Wildlife Conservation Center & Portage Valley Glaciers

Anchorage , United States

Wildlife Conservation Center & Portage Valley Glaciers

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(97 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

Embark on a scenic journey along the Turnagain Arm. View breathtaking Scenery, keeping a lookout for Beluga whales, Dall Sheep, Bald Eagles, and the occasional bear! Learn about the local ecosystem and local wildlife from your experienced tour guide, as they drive along the inlet. You will arrive at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to visit and learn about the many local wildlife that have been rescued. Lastly, enjoy a scenic drive through Portage Valley and view these beautiful glaciers and Salmon streams.

Enjoy round-trip transportation from Anchorage. Learn about local wildlife and ecosystems. Visit Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, to see and learn about local Alaskan wildlife. Drive-thru parts Portage Valley. A walk in the rainforest.

Available options

Wildlife tour

What's included

Bottled water

Entry Ticket to Wildlife Conservation Center

Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Alaska Wildlife Conservation center is Southcentral Alaska's # 1 visitor attraction. The Wildlife Conservation Center is a non profit sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska's wildlife through conservation, research, education and quality animal care. Visitors can expect to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region and having the opportunity to observe a diverse array of native wildlife up close, including bears, wolves, moose, wolves and eagles, among others, in a spacious 200 acre carefully designed habitats that mimic their natural environment Its an unforgettable experience that fosters a deeper appreciation for Alaska's wildlife.

Stop 2

Brief stop in Portage Valley, where you will see several hanging Glaciers which once extended the entire length of the 14 mile valley. Portage glacier has receded back approximately 2 1/2 miles and has left behind a dead lake! The glacial remnants seen today are Explorer, Middle, Byron, Burns, and Shakespeare glaciers. While still massive in size, these glaciers stand as smaller reminders of the immense ice sheets that once covered this landscape. Next will be a walk through the rainforest, afterwards enjoy your ride back to Chugach State Park and marvel at the stunning views of Turnagain Arm.

Stop 3

At Beluga Point, visitors can enjoy breath taking views of Turnagan Arm with its sweeping coastal scenery, and rugged cliffs, often in spring and summer you can see glimpses of beluga whales swimming in the waters. Turnagan Arm itself, offers possible opportunities for wildlife viewing, including Beluga whales, Dall sheep, Bald Eagles and sometimes bears, as well as scenic vistas of the Chugach Mountains and the unique phenomenon of bore tides.

Scenic drive to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to and back to Anchorage is 2 hours and 30 minutes. Total round trip.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

63 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

34 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

There is 2: 20 Minutes of round trip travel time, included in this tour.

Please let us know if you will be bringing a wheel chair or walker on board.

Meeting point

Curbside in front of Historic City Hall

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