ANCHORAGE WILDLIFE FIELD GUIDE
Along Turnagain Arm: A day of glaciers, tram-top panoramas and up-close Alaska wildlife
This daylong tour from Anchorage follows the scenic Seward Highway to Mount Alyeska, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and a one-hour cruise to Portage Glacier—essential planning detail for anyone fitting a full Alaska landscape-and-wildlife excursion into a single day.
Along Turnagain Arm: A day of glaciers, tram-top panoramas and up-close Alaska wildlife.
Adventure brief
Along Turnagain Arm: A day of glaciers, tram-top panoramas and up-close Alaska wildlife
Departing from Anchorage, this nine-hour outing threads the dramatic shoreline of Turnagain Arm along the Seward Highway—one of only 13 All-American Roads in the U.S.—climbs by tram atop Mount Alyeska for sweeping views of the glacial valley, visits the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see moose, bears, wolves and muskox, and finishes with a one-hour cruise onto Portage Lake to view icebergs and the hidden Portage Glacier before returning to town.
Anchorage, Alaska, serves as the gateway to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the northern hemisphere, and Greatland Adventures offers a compelling way to experience its wilderness firsthand. Their Turnagain Arm Glacier & Wildlife Tour is a full-day journey that combines scenic drives, mountain tram rides, wildlife encounters, and a boat cruise—all designed to showcase Alaska’s rugged beauty.
Starting from Anchorage, the tour rolls along the Seward Highway, an All-American Road renowned for its panoramic views of Turnagain Arm and surrounding mountains. Travelers are treated to sweeping vistas of ocean fjords, jagged peaks, and lush forests, setting the tone for an adventure that feels both immersive and awe-inspiring. The highlight for many is riding the tram to the summit of Mount Alyeska, where the elevation reveals a stunning sweep of glaciers and snow-capped mountains. At the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, visitors get up close with native species—moose, bears, and elk—living in carefully managed habitats that support conservation efforts.
The finale is a scenic cruise to Portage Glacier, one of Alaska’s most accessible and majestic ice formations. The calm waters often mirror the glacial cliffs, while the sounds of cracking ice create an unforgettable natural symphony. This tour stands out as a well-rounded introduction to Alaska’s natural treasures; combining land, sea, and sky into a single day that’s perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of the Last Frontier.
Greatland Adventures’s deep local knowledge and commitment to sustainable tourism make them a trusted partner for outdoor enthusiasts. Their trip design ensures you experience the wild side of Anchorage without sacrificing comfort or practicality. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour offers a memorable window into the rugged, glaciers-and-wildlife realm Alaska is famous for.
Route Schematic
Route schematic & stops
Main stops and viewing highlights along the southbound route from Anchorage.
Anchorage — Departure
Depart from your Anchorage hotel (hotel pick-up is provided for Anchorage hotels only) and begin the scenic drive along the Seward Highway toward Turnagain Arm.
Girdwood / Hotel Alyeska
Stop in Girdwood at the Hotel Alyeska; an optional scenic tram to the top of Mount Alyeska is available for lunch and panoramic views of the glacial valley.
Portage Valley & Portage Lake
Reach Portage Valley—home to hanging glaciers and waterfalls—and take a one-hour cruise on Portage Lake to view icebergs and the hidden Portage Glacier.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC)
Visit the AWCC’s 200-acre facility to walk or drive around spacious enclosures and see moose, bears, wolves, muskox and other animals that the center cares for year-round.
Return to Anchorage
After the cruise and AWCC visit, the tour returns to Anchorage with a narrated city return that includes recommended dining spots before hotel drop-off.
Hotel pick-up is available only at Anchorage hotel locations (not private residences); the full outing is approximately nine hours with departures generally between 8:00–8:30 a.m. and returns by about 5:30 p.m.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Seward Highway & Turnagain Arm
Travel south from Anchorage along the Seward Highway—the scenic, federally designated All-American Road that follows the winding shoreline of Turnagain Arm, with multiple photo stops and wildlife-viewing opportunities en route.
Mount Alyeska Tram and Glacial Valley Vistas
Stop in Girdwood at Hotel Alyeska and take an optional scenic tram to the summit of Mount Alyeska for elevated views across the hanging glaciers and the glacial valley below.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Portage Glacier Cruise
Visit the 200-acre AWCC to view Alaska’s iconic animals in spacious enclosures, then continue to Portage for a one-hour cruise where icebergs and the hidden Portage Glacier are principal sights.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is a full, narrated day out of Anchorage—nine hours of highway and shoreline, tram ascent and valley lookout, a contemplative walk or drive through the AWCC’s 200-acre grounds to see rescued and non-releasable moose, bears, wolves and muskox, and a one-hour boat cruise to Portage Glacier that punctuates the day with iceberg-studded water and close glacier views before the return drive and hotel drop-off.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour is best for — and who should note the pickup restriction.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a camera for the multiple photo opportunities (scenic turnouts, tram summit, AWCC animals and the glacier cruise). Comfortable shoes are useful if you plan to walk the AWCC grounds; plan for a full nine-hour day.
The tour is approximately nine hours long with departures generally between 8:00–8:30 a.m. and a return to Anchorage by about 5:30 p.m.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour and when does it depart?
The tour runs about nine hours; tours generally depart between 8:00–8:30 a.m. and return by approximately 5:30 p.m.
Where does the tour meet?
The tour provides hotel pick-up for Anchorage hotel locations only; pick-up is not available from private residences.
Is the tram at Mount Alyeska included?
There is an optional scenic tram ride to the top of Mount Alyeska available during the stop at Hotel Alyeska for summit views and lunch.
What wildlife will I see at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center?
The AWCC is a 200-acre facility where you can see moose, bears, wolves, muskox and other iconic Alaskan animals housed in spacious enclosures and cared for year-round.
How long is the Portage Glacier cruise and what will I see?
The cruise on Portage Lake lasts about one hour; icebergs are common sights and the cruise brings you close to the hidden Portage Glacier.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-13T18:26:50.643Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.