Our Seward Highway Scenic Byway guide covers practical planning for Seward Highway Scenic Byway Alaska — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
The Seward Highway Scenic Byway Alaska is more than just a road; it's an immersive journey through some of the state's most breathtaking landscapes. Connecting Anchorage to the coastal town of Seward, this 127-mile (204 km) stretch of asphalt has earned designations as a National Scenic Byway and an All-American Road, a testament to its unparalleled beauty. We've driven this route countless times, and our team consistently ranks it among North America's most spectacular drives. Expect dramatic fjords, towering glaciers, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Why Visit Seward Highway Scenic Byway
The allure of the Seward Highway Scenic Byway lies in its incredible diversity and accessibility. Within a few hours of leaving Anchorage, you're transported from urban fringes to a raw Alaskan wilderness where mountains plunge into the sea, glaciers cling to peaks, and wildlife roams freely. We recommend this byway for anyone seeking a quintessential Alaskan experience without venturing deep into the backcountry. It offers a perfect blend of scenic driving, easy-to-access attractions, and the chance to witness Alaska's grandeur up close.
One of the primary reasons to visit is the sheer visual spectacle. The highway skirts the Turnagain Arm, a narrow tidal inlet renowned for its dramatic bore tides and the potential to spot beluga whales from mid-July through August. Further south, the road winds through the Chugach National Forest and into the Kenai Mountains, revealing alpine valleys, turquoise lakes, and numerous glaciers. It's a photographer's dream, with pullouts seemingly every few miles offering postcard-perfect views. Beyond the scenery, the byway provides direct access to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can see native Alaskan animals up close, and Exit Glacier, the only road-accessible part of Kenai Fjords National Park.
Who It's Best For
The Seward Highway Scenic Byway caters to a wide range of travelers, making it an ideal destination for various groups:
- Families with Children: Many stops, like Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, are family-friendly and require minimal hiking. The easy access to Exit Glacier also makes it a great educational stop for kids.
- Wildlife Enthusiasts: With opportunities to spot beluga whales, Dall sheep, bald eagles, and the guaranteed sightings at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, this route is a prime wildlife viewing corridor.
- Photographers: The dramatic landscapes, coastal views, glaciers, and wildlife offer endless photographic opportunities.
- Outdoor Adventurers: Numerous trailheads along the route lead to hikes of varying difficulty, from short walks to strenuous climbs like the Harding Icefield Trail. Kayaking, fishing, and glacier tours are also readily available.
- Road Trippers: The entire 127-mile stretch is paved and well-maintained, making it an excellent RV-friendly route.
- First-Time Alaska Visitors: It provides a concentrated taste of Alaska's iconic scenery and attractions within a manageable driving distance from Anchorage.
Our team finds that the Seward Highway offers a perfect introduction to Alaska's natural wonders, balancing accessibility with awe-inspiring beauty. It’s a route that truly has something for everyone, from casual sightseers to avid hikers.
Getting There & Parking
The Seward Highway Scenic Byway begins in Anchorage and extends south to Seward. The easiest way for most travelers to get to Seward Highway Scenic Byway is by car, typically rented in Anchorage. The drive itself is the main attraction, so we highly recommend having your own vehicle to stop at leisure.
Driving Directions:
- From Anchorage, simply head south on the New Seward Highway (AK-1, which later becomes AK-9). The scenic portion begins almost immediately as you leave the city limits.
Parking:
Parking along the Seward Highway Scenic Byway is generally available at designated pullouts and attractions, though it can be limited at popular spots, especially during peak summer hours (10:00 AM - 3:30 PM). We advise arriving early or later in the afternoon to secure a spot at highly sought-after viewpoints like Beluga Point and Bird Point.
- Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary (Mile 117): Large dedicated paved lot.
- Beluga Point (Mile 110.3): Paved lot with room for RVs.
- Bird Point (Mile 96.5): Designated parking available.
- Girdwood/Alyeska (Mile 90): Ample parking for the town and resort.
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Mile 79): Large parking area.
- Portage Glacier & Begich Boggs Visitor Center (Mile 79): Dedicated parking.
- Exit Glacier (Mile 3.5, off Herman Leirer Road): Limited parking available, especially mid-day. Consider carpooling or using a shuttle service from Seward during busy times.
- Campgrounds: Most campgrounds along the route, such as Bird Creek Campground, offer dedicated parking for campers.
For those without a vehicle, the Alaska Railroad offers a scenic train journey from Anchorage to Seward, paralleling much of the highway. Several tour operators also offer guided bus tours along the Seward Highway and to key attractions.
