Getting Oriented

Southcentral Alaska is the epicenter of the state's population and commerce.

• Chugach State Park. One of the four largest state parks in the United States.
• Portage Glacier. A shrinking glacier that was once the most visited site in Alaska.
• Whittier. A former Army base, now a major cruise port.
• Chugach National Forest. A national forest filled with diverse geography.
• Valdez. Prince William Sound's largest port.
• Cordova. The gateway to the Copper River delta.
• Hope. A gold-mining community with small town charm.
• Seward. A railroad town in the middle of incredible scenery.
• Kenai Fjords National Park. A rare opportunity to see glaciers up-close.
• Cooper Landing. One of Alaska's most popular fishing locations.
• Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. The best moose habitat in the region.
• Kenai, Sterling, and Soldotna. Three towns offering fishing and moose sightings.
• Homer. A unique town that blends art, fishing, and tourism.
• Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park. Alaska's first state park.
• Seldovia. . A small town with a strong Russian heritage.
• Kodiak. One of the busiest fishing ports in the country.
• Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge. The bear-viewing capital of Alaska.
• Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. Home to two volcanoes and a salmon-filled lake.
• Palmer. The state's major agricultural hub.
• Wasilla. A pioneer town home to Sarah Palin and scenic vistas.
• Talkeetna. A quirky town that serves as the base for climbing Denali.
• Denali State Park. The national park's quieter and less crowded sibling.
• Glennallen. A good base for Wrangell-St. Elias.
• Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. A national park encompassing one of the tallest peaks in North America and plenty of outdoor adventures.