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Earthquake Park

4.5
·1k reviews·Anchorage, United States

Commemorating the 1964 earthquake, this park offers a unique landscape and access to scenic coastal trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon/Sunset

Golden hour for photos

CrowdMedium
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Earthquake Park - Image 1

Earthquake Park

Best Time

Late afternoon/Sunset

Golden hour for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Commemorating the 1964 earthquake, this park offers a unique landscape and access to scenic coastal trails.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"See how the planet shakes and soil liquefies, still visible today."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Photo Spot

The adjacent parking lot offers prime sunset views, often better than within the park itself.

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike the Trail

Easily accessible from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a scenic stroll or ride. [:athletic_shoe:]

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Scarred Landscape

The Scarred Landscape

Throughout the park

Witness the dramatic evidence of the 1964 earthquake, with visible ground shifts and rippling hills.

Interpretive Displays

Interpretive Displays

Near the entrance

Learn about the powerful 1964 Good Friday earthquake through informative exhibits.

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Access

Tony Knowles Coastal Trail Access

Park entrance

Connect to the scenic Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a leisurely walk or bike ride with bay views.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

While Earthquake Park is accessible year-round, consider visiting during the golden hours for stunning sunset photos. Be aware that winter months can bring icy conditions, so proper footwear is essential for navigating the trails.

Understanding the Park's Significance

Earthquake Park commemorates the devastating 1964 Good Friday earthquake. The landscape itself tells the story of the seismic event, with visible signs of ground displacement and soil liquefaction. Take time to read the interpretive displays to fully appreciate its historical importance.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon/Sunset
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant for walks
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

never gets old🗻 #anchoragealaska #alaskalife #gasstation #mountainviews #fyp?viral #natureview
@divineaesthetics7
103K likes • 657K views

🌅 Sunset Photo Spot

The adjacent parking lot offers prime sunset views, often better than within the park itself. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike the Trail

Easily accessible from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a scenic stroll or ride. [:athletic_shoe:] Reddit

#earthquake #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #quake #magnitude #alaska #anchorage #usa
@quakecentral
18.6K likes • 861.4K views
Take a walk through history at Earthquake Park. 🌎🌲🌊 Anchorage still bears the marks of the 1964 quake—sunken ground, rippling hills, and stories that shaped the city. Click the link in our bio to read the blog and learn more. #earthquake #earthquakepark #anchorage #alaska
visitanchorage
84 likes • 2.4K views

🦌 Moose Sightings Possible

Keep an eye out for moose, especially in the early morning or late evening. They're a lucky sight! [:camerawithflash:] Reddit

🧊 Winter Caution

Be mindful of icy conditions during winter months; wear appropriate footwear for safety. [:athletic_shoe:] TikTok

Spend a full day in Anchorage, Alaska with me 🤍🫎 • • • #flightattendantlife #cabincrew #flightattendanttiktok #anchorage #anchoragealaska #flightattendant #flightattendantvlog
@ambonikole
16.9K likes • 191.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Photo Spot

The adjacent parking lot offers prime sunset views, often better than within the park itself. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike the Trail

Easily accessible from the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a scenic stroll or ride. [:athletic_shoe:] Reddit

🦌 Moose Sightings Possible

Keep an eye out for moose, especially in the early morning or late evening. They're a lucky sight! [:camerawithflash:] Reddit

🧊 Winter Caution

Be mindful of icy conditions during winter months; wear appropriate footwear for safety. [:athletic_shoe:] TikTok

🗺️ Historical Context

Read the interpretive displays to understand the park's significance from the 1964 earthquake. [:world_map:] Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Earthquake Park for its beautiful location and historical significance, offering a tangible connection to the 1964 earthquake. The accessibility via the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and opportunities for sunset photography are frequently highlighted. However, the lack of restroom facilities is a common drawback.

"It's a beautiful location. People go out there to take pictures of sunsets all the time. The pictures I post here will not be Earthquake Park but just the next parking lot down the road. There are plenty of places to park"

paul bledsoe

"This is a free public park monumenting the great earthquake of 1964 in Anchorage. After a half century you can still see how the area changed. Easy paved walking paths, also part of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. You will see locals running, biking, and walking thru here. It's an interesting point of interest. There's a parking lot at the trail head with ample parking. There are no restrooms facilities here. This area is beautiful and peaceful."

John Hannan

"Mr. Moose was waiting at the entrance when we arrived! It was our last day in Alaska and we were on the way to the airport. It was also our last hope to see a moose in the wild. How lucky we were! He was about 20 feet away from us, munching away and hanging around. The best time and the perfect day."

