Girdwood’s bears, trains, and icebergs tour promises an unparalleled Alaskan adventure. Travelers embark on a journey to witness the region’s captivating wildlife, scenic rail travel, and stunning glacial landscapes. From the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to the serene float on Spencer Glacier Lake, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the natural wonders of this breathtaking state. With inclusions like a sack lunch and transportation, this comprehensive tour provides adventurers a chance to fully enjoy the Alaskan wilderness. But the real question remains – what unexpected delights await those who decide to take the plunge and explore this remarkable corner of the world?
Key Points
- Comprehensive tour showcasing Alaska’s diverse natural wonders, including bears, trains, and icebergs.
- Includes a scenic train ride to Spencer Glacier, a float on Spencer Glacier Lake, and a paddle down Placer River Valley.
- Offers a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to observe rescued bears, moose, and other native wildlife.
- Provides essential gear and air-conditioned transportation for a comfortable and immersive Alaskan experience.
- Caters to adventure-seekers with a blend of wildlife, glaciers, and scenic rail travel for an unforgettable exploration of the region.
Tour Overview
The tour provides an Alaskan trifecta, showcasing the region’s captivating bears, trains, and icebergs over a 7-9 hour journey.
Guests embark on a scenic train ride, float by icebergs on Spencer Glacier Lake, and paddle down the Placer River Valley.
The experience also includes a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where travelers can observe rescued bears, moose, and other native wildlife.
Along the way, participants enjoy a sack lunch, snacks, and the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.
This comprehensive tour offers an immersive exploration of Alaska’s natural wonders, providing a well-rounded experience for adventure-seekers.
Key Highlights
Guests on the Girdwood tour can expect to visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where they’ll have the opportunity to observe rescued bears, moose, and other native wildlife up close.
After the conservation center, the tour heads to Spencer Glacier, where guests will float by majestic icebergs on Spencer Glacier Lake and down the Placer River Valley.
The highlight of the day is the Glacier Discovery Train ride, which takes guests right up to the face of the massive Spencer Glacier.
Throughout the excursion, guests can expect stunning views of the surrounding Chugach Mountains and Alaskan wilderness, creating an unforgettable experience blending wildlife, glaciers, and scenic rail travel.
Inclusions
This tour includes a sack lunch with dietary restrictions accommodated, as well as snacks.
Guests will ride in an air-conditioned vehicle with a restroom on board, and their roundtrip Alaska Railroad tickets are covered.
Entry and admission to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Spencer Glacier are also part of the package.
The comprehensive inclusions allow visitors to fully enjoy the Alaskan trifecta of bears, trains, and icebergs without worrying about additional costs.
With the convenience of transportation, meals, and admission fees taken care of, travelers can focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and wildlife encounters that make this tour a must-do experience.
Exclusions
While the tour provides a comprehensive package, it doesn’t include alcoholic drinks or gratuities for the guides. Travelers will need to cover these additional expenses out of pocket.
| Exclusions | Description |
|---|---|
| Alcoholic Drinks | Guests will need to purchase their own alcoholic beverages, if desired, during the tour. |
| Gratuities | Tips for the tour guides and any other service staff are not included in the tour price and are at the discretion of the traveler. |
| Personal Expenses | Any other personal expenses incurred during the tour, such as souvenirs or additional activities, are not covered. |
| Travel Insurance | The tour package does not include travel insurance, which is recommended for peace of mind during the adventure. |
| Transportation to/from Tour | Transportation to and from the tour meeting point is the responsibility of the traveler. |
Additional Information
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years old or wheelchair users, though infant seats are available.
However, it’s stroller accessible and allows service animals.
Travelers can conveniently access the tour location via nearby public transportation.
The tour organizers provide essential gear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience, including rubber boots, rain ponchos, and life vests.
This well-equipped tour offers an immersive exploration of Alaska’s natural wonders, from the majestic bears at the Wildlife Conservation Center to the breathtaking icebergs on Spencer Glacier Lake.
With a sack lunch, snacks, and air-conditioned transportation, the tour caters to the needs of its participants, making it an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
Scenic Train Ride
One of the highlights of the Girdwood tour is the scenic train ride aboard the Glacier Discovery Train, taking visitors on a picturesque journey to Spencer Glacier.
The train ride offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Alaskan landscape, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and pristine waterways.
As the train winds its way through the rugged terrain, travelers can sit back and enjoy the ride, taking in the natural beauty that unfolds before them.
The Glacier Discovery Train provides a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.
This train ride is a crucial component of the Girdwood tour, offering a unique perspective on the wonders of Alaska.
River Float and Glacial Lake Paddle
After the scenic train ride, participants embark on an exhilarating river float and glacial lake paddle, seeing the breathtaking natural wonders of the region.
They glide along the Placer River Valley, surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers. The highlight is a journey across the serene Spencer Glacier Lake, where icebergs float majestically.
Guides provide expert commentary, sharing insights about the area’s geology and wildlife. Paddlers may spot bald eagles, moose, or even bears along the way.
The tranquil float and paddle offer a peaceful respite, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of this Alaskan landscape. This segment of the tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the region’s stunning natural features.
Wildlife Conservation Center Visit
Following the serene float and paddle, the tour then takes visitors to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where they can observe various Alaskan wildlife species up close.
The conservation center is home to bears, moose, caribou, and other native animals that have been rescued and are being rehabilitated. Guests can wander the trails and viewing platforms, watching the animals in their natural-like habitats.
This is an excellent opportunity to learn about local wildlife and the efforts to conserve and protect these species. The knowledgeable staff is on hand to provide information and answer any questions, enhancing the educational experience.
Visiting the conservation center is a highlight of the Girdwood tour, offering a unique chance to connect with Alaska’s magnificent wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Activity?
The tour allots approximately 1-2 hours for each activity, including the scenic train ride, river float, glacial lake paddle, and visit to the wildlife conservation center. The overall tour duration is 7-9 hours.
Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Float and Paddle?
There are no age or height restrictions for the float and paddle activities. However, the tour is not suitable for children under 2 years old. Infant seats are available, and the tour is stroller accessible.
Can Participants Take Photos and Videos During the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to take photos and videos throughout the tour. However, they may be asked to refrain from using flash or video recording in certain areas to avoid disrupting the wildlife or fellow travelers.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour has a minimum group size of 2 people, but there’s no set maximum. Groups can range from small private tours to larger excursions, providing flexibility to accommodate different party sizes on this immersive Alaskan adventure.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Snacks and Lunch?
Participants can bring their own snacks and lunch on the tour. The tour provides a sack lunch, but dietary restrictions are accommodated, and guests are welcome to supplement with their own food if desired.
Recap
The Girdwood: Bears, Trains, & Icebergs Tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in Alaska’s captivating natural beauty.
From the awe-inspiring glacial landscapes to the remarkable wildlife, this comprehensive tour offers adventure-seekers an unforgettable experience.
With its seamless inclusions and carefully curated itinerary, the tour ensures travelers can fully explore the region’s wonders and create lasting memories of their Alaskan odyssey.
