portage glacier cruise alaska

Expérience de la vallée des glaciers avec la croisière Portage Glacier et la visite de la faune

• Eau en bouteille
• Véhicule climatisé
• Transport privé
• Entrée – Portage Glacier
• Entrée – Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
• Vers 17 heures, heure locale, la veille de votre visite, nous vous contacterons par appel, SMS ou e-mail. Vous obtiendrez les détails du départ, les mises à jour météorologiques et toutes les informations de dernière minute sur la visite. Veuillez vous assurer que vos coordonnées sont mises à jour avec nous pour éviter tout problème de communication. Le jour de la visite, recherchez notre Sprinter Van sur lequel est affiché « Alaska Exquis Travel ».
• Non accessible en fauteuil roulant
• Accessible en poussette
• Animaux aidants acceptés
• Transports publics proches
• Vous recevrez la confirmation lors de la réservation
• Aucune condition physique particulière requise
• Cette expérience nécessite des conditions météo clémentes. Elle est annulée en raison du mauvais temps ; on vous proposera une autre date ou le remboursement complet.
• Ce circuit/cette activité accepte 10 voyageurs maximum
• Pour un remboursement intégral, annulez au moins 24 heures avant la date de début de votre expérience.

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• On passera vous prendre Voir les détails du départ
• 1 Beluga Point Arrêt : 20 minutes Voir les détails
• 2 Bird Point Arrêt : 20 minutes Voir les détails
• 3 Portage Glacier Arrêt : 2 heures - Entrée comprise Voir les détails
• 4 Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Arrêt : 2 heures - Entrée comprise Voir les détails
• Vous retournerez au point de départ

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Expérience de la vallée des glaciers avec la croisière Portage Glacier et la visite de la faune proposé par Alaska Exquisite Travel

Portage Glacier Cruises

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Portage Glacier Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

How to See Portage Glacier: Summer vs Winter

Whether you’re planning a trip to Alaska during summer or winter, I’m going to tell you how to see Portage Glacier in Portage, Alaska!

Portage Glacier is one of many glaciers on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. It’s located 50 miles south of Anchorage and it’s one of the easiest glacier hikes near Anchorage .

This glacier once extended the entire length of Portage Valley. Over the years, the glacier has retreated to the eastern side of Portage Lake. You can no longer see Portage Glacier from the road, or the Begich Boggs Visitor Center.

But there are still many ways to see the glacier and get up close to it! Depending on the time of year, you can hop on a boat cruise on Portage Lake, or hike nearby trails.

Portage Pass Trail Hike

Portage lake winter hike, how do you get to portage glacier .

By car – If you have your own car, you can drive to Portage Glacier in less than an hour and a half. The Begich Boggs Visitor Center at Portage Lake is 55 miles south of Anchorage and Portage Pass Trail in Whittier is 60 miles south of Anchorage. This is the best and cheapest option.

By train – The Alaska Railroad offers service from Anchorage to Portage and Whittier on the Glacier Discovery Train. Service runs late May to mid-September. Fares start at $89 one-way, per adult.

By shuttle bus – Another option throughout the summer is to hop on a shuttle bus for a self-guided tour. This is a great option for independent travelers. Round-trip transportation from Anchorage to Portage is $89 per person with Turnagain Arm Shuttle .

Visit Portage Glacier During Summer

There are only a few ways to see Portage Glacier during the summer, due to the fact that Portage Lake is open water during this time. You can get up close to the glacier by taking a boat across Portage Lake, or paddling across in a kayak. But if you just want to get a glimpse, you can see the glacier when you hike Portage Pass Trail in Whittier.

Portage Glacier Cruise

If you’re only in Anchorage for a short time and you’re looking for a short Alaska glacier cruise, then I would suggest cruising across Portage Lake. The mv Ptarmigan is the only boat operating on Portage Lake and they offer daily departures from May 16 to September 16.

On this 1-hour tour, you’ll get to stand 300 yards from the glacier and watch for the glacier to calve, while learning about the geology, wildlife, and history of Portage Valley.

Rates start at $39 per adult for the cruise only option. You can also book a cruise & tour package with Gray Line for $89.95 per adult. This package includes transportation to and from Portage Lake, and stops at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. AWCC is one of my favorite places on the Turnagain Arm!

