The Glacier Highway; Alaska Scenic Drives
The Glacier Highway my not be entirely in Alaska but it does lead you to one of those little known jewels lost in the more highly advertised locations in mainland Alaska. But don't let that deter you from experiencing the Glacier Highway, the closest point in Alaska that you can drive to.
Here is why we rate this highway as our #1 Scenic Alaska Drive.
First off is location, You can experience this drive on a one week vacation from Seattle or rent a motorhome in Vancouver for a week of wilderness and solitude. It's a great escape and doesn't require a large investment in money or time.
Glaciers, you will see a number of glaciers up close and be able to photograph the family standing in front of a lake with a massive glacier jumping up out of the water. These glaciers are impressive and can be viewed from along the pullouts strategically placed at points all along the road.
Bears, this area is crawling with bears and if you drive this highway in the early morning or later in the evening you are sure to see many of them. Mostly there black bears but a few grizzly's always seem to show up to keep you on your toes. Even though these bears are often seen strolling along the highway, remember that they are wild creatures and can be dangerous if approached.
Hyder Alaska is one of the least changed towns that has that sylvan quality and so much authentic Alaskan charm. Hyder is truely a destination in itself. With its seaside location at the head of Portland Canal, you will be treated to some great scenery of tall mountains with cascading waterfalls and lush green forests.
Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site: Just up the road out of Hyder there is a bear viewing station that should not be missed. The Fish Creek Wildlife Observation Site is a day-use recreation area operated by the U.S. Forest Service on Fish Creek near Hyder, Alaska. The best time to see the bears at the site is from July through September as the salmon enter the creek to spawn. Both black and grizzly bears feed on the returning salmon in the river.
Hyder bills itself as the "Friendliest Ghost Town in Alaska." Well it's not actually a ghost town but the idea is well fitted. It's history deserves this destintion and the people really are the friendliest.
Getting There From Seattle!
Getting to the Glacier Highway from Seattle is half the fun. Start by heading north on I-5 to the Canadian border then east on the Trans-Canadian highway to Hope B.C. Exit and head north along the Frazier River and all the way up to the city of Prince George. Head west on the Yellowhead Highway to the exit for Highway 37 and Kitwanga. Follow highway 37 north to Meziadin Junction. Head west on the Glacier Highway to the towns of Stewart B.C. and Hyder Alaska.
A Few Sights Along The Way.
From the time you leave Seattle, one attraction after another will beckon for your attention. Places like the Peace Arch at the Blaine Border Crossing, the City of Vancouver Canada - home to the 2010 Winter Olympics, All the small towns along Highway 97 like Boston Bar, Clinton and Cache Creek. I can't remember a time driving through any of these without stopping for a stroll through the local shops. The first night stay we like to stop at McLeese Lake RV Park and Cabins. It's just a nice distance that allows for plenty of stops along the way.
The next day it's off to Prince George and the Yellowhead Highway. Once you make it to the Yellowhead, everything begins to change. It's like your heading into an area less traveled, less known. The big cities are behind you and what lies ahead is fresh and exciting. This drive would be rated very high if this site were on our favorite drives in British Columbia. Little side trips to places like Fort Saint James out of Vanderhoff are worth considering if you have the time.
Morrisetown is another stop of interest where the river cuts through solid rock and tumbles through cascading pools where the local indians use dip nets to catch the returning salmon. It's so interesting that we typically spend more time here then allotted.
Burns Lake, Houston and Smithers are interesting stops as well. The visitors center in Houston, well marked with the worlds largest fly rod, is a good place to pick up some added information about the local area. All three areas have excellent motels and restaurants as well as the other travelers services normally found in healthy communities.
Headed north again your on the Cassiar Highway in route to some off the beaten path places. Bell 2 is one that comes to mind. There is gas available year round and a pretty decent restaurant too. We like to get to Meziadin Lake Campground and spend the night there to get an early start down the Glacier Highway in the morning.
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