If you love outdoor adventures, Chugach National Forest is the ideal spot for thrilling experiences and active recreation. Located in Southcentral Alaska, this destination is perfect for unique day trips from Anchorage, Seward, and Girdwood, as well as for extended wilderness excursions. Within this vast national forest, you’ll discover diverse opportunities for exploration, including glacier tours, hidden hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives.
Chugach National Forest (Jack Bonney/Visit Anchorage)
About Chugach National Forest: History, Biology, and Geology
Established as a national forest in 1907 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Chugach National Forest is an integral part of Alaska’s natural heritage. Initially protected for timber and water management, its role has shifted over the years, becoming a sanctuary for recreation, wildlife conservation, and scientific study. The forest’s landscape was significantly altered during the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, which further defined its history. Today, Chugach National Forest is celebrated for its ecological diversity and numerous outdoor adventure opportunities.
Spanning over 5.4 million acres in Southcentral Alaska, Chugach National Forest ranks among the largest national forests in the United States. Known simply as “the Chugach” in Alaska, it features breathtaking wilderness microclimates, from temperate rainforests to expansive alpine regions, and landscapes ranging from mountains to glaciers. This extensive forest connects three of Alaska’s most famous and activity-rich regions: to the north along Turnagain Arm near Anchorage, to the south with the fishing-rich coasts of Kenai Peninsula, and to the east with the stunning marine landscapes of Prince William Sound. The forest is bordered by three national parks, including Kenai Fjords National Park, Wrangell St. Elias, and Kenai Wilderness.
A summer view of a cow moose in a watery meadow with the Chugach Mountains in the background (C) Jeff Schultz/SchultzPhoto.com
While Chugach National Forest is often confused with Chugach State Park, known for its stunning peaks near Anchorage, the forest provides a more remote experience that is still easily accessible by road, train, kayak, or raft (or snowshoes, fat-tire bikes, and skis in winter). The Seward and Glenn Highways run alongside the forest, allowing travelers to reach numerous trailheads and explore natural wonders—from alpine lakes to unforgettable hikes, towering glaciers to glacier-fed waterways.
Glacier Grandeur in the Chugach
Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour from Girdwood
For the best glacier viewing in Chugach National Forest, consider a guided day trip from Anchorage, particularly to explore the stunning Spencer Glacier, one of Alaska’s most magnificent and accessible glacial wonders.
The Glacier Discovery Train and Float Trip offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Spencer Glacier’s majesty. After a scenic ride on the Alaska Railroad south of Anchorage, visitors can enjoy a leisurely float along a glacial river, taking in breathtaking views of the mountains and the various ice formations of Spencer Glacier.
Alaskan family vacation at Spence Lake surrounded by glacier ice.
For a unique mix of adventure and wildlife, the Glacier Discovery Train and Rafting Tour combines an exhilarating rafting experience with a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can safely observe some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife.
The Glacier Discovery Train Guided Walk offers a guided hiking experience, allowing you to closely explore the icy, mountainous terrain of Spencer Glacier. This educational and adventurous day trip is truly unforgettable.
If you’re looking for other active day trips to see Alaska’s glaciers, consider kayaking on the pristine waters of Portage Lake or Prince William Sound. Like Spencer Glacier, these locations are a short drive from Anchorage and offer stunning views of glaciers and icebergs—some can even be paddled to—making them perfect for a half- or full-day adventure. A trip to Whittier allows travelers to immerse themselves in an unforgettable glacier tour in Prince William Sound and to hike to the back of Portage Lake for a close view of Portage Glacier.
Portage Glacier ice flowing out of Chugach National Forest.
Hiking and Walking Trails in the Chugach National Forest
With over 200 miles of accessible trails, Chugach National Forest provides day-trippers with a wide range of incredible hiking opportunities. Highlights include the family-friendly Byron Glacier Trail, which offers close-up views of glaciers; the lush Winner Creek Trail near Girdwood; Lost Lake Trail, rewarding adventurous hikers with diverse scenic landscapes and the stunning sight of Lost Lake; and the Twin Peaks Trail just south of Anchorage, which leads to breathtaking views of the expansive Eklutna Lake—especially popular in the fall when the surrounding trees ignite in vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues.
Chugach Wildlife Viewing and Scenic Drives
The incredible abundance of wildlife set against the stunning backdrops of glaciers and mountains makes Chugach National Forest a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the wild heart of Alaska.
Its close proximity to Anchorage creates great opportunities to explore the area’s scenic drives and wildlife by car in a single day. The Seward Highway, which runs along the forest, offers breathtaking views of Turnagain Arm while providing chances to spot beluga whales. A visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is also an excellent day-trip option, where you can closely observe various Alaskan wildlife, including bears, bison, moose, and more.
Chugach National Forest itself is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, home to an impressive variety of species. More than 200 bird species, including majestic bald eagles and colorful seabirds, can be seen soaring through its skies. Along the forest’s rivers and coastlines, you’ll spot or catch salmon, a crucial food source for many brown bears that inhabit the area. Moose, black bears, and mountain goats can frequently be spotted along trails, roads, and even along the Seward Highway, while harbor seals and sea otters often swim in the waters of Prince William Sound.
Travel along Turnagain Arm and watch for Dall sheep (Roy Neese/Visit Anchorage)
Nearby Adventures: Girdwood and the Kenai Peninsula
Even with just one extra day in Alaska, you can discover many hidden gems within Chugach National Forest. The charming ski town of Girdwood, home to Alyeska Resort, is truly a dream destination for adventurers and day-trippers, offering outdoor activities year-round. For a more remote but equally thrilling experience, take a short trip into the spectacular Kenai Peninsula for world-class fishing, hiking, and lodging if you wish to extend your stay while soaking in the untouched beauty of Chugach’s backcountry.
With its easy access and remarkable natural beauty, Chugach National Forest is perfect for day trips filled with glaciers, wildlife, and unforgettable views. Whether you seek a guided glacier tour or a scenic drive along Alaska’s most iconic highways, Alaska Tours can help facilitate an amazing experience in this vast wilderness.
