ANCHORAGE TROLLEY TOURS

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SALMON EXPRESS

SALMON EXPRESS

See the famous Alaskan Salmon, Today!

See the famous Alaskan Salmon, Today!

The Salmon Express is a narrated tour that offers a self guided adventure into the lifecycle of Alaska’s salmon. This is a unique opportunity to see, learn, and explore North America’s largest sport fish hatchery. Upon arrival, stroll along the serene path up Ship Creek where every ripple tells a story of survival, renewal, and the profound connection between nature and instinct. Witness schools of Alaska salmon navigating the creek’s currents and waterfall to the eventual end of their journey. Once inside the hatchery, discover at your own pace the meticulous process required to nurture over 6 million sport fish annually to be released in south central Alaska. Every step in the hatchery is designed to enlighten and inspire, from the hatchery’s groundbreaking technology to the natural beauty of Ship Creek’s surroundings. The Salmon express is a wonderful way to spend 1- 3 hours understanding the life cycle of Alaska’s most iconic fish and the importance of the sport fishing industry to Alaska.

1+

HOURS

LEARN THE PROCESS

SEE THE SALMON

3+

HOURS OF ACTIVITIES

Tour Highlights

Some of the sights, topics, and photo-ops along our route!

The Salmon Express is a narrated tour that offers a self guided adventure into the lifecycle of Alaska’s salmon. This is a unique opportunity to see, learn, and explore North America’s largest sport fish hatchery. Upon arrival, stroll along the serene path up Ship Creek where every ripple tells a story of survival, renewal, and the profound connection between nature and instinct. Witness schools of Alaska salmon navigating the creek’s currents and waterfall to the eventual end of their journey. Once inside the hatchery, discover at your own pace the meticulous process required to nurture over 6 million sport fish annually to be released in south central Alaska. Every step in the hatchery is designed to enlighten and inspire, from the hatchery’s groundbreaking technology to the natural beauty of Ship Creek’s surroundings. The Salmon express is a wonderful way to spend 1- 3 hours understanding the life cycle of Alaska’s most iconic fish and the importance of the sport fishing industry to Alaska.

Salmon
Meet and explore the wonders of our famous Alaskan salmon, see them in action and learn about their lifecycle all at the Hatchery.
The Hatchery
Discover the largest sport-fish hatchery in North America, restocking over 6 million fish annually into local South Central waters.
Learn the Process
With hours of information and facts to review, walk through the Hatchery and discover the process of sport-fish restocking from start to finish.
See the Salmon
With various viewpoints and up-close discovery areas across the Hatchery, see salmon in action in multiple natural and stock enviornments!
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Highlights

Watch Anglers Fish Ship Creek 🎣
Learn the different ways we catch salmon in Alaska!

Witness Schools of Alaska Salmon 🐟
Stroll along the serene path up Ship Creek as Alaska salmon navigate against the creek’s currents.

Visit the Dam 🦫
Watch and wait to see the Alaska Salmon jump out of the waters.

Explore the Hatchery 🗺️
Discover the hatchery’s pivotal role in supporting Alaska’s ecosystems, sport fishing communities, and local economies.

Salmon

At A Glance

Embark on a fascinating journey through the William Jack Hernandez Sport Fish Hatchery and delve into the captivating world of Alaska’s salmon. Witness the intricate lifecycle of these majestic fish, from their early stages to their eventual release into the wild waters of southcentral Alaska. Within the hatchery’s walls, you’ll encounter a vibrant array of salmon species, including Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye salmon, among others. Marvel at the diversity of colors and sizes as you explore the hatchery’s tanks, where over six million fish are nurtured annually.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the hatchery is its state-of-the-art technology, which enables the facility to operate sustainably while producing an impressive quantity of fish. Through innovative water recirculation systems, the hatchery minimizes water usage, conserving resources and reducing environmental impact.

Pink (Humpy) Salmon
Alaska's prolific breeding Salmon, not stocked by hatcheries and has the shortest life-span of two years.
Chinook (King) Salmon
Largest and Mightiest of the Pacific Salmon family.
Chum (Dogs) Salmon
The Wildest member of the Pacific Salmon family, not stocked by any hatchery and can live up to 7 years.
Coho (Silver) Salmon
Alaska's most fished member of the Pacific Salmon family.
Sockeye (Reds) Salmon
The Famous Alaskan Salmon, caught mainly by locals in specific locations. Not stocked by the Hatchery, but caught freely throughout South Central Alaska.
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The Hatchery
The largest Sport-Fish Hatchery in North America, nurturing over 6 million sport fish to be annually released in strategic locations in south central Alaska.
Learn about our Salmon
With hours of information listed throughout the Hatchery, dive into the science behind Alaska's fish and game industry, our hatcheries, and learn more about the different types of local salmon.
See the Salmon
The Hatchery boasts several various up-close viewpoints to witness our wild salmon in action, ranging from interior locations to creek-side views.
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Hatchery

At A Glance

Step into the William Jack Hernandez Sport Fish Hatchery and immerse yourself in the beating heart of Alaska’s sport fish stocking program. Spanning a vast 141,000 square feet, this facility stands as the largest indoor sport fish hatchery in North America. Here, over six million fish are reared annually in more than 100 meticulously maintained tanks, supporting Alaska’s thriving fishing industry.

