Girdwood is a fantastic base for exploring Alaska’s rugged beauty. Unlike many other destinations, Girdwood offers a combination of accessible wilderness and unique adventures that appeal to a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re into scenic train rides, kayaking among icebergs, or daring to ski backcountry slopes, Girdwood has something special for everyone. We especially love the Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad tour for its breathtaking views and the chance to see icebergs up close—a must-do for anyone wanting an immersive glacier experience. For those seeking a thrill, the Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing offers an unforgettable perspective that’s hard to beat.
If you’re trying to decide which tour best matches your interests or schedule, keep reading. Below, you’ll find a quick overview plus detailed descriptions of the four best tours in Girdwood, helping you make a choice that suits your sense of adventure.
1. From Girdwood or Anchorage: Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad
For around $302 per person, this 6-hour tour combines a scenic train ride on the AK Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train with a float trip on the glacier’s icy river. Starting from either Girdwood or Anchorage, the journey takes you through some of Alaska’s most striking mountain scenery. The highlight is reaching Spencer Glacier Lake, where you’ll marvel at icebergs floating in the water—a truly mesmerizing sight. After the train ride, you’ll float down a 7-mile stretch of glacier river, soaking in panoramic views of glaciers, mountains, and wilderness.
This tour appeals to travelers who want a balanced mix of train travel and outdoor adventure. The float trip is gentle but spectacular, perfect for families or those who prefer a less physically demanding experience. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.8 out of 5 rating from 19 reviews, praising the stunning scenery and smooth logistics. One traveler noted, “The train ride alone was worth it, but seeing the icebergs was unforgettable.” It’s a great value for a full day, especially if you’re eager for a classic Alaskan experience that combines scenery, history, and wildlife viewing.
Bottom line: This tour offers a fantastic introduction to Alaska’s glaciers with a comfortable pace and impressive vistas, ideal for curious newcomers or families.
2. Girdwood: Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour
For $406 per person, the Girdwood: Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour is a 9 to 12-hour adventure that brings you closer to the ice than most tours. The key feature is paddling a kayak around icebergs and near the Spencer Glacier terminus face. The morning session is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning, photo-worthy scenery, making it the most serene time to paddle.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of kayaking and train travel, as it includes rides on two Alaska Railroad lines: the Coastal Classic and the Glacier Discovery. You’ll get to see the icy landscape from multiple perspectives, making it a favorite among active travelers who love water-based adventures.
The exclusive focus on kayaking gives you a rare, up-close encounter with glacier ice and blue meltwater pools, which are particularly vibrant in spring and summer. The single review praises the experience as “absolutely magical,” emphasizing the quiet beauty of the icebergs and the thrill of paddling amidst the scenery.
Bottom line: If you’re comfortable on the water and eager for a peaceful, immersive glacier experience with excellent photo opportunities, this tour is a perfect choice.
$406 per person
3. Girdwood: Backcountry Skiing Tour with Experienced Guide
At $318 per person, this backcountry skiing tour offers a chance to carve fresh snow in some of Alaska’s premier mountain ranges—Chugach, Kenai, and Talkeetna. Whether you opt for a half-day or full-day adventure, your experienced guide will take you to terrain only accessible with local knowledge. The tour is designed for skiers with some experience, but guides will tailor routes to your skill level.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of breathtaking landscapes and wildlife spotting—look out for deer, eagles, and mountain goats. Your guide’s 25 years of experience will ensure you find the best snow and stunning vistas while maintaining safety. The tour is perfect for those who want to challenge themselves on firm, natural snow and learn more about backcountry skiing techniques.
Some reviews highlight the personal touch of guides who share their extensive knowledge and love for the area. With access to lesser-known spots, you’ll get away from crowded slopes and experience Alaska’s raw winter beauty firsthand.
Bottom line: For intermediate to advanced skiers eager to explore remote, pristine terrain with expert guidance, this tour delivers a memorable backcountry experience in Alaska’s iconic mountains.
$318 per person
4. Valdez: Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing
Priced at $585 per person, this 1-hour helicopter tour is a true showstopper. It takes you soaring over Alaskan glaciers and rugged mountain peaks, with a 15-20 minute landing on a glacier surface. During the flight, your pilot offers expert commentary on the landscape below, pointing out features like blue meltwater pools that shimmer in the sun.
Landing on the glacier gives you a rare opportunity to walk on ice, take photographs, and enjoy the silence of this icy world. The landscape is constantly changing, with spring and summer bringing vibrant blue pools and snowfields. Wildlife such as moose, bears, and mountain goats can sometimes be spotted from the air, adding to the sense of wilderness.
This experience is best suited for travelers looking for an adrenaline rush and unforgettable views. Many reviewers mention how the scenic flight and glacier exploration create lifelong memories, especially with a knowledgeable pilot guiding the way.
Bottom line: If you want a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with stunning scenery and glacier exploration, this helicopter tour is hard to beat.
$585 per person
How to Choose Which Girdwood Tour Is Right for You
Picking the perfect Girdwood tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For a classic, scenic experience with a comfortable pace, the Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad is ideal. If water’s your thing and you crave an up-close glacier encounter, the Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour offers a more active, intimate experience. For those who love winter sports and want to tackle remote terrain, the Backcountry Skiing Tour delivers adventure on a grand scale. Finally, if a quick but breathtaking aerial perspective is what excites you most, the Helicopter Glacier Landing promises an unforgettable trip.
Consider your budget, physical fitness, and how much time you want to dedicate. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to secure your spot on these popular adventures.
Girdwood offers a wonderful variety of tours that showcase Alaska’s stunning glaciers, mountains, and wilderness. Whether you prefer relaxing scenic rides, active kayaking, or daring helicopter adventures, these options cover all bases. For most travelers, combining a couple of experiences—like a train and float trip or a helicopter flight—can make for a well-rounded, memorable visit. Remember to choose based on your interests and comfort level, and book early to ensure a spot. Alaska’s wild beauty is waiting—don’t miss out on these unforgettable adventures.