Girdwood Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Tour
Quick Details
- Price: $169.00
- }Departure: 2:00 to 2:15 PM (based on traffic to Girdwood)
- Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
- Season: Available year-round, with best conditions from May to September
Tour Description
Begin an unforgettable afternoon adventure as you explore the wild beauty of Alaska with the Girdwood Portage Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Tour. This exciting tour offers a unique combination of wildlife encounters and stunning glacial scenery, showcasing the very best of what Girdwood and the surrounding areas have to offer.
Highlights
- Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to encounter iconic Alaskan wildlife such as brown and black bears, moose, bison, caribou, and musk oxen.
- Learn about Alaska’s rich wildlife and the important conservation efforts protecting these majestic creatures.
- Glide across the pristine waters of Portage Lake on a scenic glacier cruise aboard the M/V Ptarmigan and enjoy a close-up view of the stunning Portage Glacier.
- Marvel at the glacial ice formations and the crackling sounds of the glacier calving into the lake.
This tour is perfect for anyone looking to experience Alaska’s wildlife and glaciers in an intimate, exciting, and unforgettable way.
Book Your Glacier and Wildlife Explorer Tour Today!
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of Alaska in one unforgettable afternoon. From wildlife encounters to the beauty of Portage Glacier, this tour is the perfect way to connect with the natural wonders of the Last Frontier.
Tour Itinerary
- 2:30 PM – Departure from Girdwood Station (Gas Station)
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC): Wander through the expansive grounds and encounter Alaska’s iconic wildlife.
- Portage Lake Glacier Cruise: Experience the stunning Portage Glacier up close during a scenic boat cruise on the pristine lake aboard the M/V Ptarmigan.
- Return to Girdwood Station: The tour concludes back at Girdwood Station for drop-off.
Meeting Location
- Girdwood Station (Gas Station): Main departure point for the tour.
- If Your Driver is Late: If your driver hasn’t arrived by the scheduled time, please text us (instead of calling). This helps avoid unnecessary delays and we appreciate your patience.
- Restroom Info: Available on the Cruise and at the Wildlife Center.
What’s Included
- Round-trip transportation from Girdwood Station (the gas station) to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Portage Lake for your cruise. Take the FREE Glacier Valley Transit to and from the Girdwood Station.
- Admission to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
- Portage Glacier cruise tickets
- Knowledgeable driver/guide providing insightful commentary throughout the tour
What’s Not Included
- Meals
- Gratuities for your guide (optional but appreciated)
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs)
Tour Photos
- Your guide will assist in capturing unforgettable moments at scenic stops and during your wildlife and glacier encounters. Don’t forget to snap some memories of the majestic wildlife and breathtaking glaciers!
Important Information
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours
- Weather: Tours operate rain or shine. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
- Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most guests but may involve walking on uneven terrain at the AWCC.
What to Bring
- Warm, layered clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Waterproof jacket (weather can be unpredictable)
- Camera or smartphone to capture stunning moments
Restrictions
- Not suitable for pregnant women or guests with limited mobility, due to the walking involved in the tour
- No animals are allowed
Special Requirements
- Minors must be accompanied by an adult
- Physical readiness: Participants must be comfortable with walking on uneven terrain
- Not wheelchair accessible
- No dogs are allowed on this tour
Disclaimers
- Weather Conditions: Tours operate rain or shine. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
- Wildlife Sightings: While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed.
- Safety: Your guide will provide a safety briefing to ensure that you enjoy a safe and enjoyable tour.
Health & Safety Notes
- Masks: Optional inside the vehicle.
- Hand sanitizers will be available at all key touchpoints throughout the tour.
- Social distancing will be maintained where possible, and we ask all guests to be mindful of health and safety measures.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations with 24 hours’ notice: Full refund
- No-shows or same-day cancellations: No refund
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I wear for this tour?
A: Dress in warm layers and bring a waterproof jacket to protect yourself from rain or wind. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for walking around the wildlife center and along the glacier.
Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: Yes! The minimum age for this tour is 5 years old. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Q: Can I cancel my booking?
A: Cancellations made with 24 hours’ notice will receive a full refund. There are no refunds for cancellations within 24 hours or for no-shows.
Q: Will I see wildlife during the tour?
A: Yes! While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed, but your chances of spotting animals like moose, bears, and bison are high at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Q: How long is the glacier cruise?
A: The Portage Glacier cruise lasts about 1 hour, allowing ample time to take in the stunning views of the glacier and its surrounding landscape.