Bore Tide

What is the Bore Tide? Why is it so unique?

Turnagain Arm’s geographical features make it quite unique. For starters, it’s the most Northern Bore Tide in the world and the only one in the United States. Second, it’s the only bore tide boarded by high-rising mountains, providing an incredible backdrop to the awesome wave. Third, the narrow, shallow gently sloping floor of Turnagain Arm allows the big wave to build slowly. Because of this slow, large wave surfers from all over the world come to Alaska to surf this bore tide. Check out this great article from KTVA.

Where can I see the Bore Tide?

Viewing this amazing wave is very simple. You can see it along the Seward Highway the entire length of Turnagain Arm—40- to 50-mile stretch. The wildlife-spotting opportunity increases substantially during the bore tide; harbor seals often ride the tide into Turnagain Arm and Beluga whales may come in a half-hour or so later once the water gets deeper.  The best viewing spots are described below and found on the map.

• Anchorage to Beluga Point- The first 20 minutes on the Seward Highway offers close-up views of the Tide.  There are five highway pullouts along this stretch. The highway traverses the shoreline along the flats, giving you a real sense of the power and scale of the bore tide.

• Bird Ridge - A mere 10 minutes from Girdwood and this view offer a wider more distant perspective of the wave than seeing it closer towards Anchorage. 

When can I see the Bore Tide?

Below is a table showing the most favorable times to see the Turnagain Arm Bore Tide. The times are estimates based on total swings. The higher the swing, the better the viewing chance.

Bore tide viewing tips:

• Show up early. The bore tide can come within 30 minutes of the times below.

• If the water is rising, the bore tide has already passed. Drive toward Girdwood to try and catch it!

• The bore tide is effected by wind. West winds will speed up the bore tide, east winds will slow it down. You can see the wind and temperature in Girdwood here.