Girdwood Things To Do

Winter is an enchanting time to explore Girdwood and play in the snow. Spring brings color and light, especially as we grow closer to the summer solstice. Summer tends to be Girdwood’s busiest season for tourism as people flock into town for flight seeing tours, glacier adventures, biking and more. Fall is perfect for those looking to avoid crowds or to fish for rainbow trout.

Girdwood is the perfect “one-stop-shop,” year-round destination. Spend multiple nights in Girdwood as you experience a variety of day adventures. You can easily pull off a day trip from Girdwood to Anchroage, Seward, or Cooper Landing. Check out our lodging options here.

Explore Girdwood hiking trails in the summer and winter. Some Girdwood trails are multi-use. Enjoy scenic views from up high after you hike the North Face of Alyeska, and rest your legs as you ride the tram down. For a long hike with less elevation gain, try Girdwood’s Winner Creek Trail, which includes a self-operated hand tram to cross the river! Head 20 minutes to Portage to enjoy a family-friendly glacier hike to Byron Glacier.

Pull up a stool and experience Girdwood’s small-town charm at one of the local bars. Listen to live music year round at a variety of venues throughout town, including Chair 5, The Hightower Pub, and the Sitzmark.

Looking for something to add to your Alaska bucket list? Experience ultimate adventures with these outfitters that offer guided trips into Alaska’s beautiful backcountry.

If you’re looking for a way to cool down, check out these activities. There are two major marinas (Whittier & Seward) within a 20 minute to 1 hour drive. There are also multiple rivers close-by for recreation.

Flight Seeing in Girdwood

Alpine Air is Girdwood’s local flight seeing tour company that offers daily, year-round flightseeing tours and a free shuttle from anywhere in Girdwood. In the summer, enjoy a scenic flight to Punch Bowl Glacier where you’ll get to go on an unforgettable dog sled adventure!

Fishing Opportunities Close to Girdwood

For those planning an Alaska fishing trip, check out our article about fishing out of Girdwood. If you’re looking to catch halibut, salmon, cod or rock fish, head to Whittier or Seward. If river fishing is more your thing, check out the outfitters in Cooper Landing.