The Chugach Mountains are absolutely mesmerizing with their beauty and grandeur, and nowhere more so than in Girdwood. This idyllic mountain town is less than an hour from Anchorage proper and a weekend getaway for many in the city. The access to a variety of hiking trails and berry patches in the summer, eclectic restaurants, and the laid-back vibe draw many here. But, of course, the crowning glory of Girdwood is the Alyeska Resort, Alaska’s only 4-Star Hotel and a world-class ski destination. To get from the base to the ski runs at the top and the nest of restaurants and viewing platforms, you take the epic Alyeska tram ride up the mountain. The tram is a destination all its own, drawing many visitors to simply ride up the mountain for the gorgeous views and the fresh mountain air at the top.