Top Things to Do
There are countless things to do at Seward Highway Scenic Byway, whether you're interested in wildlife, glaciers, hiking, or simply soaking in the views. Our team has curated a list of must-see attractions and activities:
Wildlife Viewing & Nature
- Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary (Mile 117): Just south of Anchorage, this 460-acre wetland is a critical nesting ground for migratory waterfowl. A free paved boardwalk allows for excellent birdwatching, and you might even spot spawning salmon in late summer.
- Beluga Point (Mile 110.3): This iconic viewpoint offers sweeping views of Turnagain Arm. From mid-July through August, beluga whales frequently appear here, following salmon runs. Binoculars are highly recommended.
- Windy Corner (Mile 106.8): Keep an eye out for Dall sheep grazing on the steep cliffs directly above the highway. They are visible year-round, especially in spring and early summer.
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Mile 79): A non-profit sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating injured and orphaned Alaskan wildlife. You can see bears, moose, bison, reindeer, and more up close in large enclosures. There's a 1.5-mile loop you can drive or walk. Admission for adults is $20.
Glaciers & Icefields
- Portage Glacier & Begich Boggs Visitor Center (Mile 79): Turn off the highway onto Portage Glacier Road. While Portage Glacier has retreated and is no longer visible from the visitor center, boat tours with Portage Glacier Cruises take you directly to the ice face.
- Byron Glacier Trail (near Portage Valley): This accessible, family-friendly trail is under 2 miles round trip and leads to impressive glacier views. However, travel is not recommended below avalanche terrain, especially during active weather or late afternoon on sunny days. Snow can linger into early summer, and visitors should check current trail conditions.
- Exit Glacier (Mile 3.5, off Herman Leirer Road, Seward): The only part of Kenai Fjords National Park accessible by road. A paved path leads to the glacier face (about 1 mile round trip, easy). For a more strenuous hike, the Harding Icefield Trail climbs 3,500 feet over 4 miles to an overlook of the vast Harding Icefield. The Exit Glacier area typically opens in mid-May and closes after the first heavy snow in the fall. The gate to the Exit Glacier area opened on May 14, 2026. Pets are not allowed on trails within Kenai Fjords National Park.
Towns & Activities
- Girdwood (Mile 90): This charming resort town is home to Alyeska Resort. Take the Alyeska Aerial Tram 2,300 feet up for panoramic views of the Chugach Mountains, Turnagain Arm, and surrounding glaciers. Tickets are $43-48 for adults in 2026, with online booking saving $5 per person. Girdwood also offers hiking, mountain biking, and in winter, world-class skiing.
- Seward (Mile 0): The southern terminus of the highway. Known as the "Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park," Seward offers numerous activities. We highly recommend a Kenai Fjords National Park boat tour to see tidewater glaciers, marine wildlife (humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, Steller sea lions, puffins), and dramatic fjords. Other things to do in Southcentral Alaska here include visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center, fishing charters, walking the waterfront, and exploring downtown shops.
These things to do at Seward Highway Scenic Byway ensure a memorable Alaskan adventure for every visitor.
Best Time to Visit
The Seward Highway Scenic Byway is open year-round, but the best driving experience is from late May through early September. Our team strongly recommends visiting during the summer months for optimal conditions and access to all attractions.
- Late May to Early September: This is peak season, offering the longest daylight hours (up to 19+ hours in June), blooming wildflowers, and the highest likelihood of spotting wildlife, including beluga whales from mid-July through August. All services and attractions are operational during this window. The Exit Glacier area, for instance, typically opens in mid-May.
- June and July: These months generally offer the most reliable weather and the longest days, perfect for extended exploration.
- September: An excellent shoulder season option. Fall colors appear on the hillsides, and crowds begin to thin out. However, daylight hours are shorter, and weather can be more variable. Some boat tours might operate on reduced schedules.
- Winter: While possible, winter driving requires preparation for ice, potential avalanche closures, and significantly reduced daylight. Many attractions and services will be closed or have limited hours. The road to Exit Glacier is unmaintained and closed to automobiles typically from October to May.
For specific events, Seward hosts the annual Seward Seabird Festival from June 5-7, 2026, and the Mount Marathon Race and 4th of July Festival around July 4, 2026. Girdwood also has various events, including weekly music and family markets during the summer.
Where to Stay Nearby
Finding comfortable Seward Highway Scenic Byway lodging is key to a relaxing trip. We recommend staying in Girdwood for a resort experience or Seward for proximity to Kenai Fjords National Park and coastal activities. There are also several campgrounds along the route.
