Seward Highway is in south-central Alaska on the Cook Inlet. The byway begins in the city of Anchorage and travels south through the Chugach National Forest to the community of Seward. The scenic drive follows AK 1 and AK 9, which are two-lane paved roads. The roads are suitable for all types of vehicles although some sections are narrow and winding. Seward Highway is 127 miles long and is usually open year-round. Winter driving conditions may be hazardous. Snow avalanches can temporarily close sections of the highway.
Seward Highway ties Alaska’s metropolitan center with the port of Seward on Resurrection Bay. From Anchorage the byway follows the shores of Turnagain Arm as it travels through Chugach State Park. After passing through Girdwood, the byway enters the beautiful scenery of the Chugach National Forest.
The byway offers spectacular scenery and a variety of wildlife all along its 127 miles. Beluga whales are occasionally seen rolling at the surface of the Turnagain Arm as they chase salmon and searun smelt. Dall sheep can sometimes be seen as they scale the rugged mountain sides. Bald eagles, moose, bear, mountain goat, and a variety of birds also inhabit the area.
Tracks of the Alaska Railroad are visible as you travel along the Turnagain Arm. This railroad was completed in 1923 and linked the port of Seward to the gold fields. Today, the Alaska Railroad operates various scenic train rides from May through September.
Seward Highway gives the byway traveler an opportunity to view glaciers close-up. Portage Glacier lies at the end of Turnagain Arm and is one of Alaska’s most visited recreation sites. Exit Glacier, outside of Seward in the Kenai Fjords National Park, is also a great place to experience a glacier firsthand.