Westchester Lagoon - Image 1
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Westchester Lagoon

4.8
·68 reviews·Anchorage, United States

Anchorage's urban oasis, Westchester Lagoon offers stunning mountain views, abundant wildlife, and transforms into a winter ice skating paradise.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Peak bird activity

CrowdMedium
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Westchester Lagoon - Image 1

Westchester Lagoon

Best Time

Summer mornings

Peak bird activity

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Anchorage's urban oasis, Westchester Lagoon offers stunning mountain views, abundant wildlife, and transforms into a winter ice skating paradise.

4.8
(68 reviews)

"A beautiful place to visit, extremely scenic and peaceful, with a plethora of walking and cycling paths."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Skates! ⛸️

Winter transforms the lagoon into a world-class ice skating rink. Bring your own or check nearby shops for rentals.

Dog-Friendly Paths 🐕

A great spot to exercise your dog year-round, with easy paths for strolls and jogs.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birdwatching Paradise

Birdwatching Paradise

Throughout the lagoon

Spot sandhill cranes, geese with goslings, swans, and Arctic terns. A true haven for avian enthusiasts.

Winter Ice Skating

Winter Ice Skating

Frozen lagoon surface

Experience world-class natural ice skating on the lagoon. Surreal and a favorite local winter activity.

Scenic Mountain Views

Scenic Mountain Views

Lagoon perimeter

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains while walking or cycling.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Alaskan Seasons

Westchester Lagoon transforms with the seasons. Summer offers vibrant birdwatching and leisurely strolls, while winter turns it into a world-class ice skating rink. Plan your visit around these distinct experiences for the best of what Anchorage's urban oasis has to offer.

Parking & Access

While parking is generally free and plentiful, especially at Westchester Lagoon itself, consider starting your Coastal Trail adventure here for easy access. It's a popular local starting point for walks and bike rides.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Peak bird activity
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter weekends
Why
Vibrant ice skating scene
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tranquil strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Geeduh21 just another forlorn lover haunting Alaska 💔 #haunted #hauntedplaces #alaska #spookyseason #spookystories #scarystories #hauntedtiktok #halloween #alaskatok #anchorage
@emilyinalaska_
1.5K likes • 26.1K views

Bring Your Skates! ⛸️

Winter transforms the lagoon into a world-class ice skating rink. Bring your own or check nearby shops for rentals. Reddit

Dog-Friendly Paths 🐕

A great spot to exercise your dog year-round, with easy paths for strolls and jogs. Reddit

Birds at Westchester Lagoon. My commute is pretty. I’m glad it’s warm again #birds #westchesterlagoon #eucCommute #alaska
rogerfiredodger
13 likes • 144 views
Westchester lagoon and the Coastal Trail was a bird watching paradise this week. Sandhill cranes and colt, Canadian Geese and goslings, white swans, Arctic tern, seagulls were some of the birds seen. #birdwatching #westchesterlagoon #coastaltrail
akaggie907
10 likes • 189 views

Seasonal Wildlife Spotting 🦢

Summer brings baby ducks and swans, while winter may offer chances to see moose. InstagramReddit

Coastal Trail Access 🚶‍♀️

Westchester Lagoon is a popular starting point for the scenic Coastal Trail, offering free parking. Reddit

Spring time in Anchorage Alaska. This is at Westchester Lagoon and done on a IPhone 13 Pro through polarized sunglasses. #alaska #sharingalaska #907life #greatoutdoors #springtime
49thfreight
210 likes • 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Skates! ⛸️

Winter transforms the lagoon into a world-class ice skating rink. Bring your own or check nearby shops for rentals. Reddit

Dog-Friendly Paths 🐕

A great spot to exercise your dog year-round, with easy paths for strolls and jogs. Reddit

Seasonal Wildlife Spotting 🦢

Summer brings baby ducks and swans, while winter may offer chances to see moose. InstagramReddit

Coastal Trail Access 🚶‍♀️

Westchester Lagoon is a popular starting point for the scenic Coastal Trail, offering free parking. Reddit

Capture Mountain Vistas 📸

The lagoon offers stunning mountain backdrops, perfect for photos, especially during spring and summer. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(68 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Westchester Lagoon's scenic beauty, especially the mountain views and the vibrant birdlife during summer. The transformation into a world-class ice skating rink in winter is a major highlight. It's praised as a peaceful, accessible urban oasis perfect for walks, bike rides, and family outings.

