Seward to Anchorage Scenic Transit: Exit Glacier, Wildlife Center & Turnagain Arm
A full-day shuttle from Seward to Anchorage that stitches Exit Glacier, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and the dramatic shores of Turnagain Arm into one scenic itinerary. Ideal for travelers who want a compact introduction to Southcentral Alaska’s landscapes and wildlife.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in quick-dry layers
Coastal Alaska changes fast—windproof outer layers and insulating mid-layers keep you comfortable during glacier overlooks and breezy viewpoints.
Bring binoculars and a zoom lens
Belugas and Dall sheep often appear at a distance; 8–12x binoculars or a 200mm+ lens will make sightings count.
Prepare for motion sensitivity
The Seward Highway along Turnagain Arm is scenic but winding—anti-nausea meds or seat choices toward the front of the van help if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Keep cash or cards for food stops
The tour provides bottled water and snacks, but local food trucks and the chocolate shop accept payment for fuller meals or souvenirs.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for tide flats and migrating shorebirds along Turnagain Arm’s mudflats at low tide.
- •Stop briefly at the Portage Glacier viewpoint near the wildlife center for a quieter glacier view than busier exits.
Wildlife
- •Beluga whales
- •Dall sheep
Conservation Note
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center emphasizes rescue and rehabilitation; visitors are asked to follow viewing rules to minimize stress to animals and support habitat protection.
The Seward Highway follows routes carved by glaciers and modified by tectonic forces; Earthquake Park preserves sections of Anchorage lowered during the 1964 magnitude-9.2 quake.
Photographer's Notes
- • Exit Glacier overlook trail near the ice edge
- • Turnagain Arm pullouts facing the tidal flats
- • Lake Hood seaplane ramps for action shots
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Wind and rain are common along the coast—an outer shell keeps you dry at overlooks and while watching seaplanes.
BinocularsEssential
Essential for wildlife viewing on the highway and at the conservation center.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Trails to glacier viewpoints and boardwalks at the wildlife center can be muddy or uneven.
Zoom camera or telephoto lens
Captures distant wildlife and glacier detail better than a phone camera.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour meets at the Port of Seward (look for the company van) and ends with a drop-off anywhere in Anchorage upon request.
How long is the tour?
The full-day tour runs approximately 8.5 hours (about 510 minutes) including stops and transit time.
Are meals included?
The tour provides bottled water and light snacks; lunch is on your own at a scenic brewery or food trucks.
Can I get off at a specific stop?
Stops are scheduled; if you need a special drop-off in Anchorage the operator can accommodate requests—confirm with the driver.
Is this suitable for children or strollers?
Yes—infants and small children can ride in strollers and infant seats are available.
Will we see wildlife on every tour?
Wildlife sightings are common (belugas, Dall sheep, moose, bears) but never guaranteed—season, time of day and animal behavior affect visibility.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short walks of 1–2 miles with modest elevation and long periods of seated travel.
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