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Half Day Winter Valley & Forest Hike

Guided ·

4.5

(152)

Anchorage

Kid Friendly

Locally Owned

Shuttle Included

Small Group Sizes

Beginner Friendly

Free Cancellation

Private

Instant Book

Duration: 5 hours

Pricing

Hiker

Reserve up to 4 People

$159

Private Tour

Reserve up to 12 People (Select 1 to enter party size)

Description

Extended Adventure to Eagle River Nature Center & Barbara Falls

Venture deeper into Chugach State Park on this half-day adventure that explores two of Alaska’s most scenic winter landscapes: the Eagle River Nature Center and the frozen cascades of Barbara Falls. This immersive hike blends snow-covered forests, open river valleys, and interpretive insights from your local guide into a quintessential Alaskan winter experience.

You’ll begin in the Eagle River Nature Center trail system, following a section of the historic Iditarod route beneath a canopy of snow-draped spruce and birch. Depending on conditions, we may walk safely across the frozen Eagle River—an unforgettable moment surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. Keep your eyes open for moose, foxes, porcupines, and hardy winter birds like the American Dipper. Afterward, a short drive brings us to Barbara Falls, where shimmering ice formations and frosted cliffs create a breathtaking finale to the day.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking to go beyond the basics—offering a deeper look into Alaska’s winter ecology and more time immersed in the quiet beauty of the Chugach wilderness.

Duration of Adventure

5 hours total (approximately 4 hours of hiking and 1 hour of round-trip travel).
Choose from two departure times:

Tour Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Afternoon Tour: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

This introductory tour covers roughly 4 miles with about 500 feet of elevation gain (equivalent to 50 flights of stairs).

Location / Where to Meet

Tours take place in Chugach State Park, just east of Anchorage.

Non-Private Bookings: Meet your guide at the Egan Center on 5th Avenue in Downtown Anchorage for round-trip transportation. Hotel pick up is available for an additional fee.
Private Tours: Enjoy convenient pickup directly from your hotel or Airbnb in Anchorage.
Driving Yourself? You’re welcome to meet us directly at the Glen Alps Trailhead—just let us know when booking.

Ages & Requirements

Ages 8 and up
Must be able to walk at least 6 miles on flat pavement, or 5 miles of uneven rolling terrain over the course of 4 hours. You should also be able to balance well and feel comfortable walking in slippery conditions with the assistance of micro spikes.

What’s Included

Professional naturalist hiking guide
Round-trip transportation from downtown Anchorage (Egan Center)
Local Alaskan snack (Kat’s Epic Trail Bites or Elevated Oats)
Use of microspikes for traction on ice
Trekking poles (upon request)
Hand warmers on cold days
Park access fees and safety equipment

Not Included

Winter boots or cold-weather clothing
Water bottle
Gratuities for your guide (optional but appreciated)
Meals beyond provided snack

What to Bring / Wear

Insulated waterproof boots with good traction
Layered clothing: base, mid, and waterproof outer layer
Warm hat, gloves/mittens, and neck gaiter
Sunglasses or goggles (for glare)
Water bottle (16–24 oz)
Camera or smartphone for photos

See our full guide to What to Wear Snowshoeing!

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Go Hike Alaska

FAQs

Do I need hiking experience?

This tour is suitable for active beginners, but you should be comfortable walking several miles on snow or uneven terrain.

Will we hike on the frozen river?

Yes, when conditions are safe. Your guide will evaluate ice thickness before stepping onto the river.

What kind of wildlife might we see?

Moose, snowshoe hares, red foxes, porcupines, voles, and winter birds are common—plus beautiful snow tracks that tell their stories.

Is Barbara Falls always frozen?

From December through March, yes. In early or late winter, you may see partial ice formations mixed with flowing water—just as beautiful!

What happens if there is little snow?

We’ll adjust to trail conditions, using microspikes for traction on icy or packed terrain. The tour still operates year-round as a winter hike.

How cold will it be?

Typical daytime temps range from 10°F to 30°F (-12°C to -1°C). Dress in layers, and we’ll provide hand warmers for comfort.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy

We understand life is wild and cancelling your hike might be necessary. We hope this does not occur, but if circumstances lead you to cancel your hike the following policy will apply:

All cancellations must be received in writing.
If you cancel any time before 2 weeks prior to your scheduled hike, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 48 hours to 2 weeks prior to your scheduled hike, you will receive 75% of your total service fee.
No refunds will be given for cancellations between 0 and 48 hours prior your hiking start time, or for any no shows.

Adjustments:

If you would like to switch the hike you’ve booked, or, transfer your hike to another person in your party, we can help you. All adjustments must be made by calling or emailing us.

All refunds and adjustments will be processed within 3 business days.

Severe Weather & Other Safety Concerns Policy:

If your hike is canceled due to severe weather or extensive safety concerns, such as an aggressive bear found in the area, you will receive a full refund of your trip only if we cannot switch your hike to a different route. Before cancelling your hike, we will exhaust all attempts at switching your hike. Cancellations may be made by either management or by your guide, before your start time or while you are hiking.

COVID-19

If you need to cancel due to COVID-19, please let us know and we'll issue you a full refund.

For any questions regarding these policies, please call or email us.