Girdwood Lodging (Mile 90)
Girdwood offers a range of options, from luxurious resorts to cozy cabins.
- Alyeska Resort: A premier 4-star ski-in/ski-out luxury resort surrounded by seven glaciers. It offers stunning alpine vistas, a pool, sauna, and various dining options.
- Carriage House Accommodations: A highly-rated lodge in Girdwood offering free parking.
- Bird Creek Motel: Located in Indian, about 9 miles from Girdwood, offering budget-friendly, clean rooms and free WiFi and parking.
- The Inn at Tern Lake: Located in Moose Pass, this B&B offers outdoor adventure, free breakfast, and is minutes from Tern Lake Picnic Area.
Seward Lodging (Mile 0)
Seward provides a variety of hotels, motels, and inns, many with views of Resurrection Bay or the mountains.
- Seward Windsong Lodge: Set alongside Resurrection River near Exit Glacier, offering a tranquil retreat with unique dining experiences and shuttle service. It is open seasonally from May 14 to September 15, 2026.
- Seward Gateway Hotel: Conveniently located between the Seward Small Boat Harbor and downtown, offering complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and shuttle service. Open seasonally from mid-May through mid-September 2026.
- Hotel Seward: A historic hotel in downtown Seward, within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the waterfront.
- Harbor 360 Hotel: Located on Seward's waterfront, offering panoramic views of the small boat harbor and Resurrection Bay.
- Murphy's Alaskan Inn: A family-friendly motel in downtown Seward, offering affordable lodging with some rooms featuring bay views.
Camping along Seward Highway Scenic Byway
For those who prefer to sleep under the Alaskan sky, numerous campgrounds are available. We recommend booking in advance, especially for RV sites during peak season.
- Bird Creek Campground (Mile 101): Located about 20 miles southeast of Anchorage along Turnagain Arm, with 22 sites for tents or RVs. It offers excellent views, amenities like water pumps, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-safe food lockers.
- Williwaw Campground (Portage Glacier Road): A Forest Service campground in Portage Valley.
- Bertha Creek Campground (Turnagain Pass): A small, secluded campground with 12 sites suitable for vehicle camping and tents (not RVs).
- Granite Creek Campground (Mile 64): Located along the Seward Highway in the Chugach National Forest.
- Miller's Landing Campground (Seward): Accessed via Lowell Point Road, offering RV sites, tent sites, and cabins right on Resurrection Bay. They are accepting 2026 reservations.
These Seward Highway Scenic Byway lodging options provide a comfortable base for exploring the area.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To truly experience the Seward Highway Scenic Byway and the many things to do in Southcentral Alaska, we suggest a minimum of two days. This allows for ample time to explore without feeling rushed.
Day 1: Anchorage to Girdwood & Portage Valley
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Depart Anchorage. Your Seward Highway Scenic Byway Alaska adventure begins! Make your first stop at Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary (Mile 117) for wildlife viewing. Continue to Beluga Point (Mile 110.3) for scenic views of Turnagain Arm and potential beluga whale sightings. Look for Dall sheep at Windy Corner (Mile 106.8).
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Arrive in Girdwood (Mile 90). Grab lunch at a local eatery.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Ride the Alyeska Aerial Tram for panoramic mountain and glacier views. Afterward, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (Mile 79) to see native Alaskan animals up close.
- Late Afternoon/Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Head into Portage Valley. Hike the easy Byron Glacier Trail for stunning glacier views (check conditions first). Check into your Seward Highway Scenic Byway lodging in Girdwood or a nearby campground. Enjoy dinner in Girdwood.
Day 2: Portage Valley to Seward & Kenai Fjords
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Depart Girdwood/Portage. Drive south towards Seward. Turn off onto Herman Leirer Road to visit Exit Glacier, the only road-accessible part of Kenai Fjords National Park. Walk the paved trail to the glacier face.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Arrive in Seward. Have lunch at one of the many restaurants in town.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Embark on a Kenai Fjords National Park boat tour from the Seward Small Boat Harbor. These cruises offer incredible opportunities to see tidewater glaciers and abundant marine wildlife. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
- Late Afternoon/Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Explore downtown Seward, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, or walk along the waterfront. Check into your Seward Highway Scenic Byway lodging in Seward. Enjoy a final Alaskan dinner overlooking Resurrection Bay.
This itinerary provides a solid framework for experiencing the best of the Seward Highway. For longer trips, consider adding an extra day in Seward for fishing charters, kayaking, or more extensive hiking, or extending your Plan Your US Trip to other Alaskan destinations like Denali National Park & Preserve.
Last updated: 2026-07-07 by the Roam States team.