Explore Byron Glacier in Portage, Alaska

Tripoto
21st Nov 2015
Photo of Explore Byron Glacier in Portage, Alaska 1/6 by Dwayne Parton
Photo of Explore Byron Glacier in Portage, Alaska 2/6 by Dwayne Parton
Photo of Explore Byron Glacier in Portage, Alaska 3/6 by Dwayne Parton
Photo of Explore Byron Glacier in Portage, Alaska 4/6 by Dwayne Parton
Photo of Explore Byron Glacier in Portage, Alaska 5/6 by Dwayne Parton
Photo of Explore Byron Glacier in Portage, Alaska 6/6 by Dwayne Parton

The Byron Glacier trail is a relatively easy 1.4 mile hike to the base of Byron Glacier. The trail is down the road from the Portage Visitor Center and a little over an hour from Anchorage, Alaska. Driving the Seward Highway is always beautiful as it winds along the Turnagain Arm. Girdwood is the last gas station between Anchorage and Portage Valley. You might want to stop in Goodwood and check out the small town that is home to the famous Alyeska Ski Resort.

Depending to the time of year you visit the glacier there are many different things to factor in. ie:Avalanche Conditions, Wildlife. Ice Caves are inherently dangerous and exploring the glacier requires glacial travel skills. There are dangerous crevasses, falling ice, and potential collapsing. Don't let that scare you. It's just important to be aware of. Even if you don't have the skill set needed to explore the Glacier you will find the hike well worth it. Seeing a glacier so close is always special.