- Eureka Summit
Eureka Summit is a scenic highway pull-off. This was a great place to stop and take Max for a walk as the dirt pull-off is long and there are four wheelers that have made a kind of trail on either end. The aerial view of the forest below and the mountains along the skyline make these views incredible.
2. Matanuska Glacier
Dogs are not allowed on the glacier itself for safety reasons and humans are not allowed on the glacier without a booked tour guide, also for safety. However, there is a scenic outlook along the highway where you can stop and get a good view of the glacier. This was a very quick stop that Max did not find interesting, but still cool to see.
3. Long Lake
The highway climbs up a mountain and you can pull over at the top to get an aerial view of the lake. You can also drive down to the base of the lake where there is a parking and camping area. Here you can walk your dog along the shore. Max went for a swim and got to stretch his legs. I saw kayaks and sailboats on the lake.
4. Independence Mine State Historical Park
Independence Mine is an abandoned gold mine that sits at the top of Hatcher Pass. There is a $5 parking fee and a large parking lot in front of a visitor’s center and museum. There are multiple trails within the state park. We did the Gold Cord Lake trail, which is a 1.8 mile out and back trail. The trailhead is conveniently located across from the Visitor Center parking lot. The first half of the trail is a lovely walk through a meadow. The second half is a bit of a scramble up rocks up the side of a mountain with an incline that will make you work for it. The trail ends with a stream and a beautiful lake. Max really enjoyed this hike and we had a picnic at the lake when we got there.
5. Chugach State Park
Chugach State Park offers many dog-friendly trails and is located right off Glenn Highway. We did Eklutna Lake, Thunderbird Falls, and Blueberry Knoll Loop. For more details, check out my blog “3 Dog-Friendly Trails in Chugach State Park.” There is typically a $5 parking fee at each trailhead.
6. Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is a beautiful stop off Glenn Highway. Mirror Lake offers picnic tables, kayaking, and fishing. There is a rock beach along the shore. We stopped at this lake in late September and the foliage around the lake was an added bonus. The reflection of the colorful trees, surrounding mountain, and clouds in the lake really did make the lake look like a mirror.
7. Highway Views
The best part of the highway is all the views along the way, especially in the Fall. Amongst the fall foliage, there are stunning views of the surrounding mountains from Glenallen to Anchorage.