Peeraya Price

What People Like

Beautiful location
Historical significance
Sunset views

What People Dislike

No restrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Earthquake Park is located in Anchorage, Alaska, and is easily accessible by car. There's a parking lot at the trailhead, offering ample space for visitors. It's also a popular stop along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, making it accessible for cyclists and walkers. Reddit

Yes, Earthquake Park is directly connected to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, a scenic paved path that runs along the coastline. This makes it convenient for those exploring the trail by foot or bike. Reddit

While public transport options directly to the park might be limited, you can consider ride-sharing services or taxis. Many visitors also incorporate it into a longer bike ride along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. TikTok

Earthquake Park is situated along the coast, offering views of the Cook Inlet. It's a well-known point of interest for those exploring Anchorage's natural beauty and historical sites. TikTok

Yes, there is a dedicated parking lot at the trailhead of Earthquake Park, and reviews indicate it generally has ample parking available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Earthquake Park is a free public park. There are no admission fees required to enter and explore the grounds. Reddit

Earthquake Park is generally open to the public during daylight hours. As an outdoor park, it doesn't have strict closing times like indoor attractions. TikTok

Yes, you can visit Earthquake Park in the winter, but be prepared for icy conditions. Proper footwear is highly recommended for safety on the trails. TikTok

No, tickets are not required for Earthquake Park as it is a free public space. You can visit anytime during daylight hours. Reddit

While there aren't official guided tours specifically for Earthquake Park, the interpretive displays provide historical context. Many visitors enjoy exploring the park independently. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

At Earthquake Park, you can explore the landscape shaped by the 1964 earthquake, read interpretive displays about the event, and access the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for walking or biking. InstagramReddit

The park commemorates the powerful 1964 Good Friday earthquake that significantly impacted Anchorage. The terrain still shows evidence of the seismic activity, serving as a natural monument. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely. The park's hilly terrain and visible ground shifts are direct results of the 1964 earthquake and soil liquefaction, offering a tangible connection to the event. Reddit

Yes, Earthquake Park is a great stop for a brief visit. You can quickly walk through the main areas and read the displays in under an hour, or spend longer if you connect to the coastal trail. Reddit

Unfortunately, there are no restroom facilities directly within Earthquake Park. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The park offers unique photographic opportunities showcasing the dramatic landscape altered by the 1964 earthquake. The adjacent parking lot is particularly popular for capturing stunning sunset views over the water. TikTokReddit

For the most dramatic and picturesque shots, aim for the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset. The light during these times can beautifully highlight the park's contours. TikTok

Yes, it's possible to spot wildlife, including moose, in and around Earthquake Park, especially during dawn and dusk. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect their natural habitat. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing the park's scenery. If you're interested in wildlife photography, a telephoto lens can be beneficial. TikTok

While the entire park offers interesting perspectives, the area near the parking lot provides excellent vantage points for sunset photography. The trails also offer varied angles of the landscape. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Earthquake Park offers a unique educational experience for families. The visible evidence of the 1964 earthquake can spark curiosity in children about geology and natural disasters. The paved trails are suitable for strollers, and the open spaces allow kids to move around. While there are no specific playgrounds, the natural landscape provides an engaging environment for exploration. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. Reddit+1

Consider combining a visit to Earthquake Park with a walk or bike ride on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. This offers a longer, more active outing that kids might enjoy. The chance to see wildlife, like moose, can also be a big hit with younger visitors. Just ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, especially if visiting during winter months when conditions can be icy. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Earthquake Park is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as it's a free public park. You can enjoy the scenic views, learn about a significant historical event, and access a beautiful trail system without spending a dime. Reddit

Pack your own picnic to enjoy amidst the natural beauty, saving money on dining out. The park is easily accessible, and if you have a rental car, parking is also free. It’s a perfect spot for a self-guided exploration that offers both natural beauty and historical insight without any cost. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the 1964 Earthquake

Earthquake Park stands as a poignant reminder of the immense power of nature, specifically the devastating 1964 Good Friday earthquake. This seismic event, with a magnitude of 9.2, was the second-largest earthquake ever recorded. It caused widespread destruction across Alaska, with Anchorage experiencing significant damage due to soil liquefaction and ground displacement. TikTok+1

The park itself is a testament to this event. The land here was dramatically altered, with large sections sinking and shifting. Walking through the park, you can still see the undulating terrain and the visible scars left by the earth's violent movement. Interpretive displays provide detailed information about the earthquake's impact, helping visitors understand the geological forces at play and the resilience of the community. InstagramReddit

Visiting Earthquake Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with a significant moment in Alaskan history. It’s not just a scenic spot but a place of reflection, where the natural landscape tells a powerful story of survival and adaptation. Many visitors find it a moving experience to witness firsthand the lasting effects of such a powerful natural disaster. Reddit

Exploring the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

One of the most appealing aspects of Earthquake Park is its direct access to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. This paved, multi-use path stretches for over 11 miles, offering breathtaking views of the Cook Inlet, the Alaska Range, and Mount Susitna. It's a beloved route for locals and visitors alike, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a brisk jog, or a scenic bike ride. TikTokReddit

The trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels. As you traverse the path, you'll pass through coastal marshes, wooded areas, and open viewpoints. It's common to see locals out enjoying the scenery, whether they're running, biking, or simply taking in the fresh Alaskan air. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as sightings of moose and various bird species are not uncommon. TikTokReddit

Connecting to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail from Earthquake Park allows you to extend your exploration of Anchorage's beautiful coastline. Whether you venture a short distance or commit to a longer segment, the trail provides a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty surrounding the city. It’s a highlight for many visitors seeking outdoor activities and scenic vistas. TikTok

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