Traveling from Girdwood to Whittier is a scenic and memorable experience, taking you through some of Alaska's most stunning landscapes. Here’s a detailed itinerary for this journey:

Distance and Duration:

The drive from Girdwood to Whittier is about 26 miles (42 km) and typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the tunnel schedule.

Starting Point: Girdwood

Girdwood, located 40 miles southeast of Anchorage, is a charming ski town known for Alyeska Resort and its access to hiking trails, wildlife, and stunning views of the Chugach Mountains.

Once you're ready, head out of Girdwood on the Seward Highway (AK-1) going east towards Whittier.

Seward Highway to Portage Glacier Road (14 miles / 20-25 minutes)

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Continue driving until you reach Portage Glacier Road, about 14 miles from Girdwood. Turn left onto this road to head toward Whittier.

Portage Glacier Road to Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel (6 miles / 10 minutes)

As you head down Portage Glacier Road, you'll pass the entrance to the Portage Glacier area. If you have extra time, consider stopping at the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center to learn more about the glacier, or take a short detour to see the Portage Lake or the remnants of the retreating glacier itself.

This part of the drive is surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests, making it a beautiful leg of the journey.

Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel (Whittier Tunnel)

As you approach the tunnel, you’ll see a toll booth. The toll for private vehicles is usually around $13 for a round trip, but it’s a good idea to check for current rates. The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the longest combined road and rail tunnel in North America, stretching 2.5 miles (4 km). It’s a one-lane tunnel shared with the Alaska Railroad, so vehicles can only pass through in one direction at a time, alternating every 30 minutes.

• Tunnel Schedule: Make sure to check the schedule in advance, as the tunnel opens for 15-minute intervals in each direction. For example, eastbound traffic (from Girdwood to Whittier) is allowed to enter on the hour during most of the day.

• Inside the Tunnel: Driving through the tunnel is a unique experience. The rough-hewn rock walls and the sense of being deep inside the mountain add a sense of adventure to the trip. Maintain a steady pace, as it can get narrow and dark inside.

Once you exit the tunnel, you'll be greeted by the stunning views of Passage Canal and the tiny, picturesque town of Whittier.

Arrival in Whittier

Whittier, often referred to as the “Gateway to Prince William Sound,” is a small town with a population of around 300 people, most of whom live in the same building (the famous Begich Towers). The town is known for its access to fishing, kayaking, and glacier tours. Popular attractions and activities include:

• Whittier Harbor: A bustling place where you can watch fishing boats and charters come and go. It’s also the launch point for many Prince William Sound tours.

• Prince William Sound Glacier Tours: Take a day cruise to see glaciers, sea otters, seals, and sometimes even whales.

• Hiking: If you’re up for it, there are short trails around Whittier, like the Portage Pass Trail, which offers a fantastic view of Portage Glacier after a moderate hike.

• Local Eateries: Enjoy some fresh seafood at places like Swiftwater Seafood Café or grab a drink at Wild Catch Café.

You can easily spend the day in Whittier or continue exploring the region by boat or train. If you’re planning on returning to Girdwood, be sure to check the tunnel schedule so you can time your return accordingly.

Summary

1. Girdwood: Begin in this cozy town.

2. Seward Highway: Drive along scenic Turnagain Arm.

3. Portage Glacier Road: Detour to see Portage Glacier if time allows.

4. Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel: Pass through the one-lane tunnel.

5. Whittier: Enjoy a day of adventure and sightseeing.

This trip is perfect for those who want a mix of stunning scenery, a unique tunnel experience, and access to the natural wonders of Prince William Sound!