Top Anchorage Adventure Tours in 2026

Alternative Alaska Adventures operates a modern, well-maintained Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van equipped with advanced safety features, including all-wheel drive, airbags, electronic stability control, anti-lock braking systems, and passenger safety restraints. Vehicles undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure reliability and passenger comfort. We comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including licensing, permits, insurance requirements, taxes, and transportation safety standards. Led by experienced local drivers and guides who are knowledgeable about Alaska's history, wildlife, culture, and road conditions. We are committed to providing safe, informative, and memorable experiences while supporting local communities and businesses. We prioritize customer service, safety, and comfort by offering clean vehicles, complimentary water and snacks on select tours, and personalized service tailored to each group's interests and needs.

See the best of Alaska's backcountry from the air as your helicopter pilot takes you on an epic flying adventure past mountains and over dramatic glacial features & braided rivers. Experience unobstructed, bird’s eye views of stunning mountain peaks, local wildlife, towering waterfalls, dramatic glacial terrain, iceberg filled lakes and the beauty that is unique to Alaska. Choose your flight path based on your bucket list items to see and let your pilot show you what you would be missing if you stayed on the ground. Look for wildlife and ask your pilot where their favorite secret spot is. After an hour flying in the chopper and you will have a new favorite mode of transport!

Discover the essence of Anchorage on this comprehensive full-day tour. With an Alaskan guide, explore the city's rich history and unique culture while enjoying stunning natural landscapes. Visit iconic sites, including Earthquake Park and Flattop Mountain, and take a scenic drive to Girdwood for breathtaking views and a hike to a waterfall. The itinerary includes a visit to the Heritage Center and an engaging walk along the Potter Marsh wildlife trail. Perfect for travelers eager to experience the hidden gems of Anchorage. - Duration: 10 hours, including hotel pick-up at 8:30 AM - Group size of up to 6 participants for a personalized experience - Includes visits to significant historical sites and nature walks - Customizable options available for a private tour experience

Discover the beauty of Alaska on this 3.5-hour scenic trip from Anchorage to Girdwood. Capture stunning views at Beluga Point, where the majestic Cook Inlet meets the mountains, and stop by Indian Valley Meats to explore unique Alaskan specialties. Once in Girdwood, enjoy leisure time to soak in the charm of this mountain town before returning. This tour offers a relaxed atmosphere with insights from a knowledgeable local host with 24 years of Alaskan experience. - Scenic 3.5-hour trip from Anchorage to Girdwood - Photograph the breathtaking views at Beluga Point - Visit Indian Valley Meats for distinctive Alaskan delicacies - Explore the charming mountain town of Girdwood at your own pace

Matanuska Glacier is a must-visit when in Anchorage. But, without the right vehicle and equipment, it can be tricky to plan for the adventure. Skip the hassles of logistics and gear with this small-group tour that picks you up in the city and transports you to the glacier, where you can embark on a hike of a few miles.

Download GuideAlong’s self-guided driving audio tour of the Seward Highway as you drive between Anchorage and Seward. Visit Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, ride the Alyeska Aerial Tram (Girdwood), stop at Tern Lake and Summit Lake, and walk to Exit Glacier near Kenai Fjords National Park. Along the way, hear stories of Native cultures, earthquakes, salmon runs, and Turnagain Arm wildlife, and audio plays automatically as you drive. Start anywhere, either direction. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location Travel at your own pace Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use No time limits or expiry, and free updates Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one tour per vehicle.

The Knik Glacier off-roading and hiking tour stands out because it combines two adventures in one—an exciting ride through true Alaskan wilderness in a specially modified Jeep, followed by an up-close hike to one of the state’s most dynamic and impressive glaciers. Unlike crowded trails elsewhere, the Knik area is remote, quiet, and constantly changing, with shifting icebergs, bright blue melt pools, and dramatic mountain views that make every visit unique. Guests get the thrill of rugged off-road travel, the beauty of glacier trekking, and unforgettable photo opportunities—all without needing technical skills—creating an authentic, immersive Alaska experience you won’t find on other tours.

Embark on a 12-mile bike ride through Chugach State Park during this half-day small-group tour from Anchorage. Take in the beautiful views of the Alaskan scenery and keep an eye out for native wildlife such as moose, bald eagles, and bears. Learn about the natural history of the Chugach Mountains from your guide and refuel with a snack before descending the mountain to end your tour.

