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AnchorageNational parks

Our most recommended Anchorage National parks

Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise

1. Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise

Board a stable, state-of-the-art catamaran and spend a day filled with wildlife, glaciers, mountains, and more. See whales and glaciers in Resurrection Bay and learn the history of the region from your captain. The cruise begins by searching for wildlife in the protected waters of Resurrection Bay. Whales, sea otters, and puffins are often sighted within minutes of leaving the harbor. The captain will provide information on the area's wildlife, glaciers, fjords, and history. Stop at one tidewater glacier that has frequent calving events, where giant chunks of glacial ice break off and crash into the water. A full bar is available for those wanting to enjoy local beers and glacier cocktails. Savor a deli-style lunch on board while you cruise.

From Seward: Half-Day Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise Tour

2. From Seward: Half-Day Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise Tour

Embark on a guided sightseeing cruise from Seward along Resurrection Bay from Seward with guided commentary. Encounter native wildlife like whales, puffins, sea otters, and more before witnessing the natural beauty of the Kenai Fjords National Park. Benefit from a shuttle from the railroad depot or the cruise ship port. Then, head off the beaten track in search of wildlife where they often appear through Resurrection Bay. With the help of binoculars, watch as sea otters carry their pups on their bellies. Marvel at the speed of the Dall's porpoise as they surf the vessel's wake. Be awed by the size and majesty of orcas, humpbacks, and other incredible whale species, and learn about their habitat from the onboard guide. Take in the wild natural beauty of the Kenai Fjords National Park.

From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch

3. From Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with Lunch

Experience up-close views of the glaciers and wildlife of Kenai Fjords National Park on this round-trip cruise from Seward. Sail past the majestic Holgate and Aialik Glaciers and enjoy a complimentary deli lunch. Listen as the captain explains the surrounding geology and wildlife. Step aboard a stable, high-speed catamaran for a full day of exploring Kenai Fjords National Park. Start your cruise in Resurrection Bay and learn about the park, the surrounding area, and wildlife from your captain. Allow your captain to take you to the best wildlife viewing areas for the opportunity to see stunning marine life including whales, otters, seals, and thousands of seabirds. Head out into the Gulf of Alaska past Bear Glacier, the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. Take advantage of getting up close with 2 active tidewater glaciers, Aialik Glacier and Holgate Glacier as your cruise stops nearby. Watch for calving, where giant chunks of glacier ice break off and crash into the water. Experienced deckhands will secure a chunk of glacier ice to make the most amazing cocktails and glacier margaritas.

From Anchorage: Wilderness, Wildlife, & Glacier Experience

4. From Anchorage: Wilderness, Wildlife, & Glacier Experience

Experience rugged mountains, panoramic ocean views, wildlife, and amazing glaciers, all on this guided trip from Anchorage. Venture deeper into the Alaskan wilderness than a typical sightseeing tour with entry to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Chugach National Forest. Follow the sun and the wind towards the most scenic locations possible for the day of your tour. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and travel into exciting areas of the Chugach National Forest that require special permits. Spot brown bears, wolves, bison, and belugas. Enjoy live commentary and learn about the unique landscapes of Alaska from your expert guide. Discover the rich history and experience the wonders of the Ring of Glaciers. Spend the day alongside highly trained adventure guides whose sole purpose is to leave you with memories lasting a lifetime. Take advantage of complimentary photo lessons from your guide throughout the activity.

Talkeetna: Mountain Voyager with Optional Glacier Landing

5. Talkeetna: Mountain Voyager with Optional Glacier Landing

Check-in at a unique Alaskan log office before hopping on a single-engine, high-wing aircraft to begin your fantastic scenic flight. Enjoy a 1 hour and 15-minute flight winding in and around the Alaska Range's major peaks—Hunter, Foraker and Denali. Follow the massive glacier highways from above while listening to fascinating expert narration from your pilot. Witness Kahiltna Glacier, the longest in Denali National Park, stretching 45 miles with stunning ridges of earth and ice. This tour is perfect for those who want to soak in traditional Denali views while adding additional views from the south and west. The extra time in the air also allows for greater flexibility in finding the best views of the day. Upgrade your tour to include a glacier landing during your flight. Experience the exhilaration of standing among the majestic peaks of the Alaska Range. Play in the snow, take photos or just take it all in. Glacier landings add 30 minutes to the total tour duration.

Willow: Summer Dog Sledding Ride in Alaska

6. Willow: Summer Dog Sledding Ride in Alaska

Take a summertime sled ride near Willow in a 2-seater cart specially designed for dog mushing. Be greeted by a guide and a yard full of excited dogs. Get away from noisy motors and traffic on a secluded trail. Later, take a nature walk and see a demonstration of winter sledding gear. Just an hour drive north of Anchorage, and only 45 minutes north of Palmer, come meet the dogs and watch their energy levels skyrocket as your guide gets the team ready to go. Then, hit private trails for a 1-2 mile run, depending on weather conditions, and be fully immersed in the wild. The carts are 100% dog-powered so you can take in the natural sounds around you. Keep your eyes peeled as you may catch a glimpse of a moose, fox, lynx, black bear, or bald eagle. Make several stops along the way to give the dogs a chance to cool down and take photos with them. Once back in the kennel, watch the dogs energetically dive into kiddie pools and zip around. They'll usually make their way over to you for a cuddle or two before taking off again. Treat yourself to some cookies and water to rehydrate. Next, head out on a nature walk to a wooden pavilion with views of Denali for a hands-on presentation of the training gear used in wintertime. Check out Iditarod race sleds and try stepping onto the runners. Slip on this year's Iditarod race bib and get into the shoes of an Alaskan musher. Hear personal tales of the race tracks from your guide. Conclude the tour in an indoor gift shop where you can see more racing memorabilia and check out race team swag.

