Frequently Asked Questions – Chugach Adventures | Spencer Glacier, Alaska Railroad & Rafting Tours

A: We are Chugach Adventures, based in Girdwood, Alaska. We offer full-day and multi-activity adventure tours (rafting, kayaking, hiking, and scenic glacier exploration) around Spencer Glacier, the Placer River corridor, and the surrounding Chugach & Kenai Mountains. We operate our tours at the three major glacier river valleys at the Turnagain Arm: 20 Mile Glacier (accessed by helicopter), Portage Glacier (drive-to access), and Spencer Glacier (requires a train ride on the AK Railroad).

A: Dress for an active outdoor adventure. Bring warm layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera. We provide all necessary rafting and kayak gear, including PFDs.

A: Many of our tours are suitable for a wide range of abilities, but you should be comfortable being active outdoors for several hours. Our guides will match the pace and activity level to your group. For more active travelers, we recommend our kayak or heli hiking tours. For family trips, we recommend our scenic river floats.

A: Spencer Glacier is the largest glacier seen on the southern end of the Alaska Railroad and the easiest location to get up close to a glacier in Southcentral Alaska for Anchorage travelers. The glacier is surrounded by the Chugach Mountains and is only accessible via the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery or Coastal Classic trains. The setting is remote, dramatic, and filled with floating icebergs and pristine wilderness.

A: Unfortunately, no — Spencer Glacier has receded in a way that makes walking on the glacier ice unsafe. The glacier has receded over the last few years, preventing us from getting onto the ice. Our tours offer excellent views of the glacier and icebergs from the water and from nearby land, but we do not go onto the glacier itself. We do walk on the glacier moraine.

• Spencer Glacier Float: Arrive by train, enjoy an up-close iceberg float on Spencer Lake, then a 7-mile scenic float down the Placer River.
• Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour: Paddle among icebergs, explore the lakeshore, and return via the scenic Grandview section of the Alaska Railroad utilizing the Glacier Discovery Train.
• Magical Spencer Double – Kayak & Raft: A full-day adventure combining iceberg kayaking and a scenic river float.

A: Late May through early September offers the best conditions. Alaska’s weather and river levels can change quickly, so booking early and dressing for variable conditions is recommended. Mid-June to early August have the most favorable weather conditions.

A: Alaska’s conditions are dynamic. If river levels are too low for safe rafting, we may modify the trip into a lake-based float closer to the glacier. Safety always comes first, and we strive to give every guest a memorable experience.

A: Most of our tours include travel aboard the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train, which stops at the remote Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop — the only access point to the area.

• Glacier Discovery Route: Connects Anchorage, Girdwood, Spencer, Whittier, and Grandview.
• Coastal Classic Route: Runs from Anchorage to Seward and is among the most scenic in Alaska. The Coastal Classic train stops for our Glacier Blue Kayak Tour and is a stop only for guided kayak travelers.

Specific trains and times depend on the tour you choose.

A: Dress comfortably in layers. Even on summer days, it can be cool through mountain passes or near glaciers. Bring a light jacket or fleece. Alaska is most often colder than where travelers are coming from, so we recommend bringing lots of layers.

A: Wheelchair access and stroller storage are available. Pets are not permitted on most of our wilderness tours due to railroad and wildlife regulations. Please contact us if you have accessibility questions.

A: Our tours often fill up weeks in advance, especially in June and July. Booking early ensures the best availability. If you know the date that you’d like to go, we recommend booking early.

A: We operate rain or shine, but reserve the right to modify or cancel tours for safety due to water levels or weather. If we cancel, you’ll have the option to reschedule or receive a refund.

A: Yes! Many of our trips are family-friendly. Age minimums vary by tour, so check the specific details when booking.

A: If you’re staying in Girdwood, many tours depart from our office at 1553 Alyeska Highway. Guests traveling from Anchorage can join via the Alaska Railroad and need to make their way to the downtown Anchorage Train Station at 411 West 1st Ave., Anchorage, AK 99501. Tour confirmation emails have all the specifics as to when and where to be.

A: We provide all essential gear and trained guides certified in wilderness safety and first aid. Our team prioritizes guest safety at all times.

A: Tours run in rain or shine. Only unsafe conditions (such as high winds or flooding) may cause itinerary adjustments. Always pack for changing Alaska weather.

A: You may spot bald eagles, moose, beavers, or occasionally black bears. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the area is rich with natural life.

A: Restrooms are available at the Spencer Whistle Stop and train stations. Some tours include snacks or lunch; details are provided in your booking confirmation.

A: Group sizes are small — typically a maximum of 8 guests per guide for rafts, ensuring personalized attention and a comfortable experience.

A: Yes. All of our Helicopter Adventure Tours are private per booking party. We recommend reaching out to us if you have a private request.

A: Absolutely! We offer private tours and can customize itineraries for groups, families, and special occasions. Contact us to plan your ideal Alaska adventure.