Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center Guide
Get Up Close with Alaskan Wildlife: A Sanctuary for Conservation Guide
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska's wildlife through conservation, education, research, and quality animal care. Located in Girdwood, just south of Anchorage, the AWCC provides a home for orphaned, injured, and displaced animals. Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures in a natural setting and learn about their unique adaptations and the challenges they face in the wild. It's a fantastic opportunity to connect with Alaska's natural heritage and support wildlife conservation efforts. The AWCC was established in 1993 as a non-profit organization. Its mission is to provide care for injured and orphaned animals, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild whenever possible. Animals that cannot be released due to their injuries or lack of survival skills find a permanent home at the center. The AWCC also plays a vital role in educating the public about wildlife conservation and promoting responsible stewardship of Alaska's natural resources. Visitors can explore the AWCC on foot or by car, following a loop road that winds through the 200-acre property. Observe brown bears, black bears, moose, caribou, bison, muskoxen, wolves, eagles, and other Alaskan animals in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Attend educational presentations and animal feedings to learn more about their behavior and ecology. The AWCC also offers behind-the-scenes tours and special events throughout the year. While the AWCC doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, the nearby town of Girdwood offers a variety of dining options, including fresh seafood and Alaskan specialties.
Transportation
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is located on the Seward Highway (AK-1) at Milepost 79, south of Anchorage. If driving from Anchorage, take the Seward Highway south towards Girdwood. The AWCC will be on your left. The Glacier Valley Transit (GVT) offers limited bus service from Anchorage to Girdwood. Check their schedule for availability and connections to the AWCC.