Anchorage Day Tour: Wildlife, Glaciers & Rainforest Walk Along Turnagain Arm
In under five hours this guided tour escorts you from Anchorage along Turnagain Arm to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Portage Valley. Expect close-up wildlife viewing, rainforest boardwalks and glacier viewpoints with practical stops for food and toilets.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Weather on Turnagain Arm changes rapidly—waterproof outer layer plus insulating mid-layers will keep you comfortable during stops and the rainforest walk.
Bring binoculars
Animals at the Wildlife Conservation Center and sightings at Beluga Point are easier to enjoy with binoculars or a camera zoom.
Wear grippy shoes
The rainforest path and boardwalk can be muddy and slippery—trail-ready footwear reduces slips and keeps you moving confidently.
Carry snacks and water
There’s a short stop at Portage Day Lodge but packing water and snacks keeps you energized between breaks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning Beluga Point for quiet coastal light and tide flats
- •Short boardwalk loop in Portage Valley—often less crowded than main viewpoints
Wildlife
- •Brown bear
- •Moose
Conservation Note
The AWCC funds rehabilitation and education; visitors’ admission fees support animal care. Respecting viewing distances and not feeding wildlife reduces human-wildlife conflict.
Turnagain Arm’s coast was sculpted by repeated glaciation and later became an important travel corridor; the AWCC was founded in the 1990s to care for displaced Alaskan wildlife.
Photographer's Notes
- • Beluga Point for coastal panoramas
- • Platforms at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
- • Portage Glacier viewpoints for ice and reflection shots
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
A breathable rain shell keeps you dry during quick coastal showers in spring.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Supportive, grippy shoes handle the wet boardwalks and uneven viewing areas.
Binoculars or zoom lensEssential
Helps identify distant wildlife and get better photos at Beluga Point and AWCC.
Layered insulating clothingEssential
Warm mid-layers are useful when glacier wind makes temperatures feel colder than the thermometer reads.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour meets at 509 W. 3rd Ave in downtown Anchorage (across from the Hilton) and returns to the same location.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No—wildlife is wild. The AWCC provides guaranteed animal viewing at the sanctuary, while sightings at Beluga Point and along Turnagain Arm depend on season and luck.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes for school-aged children who can walk independently; it’s not recommended for infants or those unable to walk for 40 minutes unaided.
Can the tour operate in bad weather?
Tours may be cancelled for severe weather or insufficient participants; typical rain or cold generally does not cancel a tour—dress appropriately.
Are there restrooms and food stops?
Yes—restrooms and light concessions are available at AWCC and Portage Day Lodge during the scheduled stops.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
This tour involves boarding a van and walking for short periods; travelers with significant mobility restrictions should contact the operator in advance.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–4.5 hours
Location
Portage, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with a moderate level of fitness; requires walking and standing for up to 40 minutes at times.
Ready to Explore Portage?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now