Portage Pass Trail

Some of the top attractions of Alaska are its incredible glaciers, but not all of them are accessible to those looking to get up-close-and-personal with these relics of the last Ice Age. Portage Glacier, located in Whittier, Alaska, is accessible by Portage Pass—a two-mile trail that is family-friendly and offers some of the best glacial vistas in the state.

About Portage Pass Trail

Portage Pass Trail is located on the Whittier side of Whittier Tunnel, and it’s the only way to see Portage Glacier since it’s retreat across Portage Lake. Only two miles long, the trail is strenuous but passable for a family, making it a popular hike for day trips and picnics at the shores of Portage Lake at the end of the path.

Visiting Portage Pass Trail

It will take some effort to cross Portage Pass Trail, but it will be well worth the hike. With incredible viewpoints throughout the journey and the beauty of Portage Glacier as the end reward, it’s a place you can’t miss when visiting historic Whittier—just be sure to bring your rain gear!

History & Geography

Portage Glacier once stretched across what is now Portage Lake—reaching to the shores of the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center on the western side of the lake. With climate change, the glaciers of Alaska have retreated, and it is now impossible to view the glacier from the visitor center.

In order to see the Portage Glacier up close, visitors must take Portage Pass trail. Historically used by Native Alaskans and Russian fur traders, this trail is now a popular recreation spot and an important migratory route for birds.

Interesting Facts

Portage Pass is located in Whittier—one of the wettest cities in the state and a place that has been referred to as “The Strangest Town in Alaska”. Portage Pass Trail is one of the highlights of a trip to Whittier, and it offers plenty of opportunities for unique photos and experiences.

• Portage Pass Trail is the only trail that offers a view of Portage Glacier, and there’s a gravel beach for hikers to enjoy at the end of the trail at Portage Lake.
• Bears are common within the wilderness of the Portage Pass Trail, so all regulations must be followed when carrying food along the pass.
• The city of Whittier spent most of its history with no road access, and today, 90% of its 200+ residents live in just a single building!
• In order to access Portage Pass Trail, you’ll need to go through Whittier Tunnel, which operates on a strict schedule to allow for vehicles and trains to pass through.
• Both 4,000+ ft. Maynard Mountain and 3,700+ foot Shakespeare Shoulder are visible while hiking the path to Portage Lake.

Points of Interest

Whether you come for the unique experiences that Whittier and Prince William Sound have to offer or the chance to see one of the most impressive Alaskan glaciers up close, Portage Pass Trail offers a once-in a-lifetime experience. Best of all? The whole family can enjoy the hike!

View all of our Whittier tours.