2 days in June

Question

Hi everyone-

We will have two 1/2 days in Anchorage this June before beginning a cruise tour and wanted to do some day trips from the area. We are an active couple who enjoy running, hiking, being outdoors but also nature/wildlife. I did book the 26 glacier cruise with coach from Anchorage and the train back. For the other day we were considering either a hike on Matanuska Glacier or a combo tour that includes visiting the Wildlife Center and two hours kayaking at Spencer Glacier. Does anyone have suggestions to help us choose? If we go with the Matanuska Glacier Hike we are struggling to pick the basic hike or advanced trek that would require a rental car because so far we don't need one for our two day stay. I wondered if we do the hike if we could do the Wildlife Center in the morning of our last day or if would be better to spend time exploring Anchorage itself with the Trolley or walking around. Thanks so much for any suggestions!!

Answer

With only two half-days in Anchorage before your cruise, it’s best to balance active outdoor experiences with convenient logistics so you don’t feel rushed. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose between your options and plan efficiently.

Option 1: Matanuska Glacier Hike

The Matanuska Glacier is about a 2-hour drive from Anchorage. Guided hikes vary in difficulty:

Basic Hike: Typically 2-3 hours, easy to moderate, suitable for active visitors without specialized gear. Many operators provide transportation from Anchorage or nearby pickup.
Advanced Trek: Longer, more technical with ice climbing sections, requiring crampons, helmets, and sometimes ropes. Usually requires a rental car or shuttle service, especially if you want flexibility with timing.

If you do the hike, you’ll likely spend 4-6 hours including travel. This can fill most of a day, making it harder to add other activities like the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center unless you start very early.

Option 2: Wildlife Center plus Spencer Glacier kayaking tour

This combo tour allows you to see Alaska’s wildlife (bears, moose, bison) at the Conservation Center and also enjoy a 2-hour kayaking adventure at Spencer Glacier.
It’s logistically simpler since it’s a guided tour that includes transportation, so you won’t need a rental car.
You can comfortably fit both activities into a single day without feeling rushed, making it a great option if you want to maximize experiences without long drives.

Anchorage sightseeing options

If you choose the Matanuska Glacier basic hike on one day, the other half-day could be spent exploring Anchorage itself. Highlights include:
Running or walking the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (7.5 miles one way, can do a shorter segment)
Downtown Anchorage for local shops, restaurants, and art galleries
Anchorage Trolley Tour to see historic neighborhoods, the port area, and nearby scenic spots

Suggested plan:

Day 1: 26-glacier cruise as already booked.
Day 2:
- Option A: Full or basic Matanuska Glacier hike if you want a major outdoor adventure. Consider the Wildlife Center afterward only if starting very early.
- Option B: Wildlife Center plus Spencer Glacier kayaking if you prefer a more relaxed, guided experience with less driving.
- Option C: If not doing a long hike, spend the morning exploring Anchorage itself (running/walking or Trolley) and use the afternoon for a shorter guided outdoor activity.

Overall, if you want maximum Alaska nature and glacier experience and don’t mind driving, go with Matanuska Glacier. If you prefer efficiency, minimal travel, and a mix of wildlife and kayaking, the combo tour is ideal. Anchorage itself is lovely for a half-day exploration and can be combined with shorter activities depending on your energy and interest.

2 days in June

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