Willow: Traditional Alaskan Dog Sledding Ride

7. Willow: Traditional Alaskan Dog Sledding Ride

Experience the power of a champion sled dog team and enjoy breathtaking landscapes in a secluded, winter wonderland near Willow on a traditional Alaskan dog sled ride. Be greeted by a guide and friendly sled dogs as you get ready to hit secluded trails. Refuel with cookies and hot chocolate. Just an hour's drive north of Anchorage and only 45 minutes north of Palmer, the area near Willow offers a magical place to learn about mushing before you continue your adventure out to the private trails. Meet the dogs and watch their energy levels skyrocket as your guide gets the team ready to run. All the dogs in your team have either run the famous Iditarod thousand-mile race or are actively training to run it one day. Go through a safety briefing with your guide before settling into your sled. Notice the noise level drop as you take off down private training trails. Feel the dogs’ focus and determination as they power around corners, and up and over hills. Soak in the natural sounds around you as you immerse yourself in peaceful solitude. Enjoy breathtaking views of Denali among a beautiful, snow-covered Alaskan landscape. Keep your eyes peeled as you may catch a glimpse of a moose or fox. After your ride, let the dogs run loose for some playtime. Mingle with the huskies and watch as they zip around you playfully. Finally, warm up in the visitor's center with cookies, cocoa, and dog cuddles.

From Anchorage: Valley and Forest Hike with Naturalist Guide

8. From Anchorage: Valley and Forest Hike with Naturalist Guide

Marvel at the wonders found in one of the Chugach State Park's fondest, glaciated valleys. On this guided tour from Anchorage, hike the Eagle River trail system, where boreal forests and salmon spawning streams are found. Enjoy snacks, bottled water, and optional trekking gear. The first portion of the hike takes you to the network of forested trails found at the Eagle River Nature Center, nestled deep along the north fork of the Chugach State Park's massive Eagle River. The hike features a portion of the historic Iditarod dog sledding trail that’s no longer in use. That means there won't be any dogs giving you a ride on this adventure ─ just your two feet. Onward, reach through thick spruces and birches while keeping an eye out for wildlife. You may see the American dipper swimming in a tributary warmed by geothermal heat or a moose and small mammals like the snowshoe hare or red fox. For the second portion, take a short ride to the Chugach State Park's waterfall, Barbara Falls. This section is a short half-mile walk that features local plants, fungus, and point-and-shoot photo opportunities around every corner. It's super rewarding and a great way to conclude the tour.

Anchorage: Mystery Sightseeing Tour

9. Anchorage: Mystery Sightseeing Tour

Head off on a sightseeing drive from Anchorage. Hear about the local area as you ride in comfort to Chugach State Park and the Palmer Hayflats Wildlife Refuge Area. Go on a guided nature walk to local lookouts and lakes, and take in great views of the surrounding area. Start your tour from downtown Anchorage. Your guide will decide where to go after they learn what everyone has planned for their visit to Alaska so they can guarantee to take you somewhere you’ve never been! Sit back and enjoy the ride as your knowledgeable tour guide brings to life the history, flora and fauna, and famous local legends of the area. Discover incredible locations within Chugach State Park and the Palmer Hayflats Wildlife Refuge Area such as Glen Alps Overlook, Eagle River Nature Center, and Eklutna Lake. Head south down the Turnagain Arm and conquer part of Falls Creeks Trail, or go north to take a leisurely stroll around Reflections Lake and explore the beauty hidden just outside Anchorage. Whatever the location or activity, Alaska will not disappoint. Your guide will customize the tour to the interests and desired activity level of the entire group.

From Anchorage: Chugach State Park Guided Alpine Trek

10. From Anchorage: Chugach State Park Guided Alpine Trek

Enjoy a classic Alpine hike in Chugach State Park as you admire the scenic views around Anchorage and Cook Inlet. Gaze at deep, glaciated, u-shaped valleys, and giant ridgelines defining the landscape. Start the day by meeting your expert guide at the meeting point in Anchorage. Travel by minivan to the trailhead, before setting off on your hiking adventure. Trek through pristine, treeless, tundra loaded with vegetation that you can touch, taste, and feel. On the way, keep a look out for native animal species including moose, Dall sheep, mountain goats, or maybe even a bear. Try to spot reclusive small mammals like arctic squirrels and marmots. You may also see birds soaring overhead, such as bald eagles, thrushes, chickadees, and jays. Learn about the native flora and fauna from your expert guide. Enjoy plenty of stops to enjoy the amazing scenery, with panoramic views all around you. On a clear day, you can even see Mt. Denali hundreds of miles away. After a full day of hiking, head back to the bus for a convenient transfer back to central Anchorage.

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Frequently asked questions about Anchorage National parks

What are other things to do than National parks that are worth visiting in Anchorage?

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Other Sightseeing Options in Anchorage

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What people are saying about Anchorage

It was a lasting experience to go sledging in this wilderness and to see how sublime nature can be. The team and Masha are fantastic and make even a city dweller feel safe. After the ride, you should thank the dogs and pet each one of them properly. Definitely an adventure for young and old.

We had a nice day trip to view the mountains outside of Anchorage. Our guide was super sweet and made us feel very welcome. And the views were breathtaking.

We enjoyed the tour with Josh who was very informative and gave us time to take pictures and let us enjoy the tour without feeling rushed.

The view and arctic animals are impressive. Our guide Josh was really nice and helpful.

Amazing tour. Josh explains everything very well. Totally recomended.