Glaciers and Wildlife Day Tour from Anchorage — Portage Glacier Cruise & Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Spend a full day traveling the Seward Highway from Anchorage to Portage Valley, combining a one-hour cruise to Portage Glacier with a guided visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Expect sweeping mountain views, close-up glacier encounters, and a chance to see rescued Alaskan wildlife.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer up for the cruise
Temperatures on Portage Lake can be 10–20°F cooler than Anchorage; bring a windproof jacket and warm hat.
Bring binoculars
Binoculars help with spotting eagles, bears, and distant glacier details from the vessel and shore viewpoints.
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails at Portage and short walks at the AWCC include gravel and boardwalks—closed-toe shoes with traction are best.
Hydrate and pace
The tour is eight hours with several short stops—carry a refillable bottle and eat a solid breakfast to stay energized.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Potter Marsh boardwalk for quiet birding near Anchorage
- •Byron Glacier moraine viewpoints—short hikes with fewer crowds than Portage
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center focuses on rescue and rehabilitation—stay on marked paths, don’t feed animals, and support organizations that fund animal care and habitat protection.
The region is traditional Denaʼina Athabascan territory; later 20th-century rail and road development opened the valleys to tourism and resource extraction.
Photographer's Notes
- • Onboard deck of the Portage Glacier cruise
- • Glen Alps overlook ~2,000 ft above Anchorage
- • Potter Marsh boardwalk for wetland birds
What to Bring
Windproof waterproof jacketEssential
Blocks lake spray and wind during the glacier cruise and keeps you warm during mountain overlooks.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provides grip on gravel trails and comfort during multiple short walks and boardwalks.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps isolate wildlife and capture details of the glacier face from the cruise boat.
Layered hat and gloves
Lightweight insulation that can be added or removed as temperatures shift throughout the day.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what times should I expect?
The tour is approximately eight hours; hotel pickups usually begin 30–60 minutes before the listed start time—confirm exact pickup with the operator.
Are children allowed and is it family-friendly?
Yes—children are welcome but infants must be pre-approved and parents must provide approved car seats; the operator notes the tour is suitable for most ages.
Will we get off the van and walk a lot?
There are several short, easy walks (Portage lodge trail, AWCC enclosures, Glen Alps overlook), but the day primarily involves riding between sites.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No; the AWCC houses rescued animals that are usually visible, but sightings in the wild depend on animal behavior and season.
Can the boat cruise be canceled for weather?
Cruise operations can be affected by severe weather or unsafe lake conditions; the operator will notify guests if changes are necessary.
Is tipping expected for guides and drivers?
Tipping is customary for good service; 10–20% of the tour price split between driver and guide is a common guideline.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Anchorage, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to step up into a van and walk short, uneven trails.
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