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Valley of Glaciers Experience with Portage Glacier Cruise and Wildlife Tour

192 Reviews 4.95 out of 5 stars Based on 192 reviews collected by Cool Alaska and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Anchorage, USA

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Don't miss out!
This is usually booked 109 (93.67) days in advance.

8 hours (Approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile Ticket
Instant Confirmation

Overview

Start your tour with a pick up from your hotel location with one of Alaska's top rated guides. First experience one of Alaska’s most breathtaking drives down the Seward Hwy and Turnagain Arm with a few sightseeing stops at Beluga Point and Bird Point. We will then arrive in the Portage Valley making stops at Explorer Glacier, Middle Glacier and boarding the M/V Ptarmigan for an hour long cruise on Portage Lake viewing multiple surrounding glaciers and majestic landscapes with the main focus on Portage Glacier. We will make an optional lunch stop after the cruise and before heading to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Once we arrive at the Wildlife Center you will be guided through the 200 acre facility where you're guaranteed to see Alaska’s land mammals in their natural habitats and much more! We will then take the drive back and make one last stop at Falls Creek before your drop off at your desired destination in Anchorage.

What's Included

  • Private transportation
  • Bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Gratuities
  • Lunch We will make a stop where lunch may be purchased
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Around 5pm local time the evening before your tour, we'll reach out via call, text, or email. You'll get departure details, weather updates, and any last-minute tour info. Please ensure your contact info is updated with us to avoid any communication hitches. On the day of the tour, look for our Sprinter Van with "Alaska Exquisite Travel" displayed on it.

Start Time • 8:00 AM

What To Expect

Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary (Pass By)

A scenic wildlife refuge just south of Anchorage, Potter Marsh is a birder’s paradise and a peaceful stop along the Seward Highway. This 564-acre wetland is home to a variety of bird species, including sandhill cranes, Arctic terns, and eagles, as well as moose, beavers, and salmon in season. Stroll the accessible boardwalk for up-close views of the marsh’s vibrant ecosystem set against a stunning mountain backdrop. (Will stop for Wildlife!)
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Cook Inlet (Pass By)

The Chugach State Park is a region of area our tour operates.
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Beluga Point

We will make a stop at Beluga Point with spectacular views of the Cook inlet and Turnagain Arm and use this stop as a great photo opportunity and chance to see wildlife in and out of the water!
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Indian Valley Mine, National Historic Site (Pass By)

Nestled along the Seward Highway, this historic mine dates back to the early 20th century and played a role in Alaska's gold mining boom. Established in 1910, it was part of a network of small, independent mines that dotted the Indian Valley area during the gold rush era. Today, visitors can explore original mining equipment, learn about the methods used by early prospectors, and even try their hand at gold panning. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, the mine offers a unique chance to step back in time and experience Alaska’s rich mining history firsthand.
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Bird Point

We will make a stop at Bird Point for the halfway point to Portage Glacier. This stop will include a small walk with breathtaking views of the Turnagain Arm and Chugach Mountain Range and restrooms if needed.
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20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Girdwood (Pass By)

A charming mountain town nestled in the Chugach Mountains, Girdwood is known for its stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and vibrant community. Originally a gold mining town, it has transformed into a year-round destination for nature lovers. In summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring nearby glaciers, while local cafes, galleries, and unique shops add to its appeal. Surrounded by lush forests and dramatic peaks, Girdwood is the perfect gateway to Alaska's wilderness.
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Chugach National Forest (Pass By)

Our tour operates and stops in the Chugach National Forest.
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Portage Glacier

We will arrive in the Portage Valley making stops at Explorer Glacier, Middle Glacier, Byron Glacier and boarding the M/V Ptarmigan for an hour long cruise on Portage Lake viewing multiple surrounding glaciers and majestic landscapes with the main focus on Portage Glacier getting within a couple hundreds yards of the face of the glacier!
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2 hours • Admission Ticket Included

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Once we arrive at the Wildlife Center you will be guided through the 200 acre facility where you're guaranteed to see Alaska’s land mammals in their natural habitats! (Bears, Moose, Wolves, Elk, Deer, Eagles, and much more!
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2 hours • Admission Ticket Included

Alaska Railroad (Pass By)

The Alaska Railroad between Anchorage and Portage, completed in 1918, offers stunning views of Turnagain Arm, Chugach State Park, and the Kenai Mountains. Once vital for transporting goods and people, the route was rebuilt after the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake caused significant subsidence in the Portage area. Today, it’s part of iconic routes like the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery, showcasing Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes and rich history.
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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We’re here to help.
Live Chat, Text, Call, or Email our friendly customer support with your questions.

Activity code: C-319169P1

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.95
192 reviews

Average 4.95 out of 5 stars based on 192 traveler reviews collected by Cool Alaska and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
184
4 stars
7
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 star
0

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Don't miss out!
This is usually booked 109 (93.67) days in advance.

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Cancellation Policy

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100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour’s local time.
  • This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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