Basics
- River Length
- 6.5 miles
- Time:
- 1/2 day
- Season:
- May to September
Description
A float on Portage Creek is a wonderful way for travelers to Turnagain Arm area to photograph and view the wildlife, glaciers and scenery of the Kenai Peninsula. Portage Creek originates at the toe of Portage Glacier within the remarkable Chugach Range and meanders through the Portage Valley before spilling into the sea at Turnagain Arm. Portage Creek is followed closely by roadway, allowing for easy put-in and take-out access.
Portage Creek trips begin at the Portage Glacier Visitor Center, a fantastic resource for learning about the glacier environment. Four glaciers are easily accessed from the visitor center. Portage Glacier and Burns Glacier actively calve ice into the small lake that feeds Portage Creek, dotting the waters with icebergs and allowing visitors to get up close to glacial ice.
Portage Creek flows peacefully from the lake downstream through coastal forest with great wildlife viewing potential. Black and Brown Bear, Moose, Eagles and Salmon are commonly sighted along Portage Creek. Portage Creek is located within a two-hour drive of Anchorage. Most commercial outfitter trips on Portage Creek originate in the small resort town of Girdwood, a popular winter and summer destination for visitors to the area, and a ½ hour drive from Anchorage.
River Details
River Length
Shorter trips possible