Chugach National Forest

Getting Here and Around

The Seward Highway between Anchorage and Seward has a number of trail access points. (Check the highway for mile markers, with the distance measured from Seward.) At Mile 63.7, just south of Turnagain Pass, is the turnoff to the Johnson Pass Trail, a relatively flat trail to walk. Seven miles farther south, take the Hope Highway 18 mi to its end and find the Porcupine Campground. From there the Gull Rock Trail follows the shore of Turnagain Arm for 5 mi, offering scenic views across the arm and the chance to spot beluga whales foraging for salmon. Farther south on the Seward Highway, at Mile 23.1, the Ptarmigan Creek Trail starts at the campground and climbs 3.5 mi into the mountains, ending next to a lake surrounded by snowy peaks. Your best bet for getting around the area is by rental car.