Turnagain Arm Tour

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Turnagain Arm is an unforgettable experience. This half-day tour takes visitors on a scenic drive along the Seward Parkway, offering stunning views of the Chugach Mountains. Guests will also have the chance to spot wildlife at Beluga Point and visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. With knowledgeable guides and round-trip transportation from Anchorage, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking to enjoy Alaska’s natural beauty.

Good To Know

• The Turnagain Arm Tour is a half-day excursion from Anchorage showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of the Turnagain Arm region.
• The tour includes scenic drives, wildlife observation at Beluga Point, and a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
• Traveler recommendations for the tour are overwhelmingly positive, with a 97% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
• The tour package includes round-trip transportation from Anchorage, bottled water, snacks, and gratuities, providing a well-rounded experience.
• Highlights of the tour include a scenic ride along the Seward Parkway, a lunch stop in Girdwood, and sweeping views of the Turnagain Arm from the Chugach Mountains.

Tour Overview

This half-day tour provides travelers with the opportunity to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Turnagain Arm.

With a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Anchorage.

Highlights include scenic drives along the Seward Parkway, wildlife observation at Beluga Point, and a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Travelers can enjoy bottled water and snacks, and all gratuities are included.

The tour starts at the William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center in Anchorage, with hotel pickup at 9:00 AM, and ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary Highlights

The scenic ride along Seward Parkway takes travelers to the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge and Beluga Point, where they can capture stunning photos and observe wildlife.

The next stop is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where orphaned and injured animals from the Chugach National Forest, including caribou, elk, moose, musk ox, deer, bears, and bison, are rehabilitated.

Lunch in the town of Girdwood near Mt. Alyeska provides a chance to refuel.

Finally, the tour ascends into the Chugach Mountains, offering sweeping views of the breathtaking Turnagain Arm.

What’s Included

Although the tour includes several free admissions, the package also provides bottled water and snacks for participants.

Gratuities are covered, too, so travelers don’t need to worry about tipping. Admission to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Beluga Point are free, allowing guests to explore these attractions without additional costs.

The tour offers a well-rounded experience, with transportation, refreshments, and access to notable landmarks all included in the ticket price.

Travelers can focus on enjoying the scenery and wildlife sightings without having to manage extra expenses during the excursion.

Meeting Details

The meeting point for the Turnagain Arm Tour is the William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center, located at 555 W 5th Ave in Anchorage, Alaska.

The tour departs at 9:00 AM, with pickup from Anchorage hotels. Travelers will return to the same meeting point at the end of the tour.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, making it convenient for visitors to explore the stunning Turnagain Arm region without the hassle of driving.

With a Badge of Excellence and a 97% traveler recommendation, this half-day tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Alaska.

Traveler Feedback

Travelers have praised the Turnagain Arm Tour, awarding it a 4.8 rating based on 60 reviews.

Guides are lauded for their knowledge and friendliness, with Phil and Matt highlighted as exceptional.

Sightings of beluga whales, moose, and bald eagles have delighted visitors.

While some expressed a desire for more time in Girdwood and at the Wildlife Center, the overall experience is noted as enjoyable, scenic, and informative.

The tour’s combination of stunning landscapes, wildlife rehabilitation, and knowledgeable guides has made it a hit with travelers seeking an immersive Alaskan adventure.

Breathtaking Landscapes of Turnagain Arm

On the Turnagain Arm Tour, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking landscapes that define this scenic region.

The tour offers opportunities to:

• Witness the dramatic Seward Parkway winding along the coastline of Turnagain Arm, showcasing the inlet’s unique geological features.

• Stop at Beluga Point, a renowned wildlife viewing spot where visitors may spot beluga whales, bald eagles, and other marine life.

• Ascend into the Chugach Mountains, unveiling sweeping vistas of the arm’s turquoise waters and rugged, snow-capped peaks.

• Explore the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna.

Exploring the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

As visitors traverse the scenic Turnagain Arm, they’ll have the opportunity to explore the remarkable Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

This center rehabilitates orphaned and injured animals from the Chugach National Forest, including caribou, elk, moose, musk ox, deer, bears, and bison. Guests can observe these magnificent creatures up close and learn about the center’s conservation efforts.

The admission is free, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural wonders of Alaska.

This stop on the tour provides a unique and educational experience that complements the breathtaking landscapes of Turnagain Arm.

Girdwood and Mt. Alyeska

After experiencing the wonders of the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, the tour continues towards the charming town of Girdwood, nestled near the base of the majestic Mt. Alyeska.

Visitors are treated to a lunch stop in this picturesque setting, with ample opportunities to explore the local shops and restaurants.

The tour then ascends into the Chugach Mountains, offering sweeping vistas of the stunning Turnagain Arm below.

Key highlights include:

• Scenic views of Mt. Alyeska and the surrounding peaks
• Time to enjoy the quaint shops and eateries of Girdwood
• Breathtaking panoramas from the Chugach Mountain overlook
• A chance to relax and savor the serene mountain environment

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Tour?

The tour is a half-day experience, providing travelers with the opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Turnagain Arm from Anchorage. The tour includes round-trip transportation and lasts approximately 4-5 hours.

How Many Guests Can the Tour Accommodate?

The tour can accommodate multiple guests on the half-day excursion. The maximum group size isn’t specified, but the tour includes round-trip transportation from Anchorage, suggesting it’s suitable for larger groups.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour. Families with young children can participate in this scenic and educational half-day adventure.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

While the tour provides bottled water and snacks, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks. Just be mindful of any park or conservation area rules about consuming outside provisions.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Disability Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. Guests with disabilities can be accommodated, and the tour provider encourages anyone with special needs to discuss them when booking to ensure an enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

The Turnagain Arm Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Alaska’s stunning natural beauty. With round-trip transportation, visits to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and breathtaking views of the Chugach Mountains, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Knowledgeable guides ensure an unforgettable experience, making this tour a fantastic way to discover the wonders of Turnagain Arm.