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Get Your Adventure On: The Ultimate List of Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Girdwood, Alaska (You’ll Want to Pack Your Bags Now!)

Welcome to Girdwood, Alaska, the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love to explore the great outdoors. From breathtaking views of mountains and glaciers to wildlife encounters and gold rush history, Girdwood has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo adventure, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do and places to visit in Girdwood.

One of the crown jewels of Girdwood is the Alyeska Resort, a world-class ski resort that offers year-round activities for visitors. Ride the aerial tramway for panoramic views of the area, enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, or hike and bike in the summer. But Girdwood is not just about skiing and snowboarding. There are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and more.

If you’re looking for wildlife encounters, Girdwood has plenty to offer. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see bears, moose, and other animals up close, or take a glacier cruise to see whales and other marine life. And when it’s time to relax, Girdwood’s food and brew scene won’t disappoint. From local seafood to craft beer, there’s something for every palate. Plan your trip to Girdwood today and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.

Key Takeaways

• Girdwood, Alaska is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts who love to explore the great outdoors.
• Alyeska Resort is a crown jewel of Girdwood and offers year-round activities for visitors.
• Girdwood offers plenty of outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and a food and brew scene that won’t disappoint.

Alyeska Resort: The Crown Jewel of Girdwood

If you’re looking for a winter wonderland or a summer paradise, Alyeska Resort is the place to be. Nestled at the base of Mount Alyeska, this world-class ski resort is the crown jewel of Girdwood. But skiing is not the only thing that Alyeska Resort has to offer. From dining to spa treatments, this resort has everything you need to have a memorable experience.

Alyeska Aerial Tram: A Ride to Remember

You can’t visit Alyeska Resort without taking a ride on the Alyeska Aerial Tram. It’s a ride to remember, and you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the majestic Chugach Mountains. The tram takes you to the top of Mount Alyeska, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife along the way.

Seven Glaciers Restaurant: A Culinary Experience Above the Clouds

If you’re a foodie, you can’t miss the Seven Glaciers Restaurant. Located at the top of Mount Alyeska, this restaurant offers a culinary experience above the clouds. The views are breathtaking, and the food is even better. The restaurant specializes in Alaskan seafood and locally sourced ingredients. You won’t regret splurging on this dining experience.

Whether you’re skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, Alyeska Resort has something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the spa for some much-needed relaxation or visit The Roundhouse for a unique dining experience. Alyeska Resort truly is the crown jewel of Girdwood, and you won’t be disappointed.

Outdoor Adventures in Girdwood

Are you an outdoor enthusiast looking for a thrilling adventure? Look no further than Girdwood, Alaska! With its breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, Girdwood is the perfect destination for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures in Girdwood that you won’t want to miss:

Winner Creek Trail: Nature’s Masterpiece

If you’re looking for a hike that’s both challenging and rewarding, the Winner Creek Trail is just what you need. This 6-mile round-trip trail takes you through lush forests, over a hand tram that crosses a gorge, and to a stunning waterfall. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as the views along the way are truly breathtaking.

Byron Glacier Trail: A Walk Among the Ice Giants

For a more leisurely hike, check out the Byron Glacier Trail. This easy 1.4-mile round-trip hike takes you to the base of the Byron Glacier, where you can marvel at the massive ice formations. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even climb up onto the glacier (with caution, of course).

Crow Pass Trail: A Hike Back in Time

If you’re up for a challenge, the Crow Pass Trail is a must-do. This 21-mile round-trip hike takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in Alaska, including glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. Along the way, you’ll also pass by historic mining ruins that offer a glimpse into Alaska’s past.

Whether you’re into hiking, biking, rafting, kayaking, dog sledding, camping, or just enjoying the great outdoors, Girdwood has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Wildlife Encounters

Alaska is known for its incredible wildlife, and Girdwood is no exception. From soaring eagles to majestic caribou, there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the local fauna. Here are some of the best ways to experience wildlife in Girdwood:

Flightseeing Tours: Soar with the Eagles

If you want to see Alaska’s wildlife from a bird’s eye view, a flightseeing tour is the way to go. You’ll soar over glaciers, mountains, and forests, spotting bald eagles, bears, and other animals along the way. Some tours even offer the chance to land on a glacier and explore the wilderness on foot.

