Alaska Wildlife Escape

Day 1 Anchorage (1B,1L,1D)

Depart at 8am for Denali NP. First we reach Denali State Park, which was established in 1970 and expanded to its present size in 1976. Its western boundary is shared with its much larger neighbor, Denali National Park and Preserve, formerly Mt. McKinley National Park. Denali is the original name for Mt. McKinley. At 20,320 feet, Mt. McKinley is North America's highest peak. It literally and figuratively towers over South-central Alaska from its base in Denali National Park. Explore this spectacular region on the many short hiking trails and enjoy a picnic lunch in the Alaskan Wilderness. Next our journey takes us to the famous Denali National Park. In the afternoon after a short introduction of this beautiful park we visit the unique sled dog kennels. The sled dogs of Denali have been important to the park for so long that they have become a part of the resource, and a cultural tradition worthy of protection. The dogs and the kennels where they live represent important pieces of American history: cultural and native significance, the pioneer experience in the far north and the history of Alaska's first national park. These are the only sled dogs in the United States that help protect a national park and the wildlife, scenery, and wilderness therein, and it has been this way since the park's beginning. After this incredible experience we check into our cabins and end the day with a tasty group dinner. Estimated Travel Time: Anchorage to Denali SP: 3 hours Approximate Distance: 242 km/150 miles Denali SP to Denali NP: 1.5 hours Approximate Distance: 150 km/93 miles

Day 2 Denali NP (1B,1L)

Full day to explore and hike Denali NP. With the parks shuttle service dropping us off in the heart of Denali National Park our adventure begins. Denali is well-known for its diversity of wildlife. There are 39 species of mammals, 167 species of birds, 10 species of fish, and one species of amphibian known in Denali. Summer is a time for raising the young and preparing for migration, hibernation, or survival during the winter and with a little luck, we witness it all! Yet there is more to come. On our hikes we discover the dynamic glaciated landscape providing large rivers, countless lakes and ponds, and unique landforms which form the foundation of the ecosystems that thrive in Denali. Enjoy a picnic lunch and just be in awe of this amazing place. In the evening return to cabins.

Day 3 Girdwood (1B,1L)

Depart at 8am for Girdwood with a stop for lunch enroute. Continue to Girdwood and check into the hotel. Girdwood, originally named Glacier City, was founded as a gold mining town at the turn of the century with several gold claims being staked on Crow Creek and the Virgin and California Creek drainages. Don't miss your opportunity to experience first-hand the exceptional landscape of the Girdwood and Portage valleys. Explore this region's diverse flora and fauna, glaciated terrain and a day out with an experienced and qualified naturalist hiking through the rain forest along the Winner Creek Trail. In the afternoon you will have time for an optional ariel tram. View the splendor of Turn again Arm and the Chugach Range from the top of Mt. Alyeska. The seven-minute aerial tram ride will take you 2,300 feet above the valley floor. The viewing deck provides breath taking panoramic views of majestic mountains, hanging glaciers, sparkling streams, towering spruce, and an array of wildlife. Estimated Travel Time: Denali to Girdwood: 5 hours Approximate Distance: 443 km/275 miles

Day 4 Soldotna/Seward (1B,1L)

Depart at 8am for Soldotna. The city of Soldotna sits right in the heart of the Kenai Peninsula with the Kenai River running right through the center of town. Lots of opportunities for wildlife viewing and some of the most panoramic scenery one can find in Alaska. The opportunity to view wild brown and black bears in their natural environment is one of the most alluring aspects of visiting the Last Frontier. In fact, the Kenai Peninsula holds strong populations of both black and brown bears therefore our tour takes us right into the heart of the bear country, to Wolverine Creek. Be in awe as you witness these fascinating animals and enjoy a picnic lunch out in the wilderness. In the evening drive to Seward. Estimated Travel Time: Girdwood to Soldotna: 2 hours Approximate Distance: 178 km/110 miles Soldotna to Seward: 2 hours Approximate Distance: 150 km/95 miles

Day 5 Seward/Kenai (1B,1L,1D)

Full day wildlife cruise to Kenai Fjords NP and Fox Island (includes lunch & dinner). Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park with a one-of-a-kind stop at Fox Island for an all you can eat grilled wild Alaska salmon and prime rib dinner. Enjoy a National Park Ranger presentation at Fox Island and view fascinating wildlife in their natural surroundings. Simply said: It will take your breath away!

Day 6 Anchorage (1B,1L)

In the morning enjoy a visit to the Sea life Center for a behind the scenes tour. The Center offers an unrivaled, up-close and personal experience with Gulf of Alaska marine wildlife. Witness a 2000+ pound Stellar sea lion gliding past underwater viewing windows, puffins diving in a carefully crafted naturalistic habitat, and harbor seals resting on rocky beaches. Alaskan king crab, sea stars, and the Giant Pacific octopus also await you, as well as a whole variety of intertidal creatures and deep sea fishes. In the late morning we depart for Anchorage with a stop at Exit Glacier. Take your time and hike right up to Exit Glacier and feel the dense blue ice while listening to it crackles. Walk the lower trail to get a last good photo in front of the glacier face. Enjoy a tasty picnic lunch before it is time to end our fabulous journey. Arrive in Anchorage where our adventure ends at approx 5pm. Estimated Travel Time: Seward to Anchorage: 3.5 hours Approximate Distance: 233 km/145 miles