Alyeska Resort, Girdwood

Alyeska Resort is the most-searched hotel in Alaska by a wide margin, and the closest thing the state has to a full destination resort. It sits at the base of Mount Alyeska in Girdwood, with an aerial tram running from the hotel up the mountain and a Nordic-style spa on the property.

Where it is

Girdwood, about 40 miles south-east of Anchorage along the Seward Highway, on the Turnagain Arm. The drive is one of the best short scenic routes in Southcentral Alaska, and the resort is reachable year-round.

Who it suits

Skiers in winter and hikers, paragliders and tram riders in summer. It also works as a quieter alternative to staying in downtown Anchorage, particularly for travellers who want one base with food, spa and mountain access on site.

When to go

Alyeska is genuinely two hotels depending on season: a ski resort from roughly late November to April, and a green-season mountain resort from May to September. Aurora is possible on clear winter nights, though Girdwood is coastal and cloudier than the Interior.

More options nearby in our Southcentral Alaska guide, or browse Alaska hotels by type.