Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center & Beluga Point Tour

Summary

See rescued wildlife up close along Turnagain Arm with local stories and tidal views

You’ll watch rescued wildlife roam at Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, listen to local stories as you drive along Turnagain Arm, and maybe catch beluga whales surfacing at Beluga Point. With pickup included and a small group led by someone who knows these roads by heart, you’ll feel both curious and oddly at home.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the muskox to look so… prehistoric, honestly. Their fur was all matted from the rain that morning — you could smell the damp earth mixing with something sweet and grassy as we walked past their enclosure at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Our guide, Rachel, grew up around here and kept tossing out little facts between stories about orphaned moose calves and why bison roll in mud (it’s not just for fun, apparently). I tried to get a photo of a bear scratching its back on a log but ended up laughing too hard when it flopped over like a giant dog. The center felt peaceful in this odd way — even with kids chattering nearby, there was space to just stand and watch these animals living their second chance.

After that, we drove along Turnagain Arm. The road hugs the water so closely you can see your reflection if you lean out (don’t do that). Rachel pulled over at Beluga Point because someone spotted white shapes moving in the tide — sure enough, beluga whales. They looked like ghosts gliding through the silvery water, popping up for air while everyone went quiet for a second. It was one of those moments where time slows down a bit, you know? The wind picked up and I had to shove my hands deeper into my pockets; even in summer Alaska keeps you guessing.

We made a few more stops along the highway for photos — Dall sheep on the cliffs above us, some eagles circling overhead. There’s this thing called a tidal bore here where a wall of water rushes inland during high tide. We missed it by about half an hour (classic), but Rachel showed us videos on her phone and explained how locals time their fishing trips around it. I still think about that stretch of road: mountains looming on one side, endless flats on the other, everything smelling faintly of salt and spruce needles. It felt like being let in on a secret most people just drive past.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Wildlife center and scenic stops

• Visit Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
• Observe and photograph wildlife
• Stop at Beluga Point for views
• Drive along Turnagain Arm
• Stop for photos and interpretation

Top questions

How long does the Alaska Wildlife tour take?

The tour includes several stops along Turnagain Arm and typically lasts half a day depending on conditions.

Is hotel pickup included for this Alaska Wildlife tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from Anchorage area meeting points are included.

Can I see beluga whales during this tour?

You may spot beluga whales from Beluga Point during July to August when they are most visible.

Are snacks or drinks provided?

Light snacks and water are included during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and specialized infant seats are available.

What animals can I see at Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center?

You can observe moose, bison, elk, deer, caribou, bears, muskoxen, small mammals, and birds of prey.

Does the guide speak languages other than English?

The tour may be operated by guides who speak English or Spanish.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from Anchorage area meeting points, guidance from a local expert (sometimes bilingual), light snacks with water throughout the journey, plus entry to Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center—so you can focus on spotting wildlife instead of logistics.