Glacier Creek (Girdwood)

The feel

Glacier Creek is Girdwood's home stream, walkable pink and silver water beneath the Alyeska peaks. It runs through the Girdwood valley near the Alyeska access, and you fish it on foot from local pullouts and bridges.

Pink salmon, coho (silver) and Dolly Varden are the fish. It is a glacial-tinged tributary of Turnagain Arm and crowds are low. Anglers use spin, bait, fly and bank methods, and the season runs July through September.

What to expect

Water and access

A stream in the Girdwood valley near the Alyeska access. Walk-in bank fishing from local pullouts and bridges.

Species and timing

Pink (humpy) in July and August, 3-5 lb, with even years strong. Coho (silver) in August and September, 6-10 lb. Dolly Varden in August and September, 8-14 in.

Methods and gear

Spin, bait, fly and bank fishing.

License and rules

Anchorage / Turnagain Arm Area regulations apply. Kings are not a target here. Verify current rules.

Crowds and best time

Crowds are low. The season runs July through September.

Season and access

July through September.

Mingo says

Fish in August, when the silvers and the Dollies overlap. Pinks arrive sooner, and even years run strong.

Before you go

• Check the current Anchorage / Turnagain Arm Area rules before you cast.
• Bring a rod you can fish from a bridge or pullout: spin, bait or fly all work.
• Do not plan on kings; they are not a target here.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.