The Unique Alaska Tour You’ll Remember Forever

From scenic rails to glacier kayaking, this bucket-list tour from Anchorage explores the wild beauty of the Last Frontier.

From its vast landscapes and untouched wilderness to its diverse culture and history, there is so much to love about the Last Frontier. In fact, with so much to see and do, it is easy to find unique experiences in Alaska—experiences that are impossible to forget. Whether you explore one of the Last Frontier’s small, remote towns, hike through a national park, or even wander the streets of the state's larger cities, there is adventure almost everywhere you look. However, if you are like me and want a unique Alaska experience that doesn’t require much planning, pairs you with knowledgeable guides, unleashes your adventurous side, and gives the state a chance to show off its natural beauty, this bucket-list-worthy tour out of Anchorage is just for you.

Why This Unique Tour in Alaska Stands Out

There are some extraordinary tours in the Last Frontier, but this one, offered by Chugach Adventures in Anchorage, is impossible to forget. With a knowledgeable guide right by your side, you will kayak next to icebergs at Spencer Glacier Lake, hike the moraine near Spencer Glacier, and even take a scenic train ride—all in the same day.

Tours typically take approximately six hours and begin early in the morning at the Anchorage Railroad Depot in downtown Anchorage. With your guide and group members, you will make the drive to Spencer Glacier Lake, just south of Anchorage. Here, you will hop in a tandem kayak and paddle around the scenic lake, in a quiet setting, with crystal-clear water beneath you and icebergs surrounding you. The mesmerizing Spencer Glacier is your backdrop as you enjoy the serene setting, falling more and more in love with Alaska’s pure beauty with each stroke.

After some time enjoying the calm water, it’s time to lace up those hiking boots as you will get to explore the moraine adjacent to Spencer Glacier. A moraine is essentially a ridge of dirt and debris deposited by a glacier. This trek will give you a new perspective of the area—one that will make you stop and stare.

And just when you thought this one-of-a-kind Alaska tour couldn’t get any better, you’ll hop aboard the Glacier Discovery Train and enjoy a scenic train ride to Grandview. You’ll ride through the Placer River Valley, where you’ll be greeted by mountain and glacial views and meadows covered in vibrant wildflowers. You’ll even travel over a trestle bridge that crosses the Placer River.

What to Know Before You Go

This unique experience in Alaska is seasonal and only available from late May until early September. Dates fill up quickly, especially on weekends and around holidays, so you’ll want to reserve your spot early. Groups are limited to six individuals, and children as young as 8 years old can attend. Keep in mind that this tour does require physical activity. However, you don’t need to be in top shape to enjoy it—each stop on this adventure can be enjoyed by all skill levels.

Come prepared with a few extra layers of clothes, including a rain jacket and shoes. Also, make sure you have hiking boots for your short hike and plenty of water. And do not forget a camera. You will regret not capturing the extraordinary scenes that will surround you.

There is certainly no shortage of things to do in Alaska, but for adventure, excitement, and pure natural beauty, book this unique experience in Alaska on Airbnb. And if you are looking for even more things to do in Anchorage, we recommend this small town that's just a short drive away, and is the perfect ending to an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.  

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