Girdwood

Girdwood is uniquely positioned in the northernmost temperate rainforest, giving it a distinct climate characterized by lush, moss-draped trees in the summer and massive, reliable snowfalls in the winter. The town retains a laid-back, ski-bum charm despite being home to Alaska's most luxurious resort. Whether you are riding the tram to 2,300 feet for panoramic views of the Turnagain Arm, panning for gold at the historic Crow Creek Mine, or relaxing in the Nordic spa, Girdwood offers a concentrated dose of Alaskan wilderness with all the comforts of modern hospitality.

Reasons to Visit

• Ride the Alyeska Aerial Tram for breathtaking views of hanging glaciers and the Turnagain Arm.
• Experience world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding at Alyeska Resort, known for its steep terrain and deep snow.
• Hike the lush, rainforest-canopied Winner Creek Trail.
• Pan for gold and explore local history at the preserved Crow Creek Mine.
• Relax and rejuvenate at the Alyeska Nordic Spa.

Things to Avoid

• Never approach or feed wildlife, especially moose and bears; they are wild and unpredictable.
• Avoid underestimating the weather; conditions can change rapidly, so always bring layers.
• Do not speed on the Seward Highway, particularly in winter, as ice and high winds are common.
• Avoid hiking alone in the backcountry without bear spray or proper navigation tools.

Local Transportation Tips

Getting around Girdwood is relatively easy. The Glacier Valley Transit (GVT) provides a free, reliable bus service that connects the resort, the town center, and major trailheads. Many areas are walkable or bikeable in the summer. However, having a rental car is highly recommended for traveling between Anchorage and Girdwood, and for exploring the surrounding Turnagain Arm region at your own pace.

Travel Etiquette

• Give moose and bears plenty of space; if a moose is on the trail, wait for it to move or turn around.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles on all hiking trails.
• Tipping 15-20% at restaurants and bars is standard practice.
• Be patient and courteous on the single-lane roads and trailheads.

Recommended Age Group

Girdwood offers activities tailored to almost every age group, making it an excellent destination for families and multi-generational trips.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While the fresh air is great, stroller access is limited on rugged trails. The tram ride is easy and scenic, however.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love panning for gold at Crow Creek Mine, taking easy nature walks, and riding the aerial tram.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Thrill-seeking teens can enjoy downhill mountain biking in the summer and world-class skiing or snowboarding in the winter.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults can take advantage of challenging backcountry hikes, fine dining, local breweries, and the luxurious Nordic spa.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The scenic tram rides, accessible paved paths near the resort, and comfortable lodge amenities make it a relaxing and beautiful getaway.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The Alyeska Resort, including the aerial tram and mountaintop dining, is fully wheelchair accessible.
• There is a paved, multi-use path that runs alongside the main road in Girdwood, suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
• Many backcountry trails, including parts of Winner Creek, are rugged, root-filled, and not suitable for mobility devices.
• Glacier Valley Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts.

Did You Know?

Girdwood was originally called 'Glacier City' and was located right on the water of the Turnagain Arm. Following the devastating 1964 Good Friday Earthquake, the land subsided, and the entire town had to be relocated 2.5 miles up the valley to its current location.

Cool Statistics

• Alyeska Resort averages an incredible 650 inches of snowfall annually at the summit.
• The town is situated in the northernmost temperate rainforest in the world.
• The Alyeska Aerial Tram ascends 2,025 feet in just three to seven minutes.