Girdwood is not just a charming mountain town; it’s a hub for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you want a scenic train ride, kayak experience, or a ski excursion, Girdwood offers a variety of unforgettable activities.
We especially love the Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad for its combination of train views and glacial scenery, and the Valdez Glacier Helicopter for a once-in-a-lifetime ice adventure.
These experiences stand out thanks to their stunning landscapes and the chance to see Alaska’s wild heart up close. If you’re after a balanced mix of relaxation and thrill, Girdwood truly has a lot to offer.
Let’s explore the top tours and things to do in Girdwood, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you’re an avid skier, nature lover, or just looking for a scenic cruise, the options below will help you pick the perfect adventure.
1. From Girdwood or Anchorage: Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad
For around $302 per person, this 6-hour tour offers a rich mix of Alaska’s most iconic sights. It starts with a scenic train ride on the AK Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train, giving you sweeping views of mountains and glaciers. After the train, you’ll float down a 7-mile stretch of glacial river, marveling at picturesque icebergs floating at Spencer Glacier Lake.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of transportation and nature experiences, making it a great choice for travelers who want a comprehensive day in the wilderness. The train ride is comfortable and informative, with commentary that enhances the scenery. The float trip is calm but awe-inspiring, perfect for those who want a peaceful yet scenic adventure.
Pros: Excellent value for a full-day experience, stunning glacier views, a gentle float trip suitable for most ages.
Cons: The price might be high for budget travelers, and the tour duration is quite packed.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded day with multiple scenic highlights, this tour delivers in both views and comfort.
2. Girdwood: Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour
Priced at $406 per person, this 9 to 12-hour adventure is perfect for those who love paddling and glacier close-ups. The Girdwood: Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour invites you to kayak directly around icebergs and paddle up close to the Spencer Glacier terminus face. The tour captures the serene early morning hours, when the landscape feels especially calm and untouched.
A major highlight is paddling near the glacier’s front, witnessing the vibrant blue ice and meltwater pools in spring and summer. The tour also includes rides on two different Alaska Railroad trains, the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery, offering even more scenic vistas.
Pros: Unique opportunity to kayak around icebergs, intimate glacier encounters, includes train rides.
Cons: Longer day, physically demanding for some, and the price reflects the specialized activity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want an immersive, up-close glacier experience with kayaking and scenic rail travel.
3. Girdwood: Backcountry Skiing Tour with Experienced Guide
At $318 per person, the Backcountry Skiing Tour is a dream for skiing enthusiasts eager to explore Alaska’s legendary mountains. Whether you choose a half-day or full-day, you’ll access the Chugach, Kenai, and Talkeetna Mountains with an expert guide. These guides know the terrain well, leading you safely into areas where few others go.
The tour promises breathtaking views and the chance to see wildlife like deer, eagles, and mountain goats. It’s not just about skiing; it’s about experiencing Alaska’s raw winter landscape in a way few people get to. The guides provide tailored routes based on your skill level, making this suitable for intermediate to advanced skiers.
Pros: Access to remote, pristine terrain, knowledgeable guides with local expertise, excellent for ski buffs.
Cons: Not ideal for absolute beginners, and terrain can be challenging depending on conditions.
Bottom Line: If you’re comfortable on skis and want to ski off the beaten path, this tour offers an exhilarating way to experience Alaska’s backcountry.
4. Valdez: Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing
For $585 per person, this 1-hour helicopter tour is a spectacular way to see the Alaskan glaciers and mountains from above. After takeoff, your pilot will guide you over the stunning landscapes, pointing out features like blue meltwater pools and rugged ice formations. The highlight is landing on a glacier for 15-20 minutes of on-foot exploration.
This experience is perfect for those seeking a thrilling adventure with photo opportunities and a chance to step onto real glacial ice. Wildlife sightings like moose, bears, and mountain goats are possible from the air, adding to the excitement. The tour includes narration from the pilot, providing context and insights into the landscape.
Pros: Unmatched panoramic views, on-foot glacier exploration, a true bucket-list experience.
Cons: Pricey, and the short nature of the flight may not suit those seeking prolonged time on the ice.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers craving a high-adrenaline, immersive glacier experience with time on the ice and spectacular scenery.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Girdwood
When deciding which Girdwood experience suits you, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If scenic views and gentle travel appeal, the Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad offers a balanced mix.
For active travelers who want to paddle close to glaciers, the Glacier Blue Kayak Tour is ideal. Skiers or snow sports enthusiasts should look at the Backcountry Skiing Tour for remote mountain adventures.
And for a true once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Valdez Glacier Helicopter provides unmatched aerial and on-ice exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as these tours are popular. Think about your physical readiness, particularly for the skiing and kayaking tours, and choose the experience that aligns best with your interests and comfort level.
Final Thoughts
Girdwood’s array of tours makes it a standout destination for outdoor exploration in Alaska. The Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad and Valdez Helicopter offer contrasting ways to see ice and mountain scenery—one leisurely, one adrenaline-pumping. For active travelers, the backcountry skiing delivers adventure in stunning terrain, while the kayaking tour provides a serene, up-close look at glaciers.
No matter which experience calls to you, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable adventures. Alaska’s natural wonders are best enjoyed with a bit of planning—and a sense of curiosity. Now, it’s time to pick your perfect Girdwood trip, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready for an extraordinary journey.