State-of-the-art water recirculation technologies ensure efficient use of resources, with water consumption reduced by a staggering 95% compared to conventional hatcheries. This commitment to sustainability is further underscored by the hatchery’s Envision rating, a testament to its dedication to environmental stewardship. Explore the hatchery’s inner workings and marvel at the seamless blend of groundbreaking technology and natural beauty, all in service of nurturing Alaska’s iconic salmon species for generations to come.

Culture

At A Glance

Witness the bustling and vibrant atmosphere of Ship Creek, where local fishermen cast their lines in pursuit of the day’s catch. Led by our knowledgeable local Alaskan guides, you’ll gain unique insights into the rich fishing culture that thrives in this rugged land. Learn about the deep-seated connection between Alaskans and the bountiful waters that surround them, as well as the traditions and techniques passed down through generations. From tales of legendary catches to the importance of sustainability in fishing practices, our guides will paint a vivid picture of the vital role fishing plays in the lives of Alaskans.

As you continue your journey to the hatchery, you’ll carry with you a newfound appreciation for the enduring passion that Alaskans have for fishing. Whether you’re an avid angler or simply curious about local traditions, our tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the soul of Alaskan fishing culture, leaving you inspired by the resilience and love that permeates this timeless way of life.

Local Fishing
From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.
Local Fishing
From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.
Local Fishing
From the businessman to the mailman, almost every Alaskan is connected in some way to a fishing lifestyle.
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ADDRESS

546 West 4th Avenue Anchorage, AK 99516

PHONE

+1 (907) 276 - 5603

EMAIL

Book@AnchorageTrolley.com

Logistical Information

Logistical Information

Looking for the specifics! Look no further – we’ve got our age-specific pricing, our tour operating time and daily schedule, and the procedure to know for any upcoming Anchorage Trolley guest. If there’s any unanswered questions still at large, be sure to check out our FAQs page, or call us now – we’re happy to help!

Looking for the specifics! Look no further – we’ve got our age-specific pricing, our tour operating time and daily schedule, and the procedure to know for any upcoming Anchorage Trolley guest. If there’s any unanswered questions still at large, be sure to check out our FAQs page, or call us now – we’re happy to help!

Pricing

Adults

For persons 12 years of age or older, the Salmon Express is $20.00 USD per person.

Children

For persons under 12 years of age, the Salmon Express is $12.00 USD.

Infants

For infants or toddlers who will be seated on an adult's or child's lap, the Salmon Express is free of charge per infant.

Schedule

The Salmon Express runs yearly during the fishing season, from May 15th – September 1st.

Daily Schedule

Departures from the Log Cabin Visitor Center:

9:00 am

9:40 am

10:20 am

11:00 am

11:40 am

12:20 pm

1:00 pm

1:40 pm

2:20 pm

3:00 pm

Departures from the Salmon Hatchery:

9:20 am

10:00 am

10:40 am

11:20 am

12:00 pm

12:40 pm

1:20 pm

2:00 pm

2:40 pm

3:20 pm

4:00 pm

4:40 pm

*For any questions regarding scheduling or operating times, Call Us at (907) 276 – 5603

Procedure

Step 1: Book your Ticket

Ready to start your Alaskan adventure? Book your ticket here, online, or by Calling Us at (907) 276 – 5603. Reserve your desired time-slot, the quantity of guests attending, and tour-type by booking ahead! Walk-Ups are absolutely accepted, but we recommend booking ahead to guarantee your desired time.

Step 2: Arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour

When it’s time for your tour, please arrive at our Pick-Up Location 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time. Once at either the Log Cabin Visitor Center OR the Salmon Hatchery (our pick-up locations), look out for our Ambassadors or Drivers – they’re wearing Yellow, Red, and Black, branded with our logo. 

Step 3: Check in to your tour

Once you spot our Ambassadors or Drivers, go ahead and say hello to them to start your check in process. Let them know which tour you’re present for, and they’ll direct you to the appropriate waiting area for your tour. No need for a physical ticket, just greet them with your name and a smile, and they’ll check you in via our Manifest! From there, our Drivers or Ambassadors will make sure to get you aboard the appropriate tour and are happy to assist you with any questions or concerns while the tour arrives.

Pricing

Adults

For persons 12 years of age or older, the Salmon Express is $20.00 USD per person.

Children

For persons under 12 years of age, the Salmon Express is $12.00 USD.

Infants

For infants or toddlers who will be seated on an adult's or child's lap, the Salmon Express is free of charge per infant.

