Attractions and Places To See around Whittier - Top 7
Attractions and places to see around Whittier, Alaska, are primarily centered on its unique natural environment within Prince William Sound. This port town, accessible via the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, is surrounded by mountains and glaciers. Visitors can explore glacial landscapes, observe marine wildlife, and experience the area's distinct history and geography.
Best attractions and places to see around Whittier
- The most popular attractions is Portage Pass — Whittier, Alaska, a mountain pass that historically served as a route…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Shoreline of Portage Lake
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Portage Pass — Whittier, Alaska
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Divide Lake
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Portage Lake
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Whittier Small Boat Harbor
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Popular around Whittier
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Once upon a time, you could see Portage Glacier from this viewpoint. Now it has receded behind a corner of the mountains, so from here you can only see the lake left behind by the glacier, and every so often a few icebergs might still float by. Still, the lake itself is wildly beautiful and the small visitor center nearby is interesting to visit... if it's open. More information here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/chugach/recarea/?recid=71946
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Portage Lake is a popular destination near Anchorage, attracting visitors with its scenic allure. Once a site for icebergs, the lake's appearance has evolved due to glacier shifts. Though less frequent, glacier ice chunks still float by.
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Divide Lake is flat, tranquil, and edged with grass, almost as if it sprang out of the tundra on its own. As the trail passes it and begins a downhill grade, you'll catch glimpses of the lake's outflow — Divide Creek — as it races you down to Portage Lake below.
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For most people, the broad, sandy shoreline of Portage Lake marks the turnaround point of this hike — or the perfect picnic spot. The glacier is not terrible active but it does sometimes calve (break off) chunks of ice into the water. If you're in the right place at the right time you might see and hear this happen, and sometimes the resulting icebergs even make it close to shore. If you see a small cruise ship on the water that is the M/V Ptarmigan, which cruises from the visitor center on the far side of the lake to within good views of the face of Portage Glacier; more information here: https://www.graylinealaska.com/portage-glacier-cruises/ Finally, some hikers do choose to continue hiking left (south) from here, in hopes of getting closer to the face of the glacier itself. Be warned, there is a not-insignificant stream crossing in the way, and it's very dangerous to walk on, underneath, or in front of the glacier itself, as chunks of ice can and do break off of it at random intervals.
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About halfway between Portage Pass and Portage lake is Divide Lake, receiving its water from the hills to the north, and shaping the path following it down to Portage Lake, always with Portage Glacier in view on the other side of the lake.
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Whitter is one of the important mostly ice-free ports around Anchorage and is the starting point for day trips to the nearby glaciers that can be observed calving into the sea.
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One of the longest ice-free harbors near Anchorage, Whittier is a base for boat tours exploring glaciers.
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The Portage Lake was created by the glacier melt of the eponymous Portage Glacier. In 4 ° C cold water, there are no fish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I explore around Whittier, Alaska?
Whittier, Alaska, is surrounded by dramatic natural beauty. You can explore glacial landscapes, such as Portage Lake and Divide Lake, which are fed by surrounding glaciers. The area also features numerous waterfalls like Horsetail Falls and 2nd Salmon Run Falls, and coastal areas such as Lu Young Public Beach and the Emerald Cove Trail.
Are there good hiking trails near Whittier, Alaska?
Yes, Whittier offers several hiking opportunities. The Portage Pass Trail is a popular moderate hike offering stunning views of Portage Glacier. Other trails include the Horsetail Falls Trail and the Emerald Cove Trail. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes listed in the Hiking around Whittier guide.
What marine wildlife can I expect to see in Prince William Sound?
Prince William Sound is an adventurer's paradise known for its abundant marine wildlife. Visitors often spot whales, sea otters, and harbor seals. Exploring the Sound by boat is highly recommended to maximize your chances of seeing these animals in their natural habitat.
Can I see glaciers up close in Whittier, Alaska?
Yes, you can experience glaciers near Whittier. While Portage Glacier has receded, you can still access it via a 2-mile hike on the Portage Pass Trail from the Whittier side of the tunnel. The Shoreline of Portage Lake offers views of icebergs and occasional glacier calving. Boat tours from Whittier Small Boat Harbor also provide opportunities to see glaciers calving into the sea.
What is the history behind Whittier, Alaska's unique infrastructure?
Whittier's infrastructure is deeply rooted in its military history. The town is primarily accessed via the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, North America's longest combined vehicle and railroad tunnel, built during World War II. Most of Whittier's residents and essential services are housed within the single, striking Begich Towers building, which was originally military barracks. The Prince William Sound Museum further details this unique military past.
How do I access Whittier, Alaska, and what should I know about the tunnel?
Whittier, Alaska, is primarily accessed by land through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. This 2.7-mile tunnel operates on a timed schedule, alternating between vehicle and train traffic. It's important to check the current tunnel schedule and fees before planning your visit, as it is the sole land access point to the town.
What are some family-friendly outdoor activities in Whittier, Alaska?
Families can enjoy several activities in Whittier. The Portage Lake area is considered family-friendly, offering scenic views. Easy hikes like the Trail of Blue Ice or Byron Glacier Trail are also suitable for families. Additionally, the Whittier Small Boat Harbor is a great starting point for boat tours, which can be an exciting experience for all ages.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the Shoreline of Portage Lake?
Visitors often find the Shoreline of Portage Lake to be a perfect picnic spot and a common turnaround point for hikes. It offers opportunities to observe icebergs and, if you're lucky, witness glacier calving. Some hikers choose to continue along the shoreline for closer views of the glacier, though caution is advised due to stream crossings and the unpredictable nature of glaciers.
Are there any easy walks or trails suitable for all skill levels?
Yes, there are easy walks available. The Trail of Blue Ice and the Byron Glacier Trail are noted as easy hikes near Whittier. These trails offer accessible ways to experience the natural beauty of the area. You can find more details in the Easy hikes around Whittier guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Whittier, Alaska for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Whittier, Alaska, for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall (May to September). This period offers more favorable weather for hiking, boat tours, fishing (king salmon from May to early July, silver salmon from late July to early September), and exploring the natural features of Prince William Sound.
Are there options for boat tours or water activities in Whittier, Alaska?
Absolutely. Whittier is a prime location for boat tours and water activities, largely due to its access to Prince William Sound. From the Whittier Small Boat Harbor, you can embark on tours to explore glaciers, observe marine wildlife, or even go sea kayaking and jet skiing. Fishing is also popular, with opportunities for king and silver salmon.
What is the historical significance of Portage Pass?
The Portage Pass holds significant historical importance. Before the construction of the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, this mountain pass served as a crucial route. People would cross Portage Glacier Lake by boat or sled and then 'portage' (carry) their loads across this pass to reach Whittier, making it a vital link for the community.
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