Girdwood

A mountain resort town at the head of Turnagain Arm, where Alyeska Resort and its aerial tram sit among snowy peaks, with Portage Glacier, Whittier glacier cruises and a wildlife conservation center lined up nearby.

Girdwood is a mountain resort town within the Municipality of Anchorage, Alaska, at the eastern end of Turnagain Arm. It lies about 60 km from downtown Anchorage, roughly a 50-minute drive along the spectacular Seward Highway, and can also be reached by the Alaska Railroad. Life in town revolves around Alyeska Resort: in winter (Dec–Apr) it is Alaska's largest ski area, while in summer the aerial tram carries you up the mountain for views of seven glaciers; at its base are the Winner Creek rainforest trail and a Nordic spa. About 30 minutes south is Portage Valley, home to Portage Glacier, the Byron Glacier Trail and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center; drive through North America's longest single-lane highway tunnel and you reach Whittier, the departure point for Prince William Sound glacier cruises. In summer you can also take the train to the roadless Spencer Glacier, or try gold panning at Crow Creek Mine. The best times to visit are Jun–Aug (long daylight, all routes open) and Jan–Mar (skiing, northern lights). Plan to stay 2–3 days. Be bear-aware when hiking, and note that the Whittier tunnel opens on a fixed schedule—be sure to check the time of the last crossing.

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