"Baby ducks, baby swans, sand pipers and more. Islands of fire weed. Stunning this time of year. Clean open park, easy path to walk along. Perfect view of the mountains. Free parking."

Amy Thomas

"awesome little body of water to walk around, summer or winter. In the winter you have a decent enough chance of seeing Moose, and it also becomes an ice skating rink. In the summer its a great place for a jog, a stroll, or to exercise your dog."

Bronson Allen

"Wintertime, this place becomes a world class lake top ice skating rink! Surreal! (Bring your own skates, or rent a pair from a nearby sports shop.)"

Yaakov Bressler

What People Like

Stunning mountain views
Abundant birdlife
Winter ice skating

What People Dislike

Limited dining options on-site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Westchester Lagoon is conveniently located in the heart of Anchorage. It's easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Many locals also use it as a starting point for the Coastal Trail, which can be reached via various access points. InstagramReddit

While specific bus routes might vary, Anchorage has a public transit system that can likely get you close to the lagoon area. Check the Anchorage public transportation website for the most up-to-date route information. Instagram

The main parking area at Westchester Lagoon is generally the most convenient. It provides easy access to the lagoon's paths and is a popular starting point for the Coastal Trail. Reddit

Absolutely! Westchester Lagoon is connected to Anchorage's extensive trail system, making it a great destination for cyclists. The paved paths offer a pleasant ride. Instagram

Yes, Westchester Lagoon is situated in the heart of Anchorage, making it quite close to the downtown area. This proximity allows for easy access for both locals and visitors. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Westchester Lagoon is a public park and there is no entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty and amenities for free. Reddit

Westchester Lagoon is accessible year-round, from dawn till dusk. Specific activities like ice skating are dependent on weather conditions. Instagram

No advance booking is required for general visits to Westchester Lagoon. It's a public park open to everyone. Reddit

General park rules apply, such as leash laws for dogs and respecting wildlife. During winter, ice conditions dictate skating safety. Instagram

While the lagoon itself doesn't typically offer rentals, in winter, nearby sports shops may rent ice skates. Kayak rentals might be available seasonally through local outfitters. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, jogging, biking, birdwatching, picnicking, and relaxing by the water. In winter, it's a prime spot for ice skating. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, it's a family-friendly spot with walking paths, open green spaces, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. There's also a playground nearby. Reddit

Expect to see various birds like swans, geese, and cranes. You might also spot beavers, and in winter, moose sightings are possible. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Westchester Lagoon is surrounded by well-maintained walking and biking paths, many of which connect to the larger Anchorage Coastal Trail. Instagram+2

The lagoon offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, especially on clear days. The water itself provides a serene and picturesque setting. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within Westchester Lagoon. However, its central location means many restaurants and cafes are a short drive away in Anchorage. Reddit

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are open grassy areas perfect for spreading out a blanket and enjoying a meal. Reddit

Given its proximity to downtown Anchorage, you'll find a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, within a few minutes' drive. Instagram

During popular winter events, like Saturday morning skating, hot chocolate, coffee, and hot dogs are sometimes sold nearby. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged for picnics and enjoying a day out at the lagoon. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the stunning mountain backdrops, diverse birdlife, and the serene water. Winter ice skating scenes are also incredibly photogenic. Instagram+2

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful colors. Golden hour is particularly magical. Instagram

The edges of the lagoon offer unobstructed views of the mountains. The walking paths provide varied perspectives, and the islands can be picturesque. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a fantastic spot for wildlife photography, especially for birds. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Instagram+1