Spencer Glacier: A Boat Ride to Remember

For a more leisurely wildlife encounter, hop aboard a boat tour to Spencer Glacier. You’ll cruise through the stunning scenery of the Chugach Mountains, keeping an eye out for bald eagles, moose, and other animals. Once you arrive at the glacier, you can take a short hike to get an up-close look at the ice and maybe even spot some wildlife along the way.

No matter how you choose to experience Alaska’s wildlife, be sure to bring your camera and some binoculars. You never know what kind of amazing creatures you’ll encounter on your journey. And don’t forget to stop by the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see some of the state’s most iconic animals up close, including bears, bison, muskox, caribou, elk, and more. Just be sure to keep a safe distance – these animals may look cute and cuddly, but they’re still wild!

The Gold Rush Era in Girdwood

If you’re a history buff or just want to experience the thrill of the gold rush era, Girdwood has something for you. The town has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, when James Girdwood discovered gold in the area. Today, you can still see remnants of the town’s gold rush era, including the Crow Creek Gold Mine.

Crow Creek Gold Mine: Panning for Gold

The Crow Creek Gold Mine is a family-owned and operated historical and recreational gold mine. It offers visitors a chance to experience the thrill of panning for gold, just like the miners did during the gold rush era. You can rent equipment and try your luck at finding gold in the creek. Who knows, you might strike it rich!

But even if you don’t find any gold, the experience is still worth it. You’ll get to see what it was like to be a miner during the gold rush era and learn about the history of the area. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to meet some of the descendants of the original miners who still work at the mine today.

So put on your boots, grab a pan, and head to the Crow Creek Gold Mine for a fun and educational experience that you won’t forget. And who knows, you might just strike gold!

Girdwood’s Food and Brew Scene

When you’re done exploring Girdwood’s great outdoors, you’ll want to check out the town’s food and brew scene. From local breweries to food trucks, Girdwood has a lot to offer. Here are some of the best spots to check out:

Girdwood Brewing Company: A Taste of Alaskan Brew

If you’re a beer lover, you can’t miss Girdwood Brewing Company. This brewery is known for its creative and delicious brews, including the popular “Glacier Hefeweizen” and “Sitzmark Stout.” The brewery has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. You can even bring your furry friend along to enjoy the outdoor seating area.

But the beer isn’t the only thing that sets Girdwood Brewing Company apart. The brewery also hosts events like live music nights and trivia nights, so you can enjoy your brews while having some fun. And if you get hungry, you can order from the food truck parked outside.

Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun night out, Girdwood Brewing Company is the place to be.

Festivals in Girdwood

Looking for some fun and excitement in Girdwood? Look no further than the festivals that take place throughout the year! From music and arts to local culture and traditions, Girdwood has something for everyone. Here are some of the top festivals you won’t want to miss:

Girdwood Forest Fair: A Celebration of Alaskan Culture

If you’re looking for a truly Alaskan experience, the Girdwood Forest Fair is the place to be. This annual festival takes place in July and celebrates the music, arts, and crafts of Alaska. You’ll find local artists and performers showcasing their talents, as well as plenty of food and drink to enjoy.

One of the best things about the Girdwood Forest Fair is the sense of community that it creates. People from all over Alaska come together to make this event happen, and visitors are always welcome to join in the fun. Whether you’re looking to dance to some live music, shop for unique souvenirs, or just soak up the atmosphere, the Girdwood Forest Fair is not to be missed.

Blueberry Festival: A Sweet Celebration

If you have a sweet tooth, the Blueberry Festival is the perfect festival for you. This annual event takes place in August and celebrates one of Alaska’s most beloved fruits: the blueberry. You’ll find plenty of blueberry-themed treats to sample, from pies and cakes to jams and jellies.

But the Blueberry Festival is more than just a celebration of food. It’s also a celebration of community. You’ll find local artists and craftspeople showcasing their work, as well as live music and entertainment for all ages. And of course, there are plenty of opportunities to pick your own blueberries and take home a taste of Alaska.

