Anchorage: Bears, Beers, and Glacier Tour

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and a taste of local brews, the Anchorage Bears, Beers, and Glacier Tour could be just what you need. Offered by Adventurous Winos, this 6-hour adventure takes you from the city’s outskirts into the wilds of Alaska, with stops that highlight the state’s rugged beauty and vibrant local culture.

Two things we especially appreciate about this tour are the opportunity to see native animals up close at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and the chance to enjoy a brewery visit at the base of Alyeska Ski Resort—a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite full, with a packed itinerary that might feel rushed for some. Still, if you’re eager to experience a broad slice of what Alaska offers, this trip is a smart choice.

This tour tends to appeal most to travelers who enjoy wildlife watching, scenic photography, and local craft beverages. It’s especially suited for those who prefer small-group experiences with personal attention, as the tour limits participants to just 12 people. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for those under 21, and a good pair of comfortable shoes, camera, and waterproof gear will serve you well.

Key Points

• Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with a chance to see bears, belugas, salmon, and other native animals.
• The Portage Glacier area offers stunning photo opportunities and scenic vistas.
• The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center provides an up-close look at rescued animals and native species.
• The brewery stop at Alyeska Ski Resort’s base offers a relaxed, authentic taste of local craft beer.
• The tour is small-group, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• It includes snacks and water, but lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Day in Alaska

The experience kicks off with a hotel pickup in Anchorage, making the start smooth and hassle-free. From there, the adventure quickly shifts to some of the most compelling sights and activities Alaska has to offer.

Wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Our first stop is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC), a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating native animals. It’s a standout part of the tour, thanks to your ability to observe bears, moose, caribou, reindeer, muskox, and more in settings that mimic their natural environment. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the interactive nature of this stop, with Amy calling her experience “a blast” and noting that the bears “know Angie,” the guide, who brings a great personal touch to animal viewing.

The animals are very accessible for photographs, and many visitors find the AWCC a highlight because of the close-up encounters and the chance to learn about conservation efforts.

Scenic Drive and Glacier Exploration

Next, the tour heads around the Portage Glacier area, often considered one of Alaska’s most iconic sights. Stops here are planned for photography and soaking in the breathtaking views of gleaming ice and rugged mountains. Depending on the season, you could witness the Bore Tide, a phenomenon where sea water moves in and out of glaciers, or see salmon spawning—a vivid display of Alaska’s natural cycles. Hettwer from Germany mentions how the tour covered “mountains and glaciers,” emphasizing just how spectacular the scenery can be.

This part of the tour provides plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos, so bring a waterproof camera if you want to shoot in potentially damp conditions.

Wildlife Watching in the Wild

Along the drive, keep your eyes peeled for Beluga whales, especially if you’re visiting at the right time. Angie’s tours are known for timing stops for wildlife sightings, making use of her local knowledge and experience. Reviewers like Rosalie are impressed, noting the chance to see Trumpeter swans, Dall sheep, and spawning salmon—a reminder of the richness of Alaska’s ecosystems.

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Girdwood Brewery and Local Flavors

After a morning immersed in nature, the tour transitions to the Girdwood area, home to the Alyeska Ski Resort. Here, you get to indulge in a brewery tour and tasting—a relaxing way to enjoy the local craftsmanship. The brewery visit is often described as authentic and intimate, giving a real flavor of Alaska’s craft beer scene. Rosalie appreciated the “beers at Girdwood Brewing Company,” and Amy raved about the “beer tasting at Girdwood Brewery,” ending her day with a satisfying conclusion.

If time permits, your guide might even share stories about Angie’s diverse career, from her past as a celebrity bodyguard to working on a Bering Sea crab boat, adding some local color to your experience.

End of the Day and Flexibility

The tour wraps up with a drop-off back at your Anchorage hotel or in downtown. Angie’s flexibility means she’s attentive to individual plans; some reviewers mention she even drops visitors at nearby dinner reservations.

The Value of This Tour

At $199 per person, this tour offers a well-priced package considering the included activities—especially when you factor in admission to AWCC, brewery tasting, snacks, and water. With a duration of about 6 hours, it’s a full but manageable day that balances sightseeing, wildlife, and relaxation.

The small-group format ensures you’ll get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions or customize parts of the experience. The limited group size (max 12) also means you’ll have better chances for spontaneous wildlife sightings and more intimate encounters with Alaska’s natural surroundings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of Alaska’s wilderness, combined with some local culture. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see native wildlife and glaciers, while those who enjoy craft beer will find the brewery visit a fun and fitting conclusion. It’s especially suited for small groups, as the personalized approach makes the day more engaging.

If you’re traveling with someone who prefers a balanced mix of outdoor activities and relaxed social moments, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re looking for a very strenuous or highly action-packed day, this might feel a little leisurely.

The Sum Up

The Anchorage Bears, Beers, and Glacier Tour offers an authentic snapshot of Alaska’s natural beauty and local charm. It’s a well-organized, thoughtfully curated experience that blends wildlife observation, scenic vistas, and craft beer tasting into one memorable day.

Travelers who value expert guides, intimate group sizes, and a diverse itinerary will find it particularly rewarding. The tour’s flexible nature and knowledgeable guides help ensure you get the most out of your Alaska visit, all while enjoying a comfortable and manageable schedule.

If you’re eager to see Alaska’s iconic wildlife, glaciers, and mountains, and then unwind with a local brew, this tour provides excellent value and an engaging adventure that captures the spirit of Alaska.

FAQ

What is included in the tour cost?
The tour includes pick-up at your Anchorage hotel, snacks and water, admission to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a permit for Chugach State Forest, and a brewery tour and tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 6 hours, making it a full but not overwhelming day trip.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring a snack or plan a meal after the tour.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized attention.

Who is the tour suitable for?
It’s best for travelers over 21 who enjoy wildlife, scenic views, and craft beer. It’s not suitable for minors.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, waterproof gear, snacks, and an ID or passport.

Can I see Beluga whales during the tour?
Yes, depending on the season, you might see Beluga whales along the route.

What animals might we see at the wildlife center?
Expect to see bears, moose, caribou, reindeer, muskox, and other native species.

Is the tour flexible?
Yes, the guide is known for adjusting stops based on wildlife activity and participant interests.

What is the price for this tour?
It costs $199 per person, offering good value for a full day of diverse activities.

You can check availability for your dates here: