Girwood to Portage Lake

The komoot tour suggests this route takes approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes to complete. However, this can vary based on your cycling speed, the specific path you choose, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

This route is primarily designed for racebikes, as indicated by the komoot tour. While sections of the Seward Highway have wide shoulders suitable for road cycling, be aware that the popular Trail of Blue Ice, which leads directly to Portage Lake, is unpaved with sections of dirt, gravel, and boardwalks, making it unsuitable for traditional road bikes. For a dedicated paved road cycling experience in the area, consider the Bird to Gird Bike Path.

For cycling towards Portage Lake, you can start from Girdwood. Parking is available in Girdwood itself. If you're looking to access the paved Bird to Gird Bike Path, you can also start from Indian, which has parking facilities. The route often parallels the Seward Highway, offering various access points.

The route primarily follows roads and paved paths suitable for racebikes. However, if you venture onto trails like the Trail of Blue Ice, you'll encounter mixed terrain including dirt, smooth gravel, and boardwalks. The Seward Highway sections are paved, but you'll be sharing the road with vehicle traffic.

You'll experience breathtaking Alaskan scenery, including views of the Turnagain Arm, snow-capped mountains, and glacial lakes. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as moose near Moose Meadow Park, and potentially beluga whales in the Turnagain Arm. The area around Portage Lake offers views of Portage Glacier and icebergs.

Along the route, you'll pass by the Moose Meadow Park, the Chugach National Forest Sign, and the historic Portage Town Ruins. The destination, Portage Lake, offers stunning views of Portage Glacier. The Bird to Gird Bike Path, a nearby option, features interpretive pullouts with telescopes for viewing geological features and wildlife along the Turnagain Arm.

Yes, the route partially follows the 'Alaska' trail. While the direct route to Portage Lake might involve the unpaved Trail of Blue Ice, the area is also home to the paved Bird to Gird Bike Path, which runs along the Turnagain Arm and connects Girdwood to Indian. This offers an excellent alternative for road cyclists.

Generally, dogs are allowed on trails and in public areas within the Chugach National Forest, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific trail regulations, especially for multi-use paths, to ensure compliance.

Typically, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for general cycling on trails or roads within the Chugach National Forest. However, always check the latest regulations from the U.S. Forest Service or local visitor centers, as rules can change, especially for specific recreational activities or areas.

The best time to cycle this route is generally during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall (May to September), when the weather is milder and trails are clear of snow and ice. This period offers the most pleasant conditions for cycling and optimal wildlife viewing. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

This route is rated as 'moderate' for racebikes. It covers a significant distance of over 67 km with an elevation gain of about 258 meters. While some sections, particularly along the Seward Highway, can be relatively flat, the overall distance and potential for varied terrain contribute to its moderate rating. The Bird to Gird Bike Path, a nearby paved option, is considered easy to moderate, with some uphill sections past Bird Point.