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. For wildlife, a telephoto lens can be beneficial. Polarized sunglasses can help with glare on the water. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Westchester Lagoon is a fantastic family outing! The easy, paved paths are perfect for strollers and little legs, and the abundance of baby ducks and goslings in the summer is a huge hit with children. InstagramReddit There's also a playground nearby, offering even more entertainment. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas, making for a full day of outdoor fun without breaking the bank. Reddit

In winter, the lagoon transforms into a magical ice skating rink. While you'll need to bring your own skates or rent them nearby, the lively atmosphere with music and free hot drinks on weekend mornings creates a memorable experience for the whole family. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers & Cyclists

For those who love to be on the move, Westchester Lagoon is an ideal destination. It's a prime starting point for the Anchorage Coastal Trail, offering miles of paved paths perfect for biking, jogging, or a brisk walk. Instagram+1 The scenic views of the mountains and water make any workout more enjoyable. Instagram

Rent a bike in town and explore the extensive trail system that connects to the lagoon. Whether you're looking for a short, scenic loop around the water or a longer adventure along the coast, Westchester Lagoon provides easy access and beautiful surroundings for your active pursuits. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers

Westchester Lagoon offers a wealth of photographic opportunities, from stunning mountain vistas to captivating wildlife. Instagram+2 The changing seasons provide a dynamic canvas: vibrant greens and abundant birdlife in summer, and the surreal beauty of the ice-covered lagoon in winter. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly rewarding for photographers, offering soft light and dramatic skies. Bring a telephoto lens if you're keen on capturing detailed shots of the diverse bird species that frequent the lagoon. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Seasonal Transformation of Westchester Lagoon

Westchester Lagoon is a dynamic natural space that truly showcases the distinct beauty of Anchorage's seasons. In the summer, it's a vibrant hub for birdwatching, with visitors spotting everything from graceful swans and busy geese with their goslings to migratory Arctic terns. The surrounding trails are perfect for leisurely strolls, jogs, or bike rides, all set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Instagram+2

As winter descends, the lagoon undergoes a magical transformation, becoming a world-class natural ice skating rink. Locals flock to the frozen surface for exhilarating Nordic skating, often accompanied by music and free hot beverages during weekend events. This seasonal shift offers two entirely different, yet equally captivating, experiences for visitors. InstagramReddit+1

Even during transitional periods like spring, the lagoon offers unique charm. The emergence of new greenery, the return of migratory birds, and the lingering crisp air create a picturesque setting for photography and quiet contemplation. Instagram+1

Connecting with Nature on the Coastal Trail

Westchester Lagoon serves as an excellent gateway to the renowned Anchorage Coastal Trail. This paved, multi-use path stretches for miles, offering stunning views of the Cook Inlet, the Chugach Mountains, and abundant wildlife. It's a favorite for locals and visitors alike for its accessibility and scenic beauty. Instagram+1

Starting your journey from Westchester Lagoon provides convenient parking and immediate access to the trail. Whether you prefer a brisk walk, a leisurely bike ride, or even a jog, the trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Keep an eye out for moose, especially during the quieter hours. Reddit

Beyond the lagoon, the Coastal Trail connects to various parks and points of interest within Anchorage, allowing for extended exploration. It’s a fantastic way to experience the natural splendor of Alaska without venturing far from the city center. Instagram

Wildlife Encounters at the Lagoon

Westchester Lagoon is a haven for diverse wildlife, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature right in the city. The lagoon's waters and surrounding vegetation attract a variety of bird species. Common sightings include elegant swans, Canada geese with their adorable goslings in the summer, and various seabirds like Arctic terns and seagulls. Instagram+1

Beyond the avian population, the lagoon is also known for its mammal inhabitants. Beavers are often spotted, and the surrounding areas can be a habitat for moose, particularly during the cooler months. While rare, a beached whale sighting near the lagoon has also been documented, highlighting the proximity of marine life to this urban oasis. Instagram+1

Observing wildlife at Westchester Lagoon is a rewarding experience, but it's crucial to do so responsibly. Maintain a safe distance, avoid feeding the animals, and be mindful of their natural behaviors to ensure their well-being and a positive experience for everyone. Instagram

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