Locals lovingly refer to the Jim Creek Recreation Area as “Jim Creek” and it is your gateway to the informal Knik Glacier trail. Just an hour outside of Anchorage, this rugged area will give you the Alaska adventure of a lifetime including creek crossings, open gravel bar riding all the way back to the Knik Glacier.
Knik River Trail Conditions
Knik Glacier trail starting at Jim Creek is 38.8mile moderately used out and back trail. The Knik Glacier Trail leading from the Jim Creek Recreation Area is an unmaintained trail that follows the Knik River across a glacial fed braided river. If you’ve never ridden on a braided river, it consists of a series of interwoven water that shifts on an hourly basis. You must always assess a water crossing before “taking the plunge.”
The biggest issue our riders come up against is in getting stuck in the very tempting and often fun mud holes left by the shifting river. We always ask that if the machine gets stuck, to not feel sheepish and call our owner, Israel, to come up and help. Please note that there will be a fee if a rescue occurs to accommodate for our time. This river is so much fun, but fun can often be ruined in a day from a misstep or making a wrong call. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Knik Glacier ATV Trail Map
We recommend all of our riders to download the app and create an account with All Trails. You will need an account to uses the app and see the trail map. Please note that you should still use your own discernment in assessing the trails as water fluctuates on an hourly basis. The most up to date map with trail conditions and way points exists for the Knik Glacier ATV Trail map from this app.
Rules To Follow When In Jim Creek Recreation Area
Be considerate of other users. This is a multi-use trail, so you’ll come across everything from horses, to bikers, runners, hikers etc. That being said, you can shoot, hunt (need permit), fish (need permit) and in general enjoy the good outdoors. This area is heavily used so please don’t litter. Leave the trail wild and have a wild time.
Please note that it is not an Alaska law that you have to wear helmets but it is highly recommended.
Jim Creek Trail Conditions
In 2016, the Mat-Su Borough did trail improvement at the Jim Creek Recreation area located off Sullivan Avenue in the Butte, just outside of Palmer and 45 minutes from downtown Anchorage. This three miles of trail in the area offers different technical difficulties based on each loop progression.
Jim Creek Fishing Report
Fishermen will find a variety of fish including sockeye salmon and coho salmon at Jim Creek.
Mid-August sees silver salmon. Be aware that fishing dates change year to year, so please check in with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.
More Information on the latest fishing reports:
Hunting at Jim Creek
Hunt along the Knik River, in area 14A. Some restrictions will apply. Please thoroughly the Alaska Department of Fish and Games requirements listed here:
How to Get too Knik Glacier and Jim Creek Driving Directions
To find the Jim Creek Recreational area and the Knik River Public Use Area use this way point, please note that this is a fee use area that you will have to pay for via credit card. When you rent with us, we can deliver ATVs directly to the trailhead, so you don’t have to worry about picking up. Arrangements for delivery made online or via phone.
Where to Park:
- Description – From the Parking lot, approximate. 1½ miles to the Knik River. Popular among ATV users with vehicle parking for motorized ATV trail access. Also, Jim Creek is a popular destination for salmon fishing in July and August.
- Directions – Jim Creek Trailhead is located off the Old Glenn Highway on Sullivan Road.
- Fees – Jim Creek Trailhead is a Fee Use Area.
- Daily – $5.00 Per Person,
- Yearly – $40.00 Per Person Yearly Pass Available
Payment Methods Accepted – Kiosk and card
