Explore Turnagain Arm scenery and Alaska wildlife with a local guide
6 hrs
Guide, wildlife center, snacks
Explore Turnagain Arm’s coastal and mountain landscapes with guided commentary on regional wildlife and history. Visit a wildlife conservation center and enjoy time for scenic viewing and photography.
Start your day with pickup in Anchorage.
Head towards the Portage Valley as your guide shares informative commentary on the wildlife and history of Turnagain Arm and Chugach National Forest. Stop to look for wildlife such as Eagles and Moose, and snap photos at the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, Beluga Point and Bird Point. All stops provide great views of the narrow Turnagain Arm waterway, which connects to the Gulf of Alaska and the Cook Inlet.
At the entrance to Portage Valley, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a wildlife reserve that rehabilitates orphaned and injured wild animals from the Chugach National Forest region, including caribou, elk, moose, musk ox, deer, bears and bison — some of Alaska's biggest land animals. See the animals and birds of prey during your time at the center.
Later, ascend the road that climbs into the Chugach Mountains where you get for sweeping views of the Turnagain Arm.
Free cancellation with 24 hours or more notice. No refund for no-shows or cancellations or changes with less than 24 hours notice. Late arrivals that miss departure are considered no-shows.
Product ID: GMUX3D
It is a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving Alaska's wildlife through education and animal care.
Most residents are orphaned or injured animals that lack the skills to survive in the wild and therefore remain at the center.
Visitors are not permitted to feed or touch any animals at the center.
Egan Convention Center, 555 W. 5th Avenue, Anchorage, AK
The guides here consistently get rave reviews for making Alaska adventures truly memorable. Christina stands out in multiple reviews for her infectious energy and deep knowledge, particularly on wildlife tours, while Eli impressed guests with his humor and quick thinking (even staying composed during an earthquake!). Matt's passion for Alaska's outdoors left lasting impressions, and guides like Abbe brought professional expertise to glacier hikes. Albert and Marlene receive special mention for their multi-day Iditarod tour, showcasing excellent connections throughout Alaska's travel industry and dedication to finding prime aurora viewing spots. The wildlife tours and glacier experiences are the main draw, with guests thrilled by close-up animal sightings, glacier views, and knowledgeable commentary throughout. One important note: for some experiences like the Matanuska Glacier trek, this company provides transportation and coordination to partner tour operators rather than conducting the tours themselves. If you're booking, it's worth clarifying exactly what's included. That said, the overwhelming majority of guests describe unforgettable experiences with enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides who clearly love sharing Alaska's wonders.
Holy Cow!!! What an adventure!!! Eli (or Ellie, depending on your pronunciation) was amazing! His comic relief, ability to time travel, and epic knowledge base was a great start to our 4 hour Wilderness Tour. We stopped to see eagles, beluga whales, and dall sheep. Took a pit stop and had great coffee and a cinnamon roll the size of my head in Girdwood. Our tour at the Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center was wonderful with all the animals being visible and active. Eli (aka Ellie) even remained cool under pressure with the 7.3 earthquake that took place while touring. Thank you Eli for the greatest memory and for making us your top priority!
Jill Plant
July 17, 2025
Holy Cow!!! What an adventure!!! Eli (or Ellie, depending on your pronunciation) was amazing! His comic relief, ability to time travel, and epic knowledge base was a great start to our 4 hour Wilderness Tour. We stopped to see eagles, beluga whales, and dall sheep. Took a pit stop and had great coffee and a cinnamon roll the size of my head in Girdwood. Our tour at the Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center was wonderful with all the animals being visible and active. Eli (aka Ellie) even remained cool under pressure with the 7.3 earthquake that took place while touring. Thank you Eli for the greatest memory and for making us your top priority!
Jill Plant
July 17, 2025
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