Girdwood Day Trip at a Glance: Quick Facts for 2025
Pressed for time? Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Anchorage to Girdwood day trip in a nutshell. Get the essential details first, then dive into the adventure below!
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Anchorage | ~40 miles (64 km) |
| Driving Time (One Way) | 45-60 minutes without stops |
| Recommended Trip Duration | A full day (8-10 hours) |
| Estimated Cost (Per Person) | $65 (budget) to $440+ (splurge) |
| Best Time to Go | Summer (June-Aug): Hiking, biking, long daylight hours Winter (Dec-Mar): World-class skiing & snowboarding |
How to Get from Anchorage to Girdwood
The journey to Girdwood is an adventure in itself! The 40-mile stretch of the Seward Highway is a designated National Scenic Byway, hugging the dramatic coastline of the Turnagain Arm. You have three excellent options to get there, each offering a unique Alaskan experience.
Driving the Scenic Seward Highway
Driving gives you the ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace. The road winds between the steep, majestic Chugach Mountains and the shimmering waters of the Cook Inlet. Keep your eyes peeled! It’s common to spot Dall sheep on the cliffsides and even beluga whales in the inlet during the summer. Plan for photo stops at designated pullouts like Beluga Point and Bird Point. While the drive is only about an hour, give yourself extra time for pictures and potential weekend traffic.
Riding the Alaska Railroad (Summer Only)
For a truly relaxing and classic Alaskan experience, book a seat on the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train. This seasonal service (mid-May to mid-September) lets you soak in the scenery from comfortable seats, often in glass-domed cars, without the stress of driving. The train departs Anchorage around 9:45 AM and arrives in Girdwood just after 11:00 AM, with the return trip leaving Girdwood around 5:15 PM. It’s a pricier option but offers unparalleled, narrated views.
Taking a Shuttle or Bus
If you prefer to let someone else handle the driving but want a more budget-friendly option than the train, a shuttle is a great choice. The Park Connection Motorcoach operates daily during the summer and offers reliable service. Private operators like Girdwood Tour & Shuttle are also available. This is a fantastic way to sit back and enjoy the views without worrying about parking or traffic, though you’ll have less flexibility for spontaneous stops.
| Method | Cost (Round Trip, per person) | Travel Time (One Way) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Drive | $ (Gas) | 45-60 min | Total flexibility, can stop anywhere, most affordable | Must focus on driving, summer traffic, parking can be full |
| Train | $$$ (~$220+) | ~1.5 hours | Extremely scenic, relaxing, unique experience, narrated tour | Expensive, fixed schedule, summer only |
| Shuttle | $$ (~$100-$160) | ~1 hour | No driving stress, cost-effective vs. train | Less flexible than a car, mostly seasonal service |
Top 5 Things to Do in Girdwood on a Day Trip
Girdwood packs an incredible amount of adventure into its small mountain footprint. Whether you’re seeking epic views, gentle hikes, or guaranteed wildlife sightings, here are the absolute must-do activities for your 2025 day trip.
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Ride the Alyeska Aerial Tram
This is a non-negotiable Girdwood experience! The seven-minute tram ride silently glides 2,300 feet up the side of Mt. Alyeska. From the observation deck at the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Turnagain Arm, hanging glaciers, and the endless peaks of the Chugach range. On a clear day, it’s one of the best views in all of Alaska. (Cost: ~$48 for adults) -
Hike a Classic Girdwood Trail
Girdwood is a hiker’s paradise, located within a temperate rainforest. Two trails offer a perfect taste of the local scenery.Winner Creek Trail
This popular and relatively flat 3-mile trail immerses you in a lush, mossy forest. The highlight is the unique hand tram, a human-powered cable car that you pull across the rushing Glacier Creek. It’s an unforgettable experience! Note: The hand tram is typically only installed during the summer months (June-September).
Byron Glacier Trail
For an easy hike with a massive payoff, head to the Byron Glacier Trail. This flat, 1.4-mile roundtrip gravel path leads you to a stunning viewpoint of the glacier’s ice caves and blue ice. It’s accessible for almost all fitness levels and is a fantastic way to get up close to a glacier. (Note: A $5 Chugach National Forest day-use fee may apply at the parking lot).