Experience the wonder of Alaska over 5 days and 4 nights. See tidewater glaciers, whales, and other ocean wildlife! Visit Denali National Park to possibly see bears, wolves, and moose. TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ~Alaska Pioneer Mine Experience ~Tidewater Glaciers & Wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park ~Wildlife of Denali such as grizzly bears, caribou, dall sheep, moose & more ~Guests choose activities based on their interests ~Visit the Sled Dogs of Denali

Get out and see for yourself how Alaska’s adventures don’t play by the Lower 48’s rules. On this private, guided tour, you’ll head to Chugach State Park—comparable to any national park in the country. Across seven hours of moderate-to-strenuous hiking, you’ll spot alpine lakes, wander along glacial rivers, climb craggy mountainsides, and follow as your guide pinpoints all that’s wild and wonderful in this untamed land.

Explore Alaska with the freedom to decide your own pace and peace of mind knowing you won’t miss anything important. This audio guide is designed to accompany you on every road, transforming long journeys into stories, landscapes into experiences and stops at memorable moments. As you drive among glaciers, mountains and wilderness, a voice guides, explains and connects you to the territory, without schedules or groups. If you dream of living Alaska authentically, understanding what you see and enjoying the road as much as the destination, this audio guide is the perfect companion for your adventure.

Travel north from Anchorage through the MatSu Valley to the mushing capital of the world and go for a sled dog ride! Take in the sights while you let us do the driving en route to Willow, AK where you’ll experience a real Iditarod musher’s home kennel and witness their enthusiastic canine athletes. Go for an exhilarating overland sled dog ride powered by a team of authentic Alaska Huskies, and learn all about the sport of mushing and the world famous 1000-mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race. You’ll go for a dog-powered ride in a specially designed 2-person cart with your own personal musher and the chance to pet some friendly fluffy Alaska huskies! This 5.5 hour round-trip adventure will be one you won’t forget. Approximately 1.5 hour drive each way with 1.5+ hours at the kennel. Wheeled carts are used in summer (June-Sept.) & sleds in winter when there is sufficient snow on the ground. HOTEL PICKUP AVAILABLE IN WINTER ONLY; CONTACT TO ARRANGE. GROUPS OF 6< CONTACT FRONTIER TOURS TO BOOK.

New in 2023! This full-day tour transverses a glacier feed river as it meanders through a glacier-carved valley. It is not uncommon to see a whole host of wildlife that frequents the river system as we paddle our way through the rivers meandering course. You will find salmon swimming under your paddle craft as they migrate to their spawning grounds. Also, expect to see ducks and eagles fly overhead and maybe even find a moose standing in the water eating a meal. This tour starts by paddling across Jim Lake and then a short overland portage into Jim Creek. Finally, exit on the beach of the Knik River that flows from the Knik Glacier, and while there get some pictures with the glacier in the background. The Knik Glacier is the headwaters of the Knik River and is the largest glacier in Southcentral Alaska. From there we will continue downriver to the mouth of the Knik arm of the Cook Inlet.

If you've already seen the sights, try this one-of-a-kind tour from Anchorage or Talkeetna, which is unlike any other. In the company of a skilled forager, you'll spend time hiking, foraging for wild greens, fungi and berries and cooking your freshly-foraged ingredients backcountry style. Enjoy an ancient activity while learning new skills.

PRIVATE TOUR – Experience the ultimate Alaskan adventure as you journey from the rugged coastline of Seward to the towering peaks of Denali. This tour takes you through glaciers, fjords, wildlife sanctuaries, and remote wilderness lodges—combining unforgettable scenery with authentic local charm. With guaranteed departures, expert guides, and smooth logistics, all you have to do is show up and soak in the magic of the Last Frontier at a relaxed pace. Highlights: Guaranteed departures Scenic ride along the Seward Highway Wildlife encounters at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Included glacier & wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park Guided walk to Exit Glacier and panoramic views of Matanuska Glacier Learn Gold Rush history at Independence Mine and enjoy stunning alpine scenery in Hatcher Pass Full-day Denali National Park wildlife tour Scenic journey aboard the famous Alaska Railroad Optional glacier landing flightseeing tour (weather permitting)

Drive from Anchorage to Homer on a self-guided audio tour packed with wildlife, glaciers, and coastal views. Four must-see stops lead the way: Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary, Beluga Point, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and Homer Spit. Follow Turnagain Arm, detour into Portage Valley for Portage Glacier and Byron Glacier Trail, then cruise past Kenai Lake and Cooper Landing before rolling into Homer for overlooks, beaches, and big-sky sunsets. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Tour Guide App by Action, entering your unique password, and accessing your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. Simply follow the audio instructions and the route from there. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.

