Portage Valley & Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center & Airport (Debark)

OVERVIEW

Marvel at the natural beauty in the Portage Valley, where you will visit an open-air wildlife sanctuary that rehabilitates injured and orphaned animals. Although you will travel through manmade structures such as the 2.6-mile Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel – the longest dual-use vehicle and railroad tunnel in North America – this adventure focuses more on the preservation of the natural world. After one hours narrated scenic ride from Whittier, arrive at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you will take a quick orientation drive through the center. Then enjoy a up-close look at some of the iconic Alaskan animals that inhabit the surrounding forests and fields. You can expect to see large creatures such as reindeer, brown bear and moose, as well as smaller mammals that may include bald eagles, porcupines and Canadian lynx. The sanctuary provides a permanent home for all the animals except for the wood bison. Once thought to be extinct, these massive land animals are being reintroduced into their native habitat thanks to a massive conservation project.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See injured and orphaned wildlife being cared for at a conservation center.
• Pass through some of Alaska’s most gorgeous scenery, including the Portage Valley.
• Drive through North America’s longest combined vehicle and railway tunnel.
• End the tour at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.