Slush Cup: A Wacky Winter Tradition

If you’re visiting Girdwood in the winter, you won’t want to miss the Slush Cup. This annual event takes place in April and is a wacky and wild celebration of the end of winter. The highlight of the festival is the Slush Cup itself, where skiers and snowboarders attempt to ski across a pool of icy water without falling in.

But the Slush Cup is more than just a ski competition. It’s a chance to let loose and have some fun after a long winter. You’ll find plenty of food and drink to enjoy, as well as live music and entertainment. And if you’re feeling brave, you can even try your hand at the Slush Cup yourself.

In conclusion, Girdwood has a variety of festivals that celebrate the local culture, food, and traditions. From the Girdwood Forest Fair to the Blueberry Festival and the Slush Cup, there’s always something fun and exciting happening in Girdwood. So pack your bags, grab your friends, and get ready for a truly Alaskan adventure!

Planning Your Trip to Girdwood

Girdwood, Alaska is a destination that offers year-round adventure and fun activities for everyone. Whether you are planning a solo trip, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, Girdwood has something for you. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip to Girdwood.

Day Trips from Girdwood: Exploring the Surroundings

Girdwood is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. You can take a day trip to the nearby Portage Glacier, where you can take a boat trip to see the glacier up close. You can also visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can see a variety of native Alaskan animals, including bears, moose, and caribou.

Another popular day trip from Girdwood is to the historic mining town of Hope. You can take a scenic drive along the Turnagain Arm, one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Alaska, to get to Hope. Once you are there, you can explore the town’s history, hike the nearby trails, or try your hand at gold panning.

Girdwood’s Weather: What to Expect

Girdwood’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for any conditions. In the summer months, temperatures can range from the mid-50s to the mid-70s, with occasional rain showers. In the winter months, temperatures can range from the single digits to the 30s, with heavy snowfall.

If you are visiting Girdwood in the winter, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and boots. If you are planning to go skiing or snowboarding, make sure you have appropriate gear, or you can rent it at the resort.

In the summer months, be sure to pack layers, as the temperature can change quickly. It’s also a good idea to bring rain gear, as rain showers can be frequent.

Conclusion

Planning a trip to Girdwood is easy when you know what to expect. With its stunning natural beauty and endless outdoor activities, Girdwood is a destination that is sure to delight. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Girdwood has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to get from Girdwood to Whittier?

Well, you have a few options. You could take the scenic drive down the Seward Highway, which is about an hour and a half. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, you could take the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery train, which will take you from Girdwood to Whittier in about an hour. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you could kayak from Girdwood to Whittier. Just be sure to pack a lunch!

Can you survive in Girdwood without a car?

Sure, you can survive in Girdwood without a car. But it might be a bit of a challenge. Girdwood is a small town, so you can walk or bike to most places. But if you want to explore the surrounding areas, you’ll need a car or a friend with a car. Plus, if you don’t have a car, how are you going to haul all your gear up to the mountain?

What’s the most fun thing to do in Girdwood this weekend?

That’s a tough one. There’s always something fun going on in Girdwood. You could go for a hike, hit up the farmers market, or check out one of the local breweries. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, you could go ziplining or take a helicopter tour of the glaciers. The possibilities are endless!

Is Girdwood known for anything other than its stunning scenery?

Of course! Girdwood is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. It’s also home to the famous Alyeska Resort, which has some of the best restaurants and bars in the state. And if you’re into music, you’ll love the Girdwood Forest Fair, which is a three-day festival that features live music, arts and crafts, and food vendors.

Where can I find the best food in Girdwood?

There are a ton of great restaurants in Girdwood, but if you’re looking for the best food in town, you can’t go wrong with The Double Musky Inn. They serve up some of the best Cajun food in the state, and their steaks are out of this world. And if you’re looking for something a little more casual, check out the Sitzmark Bar & Grill. They have great burgers, pizza, and beer.

What’s the best way to explore downtown Girdwood?

The best way to explore downtown Girdwood is on foot. The town is small, so you can easily walk from one end to the other in about 15 minutes. Plus, there are a ton of great shops and restaurants to check out along the way. And if you get tired of walking, you can always hop on a bike or rent a scooter. Just be sure to watch out for the moose!

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