Explore the snow-covered wilderness of the Glen Alps in Chugach State Park on this private advanced snowshoe tour. Follow your naturalist guide through alpine meadows and hemlock forests, admire views of Anchorage Bowl, Cook Inlet, and glacial valleys, and watch for wildlife. Snowshoes provided, with gaiters, poles, and daypack available by request.

The opportunities for adventure in Alaska are endless, so visitors on tight schedules might have difficulty fitting in everything. You'll paddle around icebergs in Spencer Glacier Lake and enjoy views of hanging glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and more on a train ride through Grandview, the most scenic section of the Alaska Railroad.

Download Guide Along’s self-guided audio tour between Anchorage and Denali National Park and discover Alaska’s towering mountains, glaciers, historic communities, and vast wilderness landscapes. Explore Chugach State Park, admire the spectacular Knik Glacier, stop in the Denali gateway town of Talkeetna, and see the colorful spirit houses in Eklutna Village. Along the way, hear fascinating stories about Alaska Native communities, Russian explorers, and gold prospectors play automatically as you travel toward Denali, North America’s tallest mountain. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location Travel at your own pace Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use No time limits or expiry, and free updates Purchase one tour per vehicle.

This is an amazing way to be guaranteed to see many of Alaska's most sought after wildlife in a safe and animal friendly park! The bears are adorable, but trust me, seeing a bear in the wild can be a pretty intimidating. Much of Alaska's wildlife you will never see and even the moose, which are super common, visitors can go days or even weeks without seeing one and sometimes you'll see a few in any given day but visiting Alaska's Wildlife Conservation Center guarantees you'll see these animals and so many more! Licensed by Alaska's Transportation Department, this is for 3 - 10 people because of the way the Viator commissions and Park fees work, if you are just one or two people you can still book the tour but I need to charge for 3 - 10 people to make it feasible, if that makes sense.

This is very much a choose your own adventure day in and around Anchorage, Alaska! We can see and do many of the popular things within driving distance of Anchorage. If you want to do a city tour combined with Potters Marsh Bird Sanctuary and then on to the Tram to the top of Alyeska resort for amazing views, then we can do that. Of if you would like to go see a few of the different cities near Anchorage we go on a city tour, and have lunch in Girdwood, checkout Whittier and go all the way around to Hope, Alaska! This is one of the best ways to truly make your own itinerary and I'll drive and narrate throughout the trip! I have done 100's of tours for multiple companies out here and aim to make your trip enjoyable and memorable! Other options include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, or hikes near anchorage. (I know a couple great ones!) And so much more!

The Turnagain Arm Full-Day Tour is an easy-going journey along one of the world's most scenic highways. It’s designed for those who prefer breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters over long, steep mountain hikes. This trip offers many scenic photo opportunities, so bring a camera and get ready to capture some of Alaska’s must-do experiences, all in one day The three stops include 1) Portage Glacier Cruise! 2) Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center! 3) Alyeska Aerial Tram Come join us for an unforgettable full-day tour down the Turnagain Arm.

Take a ride in a Super Cub Airplane over Alaska Wilderness for a lifetime experience. Bring your camera for photo ops of mountains, rivers, glaciers and pristine landscapes. Katie is a long time bush pilot with a knack for sharing an uplifting and often spiritual experience.

Discover Alaska's stunning landscapes on this scenic tour from Anchorage to Seward. Stop at notable spots like Earthquake Park and Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary, and enjoy breathtaking views along the National Scenic Seward Highway. Get up close with wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, then explore Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park before reaching Seward. - Travel along the picturesque National Scenic Seward Highway - Visit Earthquake Park and Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary - Encounter Alaska’s wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center - Explore Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park before your Seward drop-off