Girdwood Travel Guide: Top Things to Do (End of 2025 Update)
Girdwood, a charming ski town with hippie vibes nestled in a glacial valley, sits just 40 miles south of Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway. Surrounded by rainforest and Chugach peaks, it’s a year-round playground—world-class winter skiing at Alyeska Resort and summer hiking, biking, and festivals. Perfect for a day trip, weekend escape, or base on a Kenai Peninsula adventure.
Quick Tips
- Getting here: Drive the Seward Highway (stunning views of Turnagain Arm—watch for beluga whales and bore tides). No public transit from Anchorage, but rentals or tours available.
- Best time: Winter (Dec–Apr) for powder skiing; summer (Jun–Aug) for hiking and festivals.
- 2025/2026 Ski Season: Alyeska tentatively opens late November 2025, closes late April 2026. Aerial tram closed for maintenance starting Sept 30, 2025 (reopens late fall).
Top Things to Do in Girdwood
Ski or Ride Alyeska Resort
Alaska’s premier ski area with 1,610 acres, 76 trails, and epic Chugach powder (650+ inches annually). Night skiing select dates Dec–Mar. In summer, ride the tram (when open) for views or hike/mountain bike downhill trails. Don’t miss the Roundhouse Museum at the top.
Explore Crow Creek Mine
Historic 1896 gold mine—pan for gold, tour buildings, or just wander the scenic grounds. Open summer (typically May–Sept, 9am–6pm); admission ~$5–$15 (panning extra). Great photo spot and wedding venue.
Hike to Virgin Creek Falls
Short, easy 0.5-mile trail to a beautiful waterfall—perfect quick adventure (muddy/slippery after rain).
Winner Creek Trail & Hand Tram
4-mile moderate trail with the iconic hand-pulled tram over a gorge (available summer only, after Memorial Day).
Flightseeing or Heli Tours
Alpine Air offers glacier landings and scenic flights—breathtaking views of hanging glaciers and peaks.
Nearby Highlights (Short Drives)
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
200-acre sanctuary with bears, moose, bison, muskox, wolves, and more in natural enclosures. Open year-round; admission ~$20–$27 adults (2025 rates).
Byron Glacier & Trail
Easy 1.6-mile round-trip hike to glacier views; occasional ice caves (enter at own risk—collapses common).
Beluga Point
Scenic pullout en route—great for bore tide viewing and beluga spotting.
Festivals (2026 Dates)
- Girdwood Forest Fair → July 4–6: Arts, crafts, music, food—no dogs/politics.
- Slush Cup/Spring Carnival → Mid-April weekend: Costume pond-skimming and events.
- Blueberry Festival → Mid-August weekend: Berry treats, music, contests.
Where to Eat & Drink
- Bake Shop — Soups, sandwiches, pizza.
- Girdwood Brewing — Craft beer + rotating food trucks.
- Sitzmark/Chair 5 — Casual burgers, pizza, live music.
- Seven Glaciers — Fine dining atop the mountain (tram access).
- Double Musky/Jack Sprat — Steaks/seafood or creative global fare.
Girdwood blends adventure, nature, and laid-back Alaskan charm—ideal escape from Anchorage!