Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley Private Tour

Explore Alaska’s Scenic Wonders with a Private Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley Tour

This private, full-day tour in Anchorage offers a personalized journey through some of Alaska’s most breathtaking landscapes. Priced at $1,250 per group (up to 12 people), it provides a flexible, intimate experience that highlights the region’s natural beauty. The 8-hour adventure features iconic stops such as Turnagain Arm, Portage Valley, and Girdwood, along with optional activities like a tram ride to Mt Alyeska, a cruise on Portage Lake, and a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making for a stress-free day immersed in wilderness and city sights.

While some activities are at additional cost, the tour’s strength lies in its customizable nature and knowledgeable guides. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, flexible exploration of Anchorage’s surrounding wilderness, with plenty of opportunities for photos, wildlife viewing, and learning about Alaska’s landscape and wildlife.

Key Points

• Private, full-day experience designed for groups up to 12 people
• Flexible activities such as tram rides, glacier cruise, and wildlife center visit at extra expense
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience
• Highlights include Turnagain Arm, Portage Valley, Girdwood, and Beluga Point
• Gorgeous scenic stops for wildlife and landscape photography
• Guided tour with local expertise, tailored to your group’s interests

Starting at Anchorage: Scenic Drive Along Seward Highway

This tour begins with hotel pickup in Anchorage, setting the stage for an 8-hour journey through Alaska’s natural splendor. The first leg takes travelers along the Seward Highway, designated as one of only 13 ‘All American Roads’ in the U.S., known for its impressive views and wildlife opportunities. The guide points out notable scenery and wildlife along the way, making this a relaxing start to the day.

Travelers will appreciate the ease of hassle-free transportation, allowing full focus on the scenery. The early drive sets the tone for an itinerary filled with stunning vistas, with stops for photography and wildlife spotting in designated scenic areas.

Wildlife and Scenic Photography at Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary

The Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary offers a peaceful 30-minute stop just outside Anchorage. Its 1,550-foot boardwalk winds through wetlands teeming with bird species such as Canada geese, northern pintails, canvasback ducks, and eagles nesting nearby. This site is particularly good for birders and wildlife enthusiasts.

From the parking lot, visitors enjoy views of Turnagain Arm while observing the marsh’s habitat. The sanctuary provides an excellent chance to capture images of Alaska’s diverse birdlife and observe natural wetlands at their best. The stop is free of charge, making it an accessible highlight that adds to the day’s wildlife experience.

Exploring Girdwood: Mining History and Mountain Views

The tour makes a 1 hour 30 minute stop in Girdwood, a charming resort town in a mountain valley. Surrounded by seven glaciers, the town’s scenery reflects its history as a former mining center. Travelers can stroll through the town, enjoying the mountain vistas and local atmosphere.

Girdwood’s location in the Chugach Mountains makes it a picturesque spot to appreciate Alaska’s rugged terrain. This stop offers a taste of local culture and a good chance to stretch, take photos, and learn about the town’s history.

Optional Tram Ride to Mt Alyeska’s Summit

An optional Alyeska Aerial Tram ride is available for $48 per person and lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes. The tram takes visitors to the top of Mt Alyeska, where sweeping views of the Chugach National Forest and Turnagain Arm unfold.

While the tram ride offers a spectacular panorama, note that lunch at the summit is not included, and the tram itself is an extra expense. This activity is perfect for those eager to see the Alaskan wilderness from above but should be considered optional based on your schedule and interests.

Portage Lake and Glacier: Optional Cruise Adventure

After lunch, the tour offers an optional 1-hour cruise on Portage Lake for $45 per person. The boat trip crosses iceberg-studded waters, providing close-up views of the Portage Glacier, one of Alaska’s iconic ice formations.

The cruise offers a unique perspective on the glacier’s size and majesty, with opportunities for stunning photos of the icy landscape. Since this activity is at an extra cost, travelers can choose whether to include it based on their interest in glacier viewing.

Visiting Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. The $20 per person entrance fee grants access to spacious enclosures for injured and orphaned animals, including wolves, foxes, caribou, elk, moose, bears, and wood bison.

Spending approximately 2 hours here, visitors walk among the animals, gaining insight into conservation efforts. The center’s well-maintained habitats enable close-up viewing, making it a memorable part of the trip for those interested in Alaska’s iconic fauna.

Scenic Drive Along Turnagain Arm and Beluga Point

The tour includes a scenic 2-hour drive along Turnagain Arm, renowned for its spectacular views and abundant wildlife, such as beluga whales (seasonal), mountain goats, and bald eagles. The narrow waterway offers photo opportunities of the dramatic landscape.

A stop at Beluga Point provides a chance to observe beluga whales seasonally (July–August) and explore the archaeological site with artifacts dating back 8,000-10,000 years. The area also features wildlife viewing and interpretive signs about early human habitation.

Gaze at Wildlife at Beluga Point and Greatland Adventures

Beluga Point is not only a wildlife viewing area but also an archaeological site with artifacts indicating early human presence. Visitors can enjoy a 15-minute stop here for photos and wildlife spotting.

The tour also briefly visits Greatland Adventures, adding context and local insight. This stop enhances understanding of the region’s natural and cultural history, completing the scenic and educational experience.

Final Anchorage City Tour and Insider Tips

After exploring the wilderness, the guide provides a comprehensive city tour of Anchorage, sharing history and local recommendations for restaurants and entertainment. This personalized segment helps travelers connect their wilderness experience with Anchorage’s urban charm.

The private nature of the tour ensures flexibility, so the guide can adapt the itinerary to the group’s interests. The day ends with drop-off at the hotel, leaving visitors with a well-rounded view of both the wilderness and the city.

Who Will Truly Enjoy This Tour

This private tour is ideal for those seeking a personalized, flexible exploration of Alaska’s landscapes and wildlife. With options to customize activities and a knowledgeable guide, it suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and cultural insights.

The tour’s eight-hour duration balances sightseeing and relaxation, making it perfect for visitors wanting a comprehensive yet comfortably paced experience. It’s especially suited for groups up to 12 looking for an intimate, hassle-free Alaska adventure.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded, Personalized Alaska Experience

The Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley Private Tour offers a detailed look at some of Alaska’s most stunning vistas, wildlife, and cultural sites. Its flexible activities, expert guidance, and scenic stops provide a memorable day that balances adventure with comfort.

While some activities like the tram ride, glacier cruise, and wildlife center visit are optional and at additional cost, the core experience delivers plenty of spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing on its own. The private format and hotel pickup add convenience and a tailored touch, making it a worthwhile choice for those who want an in-depth, personalized Alaskan day.

This tour suits travelers eager for up-close wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and insightful local knowledge. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities and the flexibility to include extra activities according to their interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Anchorage, making it easy to start and end the day comfortably.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, providing ample time to explore multiple scenic stops and attractions.

Can I choose to skip the activities at extra cost?
Absolutely. Activities like the tram ride, glacier cruise, and wildlife center visit are optional and at your own expense.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You can see Dall sheep, mountain goats, beluga whales, black bears, eagles, and other wildlife along Turnagain Arm and at Potter Marsh.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can bring your own food or purchase lunch during stops in Girdwood or at other venues.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, the tour involves walking at stops like Potter Marsh and the wildlife center but remains generally accessible for most travelers.

What is the best time of year for beluga whale sightings?
Beluga whales are visible seasonally, primarily July through August.

How customizable is the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide can tailor the itinerary to your interests and pace, making it highly flexible.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for Alaska’s weather, including layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes for walking and outdoor stops.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve the tour through the provider, Greatland Adventures, with confirmation received within 48 hours, subject to availability.