Accessible Alaska Tour

See the best of Alaska without breaking a sweat. There’s no need to mount an expedition with this low-impact (but amazing) three-day itinerary. This is also a good starting point if someone you are traveling with has mobility limitations. Take it all in while taking it easy; your incredible, accessible journey starts in Anchorage.

Day 1

Morning

Get your bearings with some time in the city. The Alaska Public Lands Information Center, Bear Square, and Alaska Naturally Each run films throughout the day that get up close with bears, chronicle Alaska history or share the beauty of the northern lights.

Afternoon

The sights aren’t just on screen. Anchorage Trolley Tours shows some city highlights on a 15-mile, driving tour. The one-hour narrated trip explains Anchorage history while exploring stops including Earthquake Park and Lake Hood, the world’s busiest seaplane base. Hop aboard at the trolley at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and D Street near the Visitor Information Center. Need a wheelchair-accessible trolley? Call ahead the day before to ensure a spot.

Day 2

All aboard the Glacier Discovery Train! Depart the Alaska Railroad depot in Anchorage for a day on the rails. From open-air viewing platforms or the huge picture windows at your seat, roll past wildlife, mountains, and waterways.

Get off at Spencer whistle stop for a 1 mile stroll to the edge of a glacial lake. Alternatively, stay aboard the train and roll on to views of Bartlett and Trail glaciers. As the train winds through the valley far from civilization and glaciers come into sight, it’s easy to see why they call the area Grandview.

Day 3

Morning

Learn about traditional cultures with a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center. You’ll travel the state without ever leaving the room; hear stories and songs from across the state shared by those that know them best. Just outside, you’ll find life-size examples of traditional homes situated on a paved loop around a small lake. Each dwelling style is designed to take advantage of the climate and resources of its region. Join a free tour or explore them at your leisure. Before you leave, meet Alaska Native artists in the marketplace on site. The crafts on display are as varied as the artists themselves, but always of exceptional craftsmanship.

Afternoon

Finish the tour with a trip up to Flattop. It’s best known as the most climbed mountain in Alaska, but the views start before your get out of the car. The short Anchorage Overlook Trail is paved and a great way to get views of the Alaska Range, the city below and the surrounding park lands without a trip to the summit. Flattop Mountain Shuttle can provide transport up to Flattop if you won’t be renting a car.