Private Turnagain Arm Wildlife Tour in Anchorage, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the tour involves minimal walking and mostly transportation by vehicle.
Overview
Explore Alaska’s stunning Turnagain Arm with a private wildlife tour along Seward Highway. Encounter majestic animals and enjoy customizable activities including glacier cruises and scenic tram rides.
Private Turnagain Arm Wildlife Tour
Groups of up to 12 People • Starting at $1250 per group + $30 pp • All Ages • 8 Hours
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour adventure along the breathtaking Seward Highway, exploring Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley. Experience stunning views, wildlife encounters, and optional activities like a scenic tram ride or glacier cruise. With a professional guide and customizable itinerary, this tour promises a unique Alaskan experience for your group.
Experience the scenic Turnagain Arm!
Duration
8 Hours
Departure Time:
- Tours generally depart at 9 am and return by 5:00 pm
- Hotel pick-up is available at Anchorage hotel locations only and NOT available for private residences (ie Airbnb or VRBO) or at Alyeska Resort. If staying at one of these locations, our office will reach out to confirm pick up location.
- Your expert guide will contact you the morning of your tour to confirm exact pick up time
Rates
Tour Rate starting at $1250 per group + $30 per person
- For groups of up to 12 people.
- If your group is larger than 12 people, please call to book.
About
Travel the scenic Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm to Portage Valley. Take a scenic tram to the top of a mountain and view Alaska’s iconic animals up close or hike on scenic winter trails. The choice is yours!
Tour Itinerary
- From Anchorage, we’ll travel along the scenic Seward Highway. One of only 13 highways in the US with the distinction of “All American Road”. Along the way we will have great opportunities to view and photograph wildlife and scenic vistas.
- First we stop at the beautiful Hotel Alyeska and the ski town of Girdwood. Take an optional scenic tram to the top of Mt Alyeska for lunch with a view.
- Next stop is stunning Portage Valley, home to hanging glaciers, beautiful waterfalls, and Portage Lake.
- And finally, a stop in at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife. The AWCC takes in injured and orphaned animals year-round, providing spacious enclosures and quality animal care. Here you can view and photograph up close Alaska’s iconic animals that are unable to be released into the wild.
- Afterwards, head back to Anchorage and enjoy a narrated city tour including all the best dining places.
What's Included
- Services of a professional local Alaskan guide
- Hotel pick up and drop off
- Entrance to Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
- Customized itinerary of stops and activities to suit your group’s interests
- Snacks and bottled water
Available Tour Add-Ons
Alyeska Scenic Tram The Alyeska Scenic Tram takes you 2,300 ft in elevation to the top of Mt. Alyeska. Lunch option available!
Portage Lake Glacier Cruise Take a 1 hour cruise on the MV Ptarmigan along iceberg dotted Portage Lake to the face of Portage Glacier. Soak in the stunning vistas and maybe even see the glacier calve!
Please Note
- Gratuities for Guides is not included in tour cost. 10% of tour price per person recommended and appreciated.
Adventure Tips
Bring layered clothing
Weather can change quickly along Turnagain Arm, so wearing layers helps you stay comfortable throughout the day.
Carry binoculars for wildlife viewing
A good pair of binoculars enhances your ability to spot distant animals like Dall sheep and eagles.
Pack snacks and water
While the tour includes breaks, having personal snacks and water ensures you stay energized and hydrated.
Charge your camera batteries
The scenic vistas provide countless photo opportunities, so ensure your devices are fully charged.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Moose
- Dall sheep
History
Turnagain Arm has a rich history tied to indigenous Dena'ina culture and early Alaskan fur trading routes along the Seward Highway.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve local habitats and wildlife corridors, balancing tourism with environmental protection in the region.
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Adventure Hotspots in Anchorage
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects against rain and wind common along the coast during summer months.
summer specific
Binoculars
Essential for spotting distant wildlife in Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley.
Camera with extra batteries
Captures stunning scenery and wildlife encounters during the tour.
Layered clothing
Keeps you comfortable as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day.