Aerial Tram to Mount Alyeska and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Day Tour from Anchorage
Ride an aerial tram up Mount Alyeska for sweeping views of Turnagain Arm, then step into the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see rescued grizzlies, moose, and muskox. This accessible 5.5–6 hour day tour from Anchorage pairs dramatic scenery with close-up wildlife encounters.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring layered outerwear
Temperatures at the Alyeska summit are often 10–20°F colder than Anchorage—pack a windproof shell and insulating mid-layer.
Charge your camera and bring telephoto
Binoculars or a 200mm+ lens make wildlife photos possible from viewing platforms without disturbing animals.
Use the restroom before departure
There are no public restrooms at the meeting point and the first stop is over an hour from downtown.
Wear sturdy shoes
Boardwalks at the Wildlife Center and tram areas can be wet or muddy—grippy soles reduce slips.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Beluga Point lookout for tide and seabird watching
- •Roundhouse Museum at the tram summit when open for local skiing history and artifacts
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Grizzly bear (viewed from enclosures)
Conservation Note
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center rehabilitates injured and orphaned animals and runs education programs—visitations support their rescue and research work; please stick to trails and viewing platforms to minimize disturbance.
The Seward Highway follows routes used by Indigenous peoples and later by gold rush-era traffic; Alyeska developed into a ski destination in the 1960s.
Photographer's Notes
- • Top of Alyeska tram observation deck
- • Turnagain Arm scenic pullouts
- • Boardwalks and elevated platforms at the Wildlife Center
What to Bring
Windproof shellEssential
Protects against sudden gusts and cooler summit temperatures.
Binoculars or telephoto lensEssential
Helps spot and photograph wildlife at a respectful distance.
Sturdy waterproof shoesEssential
Good traction for wet boardwalks and uneven ground at viewpoints.
Reusable water bottle
Refillable bottle for hydration—the tour provides bottled water but a refill reduces waste.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Anchorage to the tram?
Expect roughly 45–60 minutes each way depending on traffic and stops along the Seward Highway.
Is the tram ride included?
Yes; the tram ticket to Mount Alyeska’s summit is included in the tour price.
Are meals provided?
Bottled water and snacks are provided, but lunch at the Bore Tide Deli & Bar is on your own.
Can I touch or feed the animals at the Wildlife Center?
No. For safety and conservation reasons, feeding or touching animals is prohibited; visitors must stay on designated paths.
Is this tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes—this tour is rated easy and accessible for most ages, though tram seating and some walking is required.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5.5–6 hours
Location
Girdwood, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks on uneven boardwalks and standing during tram ride and viewing stops
Ready to Explore Girdwood?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now