The most well known type of art made by Alaska Natives is the totem pole. No Alaska vacation is complete without seeing a few. Carver Nathan Jackson (the most famous carver in the world) works at the Saxman Carving Shed in Saxman, two miles south of Ketchikan. You can see him work there most days during the summer.

Portage Glacier, Alaska

Portage Glacier Valley guide and information

At the head of Portage Valley, about fifty miles south of Anchorage, at the end of scenic Turnagain Arm, lies the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center.

Living glaciers continue to carve the landscape and shape the life on the Chugach National Forest. Built on the remnants of a terminal moraine left by Portage Glacier, the Visitor Center is staffed with Forest Service interpreters available to answer questions, assist with trip planning, and provide programs on the historical and natural wonders of the valley. The award-winning film, "Voices From the Ice" is shown hourly and provides a spectacular view of many glaciers and wildlife. The visitor center currently houses exhibits demonstrating "glaciers on the move" with insight into the retreat of Portage glacier. Although Portage Glacier is no longer visible from the Visitor Center, due to its retreat, the face of the glacier is still partially in Portage Lake.

Directions to the Visitor's Center: (Open weekends only in winter, 9 to 6 in summer)
The turn off for Portage Valley Road and the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center is located approximately 50 miles south of Anchorage or around 80 miles north of Seward on the New Seward Highway. Turn onto Portage Valley Road and go approximately 5 miles to the end. Follow the road to the right and there will be a turn-off to the Portage Glacier Lodge on the left. Keep following the road as it loops around. The first road off to the right after you pass the lodge is the road to the Ptarmigan boat dock. Lakefront parking is just up ahead and if you continue towards the visitor center, there is available parking with special areas for buses and larger vehicles.

Location:
Portage is located just off Turnagain Arm, 50 miles southeast of downtown Anchorage.
Access:
By road via the Seward Highway.
Accomodations in nearby Girdwood:
1 resort, numerous condos/chalets/cabins/bed and breakfasts, 8 restaurants/cafes/snackbars.