The 10 Best Full-Day Tours in Anchorage
Anchorage offers a surprising variety of full-day tours that showcase Alaska’s rugged beauty and unique wildlife. Unlike larger cities, Anchorage’s compact size and proximity to wilderness mean you can explore glaciers, mountains, and wildlife in just a day. Whether you’re eager to walk on icy landscapes or cruise past towering fjords, these tours provide a rich experience without the hassle of complicated logistics. And the small groups or private options ensure you get a more personal connection to Alaska’s wilderness.
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing a glacier up close, spotting moose in their natural habitat, or paddling alongside salmon in clear rivers, Anchorage delivers. The tours listed below cover a broad range of interests, from scenic drives to active hikes, all with expert guides to keep you safe and informed. Booking early is wise—Alaska’s popular excursions fill quickly, especially in summer.
1. Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Small-Group Excursion
This small-group glacier tour takes you from Anchorage to the Matanuska Glacier—the largest accessible glacier in the U.S. at 27 miles long. The highlight is a guided hike over the ice, where you can explore towering ice formations and crevasses. Your guide shares insights about the glacier’s environment, wildlife, and geology, making the experience both fun and educational.
What sets this tour apart is the small-group size—a maximum of 14 people—ensuring a crowd-free atmosphere and personalized attention. The trip includes hotel transfers, so you avoid the logistical hassle, and the drive offers opportunities to see wildlife like moose, foxes, and eagles. After arriving, the hike covers a few miles on the glacier’s surface, a real bucket-list moment. With rave reviews praising the breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable guides, and smooth logistics, this tour offers excellent value at $319 per person. It’s perfect for those who want a manageable, adventure-packed day on ice.
Bottom Line: A balanced mix of adventure and comfort, this tour is ideal for travelers who want to hike on a glacier with expert guidance without crowds.
2. All Day Matanuska Glacier Hike from Anchorage
If a full-day glacier trek sounds like your kind of adventure, this guided hike offers an immersive experience into Alaska’s icy wilderness. Starting with hotel pickup, your journey to the glacier reveals stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Once there, your guide, well-versed in glaciology, leads you across the glacier’s surface, explaining its formation and features.
The tour’s unique appeal is the opportunity to navigate towering ice formations and crevasses, making it ideal for those who want more than just sightseeing. The guide’s insights turn the hike into an educational journey, and the small group ensures personalized attention. Reviews highlight the driver Daniel’s engaging storytelling and the glacier’s stunning colors, making this a memorable day. At $310 per person, you’re paying for both an expert-led experience and the convenience of door-to-door service.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to learn about glaciers while exploring their frozen beauty firsthand.
3. From Anchorage: Portage Glacier and Wildlife Full-Day Tour
For a classic Alaskan scenery and wildlife experience, this full-day tour hits the highlights of the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. The trip includes a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can see bears, moose, and other animals in a natural setting, then continues with a cruise past Portage Glacier.
The scenic drive along the Seward Highway—one of America’s best routes—offers views of mountains, fjords, and wildlife. The comfort of well-maintained vehicles and the calm of friendly guides make this a relaxed yet engaging day. Reviews mention the excellent storytelling and the opportunity to see wildlife like moose and eagles. The $229 price includes transportation, wildlife viewing, and a cruise, providing good value for a comprehensive day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a blend of wildlife, glacier views, and scenic drives, all in one manageable package.
4. From Anchorage: Matanuska Glacier Full-Day Tour
This full-day tour to Matanuska Glacier is perfect for those wanting to maximize glacier time. The trip covers roughly 10 hours, including a scenic drive along the Glenn Highway—famous for its wild beauty—and a full day exploring the glacier itself. You’ll walk on the 27-mile-long ice sheet, taking plenty of photos and learning about the glacier’s geological significance.
What makes this tour stand out is the longer duration—giving you ample time on the glacier—and the chance to learn about one of the most studied glaciers on Earth. The reviews rave about the breathtaking scenery and the friendly guides. For $309, it offers good value for a full day of glacier exploration, especially for those eager to hike and photograph in pristine winter or summer conditions.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting an in-depth, immersive glacier experience with plenty of time on the ice.
5. Anchorage: Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Hike and Tour
If you’re looking for a comprehensive glacier adventure, this full-day Matanuska Glacier hike combines transport, scenic views, and an active glacier hike. The tour features ice cleats, so you can walk safely on the ice, and the guide shares insights into the natural history of the area.
Reviews highlight the experienced guide Jimmy, who is both friendly and safety-conscious. The trip includes stunning vistas of the glacier and surrounding mountains, making it suitable for those who want to combine sightseeing with physical activity. The $310 price gives a well-rounded experience with educational and photographic opportunities.
Bottom Line: A great pick for those who want a guided, active day on the glacier with a focus on learning and photography.
