Portage Glacier Valley Whittier Private Half Day Tour

Carved out by a gigantic river of ice millennia ago, Portage Valley today is part of the Chugach National Forest and home to populations of salmon and wildlife such as bears and moose. Numerous developed trails and trail spurs span the forested valley, providing easy day hikes to the area's lakes, ponds, and streams. Late summer and fall is the perfect time to observe the colorful display of spawning salmon as they procreate the next generation as has been done for eons. Along with this activity comes the very real possibility of spotting (at a safe distance) both black and brown bear that prowl these waters looking for salmon to feast on. Small gatherings of bald eagle are a daily occurrence throughout the autumn months and into early winter (September-November). The valley is bordered by forest-clad mountains, complete with ice fields and bluish-green glaciers, making for a perfect Alaska-themed setting. The Portage Glacier can be viewed up close by boat for additional cost.

Departure City: WHITTIER Note: The tour is subject to accommodating your personal interest and schedule and can be altered or changed upon request. Flexibility is the key! * Pick-up at cruise ship dock in Whittier * Drive through the Whittier Tunnel, longest mountain tunnel of its kind in the world * Arrive in Portage Valley through Portage Glacier Road * Stop at Explorer Pond to view glacial pond, hanging alpine ice fields and glaciers, and spawning salmon * Stop at Williwaw Salmon Viewing Platform to observe three species of salmon spawning * Walk on Trail of Blue Ice for opportunity to catch glimpse of eagles, moose, and bear, observe local fauna * Stop at Portage Lake for alpine views, glaciers, and possibly ice bergs * If interest is there, hike the Byron Glacier Trail (rated easy) within viewing range, touching remnant ice * Drop-off at site of your choice (Whittier or Anchorage)