Girdwood is known primarily for Alyeska Resort — one of Alaska’s premier ski destinations — and its funky, artsy small-town character. It’s a 45-minute drive south of Anchorage on the stunning Turnagain Arm corridor and attracts year-round visitors for skiing, hiking, and dining.

Girdwood is 37 miles south of Anchorage, about 45 minutes to an hour by car on the Seward Highway. The drive itself is spectacular, hugging the shore of Turnagain Arm with views of the Chugach Mountains. It’s a very popular day trip from Anchorage.

Girdwood activities include skiing and snowboarding at Alyeska Resort (winter), hiking the Crow Pass Trail and Winner Creek Gorge, mountain biking, the aerial tram for views, and exploring the small but charming town center with restaurants and shops.

Yes — Alyeska Resort is Alaska’s largest ski resort with over 1,000 skiable acres, impressive vertical drop, and a mix of beginner to expert terrain. The resort also has a hotel, restaurants, and an aerial tram that operates year-round for non-skiers.

Girdwood has a surprisingly good restaurant scene for such a small town. The resort area has multiple dining options, and the town has several beloved local spots. The seven glaciers restaurant at the top of the tram is a unique dining experience.