Here’s Alaska’s Top Outdoor Attraction… And You’ll Definitely Want To Do It
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Courtney
Author
As the saying goes, “life isn’t about getting to the destination, it’s about the enjoying the journey along the way.” Truer words have never been spoken when it comes to setting out on an epic drive (or train ride) down this scenic byway in Alaska. Say goodbye to the big city of Anchorage and head south to Kenai Peninsula, Alaska’s outdoor playground mecca. Enjoy nearly 130 miles of picturesque vistas, spectacular wildlife and all the adventurous activities that your heart desires along the way. This is without a doubt Alaska’s top outdoor attraction, and you’re sure to regret if you don’t check it off your bucket list this summer.
Starting in Anchorage and taking you on a winding trek through the 'Turnagain Arm,' you might be surprised to learn that this major highway connects you with tons of great small towns.
As you head south from Anchorage you will actually be heading towards the towns of Indian, Girdwood and the cutoff that leads you to Portage and Whittier.
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Along the way you will be greeted by so many epic sights, you likely won't even know what to do with yourself. Well the truth is, you'll probably fall head over heels in love and want to drive it at least once a week.
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Beluga Point is a beautiful pull off (on the right side of the road as you're heading south) that is great for spotting Beluga Whales. Many like to walk on the gravel beaches or pack a picnic and just enjoy the sights for the afternoon.
If driving isn't really your cup of tea, the Alaska Railroad runs all the way down the Turnagain Arm and offers excellent on-board service, great meals and phenomenal opportunities to get up close and personal with massive glaciers.
The lupine, fireweed and wildflowers along the highway are splendid. Often times you can see a multitude of different birds in the distance which compliment the bright blooming flowers brilliantly.
If you opt to take the drive versus hopping on the train, be careful not to get lost in translation. The huge towering snow-capped mountains are so breathtakingly beautiful that they've been known to distract drivers from focusing on the road.
Wildlife viewing along this epic highway is also very common. Don't be surprised if you run into some bears, moose or even lynx.
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And if you look up, chances are that you'll spot a herd of Dall Sheep. These stoic creatures flock to the towering rock faces and give visitors a spectacular nature show.
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The restaruants along the Seward Highway as well as in Girdwood, Moose Pass and Seward are always worth pulling over for. This paticular BBQ joint has some of the best ribs in the state. The protein alone will keep you full of energy to enjoy as much time outdoors as you can possibly handle.
For many, just gathering up a couple close friends or family and pulling over to take in a sunset is what life is all about in Alaska. It's the simple moments that leave the most lasting memories.
If you are like most Alaskans and enjoy wetting a line, there are amble fishing opportunities along the Seward Highway.
Kayaking, surfing and kite surfing (in the boar tide) are some more hot activities that adventure hounds like to enjoy along the highway.
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Hiking, mountain climbing and rock climbing are some of the most popular ways for locals to enjoy all the beautiful that the Seward Hwy has to offer.
And if you're into panning for gold, you're in luck as well! There are lots of different streams off the Seward Hwy that are perfect for gold panning.
Depending on the time of year, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) have been known to shine brightly over the Seward Highway. If you are ever blessed with this special encounter, pull over and enjoy the best light show of your life.
As you hit The Kenai, Alaska's Playground and head into the Chugach National Forest, you'll continue to be greeted by great spots to pull over for a photo op, take a hike or enjoy great ATV trails.
The road ends in the beautiful fishing town of Seward. Here you can enjoy great views overlooking the harbor, endless marine wildlife and a ton of activities to take you deep into the Kenai Fjords National Park.
Do you love going on exciting adventures in Alaska? Check out these 15 fun outdoorsy things that anyone can do in the last frontier (and get ready to take your summer up a notch).
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