Girdwood Wildlife Express – Discover Alaska’s Iconic Wildlife
Quick Details
- Price: $99.00
- }Departure: 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 5:00 PM
- Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
Tour Description:
Experience the incredible wildlife of Alaska with the Girdwood Wildlife Express, a scenic and convenient tour that takes you to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Whether you’re staying at Hotel Alyeska or visiting Girdwood, this tour offers flexible departure options to ensure you get the chance to encounter Alaska’s iconic animals. From majestic brown and black bears to moose, wood bison, musk oxen, and more, you’ll get up close to Alaska’s wildlife in their natural habitat. Take in the stunning scenery of the Alaska wilderness while learning about the animals that roam here and the conservation efforts being made to protect them.
Highlights:
- Alaska’s Iconic Wildlife: Encounter brown bears, black bears, moose, wood bison, musk oxen, and more.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a relaxing drive with insights about the area’s wildlife and natural beauty.
- AWCC Experience: Spend time at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a sanctuary for Alaskan wildlife.
- Flexible Departure: Choose from three daily departure times or direct pick-up from Hotel Alyeska.
Book Your Wildlife Adventure Today!
The Girdwood Wildlife Express is the perfect way to explore Alaska’s unique wildlife and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for an unforgettable experience, this tour offers something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to connect with Alaska’s incredible animals up close!
Itinerary
- Pick-up Locations:
- Girdwood Station (Gas Station): Choose from three daily departures.
- Hotel Alyeska: Enjoy two direct departures. Return trips are via the Glacier Valley Transit to Girdwood Station.
- Scenic Drive to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC):
Relax and enjoy the beautiful drive as your guide shares fascinating information about Alaska’s wildlife and the area’s natural beauty. - Explore the AWCC:
Spend time at the AWCC, where you’ll get to see a variety of wildlife, including: - Brown and black bears
- Moose
- Wood bison
- Caribou
- Musk oxen, and many more!
- Return Trip:
For guests departing from Hotel Alyeska, the Glacier Valley Transit will bring you back to Girdwood Station.
Meeting Location
- Girdwood Station (Gas Station): Main departure point for most guests.
- Hotel Alyeska: Guest must take the Glacier Valley Transit to Girdwood Station and return the same.
- If Your Driver is Late: If your driver hasn’t arrived by the scheduled time, please text us (instead of calling). Calling before the scheduled time can cause unnecessary delays, so we appreciate your patience.
Restroom Info: Restrooms are available at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Please be prepared for the scenic drive before that.
What’s Included
- Round-trip transportation from Girdwood gas station to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
- Knowledgeable guide/driver sharing insights about Alaska’s wildlife and conservation efforts
- Admission to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
What’s Not Included
- Meals and beverages during the tour
- Gratuities for the guide/driver (optional but appreciated)
- Personal expenses or souvenirs
Tour Photos
- Your guide will help you capture unforgettable moments during the tour. Photos at the AWCC and scenic spots are included, and your guide will be happy to assist with group photos.
Extras
- Gratuities for the guide/driver are optional but appreciated.
- Souvenirs may be available for purchase at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Important Information
- Duration: Approximately 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on your selected departure time.
- Weather: Tours operate rain or shine. Please dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket to prepare for changing weather conditions.
- Accessibility: This tour is accessible for most guests. Please let us know in advance if you have any mobility concerns.
- Wildlife Sightings: While the AWCC ensures you’ll see many animals, sightings of specific wildlife in their natural habitats during the drive cannot be guaranteed.
What to Bring
- Warm clothing, including layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes
- Camera for capturing wildlife and scenic moments
- Sunscreen, even in cooler weather
- Money for souvenirs or optional tips for the guide
Restrictions
- This tour is suitable for most guests, but please consult your doctor if you have any concerns about health restrictions or mobility issues.
- Pregnant women and those with impaired mobility should contact us before booking.
Special Requirements
- Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Guests with mobility concerns should inform us in advance. The tour includes minimal walking, but some areas may have uneven ground.
Disclaimers
- Weather: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress appropriately for the conditions, as we tour rain or shine.
- Wildlife Sightings: While the AWCC ensures you’ll see many animals, sightings of wildlife in the wild cannot be guaranteed during the drive.
- Itinerary Changes: The tour may be adjusted or rescheduled in case of extreme weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances.
Health & Safety Notes
- Masks: Optional, but encouraged inside the vehicle.
- Hand sanitizers will be available on the vehicle.
- Social distancing will be maintained where possible.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations with 24 hours’ notice: Full refund.
- Cancellations within 24 hours: No refund.
- No-shows or same-day cancellations: No refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I wear for this tour?
A: Dress in layers for comfort and warmth, and bring a waterproof jacket as the weather can change quickly. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the short walking tours.
Q: Will we see wildlife?
A: Yes! The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center ensures you’ll see many animals. However, sightings of specific wildlife in their natural habitats during the scenic drive cannot be guaranteed.
Q: How long is the tour?
A: The tour lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from start to finish, depending on your departure time.
Q: Are restrooms available during the tour?
A: Restrooms are available at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Please be prepared for the scenic drive before that.
Q: Can I cancel my tour?
A: Yes. You can cancel with a full refund if you give us 24 hours’ notice. Cancellations within 24 hours will receive a 50% refund. No-shows or same-day cancellations are non-refundable.