Great Vacations Explores Perfect Places to Be in Anchorage – The clear, aquamarine of ages-old ice formations is certainly awe-inspiring. It can make you feel as though you’re on another planet. In fact, there are cruise ships departing daily that take you on a fly-by of these natural wonders. But you don’t have to travel to the earth’s poles to see glaciers like this. And you don’t have to admire them from afar. In fact, the ultimate glacial adventure is much closer than you think. In Alaska, there’s a myriad of ways to experience the glaciers – from a mountain, on a sled, or hiking a trail.
First stop – the Alyeska Resort. It’s located in Girdwood, a town known for its skiing options. Half the fun of this adventure is getting there. The drive to Girdwood is simply stunning. Then, you’ll board a tram that takes you high above a forest and provides incredible views of seven different glaciers in the area. It’s a scenic journey with few equals as the aerial tram takes you on an ascent of over 2,000 feet. The tram will stop at two different restaurants located at the top of the mountain where you’ll see the Chugach Mountains in all their splendor as well as Cook Inlet. Whether you choose to dine at Bore Tidal Deli or the incomparable Seven Glaciers, you’ll be rewarded with views no amount of money can buy.
Alaskans are no strangers to the adventure sport of dog sledding. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to experience the glaciers and this adventurous pastime – an incredible two-for-one. You’ll board a helicopter at Anchorage or in Girdwood. Keep your camera at the ready – the helicopter ride provides some breathtaking Instagrammable pics high above the wilderness. When you land in the Chugach Mountains, you’ll be greeted by a friendly host and their dogs, ready to give you the ride of a lifetime. The happiness of the huskies in their natural environment tops the list of reasons why this is a must-do adventure.
Finally, just outside of Girdwood is a small port town, Whittier. It’s a bit of an interesting journey getting to Whittier. One of the journey’s legs involves driving through the longest tunnel in North America. When you come out the other side, you’ll have arrived at Portage Pass Trail. Hiking this trail of two miles offers a big payoff. As you ascend the trail, it’s basically like any other. You’ll have unassuming views of the sound, but once you summit, the rewarding view of Portage Pass Glacier will blow your mind. Here you may want to pause, just to take it in – but then continue on to the lake and you’ll be rewarded with the light, chinking sounds of icebergs – like the ice in your cocktail glass at the end of a long, hard – but incredibly adventurous – day.
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