Day Four: Wasilla & Whittier OR Seward
WASILLA TO WHITTIER OR SEWARD: Potters Marsh is a state game refuge, is a very popular spot for bird watching from a boardwalk. This is a nesting area for waterfowl as well as arctic tern, Canada geese, swans, and ducks. Windy Point provides the opportunity to watch for Dall sheep on the roadside cliffs. The salt licks here provide nourishment to the sheep. Beluga Point provides a possible whale watch in July through September, as you travel along the beautiful Turnagain Arm of the Cook Inlet. This drive also provides a great backdrop for stunning photography.
Next, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, opened to the public in 1993. It is located on 140 acres at the southern edge of Turnagain Arm and the entrance to Portage Valley. AWCC provides care and rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wildlife and to provide wildlife education and awareness. Animals that are unable to be released or survive in the wild are given refuge in the center’s spacious habitats. Here people can safely get close, observe and photograph some of Alaska’s largest land animals, including moose, bison, elk, deer, caribou, bears musk ox, small mammals and birds of prey.
IF DEPARTING FROM WHITTIER
IF DEPARTING FROM SEWARD
Enjoy this afternoons scenery further down the Seward Hwy corridor. As you approach Turnagain Pass, a restroom break will open up a world of unbelievable photos! Views will rival the best Alps. Flora and fauna of this area include lupine, columbine, arctic chocolate lilies, pasque flowers and more. Streams are carved out of solid rock and cavernous canyons call to visiting raft thrill seekers. Moose Pass features a quick stop for ice cream scoops or souvenirs at the original Estes Groceteria.Arriving at Exit Glacier, an eight mile drive off the main road, reveals a spectacular view and a short easy riverbed walk provides a close-up and personal view of a magnificent glacier. Leisure time allows for hikes, comfortable walks or photo moments. The Visitor Center features books and information from park rangers. Watch for black bear as they are prevalent in this area.Finally, after a day of photos galore, you will discover our busting harbor and historic downtown district filled with quaint shops and art galleries. At 3,022 feet, towering Mt. Marathon provides a breathtaking backdrop for the town. Behind Mt. Marathon and extending down the coast lies the Harding Icefield, measuring 35 by 20 miles. Here you will be transferred to the cruise ship terminal, and after boarding and settling in, you may choose to get off the ship and walk around this 10 block town to see a bit more of its fun and history. Be sure to be back on board – your cruise adventure awaits you.