Kayak Across Portage Lake

Kayaking to Portage Glacier is possible throughout the summer when Portage Lake isn’t frozen over. It makes for a fun day trip, especially when it’s nice and sunny out!

You can find the boat launch about a quarter-mile past the Begich Boggs Visitor Center in a parking lot turnout overlooking the lake. The trail is just a short walk down to the water and there is a tiny beach where you can get your kayak into the water.

Once you get your kayak into the water, you’ll want to stay close to the eastern shoreline. The lake is larger than it seems and if it’s windy, it’ll be challenging to paddle around. Make sure to check the weather conditions before you get out there.

While you’re kayaking around, you’ll get to pass lots of little waterfalls and maybe even get next to some icebergs floating around the lake. Always keep your distance because glaciers can calve and icebergs can roll over, at any moment.

Traditional Land: Alutiiq (Visit Native-Land.ca to identify whose land you live, work, and play on.) Distance: 4 miles roundtrip Time: 2 hours Elevation Gain: 750 feet Difficulty: Moderate Dogs: Yes

Portage Pass Trail is the only established trail with a view of Portage Glacier. This 4-mile roundtrip trail starts in the small town of Whittier, just 60 miles south of Anchorage.

You might stop in Whittier on your Alaska cruise, but if you’re coming from Anchorage, you will have to go through the longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel in North America! The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel alternates direction every half hour. Roundtrip tickets start at $13 one-way. View the tunnel schedule here .

The trail begins with 750 feet in elevation gain and levels out at the top of the pass. Then the trail descends all the way down to Portage Lake. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the glacier and surrounding area. If you packed a lunch, you can enjoy it on the gravel beach.

You can hike Portage Pass Trail in a couple of hours, but it will take you longer if you want to hang out by the beach.

If you continue hiking around the lake, you can get up close to the glacier. You will have to cross a wide creek, which is sometimes knee-deep or even deeper. Portage Pass Trail is best from March to October.

How to get to Portage Pass Trailhead from Anchorage:

Take the Glenn Highway South for 48 miles. Turn left towards Portage at Portage Glacier Road. Follow Portage Glacier Road through the tunnel to Whittier. Turn left onto Portage Glacier Road. Turn right at W Camp Road. There will be parking at the end of the road.

Visit Portage Glacier During Winter

At some point throughout the winter (around February), Portage Lake will usually freeze over completely. This opens up plenty of opportunities to see the glacier hidden around the bend.

Traditional Land: Dena’ina, Alutiiq (Visit Native-Land.ca to identify whose land you live, work, and play on.) Distance: 6 miles roundtrip Time: 2 hours Elevation Gain: Flat Difficulty: Easy Dogs: Yes

Portage Glacier is only accessible on foot when the conditions are just right. Getting to the glacier requires Portage Lake to be completely frozen over.

The trail starts from the parking lot near Begich Boggs Visitor Center. Head down from the parking lot to Portage Lake to begin your hike across the lake.

This is a very popular winter hike, so it’s more than likely you’ll find an existing trail. If there is fresh snow on the lake and no trail, it will be much harder to cross. You will be exhausted trying to break trail.

Make sure to stay closer to the eastern shoreline as you travel across the lake, and have the appropriate gear with you.

How to get to Portage Glacier Lake from Anchorage:

Take the Glenn Highway South for 48 miles. Turn left towards Portage at Portage Glacier Road. Follow Portage Glacier Road for 6.5 miles. Keep right to continue on Portage Lake Loop, follow signs for Portage Glacier/Begich Boggs Visitor Center.

Other Ways to Visit Portage Glacier

It’s common to see people fat bike or ski across Portage Lake during the wintertime. You can also see the glacier during a flight-seeing tour of the area. You may also find other day tours that make a stop at Portage Glacier.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is portage glacier from anchorage.

Portage Glacier is located 50 miles south of Anchorage. It will take you 1 hour and 30 minutes to get there.

Can you hike to Portage Glacier?

Yes, you can hike to Portage Glacier in the winter. In order to get right up to the glacier, Portage Lake needs to be completely frozen over.

Can you walk on Portage Glacier?

No, you can’t walk on Portage Glacier. The accessibility of the glacier is too difficult and too dangerous.

