Girdwood, Alaska, is a small mountain town with a big mix of outdoor adventure, local food, wildlife viewing, and easy access to the Chugach Mountains. It works well as a day trip from Anchorage, a weekend base for Alyeska Resort, or a longer stop for hiking, biking, skiing, and glacier tours.
Quick Answer
The best things to do in Girdwood include riding the Alyeska Aerial Tram, hiking Crow Pass or Winner Creek Gorge, visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, skiing or biking at Alyeska Resort, relaxing at Alyeska Nordic Spa, trying local food and beer, and planning around summer events like the Girdwood Forest Fair.
Key Takeaways
- Summer is best for hiking, biking, glacier tours, farmers markets, and the Forest Fair; winter is best for skiing, snowboarding, spa days, and snowy mountain views.
- Alyeska Resort is the main activity hub, with the tram, ski area, bike park, restaurants, and nearby spa all close together.
- Check current trail conditions before hiking. The Winner Creek hand tram is closed, and Crow Pass is a serious backcountry route.
- Girdwood is easier without a car than many Alaska towns because Glacier Valley Transit offers free local transportation within the valley.
At a Glance
| Best Time to Visit | Late May through early September for hiking, biking, markets, and glacier tours; winter for skiing and snowboarding. |
| Ideal Trip Length | One full day for highlights; two to three days if you want trails, spa time, dining, and a tour. |
| Difficulty | Easy to strenuous, depending on the activity. Tram rides, dining, and AWCC are easy; Crow Pass and downhill biking require experience. |
| Tools Needed | Layers, rain shell, sturdy shoes, water, trail map, bear-aware safety habits, and reservations for tours, spa visits, and some resort activities. |
| Cost | Free for many trails and local transit; moderate for food, beer, tram tickets, and AWCC; higher for spa treatments, skiing, helicopter tours, and glacier dog sledding. |
Explore Alyeska Resort
Alyeska Resort is the main hub for many of Girdwood’s best experiences. Set in the Chugach Mountains, it brings together lodging, restaurants, the aerial tram, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking access, and spa time in one compact area.
In winter, Alyeska is the place to plan a ski or snowboard day. In summer, it becomes a base for hiking, biking, tram rides, scenic meals, and mountain views. Even if you are not staying overnight, the resort area is worth visiting because several top Girdwood activities start nearby.
Pro Tip: If you only have one day in Girdwood, pair Alyeska Resort with the aerial tram, a short hike, and either the Nordic spa or Girdwood Brewing Company for an easy, well-rounded itinerary.
Hike the Crow Pass Trail
Crow Pass Trail is one of the most dramatic hikes near Girdwood, but it is not a casual walk. The U.S. Forest Service describes it as a 26-mile hike and notes that the first four miles are uphill. Some local route descriptions list shorter mileage depending on the exact endpoints, so treat it as a strenuous backcountry route rather than a simple day hike.
Expect alpine scenery, old mining remains, glacial views, and the feeling of stepping quickly into Alaska’s mountain wilderness. Many visitors hike only part of the trail from the Girdwood side for a shorter out-and-back, while experienced hikers may plan the full point-to-point route toward Eagle River.
Warning: The full Crow Pass route involves remote terrain, fast-changing weather, possible wildlife encounters, and seasonal hazards. Do not attempt the full trail without proper navigation, layers, food, water, emergency gear, and current trail-condition research.
Visit the Girdwood Brewing Company
After hiking, skiing, biking, or tram riding, Girdwood Brewing Company is one of the easiest places to relax. The brewery has a timber-framed taproom, outdoor seating, mountain views, local art, rotating food trucks, and a taplist that changes through the season.
Because the beer lineup rotates, check the current taplist instead of planning around a specific beer. Recent official taplist examples have included crisp lighter beers, house IPAs, hazy IPAs, stouts, sours, and barrel-aged releases.
Unique Craft Beer Selection
| What to Try | Best For |
|---|---|
| House IPA or hazy IPA | Visitors who like citrus, pine, tropical hops, or a bolder après-adventure beer. |
| Kölsch, lager, or pilsner | A lighter, crisp choice after hiking, biking, or skiing. |
| Stout or darker seasonal release | Cool-weather visits, winter evenings, and rich roasted flavors. |
| Non-alcoholic options | Designated drivers, families, and anyone skipping alcohol. |
Relaxing Atmosphere and Vibes
The best part of Girdwood Brewing is the mountain-town atmosphere. You will usually find a mix of locals, skiers, hikers, bikers, and road-trippers swapping stories after a day outside. The outdoor space is especially appealing when the weather is clear.
Local Events and Activities
Girdwood Brewing often hosts community events, beer releases, food trucks, and music-related happenings. Events change often, so check the brewery’s current calendar or social pages before building your day around a specific event.
Take a Scenic Tram Ride
The Alyeska Aerial Tram is one of the easiest ways to see Girdwood from above. The official Alyeska Aerial Tram page describes a seven-minute scenic ride that reaches 2,300 feet of elevation, with views of Turnagain Arm, hanging glaciers, and the Chugach Mountains.
