Seward Highway
United States
This classic Alaska drive runs from downtown Anchorage south to Seward, following Turnagain Arm past tidal mudflats, glacier-capped peaks, and roadside viewpoints. It’s a straightforward paved route, but the scenery demands frequent stops for hikes, wildlife viewing, and overlooks along Kenai Peninsula’s dramatic coast.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Anchorage
Leave downtown Anchorage and head south with the Chugach Mountains rising beside the road. The route quickly trades city streets for big Alaska views.
- Beluga Point
A classic Turnagain Arm pullout with sweeping tidal flats and mountain views. It is one of the best places to scan for beluga whales.
- McHugh Creek Day Use Area
A roadside stop with creek access, short trails, and a forested setting. It is a good place to stretch legs before the more open coast.
- Portage Valley
Glacier-carved valley scenery with marshes, mountains, and frequent wildlife sightings. The road opens up here to some of the route's wildest views.
- Byron Glacier Trail
An easy walk toward a hanging glacier and blue ice views. Expect waterfalls, rocky streambeds, and dramatic peaks all around.
- Bird Point
A famous overlook above Turnagain Arm with huge tide movements and wide coastal panoramas. It is a reliable photo stop on clear days.
- Kenai Lake Overlook
A scenic pullout above bright blue Kenai Lake near the road into the Kenai Peninsula. The water and mountains make a strong final stretch view.
- Exit Glacier Nature Center
The gateway to Exit Glacier trails and ranger information near Seward. It is the best stop for a close-up glacier experience.
- Seward
Arrive in Seward at the edge of Resurrection Bay. The harbor, mountains, and glacier access make it a fitting route finish.
Where to Eat
- Middle Way CafeCafe
A popular Anchorage stop for breakfast, bowls, and coffee before heading south. It is an easy choice for a fresh start.
- Rustic GoatAmerican
A relaxed Anchorage restaurant with hearty Alaska-friendly plates and local seafood options. Good for an early lunch before the highway views begin.
- Girdwood Brewing CompanyBrewery pub
A casual stop near the Turnagain Arm corridor with beer and pub food. It works well as a mid-route break if you detour toward Girdwood.
- The CookerySeafood
A Seward favorite for Alaska seafood and a more polished dinner after the drive. The harbor setting fits the end of the route.
Things to Do
- Turnagain Arm ViewpointsScenic viewpoint
Pull over to watch tides race across the mudflats with mountains towering above. On the right day, you may spot beluga whales offshore.
- Byron Glacier TrailHike
Walk an easy trail into Portage Valley for close glacier views and mountain scenery. It is one of the most accessible hikes on the route.
- Portage Glacier CruiseBoat tour
Take a boat trip for a water-level look at the glacier and surrounding icefields. It adds a memorable side experience to the drive.
- Exit Glacier TrailGlacier walk
Visit the trails near Exit Glacier for a close look at ice, moraine, and alpine scenery. It is one of Seward's signature outdoor stops.