Just under an hour's drive from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Girdwood is the ideal base for an immersive Alaskan adventure. This Girdwood itinerary is designed to help you balance high-energy outdoor exploration with moments of relaxation in one of the stateâs most scenic valleys. By following this plan, you will experience the dramatic coastline of the Turnagain Arm, the ancient giants of the temperate rainforest, and the breathtaking heights of the Chugach Mountains.
Day 1: Arrival and Rainforest Immersion
Begin your Girdwood itinerary by picking up your rental car in Anchorage and heading south on the Seward Highway. The 38-mile drive is a destination in itself, so allow extra time for photos. Upon arriving in Girdwood, check into your accommodation and head straight for the Winner Creek Trail. This accessible hike introduces you to the lush, mossy world of the northern rainforest. If the hand tram is operating, itâs a must-do for a quick thrill over the turquoise waters of Winner Creek Gorge.
After your hike, head into the small town center for a late lunch at one of the local cafes. Spend the afternoon wandering through the local shops or visiting the small park at the base of the valley. For dinner, enjoy a casual meal at a local eatery, where you can rub elbows with the resident skiers and mountain bikers. If you are visiting in the summer, the long evening light allows for a post-dinner stroll along the bike path that loops through the lower valley, offering great views of the peaks as the sun lingers on the horizon.
Day 2: High Alpine Views and Mountain Peaks
Day two of your Girdwood itinerary focuses on elevation. Start your morning with a ride on the aerial tram. As you ascend, watch the valley floor shrink away and keep an eye out for black bears often seen foraging on the grassy slopes below the cables. Once at the top, spend a few hours exploring the ridge. If you are visiting in summer, hike the outer loop trails for different perspectives of the glaciers. In the winter, this is your time to hit the slopes for some of the best skiing in North America.
After descending, grab a quick bite and drive ten minutes south to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. This is the best place to see Alaskaâs 'Big Five'âmoose, bears, muskox, caribou, and wood bisonâin large, natural enclosures. Itâs an educational experience that provides a safe way to photograph these magnificent animals. Return to Girdwood in the evening for a slightly more upscale dining experience, perhaps at a restaurant with views of the mountain, to celebrate your second day in the wild.
Day 3: Coastal Wonders and Departure
On the final day of your Girdwood itinerary, explore the interface between the mountains and the sea. Check the tide charts and head to one of the pullouts along Turnagain Arm. If the timing is right, you might witness the bore tide, a fascinating natural phenomenon. Take a short drive further south toward Portage Valley, where you can see the face of a glacier and walk along the shores of a glacier-fed lake. The blue ice floating in the water is a reminder of the power of the landscape.
Before heading back to the airport, stop by a local bakery to fuel up for the drive. If time permits, stop at Bird Ridge on your way back to Anchorage for one last short hike to overlook the inlet. The drive back north offers a different perspective of the cliffs and water you saw on your way in. Return your rental car at the airport, having experienced a comprehensive slice of the Alaskan wilderness in just a few short days. Always remember to check current road conditions on the Alaska DOT website before your departure.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
To make the most of your Girdwood itinerary, it is important to stay flexible. Weather in Southcentral Alaska can change in an instant, and a planned hike might need to be swapped for a museum visit if a storm rolls in. Always carry a physical map or download offline maps, as cell service can be spotty once you leave the main highway. The average daily budget for a trip here is around $275, but this can vary depending on your choice of dining and whether you participate in guided tours.
Transportation is best handled via a rental car from Anchorage, as it gives you the freedom to explore the Seward Highway at your own pace. While Girdwood is small and somewhat walkable, having a vehicle is essential for reaching trailheads and nearby attractions like the wildlife center. If you are visiting in the winter, ensure your rental is equipped with appropriate tires for snowy conditions. Lastly, always pack a reusable water bottle and bear spray if you plan on hiking, even on the more popular trails near the town.
Packing for Three Days in the Valley
Packing for a Girdwood itinerary requires a 'layers-first' mentality. Regardless of the season, you will want a base layer that wicks away sweat, an insulating mid-layer like fleece or wool, and a completely waterproof outer shell. Even in the height of summer, temperatures can drop into the 40s at night or on top of the mountain. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended for the trails, as they are often muddy or rocky.
Don't forget sun protection; the Alaskan sun can be surprisingly intense, especially when reflecting off snow or water. A brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses are very helpful. If you're visiting in winter, add thermal leggings, heavy gloves, and a warm beanie to your list. For the evenings, Girdwood is a very casual town; you won't need formal wear for any of the local establishments. A camera with a good zoom lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a safe distance, and a small daypack will keep your essentials handy during your daily excursions.
More ways to book Girdwood
Illustrative · Diego AngelSprinter Adventure Van
Small enough to park at the trailhead, comfy enough to sleep in.
$189/day (estimate)
Direct link · RVshare