Anchorage Winter Wonderland Photo Tour — Capture Alaska’s Frosted Landscapes
Spend a winter afternoon photographing ice-bound waterfalls, seaplanes edged in hoarfrost, and moose-lined trails around Anchorage. This guided four-hour tour blends technical instruction with curated stops at Turnagain Arm, Glen Alps, Kincaid Park, and the seaplane base.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers with insulated outerwear
Temperatures and wind off the inlet can change quickly — wear a warm base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof shell.
Keep batteries warm
Store spare camera and phone batteries inside your jacket to prevent rapid drain in cold conditions.
Use traction on boots
Bring microspikes or ice grips for short walks on packed snow and icy pullouts.
Respect wildlife distances
Stay on trails or vehicle pullouts and follow your guide’s instructions — moose and eagles are unpredictable in winter.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Beluga Point pullouts on Turnagain Arm for tidal reflections
- •Westchester Lagoon and nearby seaplane base for close-up mechanical-and-nature contrasts
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Bald eagles
Conservation Note
Stick to established pullouts and short trails to protect fragile tundra and avoid disturbing wildlife; support local guides who practice Leave No Trace.
The Anchorage area is traditional Dena’ina territory and later became a regional transport hub shaped by rail, shipping, and bush aviation centered around Cook Inlet.
Photographer's Notes
- • Glen Alps overlook in Chugach State Park
- • Turnagain Arm pullouts (frozen waterfalls)
- • Anchorage seaplane base docks
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Warm, dry feet make standing still in low light and cold much more comfortable.
Layered insulated jacket (down or synthetic)Essential
Layers let you adapt to wind off Turnagain Arm and sheltered alpine vantage points.
Sturdy tripodEssential
Necessary for long exposures, bracketing, and freezing-motion shots of ice and water.
Extra camera batteries and warm storage pouchEssential
Cold shortens battery life—carry extras and keep them close to your body until needed.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately four hours and typically departs to match ideal sunset or golden-hour timing.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes — the guide provides creative and technical instruction for all skill levels, from smartphones to full-frame DSLRs.
Will we see wildlife?
Guides monitor recent sightings and stop where wildlife has been observed, but sightings (moose, eagles) cannot be guaranteed.
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes — hotel pickup within Anchorage neighborhoods is available; Girdwood, Chugiak, and Eagle River hotels are excluded.
What should I do about camera settings for snow?
Shoot RAW, use exposure compensation to avoid underexposed snow (-0.3 to +1.5 EV as needed), and bracket exposures for high-contrast scenes.
What if the weather is bad?
Tours can be canceled for severe weather; for a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time per the operator’s policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Anchorage, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light walking on mostly flat or gently sloped ground; suitable for travelers in average physical condition.
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