Anchorage to Eklutna

The Glenn Highway Scenic Byway starts in downtown Anchorage at 6th Avenue and Gamble Street. This section of the Byway showcases the natural wonders of glacially carved pathways next to more urban settings. The highway winds through the city streets and on to the outskirts of town, and the Chugach Mountains form a spectacular backdrop.

Outside of Anchorage, the more rustic side of Alaska begins to emerge, with lush vegetation and few dwellings. Mile 6 provides access to Arctic Valley Road and Alpenglow Ski Resort, popular both for winter sports and summer hiking.

Just before the Eagle River exit at Mile 13, Eagle River itself is visible from the highway. This river runs through Chugach State Park and is partially glacier-fed. The town of Eagle River sits on the right of the highway, and the areas of Chugiak and Peter's Creek are another 8 miles down the highway (all still part of the municipality of Anchorage).

Just past the Peter's Creek exit, Mirror Lake is located at Mile 23.6. It is just visible from the highway, and is a kettle lake formed by receding glaciers. Bear Mountain, a popular hiking spot for local residents, can be seen in the distance.

Continuing along, the highway opens up and changes from being surrounded by trees to flatlands. At the edge of this is Thunderbird Falls. Located at Mile 25, the falls and Eklutna River gorge are cut in Mesozoic rock, more evidence of the glacier paths carved so long ago.

The Native Village of Eklutna is at Mile 26 of the Glenn. Travelers can explore the village itself, which provides guided tours and information on native history. Eklutna Lake can be accessed here also, sitting another 10 miles back on the road and offering camping facilities, hiking and fishing.

This section of the Glenn Highway provides an example of natural landscapes amidst modern towns. As the Eklutna Flats unfold on the Glenn, visions of the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains create a breathtaking panorama, and the Byway continues its way north.