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Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC)
Located just a few miles past the Girdwood turnoff on the Seward Highway, the AWCC is the perfect stop on your way in or out of town. This sanctuary provides spacious habitats for injured and orphaned Alaskan animals. It’s your guaranteed chance to see grizzly bears, black bears, moose, wood bison, eagles, wolves, and more in a natural setting. You can drive or walk the 1.5-mile loop. (Cost: ~$20 for adults) -
Explore Girdwood Town & Brewery
The small town square of Girdwood has a funky, laid-back vibe often described as “California in Alaska.” After your adventures, there’s no better place to unwind than the Girdwood Brewing Company. Grab a flight of their excellent local craft beer, sit on the sunny patio with mountain views, and enjoy a delicious meal from one of the fantastic rotating food trucks parked outside. -
Chase the Turnagain Arm Bore Tide
Witness a rare natural phenomenon! A bore tide is a massive wave, sometimes up to 6-10 feet high, that rolls up the shallow Turnagain Arm when the incoming tide clashes with the outgoing flow. It’s one of the few places in the world to see this. Check the bore tide schedule online for 2025 and find a safe spot at a highway pullout like Bird Point to watch surfers and kayakers ride the wave.
Sample Day Trip Itinerary (Summer vs. Winter)
Girdwood is a year-round destination with two distinct personalities. Here’s how you can structure your perfect day, whether you’re visiting under the midnight sun or a blanket of snow.
Perfect Summer Day Trip Itinerary (June-August)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Depart Anchorage. Drive the Seward Highway, stopping at Beluga Point for photos. |
| 10:30 AM | Hike the easy and beautiful Byron Glacier Trail to see ice caves. |
| 12:30 PM | Head into Girdwood for a legendary lunch at The Bake Shop. |
| 2:00 PM | Ride the Alyeska Aerial Tram to the top for jaw-dropping 360-degree views. |
| 4:00 PM | Relax with a craft beer and food truck snack at Girdwood Brewing Company. |
| 6:00 PM | Begin the scenic drive back to Anchorage, keeping an eye on the bore tide schedule. |
Epic Winter Day Trip Itinerary (December-March)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Depart Anchorage, checking road conditions on the Seward Highway before you go. |
| 10:00 AM | Arrive at Alyeska Resort. Hit the slopes for world-class skiing or snowboarding. (Rentals available). |
| 1:00 PM | Warm up with a hearty lunch of pizza and pub fare at Chair 5 Restaurant. |
| 2:30 PM | Even if not skiing, ride the tram for spectacular snowy mountain views. |
| 4:30 PM | Enjoy a classic après-ski drink at the legendary Sitzmark Bar & Grill at the resort base. |
| 6:00 PM | Drive back to Anchorage. On a clear, dark night, find a safe pullout to look for the Northern Lights! |
Where to Eat in Girdwood: Best Restaurants & Cafes
For a small town, Girdwood has an impressive food scene. From bucket-list fine dining to cozy, casual eateries, there’s something to satisfy every craving and budget.
Splurge-Worthy Meal ($$$$)
Seven Glaciers: Located at the top of the Alyeska Tram, this AAA Four-Diamond restaurant offers a fine-dining experience with views that are simply unmatched. Reservations are essential and should be made weeks, if not months, in advance for your 2025 trip.
Best All-Around ($$$)
Jack Sprat: Serving “fat & lean world cuisine,” Jack Sprat is a local favorite with a creative, eclectic menu that caters to everyone, including great vegan and vegetarian options.
Chair 5 Restaurant: A classic Girdwood institution known for its delicious pizza, steaks, and cozy, rustic lodge atmosphere. A perfect spot to refuel after a day on the mountain.
Casual & Budget-Friendly ($$)
The Bake Shop: Famous for its bottomless coffee, sourdough pancakes, and giant, gooey sweet rolls. It’s a Girdwood rite of passage for breakfast or lunch.
