Stunning Turnagain Arm Tour: "A Must See Destination"

Anchorage , United States

Stunning Turnagain Arm Tour: "A Must See Destination"

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(73 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take our breathtaking ride down the Seward Highway to view awe-inspiring stops along Turnagain Arm.

On this tour you will visit highlights such as Beluga Point with panoramic views of Turnagain Arm and chances of seeing Beluga Whales and Dahl Sheep, Portage Valley with a stop at Explorer Glacier w/walk in rainforest, Turnagain Art Gallery to view life size chainsaw carvings and Potter Marsh a scenic wildlife refuge where you will walk the scenic boardwalk to view wild birds, spawning salmon and a chance at seeing moose.

Alaska’s Seward Highway climbs over mountain passes where you’re surrounded by jaw-dropping views of jagged peaks, rain forests, crystal lakes and the Pacific Ocean. This highway truly is, a photographer’s dream. Potter Marsh marks the end of city views and the beginning of wilderness—it’s absolutely a “birder’s” paradise! While driving along this road, we stop at many opportunities with ample time to take in the breathtaking views that will make your soul sing.

Available options

Stunning Turnagain Arm Tour: "A Must See Destination"

What's included

Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points

Round-trip tour with shared transportation

Detailed itinerary

Pickup included

Beluga Point: Popular photo stop with panoramic views of Turnagain Arm. Many are lucky, having made their “offerings to the Sheep and Whale Gods” for possible opportunities to see Dall sheep and Beluga whales passing through. It’s luck of the draw, we’ll do our best to sync you up for a once in a lifetime rendezvous with these enchanted creatures of the land and sea.

Stop 3 Pass by

Portage Valley: You will see Explorer Glacier, Middle Glacier, Byron Glacier and Take a Walk through a Rainforest. Next grab a snack or meal to enjoy on your ride back to Anchorage at Portage Day Lodge.

Turnagain Art Gallery: Owned and operated by a master log cabin home builder Greg and Wife Wendy a local jewelry artists. Their son Jordon Anderson is a professional and competitive wood carver. He is often seen on the grounds producing life size wood carvings of local animals. The gallery is chock full of stunning sculptures, unique jewelry, deeply moving paintings and photographic prints.

Potter Marsh: With its nearly panoramic view of Turnagain arm, Potter Marsh, peppered by spruce, cottonwoods and alder trees, is one of the most accessible and scenic wildlife viewing areas in Anchorage. About halfway along the boardwalk, Rabbit Creek flows underneath and provides a good spot to see spawning chinook, Coho, or humpback salmon from May to August, depending on the species. Moose also frequent the marsh year round.

Turnagain Arm

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

50 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

23 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum age is 6 years

Weather in Alaska can change rapidly, so please dress accordingly

Seats on return are on a first come first serve basis. Next vehicle one hour later.

Not recommended for infants

Meeting point

Please check in at our new location: 509 W. 3rd Ave, directly across from the Hilton Hotel. Parking is available across the street. Check in at the concierge desk, then wait in our garden or indoor lobby. Please arrive 20 mins before departure. Look for the gray van with a bear!

Important notes

• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

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