portage glacier

Question

wondering when it makes sense to stop here - on our drive from Seward to Girdwood (is Portage Glacier on the route between the 2) or we will be based in Girdwood for 4 days - will it make sense to head to Portage Glacier for one afternoon while we are in Girdwood? if its on the way from Seward i dont want to be heading back in that direction. When we leave girdwood we head to Glacier View and then Takeetna.

thanks

Answer

Portage Glacier is located along the Seward Highway (AK-1), about 20–25 minutes north of Girdwood and roughly halfway between Seward and Girdwood. It is very accessible and makes for a convenient stop without requiring a major detour.

If you are driving from Seward to Girdwood, stopping at Portage Glacier is straightforward and can be done en route. This way, you won’t need to backtrack later, and it fits naturally into your travel day.

Alternatively, if you are based in Girdwood for several days, it also makes sense to plan an afternoon visit to Portage Glacier from Girdwood. The drive is short (about 20–25 minutes each way), so it’s easy to do as a half-day excursion. You can enjoy the visitor center, take short hikes or boardwalks, and view the glacier and nearby lake.

Key considerations:

Stopping on the way from Seward is more time-efficient if you want to continue directly to Girdwood after your drive.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace and want to explore the area more fully, an afternoon trip from Girdwood works well.
Weather can impact visibility and the experience, so check local conditions. Mornings often have clearer views, while afternoons can bring clouds or rain.

In summary, Portage Glacier can be conveniently visited either during your drive from Seward to Girdwood or as a short afternoon trip from Girdwood. Both options are feasible, but stopping on the way from Seward avoids a return drive.

portage glacier

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