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Anchorage, Matsu & Cook Inlet
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Anchorage, Matsu & Cook Inlet

Introduction

Anchorage

Chugach State Park

Seward Highway (AK9)--Portage to Anchorage

Girdwood & Alyeska

Portage Glacier Recreation Area (Chugach National Forest)

Knik Arm

Glenn Highway (AK1)--Anchorage to Parks Highway Junction

Eklutna

Matsu

Palmer

Wasilla

Hatcher Pass

Independence Mine State Historic Park

Lake Clark National Park & Preserve


Knik Arm

A single map spread in the 150-page Alaska Atlas and Gazetteer shows Knik Arm of Cook Inlet, the mouths of the Susitna, Matanuska, and Knik Rivers, and the communities of Anchorage, Palmer, and Wasilla—the hub of “human Alaska.” About 300,000 people live within 10 miles of its shores, yet Knik Arm provides habitat aplenty for area wildlife and is hardly an urban slough. The region is as scenic as many others in the state, offering a variety of attractions for the visitor.

Three state refuges protect much of the expansive waterfowl habitat on the north shore of the arm. Susitna Flats State Game Refuge (300,800 acres) is the largest, encompassing much of the land at the mouth of this many-channeled river. Goose Bay State Game Refuge (10,880 acres) south of Big Lake is popular with hunters because of easy access. Of most interest to travelers is Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge (26,048 acres) because of its location at the head of Knik Arm. The Glenn Highway passes through the refuge, offering good photo and birding opportunities. Use caution when stopping on the highway shoulder.