From Anchorage: Chugach State Park Winter Walking Tour

Explore the winter wonderland of Chugach State Park on this guided walking tour from Anchorage. Discover the park’s frozen landscapes, from the stunning Barbara Falls to the intricate ice formations lining the South Fork Eagle River. With an expert guide, you’ll explore the boreal forests, keep an eye out for local wildlife, and learn about the region’s unique ecology. This 3-hour experience offers an immersive and educational outdoor adventure for nature enthusiasts. Limited to just 12 participants, it’s the perfect way to experience the beauty and serenity of Alaska’s wilderness during the winter months. But what makes this tour truly special? Let’s take a closer look.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Walking Tours In Anchorage.

Key Points

• Explore the frozen wonders of Chugach State Park, including the mesmerizing Barbara Falls, on a guided 3-hour winter walking tour from Anchorage.

• Observe intricate ice formations and learn about the boreal forest ecosystem from an experienced guide during the tour.

• Chance to spot local wildlife like moose, snowshoe hares, and various birds in their natural winter habitat.

• Tour includes transportation from downtown Anchorage, necessary equipment, and light refreshments, with a maximum group size of 12 participants.

• Suitable for guests who can comfortably walk at least 2 miles, with no prior hiking experience required, though not recommended for those with physical limitations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

Starting at $109.00 per person, the Chugach State Park Winter Walking Tour lasts for 3 hours and accommodates a limited group size of up to 12 participants.

The tour is conducted in English, and there’s free cancellation up to 4 days in advance for a full refund.

However, the experience isn’t suitable for those with back problems, mobility issues, heart conditions, respiratory concerns, or wheelchair users. Plus, children 5 and younger aren’t permitted.

Key highlights include admiring the frozen Barbara Falls, observing ice formations, and learning about the local flora and fauna from an experienced guide.

Potential wildlife sightings may include moose, snowshoe hares, and various birds.

Experience Highlights

The Chugach State Park Winter Walking Tour offers visitors a chance to admire the stunning frozen Barbara Falls, a highlight of the experience.

Participants will observe the intricate ice formations along the South Fork Eagle River, including icicles, ice bridges, and frozen water.

Throughout the tour, an experienced guide will share insights into Alaska’s boreal forests, pointing out the diverse flora and fauna.

Potential wildlife sightings include majestic moose, elusive snowshoe hares, and a variety of bird species.

This adventure provides a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Alaska’s winter wonderland and learn about the fascinating biological processes at work in this remarkable landscape.

Tour Itinerary

Departing from Anchorage, the tour follows the scenic South Fork Eagle River, eventually reaching the base of the breathtaking Barbara Falls. Here, participants can marvel at the icicles, ice bridges, and frozen water that make up this stunning natural wonder. The tour then explores the diverse vegetation of the boreal forest, including white spruces, paper birches, and aspens. Along the way, guests learn about the biological processes involving lichen, mosses, and trees from the knowledgeable guide.

Activity	Duration	Location
Depart Anchorage	–	–
Reach Barbara Falls	1 hour	South Fork Eagle River
Explore Boreal Forest	2 hours	Chugach State Park
Observe Wildlife	Ongoing	Throughout the tour
Return to Anchorage	–	–

Inclusions and Requirements

The tour includes transportation from downtown Anchorage, day packs, trekking poles (upon request), snacks, water, and an experienced guide to lead the expedition.

Participants should come prepared with the following:

1. Sunglasses to protect against the glare of the snow.
2. A hat and gloves to stay warm in the chilly winter weather.
3. A camera to capture the stunning frozen landscapes and potential wildlife sightings.
4. Sturdy hiking shoes that can handle uneven, snowy terrain, as the tour involves walking at least 2 miles.

While no prior hiking experience is required, participants should be able to comfortably cover the distance on the tour.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Meeting Point and Additional Information

Outside the main entrance of the William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center, corner of 5th and E street, is the designated meeting location for the Chugach State Park Winter Walking Tour. Parking is available in nearby garages. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, the tour does not permit pets, weapons, sharp objects, or drones.

Permitted	Not Permitted
Sunglasses	Pets
Hat	Weapons
Camera	Sharp Objects
Hiking Shoes	Drones
Gloves

Adhering to these guidelines will help create an enjoyable and memorable winter adventure in Chugach State Park.

Customer Reviews

Reviewers have generally rated the Chugach State Park Winter Walking Tour quite favorably, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 9 customer reviews.

Positive feedback highlights several key aspects of the tour:

1. Travelers appreciated the knowledgeable and engaging guides who shared their expertise on the local flora, fauna, and natural processes.

2. The stunning scenery of the frozen waterfall, ice formations, and boreal forest left a lasting impression on participants.

3. Many reviewers were delighted by the excellent wildlife sightings, including moose, snowshoe hares, and a variety of bird species.

4. The hiking experience and ample photo opportunities were also praised by those who took the tour.

Pricing and Availability

The Chugach State Park Winter Walking Tour is priced at $109.00 per person. The 3-hour tour has a limited group size of 12 participants and is conducted in English. Cancellations made up to 4 days in advance are eligible for a full refund. However, the tour is not suitable for those with physical limitations, including back problems, mobility impairments, heart conditions, and respiratory issues. Children under 5 years old are also not permitted.

Tour Details	Specification
Price	From $109.00 per person
Duration	3 hours
Group Size	Limited to 12 participants
Language	English
Cancellation Policy	Free cancellation up to 4 days in advance
Restrictions	Not suitable for certain physical conditions and ages 5 and younger

Why This Tour?

Visitors interested in exploring Alaska’s natural beauty during the winter season will find the Chugach State Park Winter Walking Tour an engaging and enlightening experience.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to marvel at the stunning frozen landscapes, learn about the region’s diverse flora and fauna, and potentially spot wildlife in their natural habitat.

Some key highlights of the tour include:

1. Admiring the captivating frozen waterfall of Barbara Falls
2. Observing the intricate ice formations along the South Fork Eagle River
3. Discovering the biological processes at work in the boreal forest
4. Enjoying the knowledgeable guidance of experienced local experts

This tour is designed to provide a memorable and educational outdoor adventure in the heart of Chugach State Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour is not suitable for young children. The tour provider states that ages 5 and younger are not permitted, and the tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments or health issues that could be exacerbated by the demands of the hike.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour details specify that "Not allowed: Pets, weapons, sharp objects, and drones." Participants must follow these rules for the safety and enjoyment of the group.

Will the Tour Guide Provide Any Gear or Equipment?

Yes, the tour includes day packs, trekking poles (upon request), snacks, and water. Participants should bring their own sunglasses, hat, camera, hiking shoes, gloves, and snow clothing.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 4 days in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for travelers to cancel their booking without penalty if their plans change.

Are There Any Bathroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There aren’t any permanent bathroom facilities along the hiking trail. However, the tour guide will make stops where participants can use the natural landscape discreetly. Visitors should plan accordingly before the tour departs.

Recap

The Chugach State Park Winter Walking Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Alaska’s enchanting winter landscapes. Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants can expect to witness the breathtaking frozen Barbara Falls, explore the boreal forests, and spot native wildlife. This 3-hour experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking an educational and memorable outdoor adventure in one of the region’s most stunning settings.

You can check if your dates are available here: