ANCHORAGE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Along the Razor of the Turnagain Arm: A Six‑Hour Sweep from Coastal Flats to Chugach Ridges
A guided, 6-hour round-trip from Anchorage that follows the Seward Parkway for wildlife viewing, a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and mountain overlooks of the narrow Turnagain Arm.
Along the Razor of the Turnagain Arm: A Six‑Hour Sweep from Coastal Flats to Chugach Ridges.
The Turnagain Arm Tour compresses the drama of Southcentral Alaska into a single day: a coastal ribbon of water laced with tidal flats, roadside pullouts that lure eagles and moose, a working wildlife conservation reserve, and a climb into the Chugach Mountains that frames sweeping vistas back down the arm.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Seward Parkway to Portage Valley
Ride the scenic Seward Parkway with stops at the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, Beluga Point and Bird Point before descending into Portage Valley—each pullout offering clear views of the narrow Turnagain Arm and opportunities for wildlife spotting and photography.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage Valley, a large nature preserve that rehabilitates orphaned and injured animals from the Chugach region and houses species such as elk, moose, bison and birds of prey for close, educational viewing.
Chugach Mountain Overlooks
Finish the loop by climbing into the Chugach Mountains for sweeping vantage points back down the Turnagain Arm, a contrasting perspective to the tidal flats and coastal refuge seen earlier in the day.
What the day feels like
A day of roadside revelations and curated wildlife encounters
Over six hours, an informative guide escorts the group from downtown Anchorage along the Seward Parkway, pausing at coastal refuges and viewpoints for photography and wildlife observation, then visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage Valley before ascending into the Chugach for final vistas of the Turnagain Arm; round‑trip transportation from Anchorage is included.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day suits—and who should plan alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour runs approximately 6 hours and includes round‑trip transportation from Anchorage with pickup; the listed meeting point for departures is the Egan Convention Center at 555 W. 5th Avenue.
Pack warm, layered clothing, rain gear, sunglasses, a camera, binoculars and comfortable walking shoes; the activity operates rain or shine.
Be aware that AWCC grounds are not paved and contain loose rocks and rough flat terrain; guests needing mobility aids should plan accordingly.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC)?
AWCC is a 501(c)(3) non‑profit dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, education, research and animal care.
How did the animals get to AWCC and will they be released back into the wild?
Animals arrive for various reasons—abandonment or injury—and most remain permanently because they often lack skills to survive independently; a notable exception was the Wood Bison Re‑Introduction Project, where AWCC worked with federal and state agencies to reintroduce animals.
Are wheelchairs available from the operator or at AWCC?
Neither AWCC nor Planet Earth Adventures provides a wheelchair or walker for guests; the operator will drive and make two stops around the AWCC's roughly 1.5 mile loop through the sanctuary.
Can visitors walk around the AWCC and get close to the enclosures?
Yes. Visitors can walk to the enclosures to view the animals; AWCC is an outdoor facility and animals are in fenced, outside enclosures.
Can I feed or pet the animals at AWCC?
No. Visitors are prohibited from petting or feeding any animals at AWCC.
Is there food available at AWCC?
Yes. The Be Wild Gift Shop offers hot beverages and grab‑and‑go snacks year‑round; in summer a food truck may operate on site offering additional items.
Is photography and filming permitted at AWCC?
Photography for personal use is permitted; commercial filming or photography requires a written agreement and fee, and drones are prohibited over AWCC property.