Roadside Glaciers
Portage glacier calves large icebergs into Portage Lake. This lake was created from the recession of Portage Glacier. Photo: © Robin Hood, ATMC/ATIA
Alaska's No. 1 visitor attraction is just a short, spectacular drive away. Portage Glacier and the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center are located 50 miles south of Anchorage.
Visitors can stroll along the lakeshore, marvel at iceberg-choked Portage Lake, learn of the area's geological and glacial history at the Center, or hop aboard the M/V Ptarmigan for an even closer look at this astounding natural wonder. Web site
The drive to Portage is an experience in itself. In addition to incredible fjord-like vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities, additional glaciers hang from the mountainsides. Head farther south to glaciers near Seward, or travel north from Anchorage to the Matanuska Valley.
20-mile Glacier
Visible from the Seward Highway. Look northeast up the Twenty Mile River valley just before you reach Portage.
Explorer Glacier
Viewable from the road to Portage Glacier. Look for this hanging glacier near the Bear Creek Campground.
Byron Glacier
Near the visitor center at Portage Glacier. A 3/4-mile walking trail leads to the snowfield at the base of the glacier. Guided "iceworm safari" available from the Center.
Exit Glacier
Just north of Seward, 2.5 hrs. south of Anchorage. Get close by following the half-mile (.8 km) trail. Adventurous hikers can take a (long, strenuous) climb up to the 300-square-mile Harding Ice Field.
Matanuska Glacier
Follow the Glenn Highway north about 2 hours. This glacier stretches 27 miles long. Drive closer (over private land) for a lowland perspective of its 4-mile-wide terminus.
