Recognized for its scenic, natural, historical and recreational values, the Seward Highway holds triple designation: USDA Forest Service Scenic Byway, Alaska Scenic Byway, and All-American Road. Showcasing the natural beauty of south-central Alaska between Anchorage and Seward, views of jagged peaks and alpine meadows to breathtaking fjords and crystal lakes will give the visitor a concentrated series of diverse landscapes and experiences. Sights include Beluga whales or dog teams in the winter. Tourists can hike along rocky slopes near Exit Glacier, just north of the City of Seward or peer through a telescope mounted high upon the cliffs at McHugh Creek wayside to catch wildlife in their natural habitat.
The Seward Highway runs through the Chugach National Forest. Take the New Bridge spanning Granite Creek, a roaring glacier -fed river, near the historic town of Hope and stay in the Granite Creek campground. Towering mountains, mature spruce forest, and many glaciers await you. Biking is a popular activity at Granite Creek, with a paved bike path along the Seward Highway that extends for 5 miles south to the Hope Road. Along the path, look for wild raspberries to pick or wildflowers to smell. Dolly Varden trout, moose, snowshoe hare, black and brown bears, and mountain goats call this area home. A mile east of Granite Creek is Johnson Pass Trail, a well-maintained 23-mile trail of mostly level terrain and breathtaking vistas. Nearby is Six Mile Creek, with Class V whitewater for rafting and kayaking. Remember bears frequent the area; keep your food in approved containers and prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by purchasing your firewood near your camp.