At the top, take time for photos, short walks, and a meal or drink if facilities are open. Weather can change quickly, and cloud cover can hide the views, so check conditions before buying tickets if the scenery is your main reason for going.
Discover the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is one of the best stops near Girdwood for families, wildlife lovers, photographers, and first-time Alaska visitors. Located in Portage Valley, the center cares for injured and orphaned animals and supports conservation, education, research, and quality animal care.
- See Alaska wildlife in a responsible setting: Visitors may see animals such as bears, moose, musk oxen, wood bison, wolves, porcupines, and birds, depending on the current residents and viewing conditions.
- Give yourself enough time: Plan at least one to two hours so you are not rushing from habitat to habitat.
- Pair it with Turnagain Arm: The drive between Anchorage, Girdwood, and Portage Valley is scenic, so AWCC works well as part of a broader day trip.
Enjoy the Girdwood Farmers Market
The Girdwood Farmers Market is a good summer stop when it is in season. Market dates, vendors, and hours can change, so verify the current schedule before you go. When active, the market is a friendly place to find local produce, baked goods, prepared food, crafts, music, and community energy.
Fresh Local Produce
Alaska’s short growing season makes fresh local produce feel special. Depending on the week, you may find greens, root vegetables, herbs, berries, preserves, baked goods, and other small-batch food items.
Artisan Crafts and Goods
Look for handmade goods that reflect the region, including pottery, jewelry, textiles, woodwork, photography, soaps, and small gifts. Buying directly from vendors is also a simple way to support the Girdwood community.
Experience Summer Glacier Tours
Girdwood is close to glacier country, which makes summer glacier tours a memorable splurge. Options may include helicopter flightseeing, glacier landings, glacier hiking, kayaking near glacial water, or glacier dog sledding, depending on the operator, season, and weather.
These tours are usually weather-dependent and often require advance reservations. Read the operator’s cancellation policy, weight rules, gear requirements, and pickup details before booking.
Note: Glacier tours can be expensive, but they are also among the most weather-sensitive activities in the area. Keep your itinerary flexible in case your tour needs to move times or dates.
Go Skiing or Snowboarding
Winter visitors should put Alyeska high on the list. The resort’s official mountain page describes 1,610 skiable acres and terrain for a range of abilities, from beginner-friendly runs to steep expert terrain.
Ski Areas Overview
Alyeska is known for big snow, mountain views, and a mix of groomed runs, steeps, bowls, and beginner terrain. Newer skiers should start with lessons or easier lower-mountain terrain, while advanced riders can look for more challenging zones when conditions allow.
Equipment Rentals Available
You do not need to bring every piece of gear. Rentals are available through resort-area shops, but sizes and availability can tighten during holidays and busy snow weekends. Reserve ahead when possible, especially for families or groups.
Stroll Through the Girdwood Art Walk
Girdwood has a creative side that pairs well with its outdoor reputation. The local arts scene includes indoor galleries, outdoor displays, handcrafted goods, and community events. Start with the Girdwood Arts Council or the Girdwood Center for Visual Arts if you want paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photography, pottery, woodwork, textiles, and Alaska-made gifts.
- Look for local galleries: They are great places to find work by Alaska artists.
- Notice outdoor art: Murals and installations add personality to walks around town.
- Buy small: Prints, cards, jewelry, and ceramics make easy souvenirs without taking up much luggage space.
Relax at the Alyeska Nordic Spa
Alyeska Nordic Spa is a strong choice when you want recovery time between bigger adventures. Set on the grounds of Alyeska Resort, the spa focuses on hydrotherapy, with hot and cold pools, saunas, steam rooms, and outdoor relaxation areas surrounded by mountain scenery.
Book ahead, especially for weekends and peak travel periods. The spa is a good fit after skiing, hiking, biking, or a long travel day, but check current policies for age limits, reservations, and service availability before you go.
Try the Local Cuisine
Girdwood’s food scene is small but satisfying, with casual cafés, resort dining, bakeries, pubs, food trucks, and seasonal specials. Fresh seafood, hearty breakfasts, baked goods, local beer, and comfort food all fit the mountain-town setting.
Three flavors to look for while you are in the area:
- Wild Alaska salmon: Often grilled, smoked, or served in sandwiches, salads, and entrées.
- Reindeer sausage: A savory Alaska staple that appears in breakfast dishes, hot dogs, and casual plates.
- Crab and halibut: Availability varies, but seafood is worth considering when it is fresh and well-prepared.
Go Mountain Biking
When the snow melts, Girdwood becomes a strong mountain biking destination. Alyeska Bike Park offers trail options and rentals, including downhill and full-suspension bikes. Terrain can be technical, so choose routes that match your skill level.
Scenic Trails Overview
Beginners should ask about easier routes and local conditions before committing to a downhill trail. More experienced riders can look for lift-accessed descents, technical terrain, and forested singletrack when the park is operating.
