Glaciers Galore
Did you know that…
- Glaciers store about 75% of the world's freshwater.
- Glacierized areas cover more than 15,000,000 square kilometers of the Earth.
- Glacier ice crystals can grow to be as large as baseballs.
- Glacial ice often appears blue because ice absorbs all other colors except blue; which is reflected.
- Ice shelves may calve icebergs that are over 80 kilometers long.
- Almost 90% of an iceberg is below water--only about 10% shows above water.
- North America's longest glacier is the Bering Glacier in Alaska, measuring 204 kilometers long.
Who would have thought that you could find one of the greatest mysteries of Alaska only 50 miles south of downtown Anchorage. Portage Glacier (and the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center) continue to be a top visitor attraction.
Visitors can stroll along the lakeshore, marvel at the huge icebergs, learn of the area's geological and glacial history at the center, or hop aboard the a tour boat for an even closer look at this astounding natural wonder. Visitors can also join an "iceworm safari" or sign up for a guided hike offered throughout the region.
The drive to Portage along the scenic, Seward Highway is a wonderful experience in itself. In addition to incredible fjord-like vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities, you'll see other glaciers hanging from the mountainsides. Head farther south to glaciers near Seward, or travel north from Anchorage to see even more. Tidewater glaciers are also visible from aboard a charter boat and some flight-seeing tours will land on a glacier for passengers to take a short walk.
Nearby Glacier Viewing (By Car)
Portage Glacier
One hour south of downtown Anchorage. The Begich, Boggs Visitor Center is complete with interpretive displays and an award-winning glacier film. The glacier is located on the glacier's lake, which is often chocked with icebergs. Guided walks and hikes around the area are offered. (907) 783-2326. Web site
Boat tours offer closer views of the glacier itself. Admission charged for cruise. (907) 277-228.
20-mile Glacier
45 minutes. south of Anchorage. The hanging glacier is visible from the highway -- look northeast up the Twenty Mile River valley just before you reach Portage.
Explorer Glacier
50 minutes south of Anchorage. It is viewable from the road to Portage Glacier. Look for this hanging glacier near the Bear Creek Campground.
Byron Glacier
One hour south of Anchorage. Byron Glacier is near the visitor center at Portage Glacier. A 3/4-mile walking trail takes you to the snowfield at the base of the glacier. Join a guided "iceworm safari" or explore on your own.
Exit Glacier
2.5 hours south of Anchorage. A short walking trail just north of Seward takes you right up to the glacier. Exit Glacier Ranger Station is open May-October. Adventurous hikers can take a long, strenuous climb up to the 300-square-mile Harding Ice Field.
Matanuska Glacier
Two hours north of Anchorage. This glacier stretches 27 miles long. Look down over parts of it from the Glenn Highway or drive closer (over private land) for a lowland perspective of its 4-mile-wide terminus. Glacier trekking and glacier ice climbing tours are available for a fee at the glacier entrance.
Other Glacier Viewing Opportunities
You may also take a private boat charter or kyak to see tidewater glaciers. Day cruises are available year-round from Seward to see glaciers and wildlife in Kenai Fjords National Park and Chris Islands. Day cruises are also available from Whittier to see glaciers and wildlife in Prince William Sound. Read more
