Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center — Where Alaska’s Wild Comes Into Focus

A Living Landscape

The center is home to a remarkable range of animals:

• Brown and black bears in expansive habitats that mirror the wild.
• Moose, musk ox, caribou, and bison — including part of the herd reintroduced to the wild.
• Wolves, lynx, foxes, porcupines, and bald eagles, each with a conservation story.
  Many of the animals are rescues that cannot be released back into the wild. The center’s focus is on long-term care, research partnerships, and inspiring a deeper understanding of Alaska’s ecosystem.

Visiting the Center

• Visitors can walk or drive the loop road around the property, with multiple viewing decks and interpretive signs.
• Daily animal presentations and feedings run seasonally, offering insight into species behavior and conservation challenges.
• The experience is self-paced, making it ideal for both families and independent travelers.
• Fall offers fewer crowds, quieter paths, and a peaceful backdrop of turning leaves and misty mountains.

Travel Advisor Notes

• Open year-round, though summer and early fall offer the most activity.
• Allow 1.5–2 hours for a relaxed visit.
• Pair easily with Portage Glacier or Girdwood for a half-day or full-day itinerary.
• Wear waterproof shoes if it’s been raining — much of the center is outdoors.
• The gift shop and visitor center offer warm drinks, local crafts, and educational resources.

Surrounded by misty mountains and Alaska’s changing autumn colors, the center offers an opportunity to appreciate the state’s remarkable wildlife up close. From the imposing bison to the majestic bald eagles, each encounter offers a deeper understanding of the animals that call Alaska home and the conservation efforts helping to protect them. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after your visit.