Anchor Point Beach (Westernmost Highway Point)

The feel

Anchor River Road (Beach Road) runs out of Anchor Point and ends at a viewing deck with telescopes over Cook Inlet and a sign marking the most westerly point on the North American continent reachable by a continuous road system. Legend has it that Captain Cook lost an anchor near the mouth of the river in 1778, which gave the town its name.

Across the inlet you can see three of the seven volcanoes that border it: Mount Augustine to the south, then Mount Iliamna, and Mount Redoubt to the north. The beach is a popular spot to see and photograph bald eagles and shorebirds, and harbor seals, sea otters and beluga whales turn up near shore.

What to expect

What it is

The end of Anchor River Road, with a viewing deck, telescopes and a sign marking the most westerly point on the U.S. Highway System.

Crowds and best time

From May to September, sport fishing charter operators use a tractor on the beach to launch boats.

Parking

The recreation area is at milepost 157 of the Sterling Highway. Follow Anchor River Road to its end.

Fees and passes

A daily parking fee applies in the recreation area.

Bathrooms and water

The recreation area has toilets, water and 20 picnic sites.

Season and access

Tractor boat launch hours run from the last weekend in April to September 5 and shift with daylight, tides and tournaments.

Mingo says

Come before September 5 if you want to see the tractor launches working the beach. Tide and tournament schedules can shift the launch hours, so check before you drive out to the point.

Before you go

• Take Anchor River Road to its end, where the sign and telescopes are.
• Plan for the daily parking fee at the recreation area.
• Call (907) 399-2686 for tractor boat launch hours.
• Call (907) 269-8400 for park information.

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