The Seward Highway-Scenic Highways Series
Leaving Anchorage heading south on the Seward highway, you leave the city bustle within fifteen minutes and you forget you were even there within thirty. It can be a quick run south to Exit Glacier, but if you have some time, spend a few days traversing this roadway and see why it holds three road designations.
If you're a birder, stop at Potters Marsh to view multitudes of migratory birds and bald eagles. A little further on and you'll come across Chugach State Park. Past that at Bird Point is a great place to spot the Beluga Whale as they love to hang out in Turnagain Arm. These are amazing to see their bold white color against the dark of the waters. Further on is Mount Alyeska. There is a great tram ride up the mountain for some incredible views and if I'm not mistaken you can order lunch at the restaurant. I will admit to staring at the floor of the tram on the ride up. Not a big fan of heights, but I was ok once at the top!
Photo opportunities abound along the Seward Highway. From mountains, to glaciers, lakes, and the wildlife that inhabits the areas, there are many hot spots that photographers flock to. This trip can take “visit a glacier” off your bucket list. Exit Glacier is in Kenai Fjords National Park off the Seward Highway. This is the only part of park you can get to by road and then walking trails get you right up close to the glacier itself.
Seward itself, a booming town of almost 3000 people, lies at the end of the highway. Here you will find an amazing offering of things to do, eat, and then when you’re pooped, a multitude of places to stay! At mile-marker 0 is Resurrection Bay. This is a beautiful spot to view an abundance of water life like orcas, seals, otters, and sea lions. Keeping an eye to the sky can add to your birding life list.
If you like winter activities, the snowfall in Seward surely allows great activities. During winter of 2011-2012, over 240 inches fell to the ground. The National Guard was called in to assist weary residents getting it moved and an avalanche actually closed the Seward Highway for a bit.
The Seward Highway has so much to offer. Take a day or two, tack it on another portion of your Alaska travels, and experience this multi designated, beautiful roadway.
If you're a birder, stop at Potters Marsh to view multitudes of migratory birds and bald eagles. A little further on and you'll come across Chugach State Park. Past that at Bird Point is a great place to spot the Beluga Whale as they love to hang out in Turnagain Arm. These are amazing to see their bold white color against the dark of the waters. Further on is Mount Alyeska. There is a great tram ride up the mountain for some incredible views and if I'm not mistaken you can order lunch at the restaurant. I will admit to staring at the floor of the tram on the ride up. Not a big fan of heights, but I was ok once at the top!
Photo opportunities abound along the Seward Highway. From mountains, to glaciers, lakes, and the wildlife that inhabits the areas, there are many hot spots that photographers flock to. This trip can take “visit a glacier” off your bucket list. Exit Glacier is in Kenai Fjords National Park off the Seward Highway. This is the only part of park you can get to by road and then walking trails get you right up close to the glacier itself.
Seward itself, a booming town of almost 3000 people, lies at the end of the highway. Here you will find an amazing offering of things to do, eat, and then when you’re pooped, a multitude of places to stay! At mile-marker 0 is Resurrection Bay. This is a beautiful spot to view an abundance of water life like orcas, seals, otters, and sea lions. Keeping an eye to the sky can add to your birding life list.
If you like winter activities, the snowfall in Seward surely allows great activities. During winter of 2011-2012, over 240 inches fell to the ground. The National Guard was called in to assist weary residents getting it moved and an avalanche actually closed the Seward Highway for a bit.
The Seward Highway has so much to offer. Take a day or two, tack it on another portion of your Alaska travels, and experience this multi designated, beautiful roadway.
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Glenn Highway
Alaska Marine Highway
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