and personal favorite option is the Koponen Homestead trails. Take note, the best parking location and trail entrance is not where maps label the trailhead! Route yourself to Katya court instead. The easiest access for fellow less terrain vehicles is to go out Chena Pump road and then head up Roland road. Park at the end of Katya court where a green sign marks the entrance to the trails. A quaint but slightly out of place resting bench on the entering path sets a whimsical tone. From there you can weave in and out from under snowy tree canopies all along the hillside. The ever changing elevation and narrower trails let you get away from the flat valley feel. The trails are accepting of anything non-motorized, even dogs. 

Although not far out of town, each location will give you the sense of isolation that trails like those at Creamer’s Field do not. Be mindful of recent heavy snowfalls as they may temporarily make the second two locations less passable. For more trail ideas check out the Fairbanks Winter Trail Guide.