Alaska: Wilderness & Wildlife 2021

Fairbanks | Exploring Above the Arctic Circle

Board a small plane for a sightseeing flight (weather permitting) that carries you over the majestic Brooks Range to a landing above the Arctic Circle, in the town of Wiseman. Visit this far-flung outpost with a local guide and learn more about the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and the Koyukuk River, a tributary of the mighty Yukon River. Return to Fairbanks for an evening at your leisure.

Talkeetna | Train Ride Through Scenic Denali

This morning, it’s “all aboard” a deluxe dome railcar for a scenic ride through Denali National Park, looking out large windows at the verdant wilderness. Savor breakfast and lunch as you take in the passing vistas of Denali’s pristine forests and snow-capped peaks. Arrive in Talkeetna, a quirky village set at the confluence of three rivers, and transfer to your hotel. Tonight, gather with your fellow guests for a Scenic Sundowner, relaxing with drink in hand as the sun sets outside your lodge.

Talkeetna | Walking on a Glacier

This morning, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.

Zipline in Talkeetna, zooming through the treetops on progressively faster runs, on a thrilling outdoor adventure.

Hike with a Naturalist Guide, along Talkeetna’s best trail, watching for diverse wildlife in an old-growth forest.

Relax on a Leisurely Float Trip down a wild river, taking in the breathtaking mountain panoramas all around you.

This afternoon, board an airplane for a flightseeing adventure to the remote western end of Denali National Park, taking in marvelous views of Denali as well as Mount Foraker and Mount Hunter. Continue over the Kahiltna Glacier to the climbers’ base camp, where you land and step out on the glacier (weather permitting) for an exhilarating wilderness experience. Return to your lodge for an evening at leisure.

Girdwood | Meet the Furry Heroes of the Iditarod

Set out for Girdwood, stopping en route to visit the kennels of four-time Iditarod champion Martin Buser. Go up close with members of his Alaskan husky sled-dog teams. Afterward, eat lunch on site. Then, proceed to Girdwood, a resort community at the base of Mount Alyeska. Cap your day with a ride on the Scenic Alyeska Tram, summiting the mountain to take in the glorious vistas of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy an evening at leisure at your resort.

Seward | Fjord Cruise & Scenic Train Ride

Journey along scenic Turnagain Arm, through forests and across coastal flats to Seward, keeping watch for Dall sheep high up in the rocky cliffs. Next, board a boat and cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park, where you view massive glaciers and keep an eye out for whales, sea otters, sea lions and other marine wildlife. Enjoy lunch on board before returning to the harbor. Next, board the Alaska Railroad deluxe dome rail train for the return to Girdwood, marveling at the scenery and enjoying dinner on board.

Girdwood | Panoramas of Wild Alaska

Today, ride the Scenic Alyeska Tram from sea level up to 2,300 feet for spectacular views of the rugged surrounding landscapes. Return to your lodge for an afternoon and evening at leisure.

Anchorage | Up Close with Native Species

Set out for the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you enjoy an up-close visit with the native Alaskan species being rehabilitated there, including bison, moose and grizzly bears. Continue to Anchorage for a visit of Earthquake Park to learn the city’s earthquake history and visit the historic downtown area. Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner, where you will meet the chef and celebrate your Alaskan adventure.

Depart Anchorage

Transfer to the Anchorage airport and depart.