Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley Private Tour
Highlights
- Scenic drive along the Seward Highway
- Opportunity to view and photograph wildlife
- Visit and lunch at Hotel Alyeska with a view
- Cruise across iceberg-dotted Portage Lake
- Up-close encounters with Alaska's iconic animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
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Duration 8 hours
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Private local guide
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Available in English, French, Spanish
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Optional scenic tram ride
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Optional glacier cruise
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley on a private tour unlike any other. Your journey begins in Anchorage, where you'll embark on a scenic drive along the iconic Seward Highway, renowned as one of the "All American Roads" in the US. Along the way, keep your camera ready to capture stunning wildlife encounters and picturesque vistas. Make stops at the luxurious Hotel Alyeska and the charming ski town of Girdwood, where you can opt for a scenic tram ride to the top of Mt Alyeska for a lunch with a view. Then, board the mv Ptarmigan for a one-hour cruise across the iceberg-dotted Portage Lake, immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery. Your adventure continues at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can get up close to Alaska's iconic animals. Finally, revel in a narrated city tour of Anchorage, discovering the best dining spots. This tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural wonders and captivating sights.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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8 hours
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Available in Spanish; Castilian, English, French
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Experience the breathtaking Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley with a private guided tour, featuring stunning vistas and abundant wildlife.
Included
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Local guide
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Private tour
Excluded
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Alyeska scenic tram: $48 per person
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Portage lake glacier cruise: $45 per person
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Alaska wildlife conservation center: $20 per person
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Food
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Portage Glacier
Portage Glacier
Seward Highway
Seward
Turnagain Arm Drive
Next, soak up the sights along the incomparable Turnagain Arm, a stunningly beautiful piece of Alaska home to a myriad of wildlife, including Dall sheep, mountain goats, boose, beluga whales, black bears and migratory bird species.
Girdwood
Girdwood is a resort town within the southern extent of the Municipality of Anchorage. Located near the end of the Turnagain Arm of Cook Inlet, Girdwood lies in a valley in the southwestern Chugach Mountains, surrounded by seven glaciers feeding into a number of creeks, which either converge within the valley or empty directly into the arm.
Alyeska Ski Area
Alyeska Aerial Tram
Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary
Potter Marsh, at the southern end of the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, is an ideal break from Anchorage for birders and other wildlife viewers. From the Seward Highway just before the left turn into the Potter Marsh parking lot, you are treated to a stunning view of Turnagain Arm. A wooden boardwalk winds 1,550 feet from the parking area through the marsh and across watery openings and sedges, perfect habitat for a rich variety of birds. From late April through September, Canada geese, northern pintails, canvasback ducks, red-necked phalaropes, horned and red-necked grebes, and northern harriers use this wetland. Look for eagle nests in the cottonwoods near the base of the bluff using binoculars or a spotting scope.
Greatland Adventures
Greatland Adventures
Beluga Point
Beluga Point Site is an archaeological location along Turnagain Arm of Cook Inlet. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 30, 1978. Artifacts of the area are evidence of early human habitation. Beluga Point North 1 (BPN1) artifacts are 8,000–10,000 years old and believed to be evidence of the oldest habitation in Anchorage municipality. Beluga Point is also a wildlife viewing area. Beluga whales can be sighted seasonally July through August as hundreds of the cetaceans visit Cook Inlet to feed on the Pacific salmon run.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
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.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Service animals allowed
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
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Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
What our experts say
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Try local seafood at The Bake Shop.
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Dress in layers; weather changes rapidly.
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Look for wildlife at Beluga Point.
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Plan for a stop at Potter Marsh.
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Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the stunning beauty of the Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley on a private tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Departing from Anchorage, embark on a scenic journey along the Seward Highway, recognized as an "All American Road." Uncover breathtaking wildlife encounters and awe-inspiring vistas along the way, capturing unforgettable photographs of the Alaskan wilderness. Your first stop is the exquisite Hotel Alyeska and the charming ski town of Girdwood. For a truly memorable experience, take an optional tram ride to the summit of Mt Alyeska and savor a delicious lunch while admiring the panoramic views.What to Expect
During this 480-minute adventure, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Alaska. Witness the magnificent Portage Glacier as you board the mv Ptarmigan for an optional one-hour cruise across Portage Lake, dotted with majestic icebergs. At the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, get up close and personal with Alaska's iconic animals and support the essential work of this nonprofit organization. Finally, return to Anchorage and enjoy a narrated city tour, discovering the best dining spots that the city has to offer.Who is this for?
This private tour is suitable for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and travelers seeking a personalized and captivating exploration of Alaska's scenic wonders. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family looking for an immersive experience, this tour caters to a wide range of interests and preferences. It is ideal for those who appreciate the flexibility and knowledge that a private guide can provide, ensuring an enriching and memorable journey for individuals of all ages.Why book this?
Book this private tour and unlock the hidden gems of the Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley. With a local guide by your side, you'll gain insider knowledge and access to the best viewpoints, enhancing your experience and creating unforgettable memories. Avoid the typical tourist traps and embark on a tailored adventure that showcases the untouched beauty of Alaska's wilderness. From wildlife encounters to breathtaking landscapes, this tour offers a unique opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the natural splendor of this extraordinary region.Good to know
During the tour, indulge in the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Anchorage, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the incredible wildlife, breathtaking glaciers, and rugged coastal scenery. The tour includes a narrated city tour of Anchorage, giving you a glimpse into the local culture and highlighting the city's best dining options. Remember to dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Immerse yourself in an authentic Alaskan adventure where every moment is filled with wonder and excitement.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this private tour have consistently praised it for its knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and exceptional wildlife encounters. They particularly appreciated the opportunity to support the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and learn about its important conservation efforts. Guests were captivated by the breathtaking views of Portage Glacier and the chance to take a cruise across Portage Lake. The overall consensus among reviewers is that this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Alaska with a personalized touch.This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is