Wilderness & Wildlife Glacier Experience from Anchorage: Portage, Bears, and the Ring of Glaciers
Spend a day moving from Anchorage’s urban edge into Chugach wilderness: rescued brown bears at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, sweeping views of the Ring of Glaciers, and an optional summer cruise to Portage Glacier. This guided tour follows weather and wildlife to the day’s best sights.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Weather can change rapidly; a waterproof shell over insulating layers keeps you comfortable on viewpoints and the optional boat deck.
Bring binoculars and zoom lens
Animals are often visible from viewing platforms—binoculars and a 200–300mm lens improve wildlife and glacier photography.
Plan for bathroom gaps
There are restrooms at some stops but not at the meeting point—use facilities before departure and during stops.
Book the glacier cruise early
The mv Ptarmigan upgrade runs only in summer and has limited spots—reserve if you want close-up glacier viewing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Byron Glacier short footpath—seasonal self-guided walk to the glacier’s foot
- •Bird Point viewpoints for close eagle and shorebird watching
Wildlife
- •Brown bear
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center focuses on rehabilitation and public education; visitors are encouraged to follow leave-no-trace principles and respect animal viewing distances.
The route traverses areas shaped by the late-19th-century Alaska gold rush and long-inhabited Dena'ina lands; local guides often share these human and natural histories during the drive.
Photographer's Notes
- • Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center viewing platforms
- • Bird Point overlooks
- • Boat deck during the Portage Glacier cruise
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Protects from rain, wind, and spray on the optional glacier cruise.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Traction and ankle support for short uneven trails and viewing platforms.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Brings distant wildlife and glacier details into close view, especially useful from viewing platforms or the boat.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration for a six-hour tour—bottled water is provided but refills are handy.
Common Questions
Is the glacier cruise included in the tour price?
No—the Portage Glacier cruise aboard the mv Ptarmigan is a seasonal upgrade available mid-May through mid-September for an additional fee.
Where do we meet the tour?
Meet at Dena'ina Civic and Convention Center in downtown Anchorage 10 minutes before departure; there is no hotel pickup spring through fall.
Are restrooms available on the tour?
Restrooms are available at some stops such as the conservation center and select viewpoints, but not at the departure point—plan accordingly.
Will I see bears in the wild?
The tour includes a guaranteed visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center where you’ll see bears in enclosures; wild sightings along the route are possible but not guaranteed.
Is this tour suitable for children and infants?
Yes—strollers are accommodated, but parents should be prepared for long travel times and variable weather; some stops involve uneven ground.
What happens in bad weather?
The tour operates in most weather conditions; cancellation and refund policies allow full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before departure, but some options like the cruise may be weather-dependent.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Anchorage, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short walks and standing at viewpoints for 10–60 minutes.
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