Day Trips from Anchorage, Alaska

Location:

Anchorage, AK

Highlights:

If you're anywhere near Anchorage, do yourself a favor and carve out time for a drive along Turnagain Arm . This stretch of the Seward Highway is one of the most breathtaking routes in America—trust us, it’s a jaw-dropper.

Recommended For:

Road trip lovers, photographers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who craves awe-inspiring scenery without straying far from the city.

What I Love: ♥

Over four miles of dramatic shoreline views, easy access to hikes in Chugach State Park, and the surreal bore tide that creates a six-foot tidal wave rushing at up to 20mph.

• Drive alongside the stunning Turnagain Arm, with panoramic views across Cook Inlet and the towering Chugach mountains.
• Hike trails that range from peaceful creekside paths to high-elevation climbs with epic views.
• Watch the bore tide—a natural phenomenon where ocean water surges in like a tidal wave, best seen around low tide.
• Access points and pull-offs make it easy to stop, snap photos, or just take it all in.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

Less than 15 minutes by car, depending on where you start.

How to Get There:

Head south on the Seward Highway (AK-1). The scenic portion of Turnagain Arm begins just past Potter Marsh and continues for over 4 miles—keep your camera handy!

Location:

Anchorage, AK

Highlights:

Planning a trip to Alaska? Don’t skip Chugach National Forest —it’s massive, magical, and absolutely worth more than a day. This is where wild beauty meets endless adventure, all just a drive from Anchorage.

Recommended For:

Outdoor lovers, families, campers, anglers, hikers, and travelers seeking vast, untouched Alaskan wilderness.

What I Love: ♥

Over 5.4 million acres of natural beauty, the epic Childs Glacier drive, coastal wonders of Prince William Sound, and unbeatable salmon and trout fishing.

• Drive the Copper River Highway through lush rainforest and wetlands to the stunning Childs Glacier.
• Explore Prince William Sound by boat or on foot—3 million acres of fjords, coastline, and alpine terrain.
• Camp in summer at reservable forest cabins or scenic campgrounds, surrounded by towering trees and mountain views.
• Fish for world-class salmon, trout, grayling, and bottomfish in rivers, lakes, and along the coast.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

Varies by area—parts of the forest are accessible within 45 minutes; others take several hours.

How to Get There:

Access varies depending on your destination. For the Copper River Highway and Childs Glacier, start from Cordova. For Prince William Sound or Seward-area trails, head south on AK-1 and follow signs to forest access points.

Location:

Girdwood, AK

Highlights:

Want a perfect day trip from Anchorage packed with glaciers, trails, and water adventures? Portage Valley has it all—easy to reach, endlessly beautiful, and full of family-friendly fun.

Recommended For:

Families, hikers, paddlers, anglers, cyclists, and road trippers chasing glacier views and active fun.

What I Love: ♥

The five-mile Trail of Blue Ice, serene fishing at Alder Pond, paddling on Portage Lake, and the fascinating Begich, Boggs Visitor Center.

• Hike or Bike the Trail of Blue Ice, a scenic five-mile path that winds through forested landscapes and glacier-fed streams.
• Fish for rainbow trout at Alder Pond, a popular, kid-friendly spot stocked for summer fun.
• Paddle Portage Lake beneath towering peaks, or experience whitewater thrills on Portage Creek—just keep an eye on the weather in this dynamic area.
• Visit the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center for interactive exhibits and glacier views—it’s a great introduction to the valley’s natural history.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

About 1 hour by car, southeast along the Seward Highway.

How to Get There:

Drive south from Anchorage on the Seward Highway for about 50 miles. Turn onto Portage Glacier Road at the clearly marked junction and follow signs to the visitor center and trailheads.

Location:

Anchorage, AK

Highlights:

If you want to see Alaska in a way that’s both thrilling and relaxed, hop on the Alaska Railroad . It’s one of the best ways to explore glaciers, fjords, mountains, and off-the-grid wonders—all from a comfy window seat.

Recommended For:

Scenic travelers, families, adventure seekers, photographers, and visitors looking for unforgettable day trips or custom tours from Anchorage.

What I Love: ♥

Exclusive access to Spencer Glacier, incredible day trips from Anchorage, and easy booking for everything from rafting to dog sledding and Denali flightseeing.

• Ride the train to Spencer Glacier—accessible only by rail—for a guided nature walk, glacier hike, or rafting excursion.
• Take day trips to Talkeetna, Seward, Whittier, Girdwood, Portage, and Grandview—all easily reached via rail from Anchorage.
• Customize your package with unique add-ons like summer dog sledding, flightseeing over Denali, or cruising Kenai Fjords National Park.
• Access maps, fares, and bookings easily online—everything’s set up to help you plan the ultimate Alaskan adventure.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

The Anchorage Depot is centrally located—no need to travel far to board.

How to Get There:

Head to the Anchorage Train Depot at 411 W 1st Ave. Parking and public transit options are available nearby. Check your itinerary for boarding times and arrive early for check-in.

Romantic Day Trips from Anchorage:

Location:

Eagle River, AK

Highlights:

Need a peaceful nature escape just outside Anchorage? The Eagle River Nature Center is a local gem, perfect for reconnecting with the outdoors and learning more about Alaska’s wild beauty.

Recommended For:

Families, nature lovers, hikers, educators, and anyone seeking a quiet, enriching retreat into the Chugach Mountains.

What I Love: ♥

The cozy log cabin visitor center, educational programs, revitalized trails, and the community-driven mission to preserve and enhance this scenic valley.

