ANCHORAGE
The Anchorage shortlist.
The 6 most popular bear viewing tours around Anchorage, with current prices, the operators behind each one, and what to expect on the day.
Anchorage day tour with Alaska Railroad, Spencer Glacier iceberg float, and a wildlife rehab center—small group, lunch included, easy logistics.
“We were the first tour of the season this year! Yes is was cold and snowy, and no, we didn’t get to paddle out to the glacier but it was still worth the adventure. Our tour guide Ben was so knowledgeable and kind. Additionally, the train crew took us all the way to the glacier…”
Fly from Anchorage to Lake Clark for long bear watching, then enjoy a secluded National Park beach picnic lunch from a small plane.
“Was better than expected, smooth airplane ride, and lots of bears, females & cubs, two males argueing over clambeds, fantastic sites! Heard about Brooks Falls and the lines, so glad we chose Alaska Air via Viator instead. We're recommending it to all our friends. Pilot was calm cool and professional....best experience we had !!”
Bears, trains, and iceberg views in Girdwood: Glacier Discovery rail to Spencer Glacier, an AWCC wildlife stop, plus a mellow ice-raft float.
“The train ride from Anchorage to Girdwood is quite an experience. You drive directly along the Turnagain Arms. The train even stopped briefly at Beluga Point because you could see beluga whales. You could skip the Wildlife Center because you only see very few of the animals and you are mostly just driven through by…”
Anchorage bear-and-glacier day with AWCC wildlife viewing, Portage Glacier photo stops, and a Girdwood brewery tasting at Alyeska.
“Angie’s tour was a blast! Angie has a personality that will keep you engaged, excited, and on your toes all day long! She gave us an extended tour and brought us to her favorite viewing spots for the Baluga whales, salmon spawning, glaciers, waterfalls, and will stop if you see any animals along the road.…”
Bears and beers in Alaska. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, photograph Portage Glacier, then taste beer in Girdwood with hotel pickup.
“Angie was absolutely amazing and brought a lot of flare and knowledge to our tour. We would not have had the same experience with any other guy and I’m certain of that.”
Rent a 10 oz Counter Assault bear spray in Anchorage with holster and bear bell plus instruction. Pickup at 8am, $20.
“In town visiting and needed a can of bear spray for a few hikes in Denali. It was much easier and cheaper to rent a top name brand like Counter Assault 10 oz can, than go purchase a random smaller brand. It comes with choice of holster. Nearly brand new cans - excellent condition. Pick…”
