Plan your visit
Plan your visit
The valley offers a mix of easy multi-use paths, steep mountain trails, and educational exhibits.
Portage Glacier
Portage Glacier Road, Chugach National Forest, AK
GPS 60.7846, -148.8414
Open directionsGetting there
Getting to the valley
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive south from Anchorage on the Seward Highway, then turn east on Portage Glacier Road for 5 miles. | 1 hour from Anchorage | Free | Accessing the Portage Pass trailhead on the Whittier side requires paying the toll for the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. |
| Tour: Commercial operators offer bus and boat tour packages departing from Anchorage. | 4-6 hours round-trip | $100+ | Usually includes round-trip transport and the MV Ptarmigan boat cruise to the glacier face. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
Summer is the primary season for boat tours and fully open facilities. Winter offers unique lake ice access for prepared visitors.
What to bring
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The Portage Pass trail requires passing through the Anton Anderson tunnel.
A toll is charged to access the Whittier side.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries
A balanced trip combining the visitor center and a boat cruise.
- Seward Highway
Drive 1 hour south from Anchorage.
- Visitor Center
Explore the exhibits and watch the short film.
- Boat Tour
Board the MV Ptarmigan for a 1-hour cruise to the glacier face.
- Trail of Blue Ice
Walk a section of the accessible path before departing.
Focuses on hiking the steep Portage Pass trail for elevated views.
- Drive to Whittier Tunnel
Head south and line up for the tunnel schedule.
- Portage Pass Trail
Hike 2 miles up the 800-foot incline for glacier views.
- Lunch
Eat a packed lunch near the trail.
- Williwaw Nature Trail
Drive back through the tunnel and walk the nature trail.
Visitor Center Tips
The Begich, Boggs Visitor Center charges $5 for adult entry to the exhibits. Children 15 and under enter for free. If you have an Interagency Annual Pass, your entry is free. Visitor Center Fees covers exactly what is included.
Wildlife is active in the valley. Always carry bear spray if hiking the trails. Binoculars are highly recommended for spotting animals and examining the ice.
Easiest way to do it
Glaciers and Wildlife: Super Scenic Day Tour from Anchorage
8 h 4.9 (345)
- We'll refill your personal bottle, or you can enjoy our filtered water from a recyclable paper cup
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
- Snacks
- Free hotel pickup and drop-off
From$235per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How much is the Whittier tunnel toll?
You must pay a toll to access the Whittier side of the tunnel, where the Portage Pass trailhead is located. Prices vary by vehicle type.
What should I wear on the boat?
Wear a waterproof windbreaker and warm fleece layers. The wind coming off the glacier on the open deck is very cold. Sunglasses are also necessary for the ice glare.
Is the Trail of Blue Ice difficult?
No. It is a network of fully accessible paths with minimal elevation gain. It links recreation sites across the valley and is suitable for all ages.