Girdwood Brewing Company: While they don’t have a kitchen, the brewery always hosts excellent local food trucks, offering everything from tacos to wood-fired pizza.
Girdwood Picnic Club: A fantastic spot for gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups, perfect for grabbing a quick and delicious bite.
Insider Tips for Your Girdwood Trip
Make your day trip seamless with these local tips:
- Book Ahead: In summer, the Alaska Railroad and high-end restaurants like Seven Glaciers fill up far in advance. Book your 2025 tickets and reservations as soon as you have your dates.
- Use the Free Shuttle: Once in Girdwood, you can park your car and use the free Glacier Valley Transit shuttle. It runs a loop connecting the town square, local businesses, and Alyeska Resort.
- Be Bear Aware: Girdwood is bear country. When hiking, make noise (talk, clap), travel in groups, and always carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be unreliable on the Seward Highway and on trails. Download maps of the area to your phone before you leave Anchorage.
- Dress in Layers: The weather in this rainforest valley can change in an instant. A sunny day can turn rainy and cold quickly. Always bring a waterproof rain jacket, even if the forecast looks clear.
What to Pack for a Girdwood Day Trip
Packing correctly ensures you’ll be comfortable no matter what the Alaskan weather throws at you.
- Year-Round Essentials:
- Layers of non-cotton clothing (fleece, merino wool)
- A waterproof and windproof rain jacket
- Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
- Camera and a portable phone charger
- Summer Additions:
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (the sun is strong!)
- Insect repellent
- Bear spray for hiking
- Winter Additions:
- A warm, insulated winter coat
- Snow pants
- Warm hat, gloves, and a scarf or neck gaiter
- Insulated, waterproof boots with good grip
- Ski/snowboard gear if you plan to hit the slopes
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person) for 2025
Your day trip can be tailored to any budget. Here’s a look at what you can expect to spend, from a frugal DIY adventure to a high-end, all-inclusive experience.
| Expense Category | Budget Trip | High-End Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | $20 (Gas for personal car) | $220 (Round-trip train ticket) |
| Activities | $5 (Byron Glacier Trail fee) | $70 (Alyeska Tram + AWCC admission) |
| Food & Drink | $40 (Lunch at The Bake Shop & a coffee) | $150+ (Dinner at Seven Glaciers) |
| Total (Per Person) | ~$65 | ~$440+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a shuttle from Anchorage to Girdwood?
Yes, during the summer season (typically May-September), shuttle services like the Park Connection Motorcoach offer daily round-trip transportation. Private tour operators and shuttles are also available and may operate year-round.
Is Girdwood worth visiting?
Absolutely! Girdwood is one of the best day trips from Anchorage. It offers a perfect escape with its stunning mountain scenery, world-class outdoor activities for every season, a relaxed vibe, and an excellent dining scene, all just a short, incredibly scenic drive away.
Is there a train from Anchorage to Girdwood?
Yes, the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train provides daily service between Anchorage and Girdwood during the summer (mid-May to mid-September). It’s a fantastic, scenic alternative to driving.
Do you need a car in Girdwood, Alaska?
A car offers the most flexibility for stopping along the Seward Highway and reaching trailheads like Byron Glacier. However, you can easily enjoy a day trip without one by taking the train or shuttle. Once in Girdwood, the town is very walkable, and the free local shuttle connects the townsite with Alyeska Resort.
TL;DR: Your Girdwood Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a rush? Here’s the short version for your 2025 adventure:
- Getting There: Drive the scenic Seward Highway for flexibility, or take the Alaska Railroad in summer for a relaxing, iconic experience.
- Must-Do Summer: Ride the Alyeska Tram for epic views and hike the easy Byron Glacier trail.
- Must-Do Winter: Ski or snowboard at Alyeska Resort, then enjoy the après-ski scene.
- Don’t Miss: Grabbing a beer at Girdwood Brewing Company and a treat from The Bake Shop.
- Top Tip: Dress in layers and bring a rain jacket, no matter the season. The weather changes fast!
