Anchorage to Girdwood: Best Ways to Get There (Car, Train, Bus & Tours)
Planning a trip from Anchorage to Girdwood? This small mountain town is just 40 miles south of Anchorage and is one of the best day trips or weekend getaways in Alaska. Girdwood is home to the Alyeska Resort, stunning hiking trails, scenic tram rides, and some of the best ski slopes in the state. In this guide, I’ll cover all the best ways to get from Anchorage to Girdwood, including train schedules, bus options, driving tips, top tours and cost comparisons. No matter how you travel, I’ll help you find the best way to get there hassle-free!
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Why Travel from Anchorage to Girdwood?
Girdwood is one of Alaska’s most beautiful small towns, surrounded by towering mountains, lush forests, and breathtaking glaciers. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or an overnight stay, this charming town has plenty to offer year-round. So, check out the best things to do in Girdwood and where to stay in Girdwoood to plan a perfect trip.
This tiny town is a home to Alyeska Resort, Alaska’s top ski destination. So if you plan Alaska winter trip, Girdwood, is a must. But it’s a year-round adventure hub for hikers and explorers. Perfect to visit in summer months.
The Alyeska Aerial Tram takes visitors up Mount Alyeska, offering incredible panoramic views of seven glaciers, Turnagain Arm, and the Chugach Mountains.
Getting to Girdwood is easy. You can drive, take the scenic train ride with Alaska Railroad, hop on a shuttle or take a day tour. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style.
If you don’t plan to rent a car, make sure to read our related articles: Getting around Anchorage without a car and the best day trips from Anchorage in summer.
Driving from Anchorage to Girdwood
Girdwood is just a 45-minute drive from Anchorage, making it an easy and scenic day trip. Along the way, you’ll drive along the famous Seward Highway, one of the most beautiful roads in America. The route follows Turnagain Arm, where you might spot beluga whales, Dall sheep, and even bore tides!
Driving from Anchorage to Girdwood is the fastest, easiest, and most scenic way to get there. The drive follows the Seward Highway, one of the most beautiful roads in the U.S.
How Long is the Drive from Anchorage to Girdwood?
- Distance: 40 miles (64 km)
- Drive Time: About 45–50 minutes in good weather
- Road: Paved, well-maintained highway
Agnes’ Advice: Before heading to Girdwood, take time to explore Anchorage itself — you’ll find more ideas in my detailed Anchorage travel guide.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
The route follows Turnagain Arm, a stretch of coastline where steep mountains rise dramatically from the water. The best stops along the way are:
- Potter Marsh is a fantastic stop for birdwatching and wildlife photography. A wooden boardwalk winds over the marsh, offering great views of swans, eagles, and even the occasional moose. It’s an easy and quick stop to stretch your legs before continuing south.
- McHugh Creek Recreation Area. This pullout offers short hiking trails, a small waterfall, and sweeping views of Turnagain Arm. It’s a great spot for a picnic, and if you’re lucky, you might spot Dall sheep high up on the rocky cliffs.
- A favorite roadside stop for both locals and visitors, Beluga Point is known for its panoramic views of Turnagain Arm. During late summer and early fall, it’s also one of the best places to spot beluga whales as they chase salmon in the shallow waters.
- A little farther down the highway, Bird Point provides unobstructed views of Turnagain Arm and is an excellent place to watch for bore tides—massive waves created by incoming tides rushing up the inlet.
- As you near Girdwood, there’s a large pullout at the Girdwood turnoff where you can take in your first full view of the valley. This is a great place to snap a photo before heading into town.
Anchorage to Girdwood Train
Taking the train from Anchorage to Girdwood is one of the most scenic ways to travel between the two destinations. The Alaska Railroad runs this route seasonally, offering breathtaking views of Turnagain Arm, snow-capped mountains, and glaciers along the way.
