Wilderness, Wildlife, Glacier Experience from Anchorage
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the Big Outdoors and Portage Glacier Cruise!
See the amazing beauty that surrounds Anchorage.
This special tour does not follow any set route. Nor does it follow a time table.
Use your time wisely by going into the wilderness to see wildlife and view glaciers. Summer only: an option, on a 80 ft. cruise ship. (available 11am departure only and May 15 - Sep 15)
We follow the sun, the wind and our hearts to navigate your vacation towards the most scenic locations capable for the day of your tour.
The Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience includes entrance into the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. During summer you'll have an option to include a glacier cruise on the mv Ptarmigan.
Learn about our rich history and see the Ring of Glaciers. This award winning tour can not be replicated by any other service or shuttle.
The Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience offers highly trained Guides who's sole purpose is making your vacation memories last a lifetime.
Available options
Wilderness Wildlife Glaciers
Photography Lessons -- FREE<br/>Duration: 6 hours: 11 am departure. This is the deluxe version to experience the wilderness that surrounds Alaska. Doesn’t include Glacier Boat<br/>Wilderness Wildlife Glacier: WEEKDAY & WEEKEND: Sightseeing tour outside the city limits of Anchorage. hour day tour into the wilderness, see wildlife, view glaciers and walk on Alaskan Alpine Meadows.
With 1hr Glacier Cruise
Summer Only Glacier Cruise: Experience Portage Glacier up close on the MSS Ptarmigan. A one hour excursion on the 80-foot ship.
<br/>Duration: 6 hours: Departs at 11am. Dena'ina Convention Center. 700 W 7th Ave. We meet 10 minutes before departure.<br/>1 Hour Glacier Confirmation: 1 Hour Glacier Cruise Confirmation will be sent by tour Operator, PicTours Alaska, Inc. shortly after this message.
What's included
Bottled water
Driver/guide and scout
Entertainment
Live commentary on board
Confirmation by PicTours Alaska with all Add-On Selected will be emailed to valid purchase
Stop to Purchase Food-Meal
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Guided Tour within conservation park to see brown bear, wolves and bison.
Photography lessons offered.
2
Ring of Glaciers. A wonder of glaciers that surround a lake filled with pure glacial run off. As we return to Anchorage, live entertainment is offered.
3
Scenic Viewpoint to Beluga whale watch
Free photography lessons offered.
4
Stop 4
Available only during summer, from June to August, optional-Upgrade. Glacier Cruise to be upclose to Portage Glacier. See up close the face of Portage Glacier on the Ptarmigan Cruise ship. See up to 14 glaciers embedded within rugged mountains of the Chugach National Forest, that form the Ring of Glaciers. This Cruise, can be upgraded for an additional fee this is not included in the regular tour cost. The Portage Glacier cruise is in conjunction with the U.S. Dept of Agriculture and hosted by a U.S. Park Ranger. This boat ride is NOT included in Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience basic tour. The regular tour, without cruise ship upgrade, still views glaciers within Glacier Valley.
Free Photography Lessons offered.
5
Stop 5
Bird Point and selective Viewpoints to photograph soaring eagles, mountain goats, whales or walk upon alpine meadows.
Free photography lessons offered.
6
Anchorage City Tour as we exit into the wilderness/
7
See amazing flying wildlife as well as the marsh areas that are home to moose, salmon and other migrating wildlife.
8
Learn and see the historic Gold Rush of 1890, Eureka!
9
See the scenic valley views. Look for seasonal bears and eagles.
10
Seasonal Self-Guided walk to the foot of Byron Glacier.
Typically, later May to mid Sept.
11
See the scenic glacial ponds of Explorer Glacier. When seasonally available we walk on the Blue Ice Trail.
12
See Glacier Valley campgrounds
13
Walk on America's most northern rain forest
14
Wonderful viewpoint of Chickaloon Bay
15
Above 3000 feet, a notable mountain peak viewable throughout Anchorage
16
Stop 16
Pass by
With a rich historic footprint in Anchorage the rail system is viewable during our tour
What's not included
Ptarmigan ship - price will be excluded from ticket if not specifically selected while booking.
