Alaska Vacation Home: Girdwood Alaska

Visit Enchanting Girdwood Alaska

A Culture-Rich Little Town With World-Class Skiing

Located about 40 miles south of Anchorage, Alaska the small town of Girdwood, might just be the perfect vacation destination. Girdwood has much to see and do for outdoor sport enthusiast.

With a population of around 2,000 residents, the town retains its charm without turning into just another overcrowded tourist trap.

Its short distance from Alaska's largest city, Anchorage is ideal for those who want to take advantage of the distinctive appeal of both cities. It's more moderate climate, when compared to the rest of Alaska, is quite appealing.

Originally named Glacier City, Girdwood Alaska began as a gold mining town around the beginning of the 20th century. A name change soon occurred to honor Colonel James Girdwood, who had staked the first gold claims in the Crow Creek area.

The town further developed in 1915 with the start of railroad construction. In 1954, 11 local men founded the Alyeska Ski Corporation. The first-class ski resort soon added a chair lift and day lodge.

The Alyeska Resort Is Great Place to Stay

No matter the season, there is plenty to do in Girdwood, Alaska. At the Alyeska Resort, the biggest ski mountain in the state, visitors can ski and snowboard. Or take a flight seeing trip of the areas glaciers and mountain ranges.

Whale watching, mountaineering, salmon fishing, glacier hiking, dog sledding, white water rafting and ice climbing are part of the unique experiences found in Girdwood. Summer hiking and biking is also enjoyable.

During the winter guest can experience the beauty of seeing the aurora borealis. Also known as the northern lights, these ribbons of lights seen in red, green, orange and other colors can last for hours.

Girdwood's Forest Fair

If visiting during the summer months, the Girdwood Forest Fair focuses on family fun. This free fair lasts for several months and is a great way to experience Alaska's culture as local artist and entertainers participate. Handcrafted original items made by Alaskan artist are available to purchase.

The Crow Creek Mine, established in 1896 is a popular tourist attraction in Girdwood. At the working mine, visitors can pan for gold, go on mining tours and explore the mines original claims.

Historical buildings, antiques, hiking trails, picnics, music and taking photos in the beautiful backdrop are also popular activities for visitors.

Hiking, Wildlife and Nature Are Abundant in Girdwood Alaska

For a chance to see flora, fauna and wildlife in natural surroundings take a hike up the Winner Creek Trail. The trail goes through the Rainforest of Girdwood, the northern most rainforest of North America. The trail includes a boardwalk and gentle sections making it doable for kids and adults of all ages.

Want to really see the rugged beauty of Girdwood, Alaska? Then the Crow Creek Trail will be an adventure, as bikers see glaciers, wildflowers, waterfalls, deer, mountain goats and even artic squirrel might be observed.

A visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is also not to be missed. The nonprofit organization, takes in animals no longer able to fend for themselves in the wild. Bear, elk, moose, bison, coyote, lynx, eagle and caribou are all cared for by the center.

Though Girdwood is a small town, there are plenty of lodging opportunities for visitors. The Alyeska Hotel offers immediate access for skiing and snowboarding at the Alyeska Resort. Townhouses, rooms with fully equipped kitchens and pet friendly lodgings are also plentiful, in the perfect little vacation town.

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