Portage Glacier & Wildlife Discovery Tour from Anchorage
Ride the Seward Highway, watch glacier calving on Portage Lake and meet Alaska’s rescued wildlife in a single, well-paced day from Anchorage. This six-hour tour balances hands-on conservation and big- landscape moments with practical logistics for short-stay travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for quick switches
Temperatures can vary from warm coach rides to cold winds on the lake—bring a light insulating layer and a waterproof shell.
Bring binoculars
Binoculars amplify distant wildlife at Beluga Point and details on the glacier face during the cruise.
Prepare for motion
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding—the cruise moves through choppy water and around icebergs.
Respect wildlife boundaries
At the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center stay on designated paths and follow guide instructions for animal safety and photo etiquette.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Byron Glacier short trail near Girdwood — a quiet 1–2 hour option for close-up glacial views
- •Tide flats at low tide along Turnagain Arm for shorebird and intertidal life observation
Wildlife
- •Dall sheep
- •Beluga whales
Conservation Note
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center rehabilitates non-releasable animals and runs public education programs; visitors are asked to follow established paths and minimize disturbance to habitats.
The Seward Highway follows routes carved by glaciers and named sections of the coastline date back to early European exploration; Turnagain Arm was so named when Captain Cook had to "turn again" due to tides.
Photographer's Notes
- • Beluga Point overlook along Turnagain Arm
- • Open-air deck of the Portage Lake cruise near the glacier face
- • Chugach Mountains overlook for panoramic shots of Anchorage and the inlet
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Wind and spray on Portage Lake make a breathable rain jacket essential for comfort.
Binoculars or spotting scopeEssential
Helps pick out belugas, shorebirds and details on the glacier face from a distance.
Warm mid-layer (fleece or down)Essential
Temperature can drop quickly near the water and at higher viewpoints.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Trails vary from paved lookouts to uneven natural surfaces around wildlife viewing areas.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The full experience runs about 6–7 hours from the Anchorage meeting point, including the one-hour Portage Lake cruise.
Is lunch provided?
Lunch is not included; there’s an opportunity to buy food near the glacier after the cruise, and light snacks and bottled water are provided on the vehicle.
Can I see beluga whales from Beluga Point?
Beluga Point is named for beluga sightings in Turnagain Arm—sightings depend on tide and season, so they’re possible but not guaranteed.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
The cruise vessel has an enclosed cabin and open deck but access may require steps; contact the operator ahead for specific accessibility needs.
What happens in bad weather?
The glacier cruise portion is weather-dependent. The operator may rebook or refund if conditions force cancellation; reconfirmation occurs 24–36 hours before departure.
Are children allowed and are infant seats available?
Children are welcome and a limited number of infant/child seats are available but must be requested at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Anchorage, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to walk short distances on uneven ground and board a small vessel.
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