9 Best Things to Do in Port Alsworth, Alaska

Port Alsworth is one of the most beautiful places in Alaska. As a gateway into Lake Clark National Park, this small town is most often visited during the Summer months. Even thought there's an endless amount of possibilities for day trips from Port Alsworth, you might have a day or two during your visit that are spent solely in Port Alsworth. After a few visits to the area, I've put together a list of my favorite things to do if you're not taking any day trips, and just staying in the Port Alsworth area.

​My Essential Alaska Travel Resources :
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For flights, I recommend using Hopper to compare the cheapest dates to travel to Alaska.

Car rentals, arguably the best way to see Alaska, are best through Discover Cars!

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To keep cell service if you're traveling internationally, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required), and NordVPN to stay safe while connecting to different wifi.

For fun things to do, I recommend Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours in the area.

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Lastly, my Alaska packing list for your travels to the Last Frontier.

Visiting Port Alsworth, Alaska

Port Alsworth can be a little difficult to get to. In the past, my husband and I have always visited with Lake Clark Resort, which handles all logistics of getting in and out of Port Alsworth. If you don't go through Lake Clark Air then I've also heard good things about Rusts Flying Service.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Port Alsworth, there are a few Airbnbs and lodges around Lake Clark, but I highly recommend Lake Clark Resort. They always go above and beyond, they include all your meals (which are incredible by the way), and have incredible day trips you can add onto your visit. If you're able to, I recommend booking their brand new King Suites that were finished this Summer - one of the only elevated and cozy stays in the Port Alsworth area.

Some of my Favorite Nearby Tours : ​

Best Things to Do in Port Alsworth

1. Go Hiking
​Port Alsworth has some amazing hikes in the area that lead you into Lake Clark National Park. My personal favorite is Tanalian Falls, a beautiful spot where you can enjoy a picnic and explore the waterfall from the top and bottom. No matter which hike you choose to do, it's important to bring bear spray with you as brown bears are often spotted in town and on the hikes!

2. Explore Town
​If you've never visited Port Alsworth before, then you'll want to explore town while you're here! With less than 200 year round residents, it's an interesting remote town in Alaska to explore. You can walk around to see the local post office, school, Lake Clark Visitor Center (also mentioned below), and other small businesses in town.

3. Kayaking or Boating
​Depending where you're staying in Port Alsworth, you might have access to a kayak or boat. Whenever my husband and I visit we stay with Lake Clark Resort, which provides kayaks for guests to use during their stay. I recommend heading out on a sunny day (if you're lucky) to enjoy some stunning views from Lake Clark. The water is so blue, and with the surrounding mountains the views are some of my all time favorite. Because Lake Clark is so big, I definitely recommend checking the weather so you don't run into any wind issues on the way back!

4. Fishing
​Surrounding Port Alsworth there are multiple areas where you can go fishing, even more if you have boat access! From the base of Tanalian Falls you can try for Arctic Grayling, and in other small streams around town you can find Red Salmon. If you're not sure where to go or want to catch some other species like Northern Pike, I highly recommend heading out on a guided fishing tour!

5. Grab a Bite to Eat
​If you're visiting Port Alsworth in the Summer, then you can visit their local food truck and grab a bite to eat! Cissie's Kitchen (CK's) Food Truck has a few different options and a reasonable price, but my personal favorite is to try one of their milkshakes - perfect for an "after-hike" snack!

6. Enjoy the Views
​Port Alsworth has some of the most beautiful views I've ever seen, and I'm not exaggerating. My favorite ways to enjoy the views are on some of the hikes in the area, from the lake, or if you're able to - from a float/bush plane adventure! If you're able to visit in September, this is my favorite time of year there - especially with all the stunning yellow leaves that are changing!

7. Search for Wildlife
From Port Alsworth you have the chance to see all kinds of wildlife! From brown bears to black bears, eagles, and even possible lynx! It's always important to keep your distance from wildlife (carry bear spray too) and use your zoom to take any photos. If you really want to see some bears during your visit, make sure to add a bear viewing experience to your Port Alsworth experience.

8. Grab a Coffee
The Cranberry Cache is Port Alsworth's local coffee shop! You can find little snacks, souvenirs, handmade items, and even Lake Clark Resort merch! Of course, they also have coffee and tea, making it the perfect spot to stop on a chilly morning. You can even enjoy your drink and snack on their patio with epic views of the bay and Tanalian Mountain!

9. Visit the Lake Clark National Park Visitor Center
If you're visiting Port Alsworth, chances are you're here to explore Lake Clark National Park! In town, you can find the Lake Clark National Park Visitor Center. During the Summer months they're open from 10:00am to 4:00pm, plus you can get your Passport Book Stamp here! There's a few exhibits inside and out, and it's a great place to ask the Rangers any questions you have about wildlife, the National Park, or any of the hikes!

Watch my Port Alsworth Adventures here!

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Other Alaska blog posts you might be interested in : 
-> 3 Day Port Alsworth Itinerary
-> Best Things to Do in Lake Clark National Park
-> Bear Viewing in Lake Clark National Park

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