How deep is Portage Lake?

Portage Lake averages to 600 feet in depth.

5 Best Glacier Hikes Near Anchorage

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Pin For Later

Do you have any questions on how to see portage glacier? Let me know in the comments.

About Andrea Kuuipo

I was born and raised in Anchorage and have been able to travel to many places around Alaska. As an Alaska Travel Blogger, I love sharing my favorite things to see and do in my home state to help others plan an incredible trip!

10 thoughts on “How to See Portage Glacier: Summer vs Winter”

Thank you for taking the time to write this, it will be useful for the trip I’m taking with my boys in July.

Awesome! Glad you will find this post useful. You’ll have so much fun with your boys. July is a great time in Alaska. Where are you coming from?

How long would it take to walk across the lake to see the glacier in the winter?

Hey Jenna, If the conditions are prime it would take you around 2 hours minimum. It will take longer if there’s a heavy snowpack and no trail.

do you need snow shoes to walk across the frozen lake to see the glacier? What clothing/footwear would you recommend. Mahalo

Aloha Francie! You usually don’t need snowshoes to walk across the lake as it tends to be windblown but depending on the conditions, you may need ice cleats. I usually just go in my winter hiking boots. And wear non-cotton layers, gloves, hat, and the usual winter gear to keep warm. Make sure the ice is thick enough to cross and keep in mind the glacier is active. Have fun!

Thank you so much for this information! After reading, I tried searching for kayak rentals to take around Portage Lake but I’m coming up empty. Do you know any operators in the area for kayak rentals?

Hi Kay, There are no kayak rentals near Portage Lake. I would recommend renting a kayak in Anchorage for the best prices/options.

Thanks for the article! If driving from Anchorage or Seward, is there any way to avoid the tunnel?

If you’re planning on hiking the Portage Pass Trail, it starts in Whittier, and the only way to get there is through the tunnel. The other option to see the glacier in summer is from Portage Lake, which is before the tunnel.

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Portage Glacier Scenic Cruise & Drive

• Excursion Details
• Customer Reviews

Points of Interest

• Turnagain Arm
• Portage Glacier
• Seward Highway

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Board your motorcoach for a 30-minute ride to scenic Portage Lake where you will learn about glaciers, wildlife and the Chugach National Forest at the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center. Then board the m/v Ptarmigan for an unforgettable cruise. This sightseeing vessel has been specially designed to navigate the iceberg-dotted waters bringing you within 300 yards of Portage Glacier. Enjoy the spectacular views and 60-minute narrated tour from a seat in the enclosed lounge or on the open-air observation deck. Next, it's a short drive to the Portage Day Lodge where you may enjoy a delicious lunch or snack in the Glacier Cafe (not included) and shop for unique Alaskan artwork and gifts in the gallery. Your tour concludes with a 75-minute narrated drive along the Turnagain Arm on the Seward Highway - Alaska's "National Scenic Byway." Enjoy picturesque mountains and pristine wilderness, en route to Anchorage. You'll be transferred to the airport or downtown hospitality center, depending on your itinerary.

Special Notes:

Child price:.

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Tour to Portage Lake

Visit begich, boggs visitor center, portage glacier cruise, transfer to portage day lodge, visit portage day lodge, tour to anchorage airport or hospitality center.

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Portage Glacier Scenic Cruise & Drive with Airport Transfer (Wheelchair Accessible)

Whittier, Alaska, US

Activity Level

Excursion Type

Wheelchair Accessible

Starting At

Minimum Age

Information Not Currently Available

Approximately 5 Hours

Meals Included

Meals not included

Board a motorcoach for a 30-minute panoramic drive to scenic Portage Lake . At the Begich-Boggs Visitor Center , you will learn about glaciers, wildlife and the Chugach National Forest. Board the m/v Ptarmigan for an unforgettable cruise, navigating the iceberg-dotted waters to within 300 yards of Portage Glacier. Enjoy the spectacular views and 60-minute narrated tour from a seat in the enclosed lounge or from the open-air observation deck.

At the Portage Day Lodge , you'll have time to purchase lunch or a snack (at your own expense) and shop for Alaskan artwork and gifts in the gallery.

