From Anchorage: Glen Alps Beginner’s Snowshoeing Adventure

If you’re thinking about trying snowshoeing in Alaska but don’t quite know where to start, this guided tour from Anchorage to Glen Alps might be just what you need. It promises a gentle introduction to the sport, with plenty of chances to see wildlife and soak in spectacular views without any prior experience required.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it is — gear, instruction, and support are all taken care of, making it suitable even for first-timers. Plus, the naturalist guides seem genuinely knowledgeable, which adds a layer of depth to the experience. On the flip side, the tour is about three hours long, and if you’re someone with mobility limitations or back issues, it might not be the best fit.

This tour feels ideal for curious travelers wanting a manageable, scenic outing that combines outdoor activity with a taste of Alaska’s wilderness. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it offers a relaxed way to connect with nature in a small group setting.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners with gear and instruction included
• Wildlife sightings like moose, hares, lynx, and birds are common
• Stunning panoramic views of Anchorage, Cook Inlet, and surrounding mountains
• Wildlife and forest education from naturalist guides
• Value-packed experience with transport, snacks, gear, and expert guidance included
• Limited to small groups (up to 12), ensuring a personalized touch

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Glen Alps Snowshoe Adventure?

This tour offers a laid-back, guided introduction to snowshoeing, perfect for those new to the sport. It doesn’t require any experience, just a willingness to learn and enjoy the outdoors. The journey starts with a quick beginner lesson on how to use snowshoes, and from there, you’ll head into the snowy wilderness of the Chugach Mountains.

The whole trip lasts about three hours, which makes it a manageable outing for most. It begins in downtown Anchorage, with transportation provided from the Egan Center, so no need to worry about figuring out how to get there. The tour is limited to small groups of 12, which means more personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Introduction

You’ll meet in front of the Egan Center, a convenient downtown Anchorage spot with nearby parking garages. Once assembled, your guides will provide all necessary gear — snowshoes, trekking poles if you like, and day packs if requested — and give a straightforward lesson on how to walk in snowshoes. This initial part is perfect for nervous beginners; most people find they get comfortable walking in snowshoes within minutes.

The Snowshoe Trek through Glen Alps

After the quick tutorial, the real fun begins. You’ll head out into the snow-covered landscape of Glen Alps, a part of the Chugach Mountains just east of Anchorage. The trail is roughly two miles long and takes you through a mix of hemlock forests and alpine meadows blanketed in snow.

During the trek, you’ll enjoy views of the South Fork Campbell Creek Valley, which is truly breathtaking. The naturalist guides are great at pointing out different trees, explaining the significance of the area’s ecosystems, and sharing insights about local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled — many travelers report spotting moose, and some have even seen lynx or small mammals along the way.

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Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

One of the most enjoyable parts of this experience is the chance to see local wildlife. Reviewers frequently mention seeing moose, and others note bird sightings and small mammals. The guides are known for being knowledgeable, providing fun facts, and often taking photos for guests. The views from the trail are equally impressive, with vistas overlooking the Anchorage Bowl and Cook Inlet.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $129 per person, the tour covers pretty much everything you need: snowshoes, transportation from downtown, snacks, water, and optional gear like trekking poles and day packs. This all-inclusive approach offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized experience you get in a small-group setting.

The only thing not included is hotel pickup and drop-off, but the meeting point is straightforward — in front of the Egan Center, with parking options nearby. You should bring sunglasses, a hat, camera, hiking shoes, gloves, and snow clothing to stay comfortable and protected against the elements.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

From reviews, it’s clear that guides play a crucial role in making this tour memorable. Words like “wonderful,” “experienced,” and “educational” come up repeatedly. One traveler specifically praised guide Mike as “a terrific instructor and a delightful person” who made the whole afternoon outstanding.

Many reviewers mention how the views are “spectacular” and worth the trip, with some noting that the scenery alone justifies the cost. The fact that snacks and gear are provided means you can focus on enjoying the outdoors without fussing over supplies or equipment.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• Wildlife sightings: Spotting moose and other animals feels like a bonus of Alaska’s wilderness, and guides facilitate this well.
• Scenic vistas: The panoramic views of the mountains, valleys, and Anchorage’s skyline are stunning and likely to be memorable.
• Ease and accessibility: No experience needed, gear included, and the short duration make it accessible for most.

What Could Be Better

While most reviews are glowing, some might find the terrain steep or hilly at certain points, which could be challenging if you aren’t comfortable walking on uneven ground. Also, if you’re seeking a longer or more strenuous adventure, this brief trip might feel limited.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour is best suited for those who want an easy, guided introduction to snowshoeing amid Alaska’s beautiful winter landscape. It’s ideal if you’re curious about outdoor activities but don’t have prior experience, or if you want a relaxed, educational outing.

If you’re traveling with mobility issues, back problems, or respiratory issues, this might not be the best choice due to the physical demands of walking on snow in hilly terrain. Also, it’s not suitable for pets, weapons, or drones, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring any of those.

Final Thoughts

For a beginner-friendly, scenic introduction to snowshoeing in Alaska, this tour from Anchorage offers a lot of bang for your buck. The thoughtful inclusion of gear, snacks, and guided instruction removes many common barriers for first-timers. The naturalist guides seem genuinely committed to making the experience both fun and educational, which adds a lot of value.

The small group size helps foster a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for taking your time and soaking in the views. If you’re after a manageable outdoor adventure that combines wildlife sightings, stunning scenery, and learning about Alaska’s forests, this is a strong choice.

While it might not satisfy those looking for a longer, more intense trek, it’s a solid, practical way to dip your toes into snowshoeing and enjoy the winter wonderland that surrounds Anchorage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior experience to join this tour?
No, this tour is designed for beginners. The guides will give you a quick lesson on how to use snowshoes before heading out.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from downtown Anchorage (the Egan Center) is part of the package, making it convenient to join.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, camera, hiking shoes, gloves, and snow clothing to stay warm and comfortable.

Can I bring my pet or drone?
No, pets and drones are not allowed on this tour.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about three hours, including the introduction, trekking, and return.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Moose are common, and some guests report seeing lynx, hares, birds, and small mammals.

Is there any gear I need to provide?
No, snowshoes, trekking poles (if requested), and day packs are provided.

Who is the tour provider?
Go Hike Alaska runs this guided experience, ensuring knowledgeable guides and well-managed outings.

If you’re in Anchorage and want a straightforward, scenic, and educational outdoor activity, this snowshoe adventure could be a great pick. It combines the best of Alaska’s winter scenery with the chance to learn about local wildlife and forests — all in a friendly, beginner-friendly package.

You can check availability for your dates here: