Turnagain Arm, Wildlife Conservation Center & Tram

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Learn the history of Seward, the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, and its railroad town beginnings as you depart the dock aboard a comfortable motorcoach. Take in the views of dramatic Resurrection Bay, towering Mt. Marathon, the steep and challenging site of one of Alaska's most popular foot races.

You'll pass the historic downtown district filled with quaint shops, the bustling fishing marina where hundreds of white masts and hulls line the docks and mile after mile of railroad track laid out along the never-ending rise and fall of the rugged Chugach Mountains.

Heading north along the Seward Highway, officially designated a National Scenic Byway, the viewpoints are many and the landmarks just as notable. Watch for Kenai Lake, Moose Pass, Snow River, Paradise Peak and Portage Valley. On this drive along Turnagain Arm, you'll learn about the voyages of Captain James Cook. On his third voyage, attempting to find the Northwest Passage, he entered what is now called Cook Inlet, realized that he could go no further and returned along what was to be called Turnagain Arm.

Your destination is the Alyeska Resort, the largest ski resort in Alaska and one of the premier resorts in the state. Enjoy a ride on the Glacier Express Tram and take in panoramic views of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding valley from 2,300 feet above its floor. You can then enjoy lunch at the Bore Tide Deli with your choice of chili and soups, wraps and sandwiches while enjoying the view. After lunch, take a stroll around the resort grounds, and admire the scenery or take a short hike on Winner Creek Trail at the base of the hotel.

Next travel to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center where animals unable to survive in the wild are given refuge in spacious habitats. In large outdoor enclosures designed to mimic the animal's natural environment, you can safely get close, observe and photograph some of Alaska's biggest land mammals, including moose, bison, bears and musk ox. You'll have 90 minutes at the non-profit center, including time for shopping at the gift shop. Here you may purchase locally made souvenirs, including clothing made of Qiviut, the fur from musk oxen.

On your return journey to Seward and your cruise ship,you'll have another chance to soak up the magnificent scenery, to watch for wildlife, and to listen to the expert narration of your knowledgeable driver/guide.

Special Notes:

Unaccompanied Minor Policy: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.