• Explore the Eagle River Valley starting at the Nature Center—your gateway to the dynamic Chugach landscape.
• Learn about Alaska’s natural and cultural heritage through interpretive displays, guided walks, and seasonal programs.
• Enjoy upgraded public facilities made possible by community support, offering a more immersive and comfortable visitor experience.
• Connect with the land through hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and volunteer-led preservation activities year-round.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

About 40 minutes by car.

How to Get There:

Drive north on Glenn Highway (AK-1), take the Eagle River Loop Road exit, then follow Eagle River Road to its end. The Nature Center is clearly signed and has parking available on-site.

Location:

Anchorage, AK

Highlights:

Want a hike with epic views that’s close to town? Rendezvous Peak is one of the best-kept secrets near Anchorage, with routes for both casual walkers and uphill adventurers.

Recommended For:

Hikers, trail runners, families, photographers, and anyone craving panoramic Alaskan views without going too far off-grid.

What I Love: ♥

The easy 3.1-mile Arctic Valley loop, alpine wildflowers in summer, and jaw-dropping summit views of Anchorage, Eagle River Valley, and even the Alaska Range.

• Access the Arctic Valley trailhead through a military reservation—don’t forget to check current access details online.
• Hike the family-friendly loop through open meadows filled with wildflowers during peak season.
• Challenge yourself from the Eagle River side with a steeper ascent and rewarding views of South Fork Valley and Sleeping Lady.
• Enjoy panoramic sights from the summit, including Anchorage and the far-reaching Alaska Range on clear days.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

Roughly 30–40 minutes by car, depending on your chosen trailhead.

How to Get There:

For Arctic Valley access, take Glenn Highway to Arctic Valley Road and drive up to the trailhead. For the Eagle River trailhead, head north toward Eagle River, then follow local signage and trail maps to the start point.

Location:

Seward, AK

Highlights:

For an unforgettable blend of ice, ocean, and wildlife, Kenai Fjords National Park is your dream destination. Whether you're hiking, kayaking, or just soaking in the views, this place is pure Alaskan magic.

Recommended For:

Glacier enthusiasts, experienced hikers, paddlers, wildlife lovers, and visitors interested in Alaska’s Indigenous history and natural beauty.

What I Love: ♥

Towering tidewater glaciers, the epic Harding Icefield Trail, ranger-led educational hikes, and spotting seals, puffins, and whales in the wild.

• Visit year-round to experience the ever-changing landscapes of the fjords—though some areas shift with seasonal weather and climate impacts.
• Hike the 8.2-mile Harding Icefield Trail for a challenging but awe-inspiring trek across alpine terrain with views of the icefield below.
• Join a ranger-led hike to learn about the Indigenous Sugpiaq people and how they lived sustainably off this rugged land.
• Kayak among the glaciers and marine life—guided tours offer safe and thrilling ways to explore the park from sea level.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car (125 miles) via the scenic Seward Highway.

How to Get There:

Drive south on the Seward Highway to the town of Seward. The park’s visitor center is located downtown, and various trailheads and kayak tour departures are just a short distance away.

Family Day Trips from Anchorage:

Location:

Girdwood, AK

Highlights:

If you want jaw-dropping views without a strenuous climb, the Alyeska Aerial Tram delivers. It’s a scenic ride to the top of Mt. Alyeska—perfect for soaking in glaciers, mountain peaks, and a memorable Alaskan meal.

Recommended For:

Sightseers, skiers, hikers, photographers, families, and anyone wanting a 360° alpine view with minimal effort.

What I Love: ♥

The smooth 2,300-foot ascent, views of Turnagain Arm and seven hanging glaciers, and the mountaintop restaurant ideal for fueling up before a hike.

• Ride one of two tram cars holding up to 60 people each—from Hotel Alyeska to the Upper Tram Terminal.
• Take it slow in summer with a 7-minute ride ideal for photos, or zoom up quickly in winter to maximize ski time.
• Enjoy panoramic views of glaciers, Turnagain Arm, and the surrounding Chugach Mountains during your ascent.
• Stop at the Upper Tram Terminal for a meal with a view or launch into a half-day hike from the top.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

Around 45–50 minutes by car, depending on road conditions.

How to Get There:

Take the Seward Highway south from Anchorage to Girdwood. Turn onto Alyeska Highway and follow signs to the resort at 1000 Arlberg Avenue. On-site parking is available.

Location:

Girdwood, AK

Highlights:

Looking for a hands-on slice of Alaskan history? Crow Creek Gold Mine is a charming, family-friendly site where you can pan for gold, explore historic buildings, and even camp under the stars.

Recommended For:

History lovers, families, hobbyist gold panners, outdoor explorers, and anyone curious about Alaska’s gold rush past.

What I Love: ♥

The preserved historic buildings, guided gold panning with all the gear you need, peaceful gardens, and the unique opportunity to camp right on-site.

• Explore original mining claims and the oldest standing building in the Anchorage area, all surrounded by antiques and mountain scenery.
• Try your hand at gold panning—staff are available to help, and all supplies can be rented on-site, including sluice boxes.
• Take a mining excursion for a more immersive, in-depth gold rush experience tailored to your interest level.
• Relax with general admission access to the scenic grounds, including flower gardens and a tranquil creekside setting.
• Camp on-site for a unique overnight stay surrounded by local history and mountain views.

Distance from Downtown Anchorage:

About 45–50 minutes by car along the scenic Seward Highway.

How to Get There:

Drive south from Anchorage on the Seward Highway to Girdwood. Turn onto Crow Creek Road and follow it to the end—signs will lead you directly to the mine entrance.