Private Scenic Turnagain Arm Glacier Tour from Anchorage

Beluga Point is one of the first scenic stops along the Turnagain Arm, just 20 minutes south of Anchorage. Perched above the dramatic tidal flats, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the chance to spot Dall sheep on the cliffs and, during certain times of year, beluga whales following schools of hooligan fish through the inlet. It's a perfect introduction to the wild beauty of Southcentral Alaska and a favorite photo stop for guests.

Girdwood is a charming mountain town nestled in a lush valley surrounded by the Chugach Mountains, about 40 minutes south of Anchorage along the Turnagain Arm. Known for its vibrant arts scene, alpine scenery, and as home to Alyeska Resort, it’s a perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or enjoy a meal. With towering spruce trees, cascading creeks, and cozy local businesses, Girdwood offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with big Alaskan character.

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is a non-profit sanctuary located in Portage Valley, approximately 47 miles south of Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway. Nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the Turnagain Arm, the center spans over 200 acres of natural habitat dedicated to the care and conservation of Alaska’s native wildlife. Visitors can observe a diverse array of animals, including brown and black bears, moose, wood bison, muskoxen, wolves, lynx, caribou, and bald eagles. Many of these animals are rescues—injured or orphaned—and now serve as ambassadors for their species . The center offers a 1.5-mile loop accessible by foot, bike, or car, providing opportunities to see animals in spacious, naturalistic enclosures. As a key stop on the Turnagain Arm tour, AWCC combines wildlife viewing with breathtaking scenery, making it a memorable highlight of any Alaskan adventure.

Portage Valley, located within the Chugach National Forest, is a glacially-carved corridor rich in natural beauty and one of Southcentral Alaska’s most accessible places for glacier viewing. Just a short drive from the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, this stunning valley is surrounded by towering peaks and multiple hanging glaciers, including Explorer, Middle, and Byron Glaciers. The Begich, Boggs Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits on glaciology and local ecosystems, while nearby trails like the Byron Glacier Trail provide an easy hike to views of glacial ice up close. It’s a must-see stop for those wanting to immerse themselves in Alaska’s wild, icy landscapes.