Wilderness and Wine Tasting out of Anchorage

Planning a trip to Anchorage and looking for an experience that combines stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and a relaxed wine tasting? This Wilderness and Wine Tasting tour offers just that, and it’s garnered perfect reviews from those who’ve taken it. Although I haven’t done it myself, the details and traveler feedback suggest it’s a well-rounded way to see some of Alaska’s highlights without packing your entire trip with multiple tours.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances scenic drives with up-close wildlife encounters and a charming wine tasting afterward. The fact that it’s a relatively short 6-hour excursion makes it manageable even for those with busy schedules or who want to keep their day flexible. One possible consideration is that the tour involves a good mix of outdoor activity and travel, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy moving at a comfortable pace and don’t mind a bit of travel time.

If you’re someone who loves scenery, wildlife, and a touch of relaxation with local wine, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want an immersive yet laid-back experience that’s rich in authentic Alaskan sights and flavors.

Key Points

• Wildlife Highlights: Expect to see Dall sheep, Beluga whales, moose, bears, and more, with expert guides pointing out animals as you drive.
• Stunning Scenery: The drive along Turnagain Arm, Portage Glacier Lake, and other scenic spots offers plenty of photo opportunities.
• Wildlife Center: Spend quality time at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can get close to native animals and learn about their stories.
• Wine Tasting: Conclude your day with a relaxed wine tasting session back in Anchorage, featuring local wines and expert guidance.
• All-Inclusive Value: Your entry fees, permits, and wine tasting are included in the cost, making it a straightforward experience.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 travelers, so you’re likely to receive personalized attention and have plenty of chances to ask questions.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Duration
The tour kicks off in downtown Anchorage at 10:00 a.m., with pickup offered if needed—perfect for those staying in or near the city. It lasts around 6 hours, so you’re looking at a full half-day of adventure, making it doable even if you have other plans later.

The Scenic Drive along Turnagain Arm
This part of the trip is where the landscape really shines. The drive is renowned for breathtaking views of the water, mountains, and wildlife. The possibility of spotting Dall sheep and Beluga whales adds a layer of excitement—these sightings aren’t guaranteed but are more likely than you’d think, especially if you’re patient and lucky.

Wildlife Encounter at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
For animal lovers, this stop is the highlight. The Center spans 200 acres and functions as an orphanage and sanctuary for native Alaskan wildlife. You’ll see moose, bears, wolves, muskox, bison, and porcupines among others. Many reviews mention how engaging and informative the guides are, with one reviewer stating, “We saw Buluga whales, a black bear, swans, salmon, mountain goats all in the wild!” That quote hints at the high level of wildlife activity you might experience.

Portage Glacier Lake and Surprise Stops
Next, you’ll visit stunning Portage Glacier Lake, where the ice-capped glacier creates a dramatic backdrop perfect for photos. The guide may also surprise you with additional stops, perhaps for lunch or scenic overlooks—these unexpected moments often become the memorable parts of the trip.

The Wine Tasting Finale
Back in Anchorage, the day ends with a wine tasting experience. The tour includes a flight of local wines, guided by knowledgeable staff who can point out the nuances of each pour. Travelers have praised this part as “wonderful,” and one review notes that the experience was tailored to individual preferences, making it feel quite personal and special.

Pricing and Value
At $199 per person, this tour offers a good balance of activities and inclusions. Entry fees, permits, and the wine tasting are covered, so you won’t be surprised by extra costs. When you consider the personalized touches—like the private tour adjustments mentioned in reviews—it feels well worth the price for a half-day of memorable sights and experiences.

What Travelers Are Saying

Multiple reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer raved, “She accompanied us on short walks, pointing out wildlife and taking photos,” emphasizing how engaging and attentive the guides are. Another mentioned that the tour was “tweaked to fit her preferences,” which suggests flexibility and a personalized touch.

The wildlife sightings get consistent praise. Seeing Beluga whales, mountain goats, and bears in the wild is no small feat, and travelers appreciate the chance to witness these animals in their natural habitat. The views at Portage Glacier Lake are described as “spectacular,” making the scenic stops well worth the time.

The wine tasting, often overlooked in outdoor tours, is a highlight for many. With local wines and expert guidance, it provides a relaxing end to the day—something many travelers find adds a refined touch to the adventure.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size
With a maximum of 12 travelers, you’ll likely get a more intimate experience. The tour includes pickup, which adds convenience, especially if you’re staying in Anchorage. The group size also means you’ll have ample opportunity to ask questions and get personalized recommendations.

Timing and Flexibility
The tour starts at 10:00 a.m. and lasts about 6 hours, making it a good option for those wanting to explore without rushing. The itinerary is flexible enough to include surprise stops, which could be a bonus if weather or wildlife sightings fluctuate.

Age Restrictions and Requirements
You need to be 21+ with ID to partake in the wine tasting, which is standard. Most travelers can participate, but if you’re traveling with younger guests or non-drinkers, this might be a factor to consider.

Cost and Value
For $199, you’re paying for a well-rounded experience that includes wildlife, scenic views, and wine—quite a package. Keep in mind, food isn’t included, so you might want to plan a snack or lunch beforehand or afterwards.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits nature lovers who want a taste of Alaska’s wildlife and scenery with a touch of local flavor through wine. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a small-group setting, ensuring a more personal experience. If you’re interested in wildlife, scenic drives, and a relaxed afternoon sampling Alaskan wines, this tour checks all those boxes.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the emphasis on wildlife and scenic spots makes it suitable for travelers with older kids or teenagers interested in nature. If you want a laid-back, engaging way to see some of Alaska’s best without dedicating an entire day to separate activities, this could be your best bet.

The Sum Up

Overall, Wilderness and Wine Tasting out of Anchorage appears to deliver a balanced, enjoyable experience that highlights Alaska’s natural beauty and wildlife, capped off with a pleasant wine tasting. It makes a good choice for those who want a manageable, insightful tour with plenty of chances for memorable photos and wildlife sightings. The small group and knowledgeable guide add a layer of intimacy and expertise that many travelers appreciate.

If you value scenic views, wildlife encounters, and winding down with a local wine, this tour promises a relaxed yet enriching day. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to explore Alaska’s wilderness without the hassle of multiple tours or long travel days—perfect for a laid-back, memorable adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the tour includes the fees for entering the National Forest and going through the Whittier tunnel, making logistics smooth.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5-6 hours, providing a full but manageable half-day of exploration.

Can I see wildlife on this tour?
Yes, there’s a good chance to spot Dall sheep, Beluga whales, moose, bears, and other native animals, especially along the scenic drive and wildlife center.

Is there a limit to the group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and interactive.

Do I need to bring any special gear?
While specific gear isn’t mentioned, comfortable outdoor clothing and camera equipment are always recommended for scenic stops and wildlife viewing.

Are meals included?
No, food isn’t included, so you may want to bring a snack or plan to eat before or after the tour.

Are there age restrictions?
You need to be 21 or older with ID to participate in the wine tasting.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the focus on wildlife and scenery can appeal to older children and teenagers interested in nature.

This tour offers a well-rounded slice of Alaska’s wilderness, wildlife, and local flavors, making it an experience worth considering if you want a memorable, guided day out of Anchorage.