Relax on the 75-minute narrated drive along the Seward Highway -- a Scenic Byway -- skirting Turnagain Arm, picturesque mountains and pristine wilderness. Upon arrival in Anchorage, you'll transfer to the airport or downtown hospitality center, depending on your itinerary.

The content of this tour is identical to Portage Glacier Scenic Cruise & Drive. Only guests using a wheelchair can book this tour, as it ensures accessible transportation. Bookings not marked with an accessibility requirement will be removed from this tour's inventory. This tour is available only to guests whose cruise ends in Whittier with an overnight stay in Anchorage or to guests transferring to the airport with flights departing after 4pm. Cruisetour guests who will spend the first night of their land package in Anchorage can participate in this tour. The tour ends at Anchorage Airport at 2pm and at the downtown hospitality center at 2:30pm. If you have already purchased an airport transfer with your cruise booking, a refund for the transfer will be processed on board the ship, as this excursion automatically includes a transfer. This tour operates under a Special Use Permit issued by the US Forest Service. Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer. On visits before Memorial Day and after Labor Day, the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center is closed; a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center will be substituted.

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Gray Line Tours

Portage glacier cruise only - 10:30 am (self drive), portage glacier cruise only - 10:30 am (self drive) - ac1 itinerary.

Get up close to Portage Glacier aboard the  mv Ptarmigan . The one-hour cruise includes narration from the National Forest Service. This sightseeing tour is a perfect option for vacationers and visiting friends & family since it is only a one hour drive from Anchorage.

• The only boat operating on Portage Lake
• Onboard narration
• Fully enclosed, heated cabin
• Expansive windows for enhanced viewing
• Topside view-deck offers a great vantage point for watching the glacier “calve,” and for visitors to enjoy the fresh air
• Holds up to 144 passengers
• 80-foot vessel was built on site at Portage Lake to U.S. Coast Guard specifications
• 6.5-foot draft for minimal environmental impact
• Sound system cannot be heard from the shore, ensuring preservation of this naturally peaceful setting for wildlife and other visitors
• Hull designed for safety in ice-filled waters
• Operates on National Forest Service lands of the Chugach National Forest and is under a special use permit from the USDA Forest Service

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Anchorage welcomes first cruise ship of 2024 season

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - Nearly 2,000 passengers from Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam arrived Thursday morning, walking down a gangway at the Don Young Port of Alaska to find a chilly morning in Anchorage.

Passengers from the ship had 14 hours to explore the city and its surroundings and some planned to make the most of it despite the thin layer of fresh snow on the ground.

“I have seven friends and family with me celebrating my 60th birthday,” said a woman who hailed from St. Louis, Missouri. “So I’m the de facto tour guide. Today we are going to the Alaska Wildlife Center, Portage Glacier, Turnagain Arm, we are just going to have a great time in Anchorage.”

The Nieuw Amsterdam’s visit is one of just three port calls that Anchorage will see this summer — including one in June and a third in July — but according to leaders with the Anchorage Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, known as Visit Anchorage, those stops represent just a small portion of the cruise visitors that Anchorage will see this summer.

“There is a cruise ship visitor in Anchorage pretty much every day starting from April 22 all the way through the middle of September,” said Jack Bonney, vice president of destination services at Visit Anchorage.

According to Bonney, cruise ship passengers make up about half of all visitors in Southcentral Alaska, which is anticipated to see about 450,000 cruise visitors this summer. The majority, he said, are on weeklong trips that begin or end in Whittier or Seward.

Those passengers, according to Bonney, often take trips before or after their cruise to visit Anchorage and beyond.

“Those seven-day one-way trips, that’s where you really have the opportunity to say, ‘I’m going to add a couple of days. I’m going to get to Denali, I’m going to see Kenai Fjords I’m not back on the boat as soon as the day is over,’” Bonney said. “So all of those things are really important.”

Bonney said tourism in general is expected to be strong this summer, which is good news for local businesses. In Downtown Anchorage, the doors to most businesses were already wide open as early-season visitors descended on the streets.

“Tourism is a huge part of our economy, it’s something like 1 in 9 jobs for Anchorage,” Bonney said. “And it means hundreds of millions of dollars in direct spending, from everything from gift shops to restaurants to car rentals to hotels.”

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