Begich-Boggs Visitor Center
Discover glacial wonders and stunning Portage Lake views at this informative visitor center, a gateway to Alaska's wild beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Begich-Boggs Visitor Center
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover glacial wonders and stunning Portage Lake views at this informative visitor center, a gateway to Alaska's wild beauty.
"Stunning views of Portage Lake and informative exhibits make this a must-stop on your Alaskan adventure."
Check Hours Before You Go
Visitor center is seasonal! Avoid disappointment by confirming operating dates online before your trip . :calendar:
Free Views, Paid Exhibits
Enjoy stunning lake views for free; pay a small fee for museum exhibits. National Park Passes accepted! :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Portage Lake Views
Visitor Center exterior and walkways
Breathtaking vistas of Portage Lake and surrounding mountains, offering a true taste of Alaskan wilderness.
Glacial Activity Exhibits
Museum section
Engaging displays detailing the fascinating science behind glacial formation and their impact on the landscape.
Giant Mosquito Model
Inside the Visitor Center
A surprisingly large and memorable model showcasing Alaska's infamous mosquitoes, a unique photo opportunity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal Closures & Hours
Entry Fees & Passes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Hours Before You Go
Visitor center is seasonal! Avoid disappointment by confirming operating dates online before your trip. :calendar:
Free Views, Paid Exhibits
Enjoy stunning lake views for free; pay a small fee for museum exhibits. National Park Passes accepted! :moneybag:
Bear Awareness
It can be quiet. Be aware of your surroundings, especially on lake shore walks. Carry bear spray if hiking alone. :bear:
Mosquito Model Fun
Don't miss the giant mosquito model inside! It's a quirky and memorable part of the visitor center experience. :bug:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Hours Before You Go
Visitor center is seasonal! Avoid disappointment by confirming operating dates online before your trip. :calendar:
Free Views, Paid Exhibits
Enjoy stunning lake views for free; pay a small fee for museum exhibits. National Park Passes accepted! :moneybag:
Bear Awareness
It can be quiet. Be aware of your surroundings, especially on lake shore walks. Carry bear spray if hiking alone. :bear:
Mosquito Model Fun
Don't miss the giant mosquito model inside! It's a quirky and memorable part of the visitor center experience. :bug:
Pre-Whittier Stop
A great place to stop and stretch your legs before or after driving the tunnel to Whittier.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the stunning natural beauty and free access to Portage Lake views. The exhibits are considered informative, though some find them a bit dated. The seasonal closure is a common point of disappointment, so checking hours is crucial. Some visitors also note the quietness of the area and advise bear awareness.
"We stopped here in mid-September 2025 and the Visitor Center was closed for the season so that was a bummer. Looks like it would be a nice spot to stop, there are some walkways to take in the views; you can even walk down to the lake but I did get a little nervous of bear because it was eerily quiet and since it was raining my wife and daughter waited in the car so I was alone. Lots of tress and brush but a nice view."
Jon Harrison
"While a bit dated, the exhibits continue to be effective of telling the story of the area, marine life, and culture. The 20 minute movie's message is about change and well-worth seeing.
Cost per person is $5.00 unless you have a National Park Pass or other park pass.
It's opened seasonally, so be sure to check hours and dates."
Maria Thi Mai
"Nice visitor center with a small museum. Entry is $5 for adults. Kids under 15 are free. The visitor center it self does not have a price and has excellent views of the area. Named after former politicians who disappeared in a plane crash it’s no wonder they call it the Alaska Triangle."
Michael
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Begich-Boggs Visitor Center is located off the Seward Highway, about 15 miles south of Girdwood. It's a scenic drive, and a popular stop before heading to Whittier via the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel.
Public transportation options to the visitor center are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider renting a car if you're not on a guided tour.
The drive along the Seward Highway to the Begich-Boggs Visitor Center is incredibly scenic, offering stunning views of mountains and Turnagain Arm. It's a beautiful part of the journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The visitor center is open seasonally. It's crucial to check their official operating dates and hours online before your visit, as they are closed during the off-season, often by mid-September.
Entry to the main visitor center area with its views of Portage Lake is free. However, there is a $5 fee per adult to access the museum exhibits. Children under 15 are free.
Yes, if you have a National Park Pass or another valid park pass, the $5 entrance fee for the museum exhibits is typically waived.
Even when the indoor museum is closed for the season, the surrounding grounds and walkways offer beautiful views of Portage Lake and the surrounding Chugach National Forest.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore exhibits on glacial activity and local wildlife, enjoy panoramic views of Portage Lake, and walk along the lake shore. There's also a memorable giant mosquito model.
Yes, there are walkways around the visitor center and down to the shore of Portage Lake. These offer great opportunities for photography and enjoying the natural scenery.
Absolutely! Kids often enjoy the interactive exhibits, the giant mosquito model, and the opportunity to explore the outdoors. Alaska Outdoor School even hosts educational sleep-away experiences here for fifth graders.
While not guaranteed, keep an eye out for local wildlife. The area is part of the Chugach National Forest, known for its diverse ecosystems. Be bear aware.
Yes, the visitor center typically has a bookshop where you can find souvenirs and educational materials related to the area's natural history.
📸 📸 Photography
The walkways leading to Portage Lake offer stunning panoramic shots of the water and surrounding mountains. The visitor center's exterior also provides a good vantage point. Look for reflections on the lake on calm days.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Summer mornings can be particularly beautiful.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use within the visitor center exhibits, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the indoor exhibits, the walkways to Portage Lake provide opportunities for little legs to explore. It's a chance to connect with nature and experience the vastness of Alaska. Remember to pack insect repellent for the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent.
Budget Travelers
If you wish to delve deeper into the exhibits about glacial activity and local history, there's a modest $5 fee for adults to access the museum section, with children under 15 entering for free.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Portage Glacier's Legacy
The center's name honors Nick Begich and Hale Boggs, two prominent Alaskan politicians who tragically disappeared in a plane crash in the region in 1972. This historical context adds a layer of intrigue to the 'Alaska Triangle' moniker sometimes associated with the area. The 20-minute film shown at the center is often highlighted as a worthwhile watch, focusing on themes of change and the enduring power of nature.
Beyond the scientific and historical aspects, the visitor center serves as a gateway to the Chugach National Forest. It provides context for the surrounding wilderness, encouraging visitors to appreciate the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem. The interpretive programs offered aim to connect people with the natural world, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for Alaska's wild beauty.
Navigating the Alaskan Outdoors: Tips from Visitors
Another common topic, particularly in summer, is the prevalence of mosquitoes. The visitor center even features a large model of a mosquito, a testament to their presence.
For those planning to visit, checking the seasonal operating hours is paramount. Several visitors have expressed disappointment upon arriving to find the center closed for the season, often by mid-September.
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