Tours

Summer - Girdwood Wildlife Express – Discover Alaska’s Iconic Wildlife

Budget Friendly and non-stop service

3.5

1-14 people

Anchorage, Alaska

Summer - Girdwood Wildlife Express – Discover Alaska’s Iconic Wildlife

About This Experience

Embark on the Girdwood Wildlife Express for an unforgettable journey into Alaska's wilderness. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see majestic bears, moose, and musk oxen up close. Enjoy a scenic ride through breathtaking landscapes, guided by experts who share fascinating insights about wildlife and conservation efforts. Perfect for all ages!

Highlights

The Girdwood Wildlife Express offers a unique opportunity to connect with Alaska’s diverse wildlife in a way that’s both convenient and immersive. Unlike typical wildlife tours, this one takes you to the renowned Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a 200-acre sanctuary dedicated to preserving native species. Here, you’ll have the chance to see animals like brown and black bears, moose, and musk oxen up close, all while learning about their natural behaviors and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them.

What makes this activity truly special is the ease and comfort of the journey. With multiple departure times and locations from Girdwood (gas station), the shuttle ride is not just a transport experience—it’s a scenic adventure. As you wind through the stunning landscapes of Turnagain Arm, you’ll be treated to views of snow-capped mountains and frozen waters, making the ride just as captivating as the destination itself.

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, photographers, and families seeking an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re snapping photos of the majestic bears or simply marveling at the animals’ natural behaviors, there’s something magical about witnessing Alaska’s wild creatures in such a peaceful, controlled environment. Plus, your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the wildlife and their natural habitats, adding a rich layer of educational value to the experience.

Whether you're a local or a first-time visitor to Alaska, the Girdwood Wildlife Express lets you experience some of the state’s most iconic animals without the hassle of long, strenuous hikes. It’s an ideal way to enjoy the wonders of nature while staying comfortable, making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

What's Included

Round-trip transportation from Girdwood to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Knowledgeable driver/guide sharing insights about Alaska's wildlife and conservation efforts.

Admission to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Not Included

What You May Need to Purchase Separately:

Lunch & Snacks: While the tour includes transportation and admission to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, food and beverages are not provided. You may want to bring your own snacks or purchase something from the on-site café or nearby shops.

Souvenirs: The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center offers a variety of souvenirs that you can purchase to remember your experience, including wildlife-themed gifts, clothing, and memorabilia.

Gratuities: While not included in the tour price, gratuities for your driver/guide are appreciated. If you had a great experience, feel free to show your thanks!

What to Bring

Warm, Layered Clothing – Weather in Alaska can change quickly, so it’s best to be prepared for all conditions.Comfortable Walking Shoes – Suitable for walking around the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you’ll be exploring the grounds.Water Bottle – Stay hydrated throughout the tour.Sun Protection – Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays, especially in the brighter months.Camera – Capture the incredible wildlife and scenic landscapes.Binoculars (Optional) – For getting an even closer look at the animals.Snacks (Optional) – If you’d like a light snack during the tour, though food is not provided.Personal Medications – If you take any medication, be sure to bring it along.Charged Phone or Camera – To ensure you can capture every moment of this amazing experience.Make sure you’re prepared and comfortable for the adventure ahead!

Meeting Point

Girdwood Wildlife Express – Discover Alaska’s Iconic Wildlife

Itinerary

Girdwood Wildlife Express – Experience Agenda

Arrival at Departure Location (Girdwood Station or Hotel Alyeska)

Time: Arrive 10-15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

What to Expect: Check in with your driver/guide and board the shuttle. The tour departs promptly, so be sure to be on time.

Departure from Girdwood or Hotel Alyeska

Time: Departure times vary, check your booking for the exact time.

What to Expect: Enjoy a scenic, relaxing ride to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, with commentary about the local wildlife and landscape.

Arrive at Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC)

Time: 20-30 minutes after departure.

What to Expect: Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore the center at your leisure, where you can see and learn about Alaska’s iconic wildlife.

Explore the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Duration: Approximately 1 hours.

What to Expect: Walk through the center’s well-maintained pathways, visiting the bears, moose, wood bison, caribou, musk oxen, and more. Your guide will provide interesting facts and insights about the animals.

Return Journey to Girdwood

Departure Time: Depending on your departure location, return times are typically around 1.5 hours after your visit to the AWCC.

What to Expect: Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive back to Girdwood. The shuttle will drop you off either at Girdwood Station or Hotel Alyeska (if you chose the direct departure).

End of Tour

Time: Approximately 3 hours after departure, depending on your chosen time.

What to Expect: You’ll be dropped off at your starting location, completing your unforgettable wildlife experience.

Check-in Details

Arrival Time: Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth check-in process. Check-in Location: Girdwood Station (Gas Station): Main departure point for most guests. Hotel Alyeska: Direct pick-up for hotel guests (return via Glacier Valley Transit to Girdwood Station). What to Bring: Make sure to bring your confirmation number, valid ID, and any printed tickets if available. Restroom: Restrooms are available at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, but none are available on the way to the location, so please plan accordingly. Late Arrival: If you arrive after the scheduled departure time, we may not be able to accommodate you, and no refunds will be issued for late arrivals. Please text us if your driver hasn’t arrived by the scheduled time (calling may delay the process). Please note that your driver is coming from Anchorage a may experience traffic delays. If this occurs we will notify you via text. If you do not hear from us please text us.

Good to Know

Age requirement: 5+ years

No Wheelchair or strollers

About the Operator

Alaska’s Finest Tours and Adventures Anchorage, Alaska

Operated by Alaska’s Finest Tours and Adventures

Duration: 3.5

Group size: 1-14

Location: Anchorage, Alaska

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