6. Full Day Hiking Adventure
For those who prefer hiking over sightseeing, this private tour takes you to Chugach State Park for a full day of moderate to strenuous trails. Hike to lakes like Williwaw, Symphony, or Eagle Lake, depending on weather and your ability. The focus here is on getting off the beaten path and into true wilderness.
The guide will help you spot moose, bears, and mountain goats along the way. The small group size allows for personalized attention and flexibility. Reviews commend the knowledgeable guides and the gorgeous scenery, including alpine lakes and mountains. At $284.50, it’s a good investment for active travelers who want to explore Alaska’s remote areas.
Bottom Line: Ideal for fit hikers seeking a private, physically engaging experience with wildlife sightings.
7. Full Day Guided Kayak Tour on Knik River
This full-day kayak tour is a new and thrilling way to see Alaska’s waterways. Paddling along a glacier-fed river through a valley carved by ice, you’ll likely spot salmon, eagles, ducks, and maybe even a moose in the water. The route begins at Reflections Lake and takes you past Jim Lake, where you can see distant glaciers.
The tour’s uniqueness is its combination of wildlife viewing and active paddling, making it suitable for paddlers with some experience. The 8-hour trip includes all equipment, so you just need to bring your sense of adventure. With only 3 reviews, it’s still gaining popularity, but early feedback is positive. The $350 price reflects the all-day, guided nature of the trip.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers wanting a scenic waterway adventure with potential wildlife sightings.
8. Ultimate Anchorage and Turnagain Arm Private Full Day Tour
This private tour offers a customizable, luxurious day exploring Anchorage and Turnagain Arm. For $1,105 per group, up to three people, it includes a personal driver-guide, a ride on the Mt. Alyeska tram, and a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
The flexible itinerary allows you to choose stops like Beluga Point or Girdwood, and you can add or skip sights based on your interests. This is perfect if you want a private, tailored experience that covers all the highlights—like scenic drives, wildlife, and mountain views—without the rush. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the ability to personalize the day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a private, flexible tour with a touch of luxury and customized stops.
9. Matanuska Glacier Winter Hike And Tour – Full Day
In winter, this glacier hike offers a unique perspective on Alaska’s icy landscape. The tour guides you to the terminus of Matanuska Glacier for a full day of walking across snow and ice, using crampons and other gear to ensure safety. The experience includes spectacular photos with the glacier’s ice as a backdrop and a chance to learn about glacial features in winter conditions.
Reviews mention the “mesmerizing” views and the expertise of guides like Adam, who combine humor with safety instructions. The 7 to 8 hours duration makes it a full but rewarding day, especially if you’re comfortable in winter gear. Priced at $310, it offers an authentic winter wilderness experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for winter travelers seeking a guided hike on Matanuska Glacier with expert instruction and stunning scenery.
10. Full-Day Kayak Rental
The most flexible option is this full-day kayak rental, offering the chance to explore at your own pace. Available at $40 per person, it’s suitable for anyone with paddling experience or adventurous beginners eager for independence. You can choose single or tandem kayaks, and all equipment is provided.
While it doesn’t include a guided component, this option lets you focus on whatever landscape appeals most—lakes, rivers, or coastal areas. It’s perfect if you want control over your timing and route or simply want a relaxing day on the water. Keep in mind, there are no reviews yet, but the sturdy equipment and prime locations promise a dependable experience.
Bottom Line: For independent explorers, this is the best way to experience Anchorage’s waterways on your schedule.
How to Choose Your Perfect Anchorage Full-Day Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, fitness level, and specific interests. For example, if you want a stress-free experience with hotel pickups and glacier hikes, the Full-Day Matanuska Glacier Small-Group Excursion offers excellent value. If your goal is a comprehensive, private day, the Ultimate Anchorage Tour provides customized luxury.
Active travelers may prefer the Full Day Hiking Adventure or the Guided Kayak Trip, which combine physical activity with immersive scenery. Budget-minded visitors can opt for the Full-Day Kayak Rental, giving independence without extra cost.
Booking early ensures you secure spots, especially for popular glacier hikes and private tours. Be prepared for variable weather—layers and waterproof gear are smart choices. Most tours operate year-round, but summer offers longer days and more wildlife sightings.
Final Thoughts
Anchorage’s full-day tours span a wide range of outdoor activities and landscapes. For a classic glacier experience, the Matanuska Glacier Excursion is hard to beat, combining ease, value, and stunning scenery. If you want a customized adventure, the private Ultimate Anchorage Tour promises flexibility and comfort. Active travelers will appreciate the Chugach State Park hike, while water enthusiasts can explore the area at their own pace with a kayak.
No matter your choice, these tours are designed to give you a genuine taste of Alaska’s wild beauty—so plan ahead, dress warmly, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Booking early is recommended, especially in summer when these tours are in high demand.