Train Route & Schedule
Alaska Railroad offers two train options for this route:
Glacier Discovery Train
- Runs daily from mid-May to mid-September
- Departs Anchorage: 9:45 AM
- Arrives in Girdwood: 10:55 AM
- Return trip available in the evening, departs Girdwood: 7:45 PM
Coastal Classic Train (Summer Only)
- Runs daily from mid-May to mid-September
- Departs Anchorage: 6:45 AM
- Arrives in Girdwood: 8:00 AM
- Return trip avialiable in the evening, departs Girdwood: 8:55 PM
How Much Does the Train Cost?
Ticket prices:
- Adults: $80 (Glacier Discovery train one way), $100 (Coastal Classic one way ticket);
$127 (Glacier Discovery return trip); $168 (Coastal Classic return trip) - Prices may vary
Where to Buy Tickets (book it ahead):
- Online: Alaska Railroad Website
- In Person: At the Anchorage Train Depot (411 W 1st Ave)
What to Expect on the Train Ride
- Incredible Views: You’ll pass through Chugach State Park, Turnagain Arm, and see glaciers along the way.
- Comfortable Seating: Spacious seats with large windows for enjoying the scenery.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look for bald eagles, moose, Dall sheep, and even beluga whales along Turnagain Arm.
- Food & Drinks: Limited snacks and beverages available for purchase onboard.
Bus from Anchorage to Girdwood
Taking a shuttle or bus from Anchorage to Girdwood is a convenient and affordable option if you don’t want to drive. While there is no public bus service between the two locations, several private shuttle companies operate along this route, especially during the summer months. They operates from downtown Anchorage.
Girdwood Guest Express Shuttle
The Girdwood Guest Express Shuttle is a convenient year-round service that connects Anchorage to Girdwood and Alyeska Resort. It offers flexible hourly departures, making it one of the most reliable options for travelers without a car.
Schedule & Duration
- Runs 24/7 with departures every half hour
- Travel time is approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic and passenger pickups
- Stops at multiple locations in Anchorage, including: Downtown Anchorage Visitors Center, and select Anchorage hotels.
Cost & Booking
- $50 per person, one way
- Tickets can be booked online through the official website. You can also book this shuttle through Viator.com, which I highly recommend. They offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure (local time), giving you flexibility in case your plans change.
- Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel seasons
Why Choose This Shuttle?
- Flexible departures to fit your schedule
- Comfortable and scenic ride along Turnagain Arm
- Direct service to Alyeska Resort
- Great option for visitors without rental cars
This is one of the best transportation options for those traveling between Anchorage and Girdwood, whether for skiing, hiking, or a weekend getaway.
Turnagain Arm Shuttle
The Turnagain Arm Shuttle is a great option for getting from Anchorage to Girdwood while enjoying one of the most scenic drives in Alaska. This shuttle service is ideal for day trips, allowing travelers to explore Girdwood at their own pace before returning to Anchorage in the evening.
Schedule & Duration
- Departs Anchorage Downtown Visitors Center: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 12:00 PM
- Departs Girdwood back to Anchorage: 2:20 PM and 5:25 PM
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour
With multiple morning departures and afternoon return times, this shuttle allows enough time to explore Girdwood on your own, whether you’re visiting Alyeska Resort, hiking Winner Creek Trail, or enjoying local restaurants.
Cost & Booking
- $49.50 per person, one way
- $99.00 per person, round trip
- Tickets can be reserved online through the official Turnagain Arm Shuttle website. You can also book this shuttle through Viator.com. They offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time), giving you flexibility in case your plans change.
- Advanced booking is recommended, especially during summer and peak travel seasons
Narrated Shuttle from Anchorage with Photo Stops
The Narrated Shuttle with Photo Stops is a great option for travelers without a car who want to enjoy the scenic drive along Turnagain Arm while stopping for photos along the way. Unlike the regular shuttle services, which go directly to Girdwood, this transfer includes several short stops at the most breathtaking viewpoints along the Seward Highway.
This shuttle costs a bit more at $75, but it includes several short photo stops along Turnagain Arm to capture the stunning scenery. It’s a private transfer with pickup available from select hotels in Anchorage.
