Portage Valley
Portage Valley, located an hour southeast of Anchorage at the head of Turnagain Arm, is an adventure haven. This beautiful valley is surrounded by mountains with ice fields and glaciers. There are excellent hiking and biking trails, as well as paddling opportunities on the relatively gentle Portage River and a couple of easily accessible lakes. Begin your adventure by learning about the surrounding glaciers and wildlife at the Begich Bogg Visitor Center. To get up close and personal with Portage Glacier, book a one-hour boat ride on Portage Lake.
The Trail of Blue Ice is located near the visitor center. On the east side of the valley, this easy, beautiful trail is a mix of gravel and boardwalks that wind through woods, past ponds, and over small streams. This trail is a lot of fun to ride. The Byron Glacier Trail is another nearby trail that is an easy stroll along the glacial-fed creek to Byron Glacier.
Family-friendly activities continue at Alder Pond, a popular rainbow trout fishing spot. Whitewater sports can be enjoyed in the accessible Portage Creek, or paddling in the Portage Lake below Portage Pass, although the Gold Rush route can be prone to inclement weather. Check the weather before you set out to the Portage Valley. Like Prince William Sound, the valley can sometimes be quite stormy.
- Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5
- Website: N/A
- Admission Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Daily
- Address: Girdwood, AK 99587
