Located in the scenic town of Portage, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is a sanctuary for native Alaskan animals. Since its founding in 1993, this 700-acre nonprofit facility has welcomed visitors year-round to learn about wildlife through education, conservation, and close encounters with rescued animals. The 1.5-mile loop trail connects spacious outdoor enclosures where animals thrive in a natural setting.
Recommended For
Families & Animal Lovers: Get up close to moose, bears, and wolves in their natural environments.
Students & Educators: Take part in field trips, presentations, or explore online educational programs.
Volunteers & Interns: Learn about conservation through immersive internship opportunities.
What to Expect
- Location: Mile 79 Seward Highway, Portage, Alaska
- Size: 700 acres with a 1.5-mile trail loop
- Established: 1993
- Open: Year-round
- Phone: 907-783-2025
Animal Residents
- Species on Site: Grizzly and black bears, moose, lynxes, wolves, muskoxen, elk, red foxes, porcupines, bald eagles, great horned owls, wood bison, and more
- Rescue Mission: Most animals are injured or orphaned, receiving lifelong care
- Wood Bison: Part of a breeding and reintroduction program—largest land mammals in the Western Hemisphere
- Wolves: Ambassadors educate the public on Alaska’s endangered wolves
- Bears: Uli, Kuma, and Kobuk live in the B.E.A.R.S. (Bear Education Awareness Research Sanctuary)
- Lynxes: Chena and Venetie, both rescued in poor condition
Educational Opportunities
- Field Trips: Student groups explore wildlife up close, guided by experts
- Live Animal Presentations: Educators bring animals like porcupines or ferrets into classrooms
- Partner Organizations: Collaborations with Bear Trust International and Inspired Classroom
- Online Programs: Free curricula like Wood Bison Curriculum, Grizzly Bear Curriculum, and Bison in a Box
Internship Programs
- Animal Care Internship: Assist with feeding and exhibit maintenance
- Naturalist Internship: Train with the National Parks Service to deliver educational programs
Visitor Tips
- Plan for Walking: The 1.5-mile loop trail is open for walking, biking, or slow-driving
- Dress for Weather: Prepare for changing Alaskan weather—layers and waterproof gear recommended
- Visit Early: Arrive earlier in the day to see animals when they are most active
- Photography: Bring your camera—great photo opportunities abound!
Contact & Location
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Mile 79, Seward Highway, Portage, AK 99587
Phone: 907-783-2025
alaskawildlife.org
Plan Your Trip