How to Get to Alyeska Resort [2025 Guide]
🏔️ How to Get to Alyeska Resort [2025 Guide]
🌍 Where is Alyeska Resort Located?
Alyeska Resort is a world-class ski and adventure resort located in Girdwood, Alaska, about 40 miles (65 km) southeast of Anchorage. It’s the largest ski area in Alaska, offering stunning views of the Chugach Mountains, top-notch slopes, and year-round outdoor activities.
Since there’s no airport in Girdwood itself, travelers usually fly into Anchorage (ANC) and then continue by car, shuttle, or train.

✈️ Step 1: Fly Into Anchorage (ANC)
The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is the closest major airport to Alyeska Resort. Almost all visitors arrive here first.
- From Seattle (SEA): About 3.5 hours by direct flight.
- From Los Angeles (LAX): Around 5.5 hours direct.
- From New York (JFK): Around 7–8 hours (often with one stop).
- From International Destinations: Anchorage has seasonal flights from Canada, Europe, and Asia.
👉 Tip: Flying into Anchorage is the fastest and easiest way to begin your journey to Alyeska Resort.
🚗 Step 2: Getting from Anchorage to Alyeska Resort
Once in Anchorage, you’ll need to cover the final 40-mile trip (about 1 hour by road) to Girdwood. Here are the best options:
🚘 By Car (Most Flexible Option)
- Driving takes about 1 hour via the Seward Highway (AK-1).
- The road is considered one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., with ocean views, glaciers, and mountains along the way.
- Rental cars are widely available at Anchorage Airport.
🚌 By Shuttle
- Several companies offer shared shuttles or private transfers between Anchorage and Alyeska Resort.
- Travel time is 1–1.5 hours depending on stops.
- This is a stress-free option if you don’t want to drive in winter conditions.
🚆 By Train (Alaska Railroad)
- During summer, the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic and other seasonal routes stop in Girdwood.
- The train ride is about 1 hour 15 minutes and offers breathtaking views of Turnagain Arm and the Chugach Mountains.
- Ideal for a scenic, relaxed journey.
🛥️ Alternative Arrival: Cruise + Land Transfer
If you’re arriving in Alaska by cruise ship (common for summer travelers), you can connect via Whittier or Seward. From there:
- Whittier → Girdwood: 30 miles (45 minutes) by car/shuttle.
- Seward → Girdwood: 90 miles (2 hours) by car/train.
This makes Alyeska Resort a great pre- or post-cruise destination.
Hotel/Resort Reservation: Book your dream escape today with great deals!
📌 Summary: Best Ways to Get to Alyeska Resort
Travel Stage | Option | Duration | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Main Airport | Anchorage (ANC) | Varies | Closest airport to Alyeska Resort |
Car Transfer | Anchorage → Girdwood | 1 hour | Flexible, scenic drive |
Shuttle Transfer | Anchorage → Girdwood | 1–1.5 hours | Easy, no driving required |
Train | Anchorage → Girdwood | 1 hr 15 min | Scenic summer option |
From Cruise Port | Whittier → Girdwood | 45 minutes | Good for cruise passengers |
From Cruise Port | Seward → Girdwood | 2 hours | Scenic but longer |
🌟 Why Visit Alyeska Resort in 2025?
- World-Class Skiing: 1,610 skiable acres, long runs, and fresh powder.
- Year-Round Adventures: Summer hiking, biking, and tram rides with panoramic views.
- Northern Lights: Visit in winter for a chance to see the aurora borealis.
- Luxury Stay: Multiple dining options, spa services, and Alaska’s only ski-in/ski-out resort.
Alyeska Resort is more than just skiing—it’s a full Alaska adventure destination.
🙋 FAQs: How to Get to Alyeska Resort
Q1. What is the nearest airport to Alyeska Resort?
👉 The nearest airport is Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), about 40 miles away.
Q2. How long is the drive from Anchorage to Alyeska Resort?
👉 About 1 hour via the Seward Highway.
Q3. Does Alyeska Resort offer shuttle service from Anchorage?
👉 Yes, you can book shuttles and private transfers through the resort or local providers.
Q4. Can I take a train to Alyeska Resort?
👉 Yes, the Alaska Railroad stops in Girdwood during the summer season.
Q5. Is it safe to drive from Anchorage to Alyeska in winter?
👉 Yes, but conditions can be icy. Renting an all-wheel-drive car is highly recommended.
Q6. Can I get to Alyeska Resort from a cruise port?
👉 Yes, you can travel from Whittier (45 minutes) or Seward (2 hours) by car, shuttle, or train.
✨ This 2025 guide ensures travelers have a clear step-by-step plan for reaching Alyeska Resort—whether flying, driving, taking a train, or arriving from a cruise.