Things To Do

Exit Glacier

2 hike options here: 1-mile, flat, maintained, easy trail to the "toe" of the glacier. or 8 miles, rigorous, hard hike to the Harding Ice Field.

Kenai Fjords Tours

Bird Ridge Trailhead

One of our favorite hikes near Girdwood. A steep hike with great views!

Seven Glaciers Restaurant

We recommend taking the tram to this restaurant at the top of Alyeska for cocktails at the bar or a fancy meal, overlooking the mountains.

Crow Creek Mine

Portage Glacier

Talkeetna Roadhouse

You must have their cinnamon rolls! If visiting Talkeetna or driving towards Denali, we highly recommend a stop to check out this small town and their amazing cinnamon rolls.

Jack Sprat

Great food in Girdwood.

McCarthy & The Kennicot Mine

McCarthy is the remote Alaskan town where we met. It is an 8-hour drive from Anchorage, and absolutely worth every minute. You'll experience breathtaking views, a town full of adventure and multiple exploration options! There are strenuous hikes up to old mines, pack and river rafting down glacial rivers, and the stunning views of the glacial lake. Rent a pair of crampons and walk one the largest glaciers accessible. If you have the time, go!

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Great option to see some Alaskan wildlife at this beautiful Conservation Center. Only about 10 minutes from Girdwood.

Lost Lake Trail

Jodie's favorite hike! On the way towards Seward. It can be done in a 18-mile traverse, or an 'up and back' 6-8 miles.

Hatcher Pass

Hike around on the many trails in Hatcher Pass, explore an old mine and learn its history. Grab lunch at the lodge.

Denali National Park and Preserve

Denali is a must. There are many options to get into the park. Drive yourself to the head of the park or take one of the scenic railroads. You will need to take one of the bus tour options into the park. This is your chance to see an incredible amount of Alaskan wildlife.

Halibut Cove

Take a water taxi from Homer to Halibut Cove. It is beautiful! There are plenty of artists' galleries to explore along the boardwalks of this special place.

Seldovia

If traveling to Homer, consider taking a day trip to Seldovia.

Two Sisters' Bakery

Some of the best food and baked goods in Alaska. A must if you find yourself in Homer.

Homer

Homer is a 5-hour drive from Anchorage. It’s a small artists' and fishing community on the coast. If you have 2-3 days, this comes highly recommended. You'll see halibut, Alaskan crafts, beaches, whales, and eagles! Spend an afternoon walking around the Homer spit which is full of small shops, restaurants and docks where you will see the halibut charters with their 100+ lb. fish.

Alaska Sea Life Center

If traveling to Seward, check out this Sea Life Center.

Hope

Hope is about an hour's drive from Girdwood. It is a beautiful drive to this town, with an awesome small cafe/pub that usually has live music.