Tours from Anchorage to Girdwood
If you want a guided and narrated exploration of Girdwood and the surrounding area, a half-day or full-day tour is a great option. These tours provide round-trip transportation and an experienced guide, making them ideal for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or those who prefer a structured experience rather than traveling independently. Top Tours That Include Girdwood:
Aerial Tram and Wildlife Center Tour
One of the best options is the Aerial Tram and Wildlife Center Tour, a six-hour adventure that combines stunning scenery and wildlife encounters. The tour departs from the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center in downtown Anchorage, making it convenient for visitors staying in the city.
Along the way, you’ll travel the scenic Seward Highway, stopping at some of the most breathtaking viewpoints along Turnagain Arm. The tour includes a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can observe and learn about rescued Alaskan animals such as bears, moose, and bison.
In Girdwood, you’ll have the chance to take the Alyeska Aerial Tram to the top of Mount Alyeska for sweeping views of the Chugach Mountains and Turnagain Arm, though the tram ticket costs extra ($48 per person). This is my top pick for guided tours, as it offers a great mix of nature, wildlife, and epic landscapes.
Turnagain Arm Tour
For those who prefer a shorter experience, the Turnagain Arm Tour is a five-hour trip that focuses on the beauty of the Seward Highway and Alaska’s wildlife. This tour includes multiple scenic stops where you can take in the landscapes of Turnagain Arm and Chugach National Forest.
You’ll also visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can get up close to Alaska’s incredible wildlife. The tour includes a brief stop in Girdwood, but unlike the previous tour, it does not include the Alyeska Tram. If you’re looking for a quicker trip that still offers spectacular views and wildlife encounters, this is a great choice.
The Great Alaskan Explorer: 4 Historic Towns
For those who want to see even more of Alaska in one day, The Great Alaskan Explorer: Historic Towns & Gold Treasures tour is a full-day guided experience covering four scenic towns—Anchorage, Girdwood, Hope, and Whittier.
This tour is an excellent choice for those with limited time, as it provides a snapshot of some of the most beautiful areas near Anchorage. The journey begins with a drive through Anchorage’s key landmarks, including Ship Creek, Earthquake Park, and Lake Hood, before heading south along Turnagain Arm. The tour includes short stops in Girdwood, Hope, and Whittier, allowing visitors to experience the charm of these small towns.
However, keep in mind that the stops are relatively short, so if you prefer leisurely exploration or are into photography, this may not be the best fit.
Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley Private Tour
For a more exclusive and personalized experience, the Turnagain Arm and Portage Valley Private Tour is the best choice. This private full-day tour is perfect for families or groups of up to 12 people, offering a customized itinerary and a knowledgeable guide. The tour covers Girdwood, Portage Valley, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, giving visitors an in-depth look at Alaska’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
A major highlight is the chance to visit Portage Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers near Anchorage. Since this is a private tour, you’ll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, it’s important to note that the Alyeska Tram and the Portage Lake cruise are not included in the price, so if you want to add those experiences, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.
Final Thoughts
Getting from Anchorage to Girdwood is easy, with multiple transportation options to fit any budget and travel style. Whether you drive yourself, take the scenic Alaska Railroad, hop on a shuttle, or book a guided tour, you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Alaska along the way.
If you value flexibility and want to explore at your own pace, renting a car is the best choice. For those who prefer a relaxed and scenic experience, the train offers incredible views and a unique journey. Shuttle services are a convenient and affordable alternative, while guided tours provide insightful narration and stress-free travel.
No matter how you get there, Girdwood is well worth the trip. From hiking trails and the Alyeska Tram to stunning glaciers and amazing wildlife encounters, this charming mountain town offers something for every traveler. Plan your trip, pick the best transportation for you, and enjoy the journey!
If you plan your Alaska adventures check out our related articles:
- How to get from Anchorage to Seward
- How to get from Anchorage to Whittier
- How to get from Anchorage to Denali
- How to get from Anchorage to Fairbanks
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