Alaska Glacier & Wilderness Adventures with PicTours America - Anchorage

Alaska Glacier & Wilderness Adventures with PicTours America

Anchoragemoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–6 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have a moderate level of fitness; able to hike on uneven terrain and sustain a steady pace.

Overview

Discover the rugged beauty of Alaska with PicTours America’s glacier hikes, wildlife outings, and historic Anchorage tours. Safety, local insight, and unforgettable vistas await.

Details

Anchored in Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city and gateway to vast wilderness, PicTours America offers a diverse lineup of rugged adventures that capture the raw, untamed spirit of the Last Frontier. From the city streets to the icy edges of colossal glaciers, their curated trips invite outdoor enthusiasts to engage with Alaska’s iconic landscapes with both safety and authenticity.

The Epic Glacier Hike is a standout, placing travelers on the sharp blue ice of massive glaciers accessible only with expert guides versed in glacier safety and trail conditions. Here, the crevassed ice flows silently beneath your boots, framed by jagged peaks and the distant thunder of calving ice. Nearby, the Northern Lights Experience provides a chance to witness the aurora borealis’ surreal glow away from city light pollution, a dazzling natural spectacle unique to high-latitude nights.

PicTours also blends wilderness adventure with cultural insight, offering Welcome To Anchorage City Tours that showcase the city’s historic sites alongside coastal wilderness. The Go eBike Alaska trips provide kinetic exploration through varied terrain, from coastal trails winding past spruce forests to wildlife viewing spots where moose and eagles are regular sightings.

A rare chance for mushing enthusiasts arrives with dog sledding at MARTIN BUSER’s training compound. Here, the tradition of Alaskan dog sled racing thrives, connecting travelers with both history and exhilarating winter sport.

PicTours America stands out by delivering highly curated, safety-first adventure experiences that honor both Anchorage’s urban offerings and the vast, wild spaces beyond. Their hands-on approach makes the region’s glaciers, wildlife, and northern lights accessible and memorable for every level of outdoor traveler.

Adventure Tips

Dress in Layers for Glacier Hikes

Temperatures on glaciers can shift quickly; moisture-wicking base layers topped with insulated and waterproof outerwear keep you comfortable.

Carry a Headlamp for Northern Lights

Darkness is key for aurora viewing, but when walking or photographing at night, a headlamp keeps your path clear.

Bring a Helmet on Glacier Treks

Rockfall and ice hazards are rare but possible; a helmet protects your head while trekking among crevasses and ice walls.

Reserve Dog Sledding Early

Dog mushing experiences are seasonal and limited in capacity; booking ahead ensures a spot at Martin Buser’s historic compound.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet coves along the Coastal Wilderness Trail
  • Less-visited glacier viewpoints accessible by guided hike

Wildlife

  • Moose grazing near trails
  • Bald eagles soaring over coastal waters

History

Anchorage developed rapidly after the 1914 Alaska Railroad arrival and serves as a vital link between urban life and wild Alaska.

Conservation

Local operators prioritize Leave No Trace ethics and sustainable practices to protect fragile glacier environments and wildlife habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Blue hour
Clear nights during aurora season

Best Viewpoints

  • Summit edge of glaciers
  • Coastal Wilderness Trail overlooks
  • Dog sledding compound with mushing teams

What to Photograph

Ice formations
Wildlife in natural habitat
Aurora borealis in night sky

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Hiking Boots

Essential

Protects feet from wet ground and icy patches on glacier and wilderness trails.

all specific

Insulated Jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm during cold glacier treks and chilly nights under the northern lights.

fall|winter|spring specific

Gloves and Warm Hat

Essential

Critical for retaining body heat during extended exposure to cold weather activities.

fall|winter|spring specific

Camera with Extra Batteries

Captures the stunning glaciers, wildlife encounters, and aurora displays; batteries drain faster in cold.

all specific