Portage
The Sunken Town
State: Alaska
County: Anchorage
Founded: 1900s
Abandoned: 1964 (earthquake)
Peak Population: Unknown
Portage was a small railroad settlement. During the 1964 earthquake (magnitude 9.2), the land subsided 6-10 feet, allowing high tides to flood the town. The 'Ghost Forest' of dead trees killed by saltwater is a haunting landmark along the Seward Highway. Old cabin ruins rot in the marsh.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer (view from highway)
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 15 mins
Quick Facts
- Destroyed by 1964 Earthquake
- Land sank 6-10 feet
- Ghost Forest is visible from highway
Location
Address: Seward Highway, AK
Coordinates: 60.8333, -148.9833