Alaskan Highlights

Days 1-2: Anchorage/Kenai Fjords National Park

There will be an important welcome meeting at 7:30 am this morning. Meet in the hotel reception/lobby. We'll be collecting your insurance details, kitty and next of kin information at this meeting so please ensure you have all details on hand to provide to your leader. You should have packed your bags and have eaten breakfast so that you are fresh and ready to start the journey. Located in south-central Alaska on the shores of Cook Inlet, Anchorage is a unique urban environment situated in the heart of the wilderness. Established in 1914 as the construction headquarters for the Alaskan Railroad, it's the state's largest and most sophisticated city and home to more than half of its occupants. As there's no time spent in Anchorage on this trip we recommend you arrive a few days early to see the sights. If you need help booking extra accommodation, our reservations team will be able to assist. Departing Anchorage, we round Cook Inlet's Turnagain Arm and venture onto the Kenai Peninsula. Outdoor activities abound in Seward, gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Hike in the high-country of the Harding Icefields, try your hand at fishing or enjoy a spectacular cruise through Resurrection Bay and Aialik Fjord, with views of local marine life, migrating birds, and tidewater glaciers along this remote wilderness coast. Kenai Fjords National Park is home to rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, deep fjords, bears, whales, puffins, and seals. Optional activities in this spectacular landscape include a boat cruise around the glaciers of the park (several tours of varying lengths are available), a short walk up to Exit Glacier, or hiking to the Harding Icefield. 

Days 3-4: Valdez

After leaving the Kenai Peninsula, we ride the Alaska Marine Highway ferry through Prince William Sound to Valdez. Glide past the rugged coastline, gaze upon the snow-capped Chugach Mountains, and check out spectacular icebergs released by the immense Columbia Glacier. A myriad of forested islands dot the seascape on our way to Valdez, and the towering mountains that surround this fjord make for stunning views. There's an option to kayak on Prince William Sound and view the picturesque Columbia Glacier. Other summer activities include fishing, hiking and biking. 

Day 5: McClaren Lodge

Today we embark on one of the most beautiful drives on Alaska, climbing Thompson Pass and passing Wrangell-St Elias National Park, en route to Maclaren Lodge. Situated at the base of the Maclaren glacier with spectacular views, this rustic log building with authentic stone fireplace will provide an authentic Alaskan experience. 

Days 6-8: Denali National Park

As we travel the old Denali Highway, keep an eye open for caribou and other wildlife while enjoying the peaceful, unspoilt wilderness en route to our three night stay at Denali National Park. Surrounding Mt. McKinley, the tallest peak in North America, Denali offers a vast refuge for a variety of wildlife. Wolves, caribou, and Dall sheep call Denali home, as does the mighty grizzly bear. Two included scenic bus tours take you through the pristine backcountry of the park, with opportunities to view these majestic animals in their natural habitat and enjoy incredible views of the unique landscape of tundra and taiga. A wide range of optional activities are available such as river rafting, scenic flights, dogsled demonstrations and hiking, for all fitness and adventure levels. 

Day 9: Anchorage

Leaving these highlights behind, but keeping memories you will long remember, our adventure comes to an end as we return to Anchorage. Tour ends at approx 17:00 hrs in Anchorage on day 9.