Ship Creek Directions

Ship Creek must be the most accessible Salmon stream
in Alaska if not the world. Its closeness to Anchorage puts it at the
heart of Alaskan transportation. It is within minutes of one of the
busiest airports in the world, just blocks off the Glenn highway, and
right at the terminus of the Alaskan Railroad. And not only is the creek
easy to get to, because it is in the shadow of Anchorage you have access
to all modern amenities and comforts.
Driving Instructions
Driving instructions are given from
downtown Anchorage.
1. Take E . Avenue
to North C St
2. Take a right
on North C St
3. To get to the
south bank, turn right on Ship Creek Ave
4. To get to the
north bank, turn right on Whitney Road
Driving in Anchorage can be confusing with all the one
ways and nearly total lack of parking spots during the summer. Once
you get to Ship Creek, driving is better and you can easily sight navigate
between the parking lots.
Ship Creek Access
The lower creek, where salmon can be fished, can be accessed
anywhere from the creek's mouth to the
dam.There is no access immediately above the dam. Paths or roads stretch
the entire length of the creek below the dam and all areas are an easy
walk from your car no matter where you park.
It is possible to access the River at
Post Road and
Reeve Boulevard. However, the river is only open west of the Reeve Avenue
Crossing. Above Reeve Avenue is closed to the Elmendorf Dam. This area
contains the Elmendorf Hatchery.
Ship
Creek Parking
Parking is provided in many places along the creek for
a small parking fee. Be sure to park in the
designated parking areas because all the land around the creek is owned
by the Alaskan Railroad.
Ship Creek Facilities
Gas
There is no shortage of options for getting gas in and
around Anchorage. I don’t know of any gas stations right next
to the Creek on in the downtown area directly south of the Creek,
but a short drive in any direction will quickly bring you to a station.
Food
There is a great selection of restaurants in Anchorage.
I suggest the Glacier Brewhouse if you are in the mood for a burger.
Otherwise, there are all the fast food options and most chains.
Lodging
Anchorage has plenty of Hotels to choose from. About
the only type you will not be able to find is an inexpensive one.
If you want to be right on top of the action at Ship Creek, stay at
the Ship
Creek Comfort Inn. The creek is literally right out the back door
of the hotel and, in a pinch, the hotel has fishing equipment that
you can rent.
Otherwise, there are some fantastic high-end hotels in Anchorage.
I recommend the Captain Cook Hotel which is just blocks southwest
of the Creek (a healthy walk though.)
Tackle
There is a
tackle shack right on the north bank of the Creek. They rent poles
and gear as well as selling the necessities you may be needing. If
you are looking to fill out a lot of gear, there are a number of good
places in Anchorage to outfit at.
Other Area Fishing
There are many fishing option in the city of Anchorage.
For a more pristine fishing experience while still in the city, try
Campbell Creek. It’s not wilderness and the fishing isn’t
unbelievable but it does have a much wilder feel than Ship Creek. A
quick drive down the Seward Highway will bring you to Bird Creek, which
boasts a similar hatchery Silver Salmon run.
Also, if you have time or if you are a resident try out the area lakes.
The ADFG stocks them regularly for sportfishing.
Other Area Fishing
Watch for the upcoming Anchorage attractions page.
|