Gear Rental Options
Rental options may include mountain bikes, helmets, pads, repair items, and other accessories. If you plan to ride the bike park, protective gear is not optional in spirit; it is part of making the day safer and more enjoyable.
Safety Tips Provided
- Wear a helmet and pads: Downhill riding can be fast and rocky.
- Match the trail to your ability: Do not start on advanced terrain just because it looks short on a map.
- Respect closures: Trails may close for mud, maintenance, weather, or events.
- Carry water and layers: Weather can shift even on short rides.
Visit Winner Creek Trail
Winner Creek is one of the most popular hiking areas near Girdwood because it offers rainforest scenery, boardwalks, creek views, and relatively easy access from the Alyeska area. It is a good choice for visitors who want a forest hike without committing to Crow Pass.
Warning: The Winner Creek hand tram is closed. Check the current U.S. Forest Service Winner Creek Gorge page before you hike, and do not plan a route that depends on using the hand tram.
| Feature | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Best For | Forest hiking, families with trail-ready kids, rainy-day scenery, and visitors staying near Alyeska. |
| Difficulty | Generally easier than Crow Pass, but roots, mud, slick boardwalks, and changing closures can affect the hike. |
| Current Caution | The hand tram is closed, so confirm your turnaround point before starting. |
Experience Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is one of the most iconic Alaska experiences, and Girdwood visitors may find both winter-style mushing experiences and summer glacier dog sledding tours that use helicopter access. Availability depends on season, snow, weather, and operator schedules.
Expect to meet energetic sled dogs, learn a bit about mushing culture, and ride through snowy or glacier scenery if conditions allow. Summer glacier dog sledding is usually more expensive because it involves a helicopter flight, but it can be a standout trip memory.
- Book early: Popular dates sell out, and weather windows matter.
- Read weight and safety rules: Helicopter-based tours often have strict requirements.
- Dress warmly: Glacier conditions can feel cold even when town is mild.
Attend the Girdwood Forest Fair
The Girdwood Forest Fair is one of the town’s signature summer events. The official 2026 fair is scheduled for July 3, 4, and 5, and the event traditionally features Alaska artists, handcrafted items, food vendors, entertainers, and a lively community atmosphere.
If your trip overlaps with the fair, plan extra time for parking, shuttle logistics, crowds, and wandering. The fair has its own rules and policies, so check the official site before arriving.
For a summer visit, the Forest Fair can turn a regular Girdwood weekend into a full community celebration with local art, food, music, and mountain-town energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Girdwood, Alaska?
Late May through early September is best for hiking, biking, markets, glacier tours, and long daylight. Winter is best for skiing, snowboarding, snowy scenery, and cozy spa or brewery time. The best month depends on whether you want summer trails or winter snow.
Are there accommodations available in Girdwood?
Yes. Girdwood has resort lodging, cabins, vacation rentals, inns, and small local stays. Alyeska Resort is the most convenient base for the tram, skiing, biking, restaurants, and the Nordic spa, while other lodging options can give you a quieter local feel.
Is public transportation available in Girdwood?
Yes. Glacier Valley Transit provides free public transportation within Girdwood Valley. Shuttle services also connect Anchorage and Girdwood, but schedules and pickup points vary, so confirm details before relying on them.
Do I need a car in Girdwood?
A car gives you the most flexibility, especially for the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Portage Valley, trailheads, and side trips along Turnagain Arm. That said, you can still enjoy many core Girdwood activities with local transit, walking paths, resort-area access, and shuttles.
What wildlife can I expect to see in Girdwood?
In and around Girdwood, you may see moose, eagles, bears, salmon, and smaller forest wildlife, depending on season and location. For a more reliable wildlife-viewing stop, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center near Portage Valley.
Are there guided tours available in Girdwood?
Yes. Guided options may include glacier tours, helicopter flightseeing, dog sledding, wildlife tours, hiking, biking lessons, and winter activities. Book ahead for popular summer and winter dates, and always confirm weather policies.
Is the Winner Creek hand tram open?
No. The Winner Creek hand tram is closed, so do not plan a hike that depends on crossing it. Check the U.S. Forest Service Winner Creek Gorge page for current information before heading out.
Conclusion
Girdwood is one of the easiest places in Alaska to combine big scenery with practical, close-together activities. You can ride the tram, hike through rainforest, visit a wildlife sanctuary, ski or bike at Alyeska, relax in a Nordic spa, try local beer and seafood, and time your trip around summer events. Check current trail, weather, tour, and event conditions before you go, then build your visit around the season that fits your style best.
Sources
- Alyeska Resort Aerial Tram — tram elevation, ride experience, and mountain-view details.
- Alyeska Resort About the Mountain — skiable acres and ski/snowboard terrain overview.
- U.S. Forest Service Crow Pass Trail — trail length, difficulty, and route context.
- U.S. Forest Service Winner Creek Gorge — current Winner Creek access note and hand tram closure.
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center — sanctuary mission, location, and visitor information.
- Girdwood Forest Fair — current event dates and festival details.