Schedule

The Salmon Express runs yearly during the fishing season, from May 15th – September 1st.

Daily Schedule

Departures from the Log Cabin Visitor Center:

9:00 am

9:40 am

10:20 am

11:00 am

11:40 am

12:20 pm

1:00 pm

1:40 pm

2:20 pm

3:00 pm

Departures from the Salmon Hatchery:

9:20 am

10:00 am

10:40 am

11:20 am

12:00 pm

12:40 pm

1:20 pm

2:00 pm

2:40 pm

3:20 pm

4:00 pm

4:40 pm

*For any questions regarding scheduling or operating times, Call Us at (907) 276 – 5603

Procedure

Step 1: Book your Ticket

Ready to start your Alaskan adventure? Book your ticket here, online, or by Calling Us at (907) 276 – 5603. Reserve your desired time-slot, the quantity of guests attending, and tour-type by booking ahead! Walk-Ups are absolutely accepted, but we recommend booking ahead to guarantee your desired time.

Step 2: Arrive 15 minutes prior to your tour

When it’s time for your tour, please arrive at our Pick-Up Location 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time. Once at either the Log Cabin Visitor Center OR the Salmon Hatchery (our pick-up locations), look out for our Ambassadors or Drivers – they’re wearing Yellow, Red, and Black, branded with our logo. 

Step 3: Check in to your tour

Once you spot our Ambassadors or Drivers, go ahead and say hello to them to start your check in process. Let them know which tour you’re present for, and they’ll direct you to the appropriate waiting area for your tour. No need for a physical ticket, just greet them with your name and a smile, and they’ll check you in via our Manifest! From there, our Drivers or Ambassadors will make sure to get you aboard the appropriate tour and are happy to assist you with any questions or concerns while the tour arrives.

Other Info

Read our reviews, learn more about our trolleys, or expand your knowledge about our other tours. Our trolleys are our bread and butter, and are treated as such! With daily maintenance and sanitation, we prioritize comfort and cleanliness on all of our tours. Be sure to check out our reviews for guest-perspectives and fun memories made on our tours, as well as insight into our efficiency and procedures. For any unanswered questions, check out our FAQs page, or Call Us now – we’re happy to help!

Trolley Info

Anchorage's #1 Favorite City Tour

Sareya Truelove
Sareya Truelove
@Sareyatruelove
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Bravo Ian! He was amazing and made the trip exciting, fun and joyous. He was knowledgeable and funny and treated us like he’d know us for years. We went on the deluxe tour so we can see more and take photos off the trolly. So glad you all were running all year around. Amazing views for photos. Didn’t see any moose but got to see Star the Reindeer which was pretty awesome. We’ll definitely be back!
Angela Libal
Angela Libal
@angelalibal220
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Had a great time! We’re from Anchorage and love seeing the trolley around town — always wanted to see the sights through visitors eyes. Learned some new things. Really liked Donna’s energy and storytelling skills.
Victoria Ortiz
Victoria Ortiz
@ortiz_victoria
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I highly recommend taking this tour while you're in Anchorage. Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable (and funny), the ride itself was smooth and comfortable, and the meetup process was easy! Take a whole bunch of friends or go alone, the experience will be great either way!
V P
V P
@victor_peralez1983
Read More
This was a wonderful experience sitting in the trolley and going through the different spots of Anchorage. We would not have known the spots and the history behind each place. Our guide Joni was awesome and local so had great stories to share. We even spotted a moose during the ride and the guide was patient with everyone taking pictures.
Lisa Radford
Lisa Radford
@lisaisrad8014
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I loved this excursion! Everyone was so nice and the driver was very entertaining! I learned a lot about the history of Anchorage. My favorite part was visiting Earthquake Park and seeing how the landscape had changed because of the quake. I even got to stand over a fault line. I would highly recommend this excursion!
Martin Bahng
Martin Bahng
@martinbahng
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It was a delightful time with my best friend. We are living in Anchorage for 5 years but we didn't know the beautiful city about. Today we had known about the history and had a lot of funny stories from the wonderful guide who drove too. Thank you very much for sharing your fantastic knowledge.
Micheal Hein
Micheal Hein
@michein2304
Read More
The tour was so much more than I expected and is highly recommended. The tour guide was superb, don't miss this experience, I know Anchorage much more than I did prior to the Trolley Tour experience.
Lindsay Isenhart
Lindsay Isenhart
@lindsayheart3
Read More
Our driver was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The tour gave us a better understanding of the area and ideas of where we could continue our vacation adventures in Anchorage. Do your tour first thing! We'll definitely be using the coupon book later too!
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OUR TOURS

1.5 – 2 Hours | Deluxe-Exclusive Stops | Extended Narration | Best Photo-Ops!

50-55 Min | 15+ Miles Round-Trip | Local Guide | All-In-One Narration

2.5 – 3 Hours | Winter-Exclusive Sights and Stops | Explore like a local!