Glacier Cruise ship upgrade may be added directly from PicTours Alaska's website. May-Sep Only
Meals are not included. A stop will be provided to purchase meals.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
838 reviews
5★
741
4★
52
3★
26
2★
10
1★
9
Tripadvisor
4.9
2,158 reviews
5★
2060
4★
70
3★
15
2★
4
1★
9
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Glacier Cruise Upgrade Available Summer months Only
Participant Waiver & Release of Liability and Terms & Conditions. By purchasing ticket(s) and/or by participating on a tour, by PicTours Alaska, Inc. you affirm that you and tour attendees accompanying you fully understand and agree to the following Participant Waiver & Release of Liability and Terms & Conditions. I acknowledge, attest, agree and represent that I, and those accompanying me, fully understand and accept, without limitation, sole responsibility for all of the risks associated with my participation while on the tour, including injury and death whether through my own actions or those of other participants, tour guides, pedestrians, automobiles, public transportation, acts of nature or any other external parties.
Meeting point
NO HOTEL PICK UP DURING SPRING-FALL.
Hotel pick-up December and January only, Major hotels in mid/downtown.
We Meet at 10 minutes before Departure at Dena'ina Convention Center, 600 W 7th Avenue--Downtown Anchorage.
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes is recommended
• Jacket, or wind breaker is recommended
• There is not restrooms available at departure location
• Are you traveling with anyone on this tour that has booked separately? If so, please contact us with their name.
About Anchorage
Anchorage is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Alaska, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the 'City of Lights and Flowers,' it serves as the perfect gateway to the vast wilderness of the Last Frontier, with easy access to stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
A scenic 11-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet, wildlife, and the Chugach Mountains. Perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free
Anchorage Museum
A premier cultural and historical museum showcasing Alaska's art, history, and indigenous cultures. Features a large collection of Alaska Native art and contemporary exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
$20 for adults, discounts available
Chugach State Park
A vast state park offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning alpine scenery. Features over 495,000 acres of wilderness just minutes from downtown Anchorage.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Free
Alaska Native Heritage Center
A cultural center dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditions, history, and art of Alaska's indigenous peoples. Features live performances, cultural demonstrations, and exhibits.
Cultural
2-3 hours
$25 for adults, discounts available
Flattop Mountain
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Anchorage and the surrounding mountains. A moderate hike that is accessible year-round.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salmon
Fresh, wild-caught salmon is a staple of Alaskan cuisine, often grilled, smoked, or baked.
Main Dish
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
King Crab
Alaska is famous for its king crab, which is typically steamed or grilled and served with butter.
Main Dish
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Reindeer Sausage
A unique Alaskan specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.
Main Dish
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Baked Alaska
A classic dessert featuring layers of ice cream and cake, topped with meringue and torched.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Wildlife viewing
Kayaking
Dog sledding
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Anchorage, offering the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours, known as the 'Midnight Sun.' This is the best time for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring the city's attractions.
10°C to 20°C
50°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog, Other indigenous languages
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Anchorage is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise common sense and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 12 km from city center
By bus
Downtown Anchorage Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The People Mover bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes covering most of the city. Buses are well-maintained and punctual.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Anchorage
South Anchorage
West Anchorage
Midtown Anchorage
Day trips
Chugach National Forest
20 km from Anchorage • Half-day to full day
A vast national forest offering stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Girdwood and Alyeska Resort
40 km from Anchorage • Full day
A scenic mountain town and ski resort offering year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and the famous Alyeska Tram.
Whittier
80 km from Anchorage • Full day
A small town accessible by tunnel, offering stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and the start of the famous Prince William Sound cruise.
Festivals
Anchorage Fur Rendezvous • February
Midnight Sun Festival • June
Anchorage Market and Festival • May to September
Pro tips
- Visit the Anchorage Museum for a comprehensive overview of Alaska's history and culture
- Take a scenic flightseeing tour to fully appreciate the beauty of Alaska's landscapes
- Go wildlife viewing in the early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting animals
- Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Anchorage can be unpredictable and change rapidly
- Try local Alaskan cuisine, such as fresh seafood, wild game, and reindeer sausage
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
