Jim Mahaffey Trail System

Outdoor Recreation on Campus

Jim Mahaffey Trail System

Surrounding Alaska Pacific University’s 175-acre campus is a network of forested trails that puts outdoor recreation right outside your door. The Jim Mahaffey Trail System offers opportunities to walk, bike, cross-country ski and explore throughout the year, while connecting APU to Anchorage’s broader trail network and the Chugach Mountains beyond. Whether you’re heading out for a quick walk between classes, hitting the trails on skis or exploring by bike, there are plenty of ways to get outside and experience Alaska right from campus.

In winter, APU partners with the Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage to groom 5 kilometers of ski trails on campus. When the snow falls, the trail system also offers a network of single-track trails for fat tire biking, giving students and the APU community plenty of ways to explore the campus on two skis or two wheels.

Trail Etiquette & Rules
  • Travel at a safe speed. Bike and ski under control and be aware of other trail users.
  • Keep dogs leashed and pick up after your pet. Pet waste must be properly disposed of.
  • Respect groomed ski trails. Walkers and bikers should stay off soft or freshly groomed trails to avoid creating ruts and post holes.
  • Stay off set ski tracks. Do not walk, run or bike on groomed ski tracks.
  • Wait until trails are dry before biking. During spring breakup, bike tires and foot traffic can damage muddy trails. Please wait until June to bike on soft trails.
  • Yield to other trail users. In general, slower traffic has the right of way. Bikers and skiers should yield to walkers.
    • On hills: Walkers and bikers should yield to downhill skiers, who have less ability to stop or change direction.
    • For biking: Uphill riders have the right of way so they can maintain momentum.
  • Signal when passing. Use your voice or a bell and let others know when you are approaching from behind.
  • No horses. Horses are not permitted on APU trails.
  • Non-motorized use only. Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the trail system.
Wildlife & Trail Safety

APU’s trails are shared with Alaska wildlife, including bears, moose and coyotes. Stay alert and make your presence known, especially in areas with limited visibility. Talking, using a bell or traveling with others can help alert wildlife to your presence.

If you see motorized activity or have a non-emergency concern on the trails, contact the appropriate authorities:

  • Campus Safety: (907) 564-8888
  • Anchorage Police Department: 786-8500
  • Emergency: Call 911
  • An emergency phone is located at the main entrance of Moseley Sports Center.
VIEW EQUIPMENT RENTALS & PRICES

Ready to get outside? APU’s Outdoor Program equipment room has cross-country skis, skate skis and fat-tire bikes available to rent. Call 907-564-8614 to learn more and get geared up for your next adventure.

Download Flyer Trail Map

Disc Golf Course

Grab your frisbee and hit the course! APU’s 9-hole disc golf course winds through campus trails and around university buildings, offering a fun way to get outside and enjoy the campus. As you play, keep an eye out for pedestrians, wildlife, windows and vehicles, and please be mindful of the shared campus space. If your frisbee finds its way onto a building roof, unfortunately, we won’t be able to retrieve it.

APU is a dry campus, so alcohol, firearms, tobacco products and drugs, including cannabis, are not permitted. Please play respectfully and help keep the course fun and welcoming for everyone.

Have a question or need assistance while you’re on the course? APU Campus Safety is here to help. Call 907-564-8888 for assistance or to report a concern.

DOWNLOAD DISC GOLF MAP