Things to see in Girdwood, Alaska
 1. Bore Tide
The Turnagain Arm is one of the most amazing and scenic places in southcentral Alaska. This body of water rests between the Seward Highway and the Kenai Peninsula. Mountains jut out of the sea on all sides, creating a truly dramatic and awe inspiring scene. An amazing phenomenon known as the bore tide can also be seen here. Daily tidal surges create a wave that can be seen daily along the Turnagain Arm, especially along the sections near Girdwood. Visit Alaska.org for more information on the tide and how you can see it.
2. AWCC
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is home to injured and orphaned animals from across the state. The center rehabilitates animals and whenever possible releases them into the wild. Moose, Elk, Caribou, Musk Oxen, Brown and Black Bears, and Bald Eagles are just some of the animals you’ll see if you visit the park. Located on the Seward Highway about 15 miles south of Girdwood, the park offers one of a kind opportunities to see and photograph some of Alaska’s most famous inhabitants.
3. Portage Valley
Portage Valley lies almost 20 miles south of Girdwood along the Seward Highway. The valley leads to the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel and Whittier, the gateway to Prince William Sound. About 7 miles up the valley is Portage Lake and the Portage Valley Visitors Center, both worth visiting if you’re as close as Girdwood. The visitor center has all kinds of exhibits detailing the rich geological history of the area as well as the wildlife and indigenous culture. The lake features a small cruise boat the conducts multiple hour long cruises throughout the day. While beautiful, the weather in the Portage can be fickle; a rain jacket and hat are never a bad idea when visiting.
 4. Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
One of Alaska’s most exciting phenomenon is the Aurora Borealis, or northern lights. Colorful displays of dancing lights and brilliant colors can be seen in the night sky across Alaska and including Girdwood. The light shows are the result of electrically charged particles from space reacting with the Earth’s atmosphere. In Girdwood, the best showings tend to be late at night and are best in the winter months, though the Northern Lights can be seen here year round. Visit here for more information on the Borealis and when you might see it. |
