Alyeska Resort occupies a dramatic mountain setting in Girdwood, Alaska, approximately 40 miles south of Anchorage via the scenic drive along Turnagain Arm on the Seward Highway. The resort sits within the Chugach National Forest at the base of Mount Alyeska, a peak that rises to 3,939 feet and hosts Alaska's largest downhill ski area. The surrounding landscape — spruce-forested valleys, seasonal wildflower meadows, and distant glaciers — makes Alyeska a compelling destination across every season.
The eight-story hotel features over 300 rooms and suites, from Standard Rooms to full Penthouses. Interiors draw on Pacific Northwest-inspired design with earth tones, natural materials, and generous windows framing mountain and forest views. Mountain View Suites are particularly sought after for their direct sightlines to the ski runs and ridgelines above.
Dining reaches its apex at Seven Glaciers Restaurant, positioned at 2,300 feet elevation at the top of the resort's aerial tram. Accessed exclusively by tram, Seven Glaciers serves Alaskan king crab, wild salmon, and locally sourced seasonal dishes alongside an extensive wine program, all framed by sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and fjord below. At the base, the Sitzmark Bar and Grill serves casual breakfasts and apres-ski fare, while Jack Sprat restaurant — a five-minute walk from the hotel — is celebrated for its eclectic globally inspired menu.
The Nordic Spa offers a signature Scandinavian-style outdoor bathing circuit with heated pools, cold plunge pools, a wood-fired sauna, and steam rooms nestled in the forest. The full-service spa indoors provides massages, facials, and body wraps. An indoor pool, multiple outdoor hot tubs, and a well-equipped fitness center round out the wellness options.
In winter, Alyeska Resort serves skiers and snowboarders across more than 1,400 skiable acres with 76 trails and the aerial tram providing summit access. Summer visitors ride the tram for sightseeing, explore the network of hiking and mountain biking trails, or arrange guided glacier walks and white-water rafting through local operators. The resort's proximity to Portage Glacier and Whittier ferry terminal adds further day-trip opportunities from the property.
Room types
- Standard Room
- Deluxe Room
- Mountain View Suite
- Penthouse
Amenities
- Ski-in/ski-out
- Nordic Spa
- 7 Glaciers Restaurant
- Full-service spa
- Multiple pools
- Hot tubs
- Gym
- Tram to summit
Location
1000 Arlberg Ave, Girdwood, AK 99587
60.9569, -149.1046 View on map
Highlights
- Alaska's premier ski-in/ski-out resort set within the Chugach National Forest near Girdwood
- Seven Glaciers Restaurant at 2,300 feet elevation, reached by aerial tram with panoramic mountain views
- Nordic Spa outdoor bathing circuit with heated pools, cold plunge, wood-fired sauna, and forest setting
- 1,400 skiable acres in winter plus guided glacier walks, hiking, and mountain biking in summer
- 40-mile scenic drive from Anchorage along Turnagain Arm with frequent beluga whale and Dall sheep sightings
Tips for visiting
- Purchase tram tickets in advance during peak summer and ski season — queues form on clear-weather days.
- Book Seven Glaciers Restaurant weeks ahead; it is one of Alaska's most in-demand dinner reservations.
- The Nordic Spa is quietest on weekday mornings — weekends draw large crowds, especially in summer.
- Mountain View Suites on upper floors offer the best sightlines to the ski runs and surrounding ridgelines.
- From early June to late July, wildflowers bloom along the lower trail network, making hiking particularly scenic.
Accessibility
Alyeska Resort provides ADA-compliant guest rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and accessible entrances. The aerial tram is wheelchair accessible, and the resort's main public areas, restaurants, and spa facilities meet accessibility standards. Guests with mobility requirements should notify the hotel prior to arrival.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Alyeska Resort open year-round?
Yes, the hotel operates year-round. The ski area typically runs from November through April, with peak conditions in January and February. Summer season (June–September) offers hiking, mountain biking, tram sightseeing, and outdoor spa experiences.
Does Alyeska Resort offer shuttle service from Anchorage?
The resort does not operate a scheduled shuttle from Anchorage. Rental cars are the most common option, and the drive along the Seward Highway takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour. Some private transfer services serve the Girdwood corridor.
Is the aerial tram included in the hotel stay?
Tram rides are not automatically included in room rates but are offered at a reduced rate for hotel guests. The tram accesses the Seven Glaciers Restaurant, ski terrain, and a panoramic summit viewing area.
What wildlife can guests expect to see near the resort?
Black bears are common in the Girdwood Valley, particularly in late summer when berry crops ripen. Dall sheep are visible on higher ridgelines. Bald eagles, moose, and — from the Seward Highway — beluga whales in Turnagain Arm are also frequently sighted.