Turnagain Shuttle and Tours

If you’re planning a trip to Anchorage and want a straightforward way to reach Girdwood, the Turnagain Shuttle and Tours might just be your best bet. This service promises a quick, comfortable, and dependable transfer between Anchorage and the iconic mountain town, known for its ski resorts and mountain scenery. While I haven’t personally taken this shuttle, the details from users and the company’s offerings paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What impresses most about this experience is its combination of reliability, ease of booking, and accessibility—especially for travelers arriving or departing from the airport. Plus, with the option for a shared ride, you can keep costs down without sacrificing comfort. The only potential consideration? Since it operates on a shared basis, your departure times might be less flexible than a private transfer, but that’s a small trade-off for the price and convenience.

Designed for travelers seeking affordable transportation between Anchorage and Girdwood, this shuttle service hits the mark for those who value simplicity, safety, and straightforward logistics. If you’re headed to the mountains for skiing, hiking, or just exploring the wild side of Alaska, this shuttle offers a solid way to start or end your day.

Good To Know

• Affordable Travel: At $49.50 per person, this shuttle offers a budget-friendly way to connect Anchorage and Girdwood.
• Dependable Service: The company emphasizes safety, night-before reconfirmations, and flight monitoring, making sure your schedule stays on track.
• Comfort & Amenities: Expect air-conditioned, high-top vehicles designed for a relaxing ride.
• Flexible Meeting Points: Pick-up at Downtown Anchorage and Girdwood’s Alyeska Resort makes logistics simple.
• Pre-Booking Advantage: Must purchase in advance for shared rides, which helps in planning but requires early commitment.
• Transportation for All Seasons: Whether you’re visiting for winter sports or summer hikes, this shuttle operates year-round.

The Experience and What to Expect

Starting Point and Convenience

The shuttle begins at 546 W 4th Ave, right in Anchorage’s downtown—an easy-to-find spot near public transport and central to most accommodations. From there, you’ll board a high-top, air-conditioned vehicle that comfortably fits up to 14 travelers, which helps keep the ride personal and less crowded.

This shuttle is ideal whether you’re arriving at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport or staying downtown. The company’s service includes both airport pickups—located downstairs in front of taxis—and drop-offs directly at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, cutting out the hassle of multiple transfers.

The Journey to Girdwood

The 45-minute ride offers an opportunity to look out the window and get a first glimpse of Alaska’s rugged terrain. The route is direct, non-stop, and designed for minimal fuss. While the price is quite reasonable, the value comes from the convenience and peace of mind offered by scheduled pickups and drop-offs.

One aspect that travelers seem to appreciate is the reliability of the service. The company actively monitors flights and confirms bookings a night before, which minimizes the risk of delays or missed connections—especially crucial when you’re on a tight schedule or catching a flight.

Group Dynamics and Departure Times

Since this is a shared ride service, you will be grouped with others going in the same direction, which can be a fun way to meet fellow travelers. However, this also means departure times are set around the group’s schedule, and you’ll need to book in advance to secure your spot.

The size of the group keeps the experience intimate, but occasionally, depending on the season or time of day, departure times might shift or merge without notice. Many reviews mention that the shuttle runs reliably, and travelers appreciate the straightforward process.

Seasonal and Year-Round Use

While Girdwood is famous as a ski resort, the shuttle is available all year round, making it a versatile option whether you’re visiting for winter sports, summer mountain biking, or scenic hikes. The service’s focus on year-round operation ensures you can plan ahead regardless of your travel date.

Price and Value Analysis

At $49.50 per person, this shuttle certainly offers competitive value compared to private transfers or taxi fares, especially considering the comfort and reliability. For round-trip options, the fare drops to $99, which can be economical if you want seamless transportation both ways.

In addition, the company includes all taxes and fees, so travelers won’t be surprised by hidden costs—another big plus when budgeting for your trip.

Additional Services and Considerations

While activities in Girdwood aren’t included, the shuttle makes it easy to access the town’s many offerings, from ski resorts to mountain trails. If you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay, this service gets you there hassle-free.

Notably, service animals are allowed, and the shuttle is near public transit points, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers including those with mobility needs.

Real Traveler Insights

Travelers who’ve used this service highlight its dependability and comfort. One reviewer mentioned that the pick-up was exactly on time, and the vehicle was clean and well-maintained. Others appreciated the simple online booking process, which made planning straightforward.

A common theme is that this shuttle saves time and stress, especially for those arriving late or with tight schedules. The group size is praised for maintaining a friendly, less crowded atmosphere, and the direct drop-off at Alyeska Resort is seen as highly convenient.

Some reviews note that the scheduled departure times mean you should plan to be punctual, but overall, the service’s consistency seems to make travelers feel secure in their arrangements.

The Sum Up

For travelers heading between Anchorage and Girdwood, the Turnagain Shuttle and Tours offers a practical, cost-effective, and comfortable option. It’s especially suited for those who value reliability and simplicity—whether you’re arriving from the airport, making a quick day trip, or planning a longer stay.

While the shared ride model might limit some flexibility, the peace of mind from scheduled, monitored pickups and direct drop-offs makes this a smart choice for most travelers. The year-round availability means you can count on this service no matter when you visit.

This shuttle is perfect for budget-conscious travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a hassle-free way to start their adventure in Alaska. It provides excellent value without sacrificing comfort, and the company’s emphasis on safety and punctuality aligns well with the needs of travelers looking for dependable transport.

FAQs

Is this shuttle service reliable?
Yes, the company emphasizes safety, flight monitoring, and reconfirmation the night before, making it a dependable choice.

Can I book this shuttle in advance?
Absolutely. Booking in advance is required for shared rides, and it ensures your spot on the schedule.

Where does the shuttle pick up and drop off?
It starts at 546 W 4th Ave in Downtown Anchorage and drops off at the Alyeska Resort main entrance in Girdwood.

How long does the trip take?
The journey is approximately 45 minutes one way, providing a quick and straightforward transfer.

What is the cost for a one-way and round-trip?
A one-way fare is $49.50, and a round-trip costs $99, including all taxes and fees.

Is this service suitable for winter trips?
Yes, Girdwood is a year-round destination, and the shuttle operates throughout the seasons.

Are activities in Girdwood included in the fare?
No, activities are not included; the shuttle only provides transportation to and from Girdwood.