Turnagain Arm Wildlife & Portage Valley Glacier Tour from Anchorage
Trace the spine of the Chugach on a half‑day guided drive from Anchorage: belugas at Beluga Point, rescued bears at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and the receding glaciers of Portage Valley. This tour pairs close wildlife viewing with geological perspective and practical insights for first‑time visitors.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring binoculars
Binoculars make distant belugas, Dall sheep and eagles much easier to spot from roadside pullouts.
Dress in layers
Coastal weather changes quickly—pack a waterproof outer layer plus warm mid‑layers to stay comfortable during stops.
Mind your shoes
The rainforest walk and AWCC boardwalks can be muddy or wet; choose supportive, water‑resistant footwear.
Listen to the guide
Guides cue the best viewing stops and explain wildlife behavior—follow their instructions for safety and better sightings.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Drive to the small pullout at Turnagain Arm for dramatic tidal flats and bore‑tide observations.
- •Short boardwalks near AWCC reveal beaver activity and small songbird diversity often overlooked by larger groups.
Wildlife
- •Beluga whale
- •Dall sheep
Conservation Note
The AWCC operates as a rescue and education nonprofit focused on rehabilitation and public education; visitors help support ongoing animal care through admission fees.
The Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm corridor were traditional travel and trade routes for Dena’ina people; 20th‑century roadwork and tourism reshaped access to Portage and the Chugach foothills.
Photographer's Notes
- • Beluga Point pullout for Turnagain Arm vistas
- • AWCC viewing platforms overlooking the moose and bear enclosures
- • Portage Valley overlook for hanging glaciers and moraines
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Keeps you dry and wind‑blocked during coastal shifts in weather.
BinocularsEssential
Essential for scanning Turnagain Arm and spotting distant wildlife.
Sturdy, water‑resistant shoesEssential
Protects feet on muddy rainforest trails and boardwalks.
Layered clothing (fleece or merino mid‑layer)Essential
Adds warmth during chilly stops without overheating on the bus.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4.5 hours (270 minutes) round trip from downtown Anchorage, including stops at the AWCC and Portage Valley viewpoints.
Are tickets and admission included?
Yes—entry to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is included, and bottled water is provided on the tour.
Will we see glaciers up close?
You’ll view hanging glaciers and Portage Valley from designated viewpoints; the main Portage Glacier has receded and is not always visible up close on the glacier face.
Can children and strollers join?
Yes—infants and small children can ride in a stroller; however, infants must sit on an adult’s lap on the vehicle.
Is wildlife sighting guaranteed?
No—wildlife sightings depend on season and luck, though the AWCC guarantees close views of rescued animals during the visit.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is reported as accessible in parts; notify the operator in advance if you’ll bring a wheelchair or walker so accommodations can be arranged.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Anchorage, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Low; suitable for most fitness levels—short, flat walks and frequent seated travel.
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