Tank G.
Yelp
I have mixed feeling about this place. I think it is cool, but a bit overpriced. I like that the proceeds goes to the care of these recused animals though. You can walk the entire property, which will take a long time or you can drive to the individual habitats and check them out from there. Unless you have a lot of time to kill, I suggest the driving option. The first group of animals that you will see as you are approaching the place are bison. Please not that cellular service is poor here. For me it was a good break from my electronic leash.
The animals that reside include: caribous, muskoxes, black bear, grizzly, wolves, an eagle, bison, an owl, coyotes, elk, a lynx, and deer. I wish they had at least some habitats that allowed for interaction with the animals. You view most of the animals through a fence or a cage. The cool thing about this place is that you will see an occasional free animal, that is not a resident, there. We were fortunate to see a bald eagle perched on top of a pole near the grizzly bear habitat. You tour is self guided, so spend as much or as little time as you want at each habitat.
Some places you will find on the complex include a pier off of Turnagain Arm, an animal infirmary, a bear watching station/restroom facility, a gift shop and a banquet hall. The backside of the complex is along Turnagain Arm and rumor has it that you may see beluga whales during salmon migration season.
The gift shop is also a bit pricey, but once again, it is all for the animals. The woman working there is very friendly. They have drinks, snacks, shirts, stuffed animals, refrigerator magnets, and much more. The lynx habitat is directly behind the gift shop. You will find the eagle, owl, and wolves in that area as well. The other larger animals are along the driving portion.
Even though I wish this could be a more intimate trip and allow you to get up close and personal with some of the less dangerous animals. I think that it is still a must visit when visiting anchorage. It is not only neat to see these animals, but you are supporting a good cause. You can even "adopt" one of the animals if you like for as little as $30. On a side note, they also offer a military discount, so you can save a few bucks if you qualify. I recommend setting aside 2 to 3 hours or so and checking this place out