Experience the Alaskan way of life on a 1-week tour of the USA
Explore the wild and wonderful Alaskan wildlife on this 1-week tour. Start your Anchorage adventure with a sweet treat: sample some Agutak—Inuit ice cream—after an exclusive Alaska Native demonstration at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Board a water boat for a tour along the Chulitna River to a hunter’s lodge, where you will learn about the state’s hunting and trapping lifestyle. Ride the world-famous Alaskan Glass Dome Railroad to Denali National Park, where you’ll be greeted by the nation’s highest peak, Mount McKinley. Meet the four-time Iditarod champion’s team of champion dogs and let him regale you with stories about the 1,049-mile dog sled race over lunch at his home. From Whittier, take a 100-mile boat tour of Prince William Sound and see the glaciers of College Fjord.
Day 1
Anchorage, the city of lights and flowers
Welcome to Alaska, an adventurous land of wildlife, mountains, national parks and glaciers. Enjoy dinner accompanied by wine in the company of your fellow travelers.
Day 2
Sightseeing in Anchorage and the Matanuska Valley
Get to know Anchorage on a fascinating city tour. During a visit to the famous Alaska Native Heritage Center, join the experience as you enjoy an exclusive presentation on Agutak (Eskimo ice cream), learning how it was made by Alaska’s First People. Learn how this culinary treat establishes a connection to the past, instills a sense of pride, and stimulates dialogue about a culture’s amazing ability to survive. This afternoon travel through the fertile Matanuska Valley and stop at a local farm to see how long summer days and glacial silt create the perfect environment for growing vegetables and flowers. Depart Anchorage to the quaint community of Talkeetna, nestled at the base of Mount Denali, North America’s highest peak. The evening is at your leisure, don’t hesitate to ask your tourism director for suggestions on the best places to eat.
Day 3
Overview of Talketna attractions
This morning, enjoy an exciting paddleboat excursion up the Chulitna River and visit a hunter’s cabin or enjoy a scenic float on the Talkeetna River. The rest of the day is free to explore, perhaps discovering more of Talkeetna or joining an optional experience such as the Alaska Range Sightseeing Tour, or hiking and exploring Talkeetna’s best trail with a naturalist guide.
Day 4
A trip on the Alaskan Railroad
Enjoy a relaxed start this morning before boarding the world-famous Alaska Train for an exciting journey through rapids to Denali National Park and Preserve. Take in the majestic surroundings from the comfort of your glass-domed carriage. Later, meet a local mountaineer who will share stories about what it’s like to climb one of the most difficult and highest land mountains in the world, Denali. A trek that begins deep in the heart of the Alaskan Range and where conditions only get more difficult further into the journey, forcing climbers to build walls of snow to protect themselves from the harsh elements. The ascent, which takes approximately 17-18 days each way, requires incredible physical and mental endurance. For tonight’s wine dinner, you can choose between a charming local brewery or a rustic lodge restaurant during the evening meal.
Day 5
Denali National Park, the jewel in the crown of the Alaskan wilderness
Embark on an extensive natural history tour of Denali, learning about the Alaska Natives who once lived in the park and the first ascent of Denali, North America’s highest peak. You will have the whole day free to take part in a number of additional activities. This wonderful land is nature at its purest, but has something to offer everyone. From a blissful stroll through one of the meadows to a healthy hike, this park has something for everyone. You’ll also make sure it’s true with exciting optional experiences that include rafting down the Nenana River, (waiver required) to a helicopter sightseeing tour – just don’t forget your camera! End the day at your lodge where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area under a starry night.
Day 6
Girdwood and Mount Alyeska
Enjoy a scenic drive along the George Parks Highway. Stop in Big Lake, Arizona and visit four-time Iditarod winner Martin Bowser at his own home. When you arrive at the kennel, you will be greeted by thirty to sixty excited sled dogs. Spend time with Martin and learn about the many challenges faced during the 1.049 mile dog sled race. Take a virtual tour of the Iditarod Trail with Martin’s narration, including countless stories from his thirty-five years of racing, as well as much of Iditarod history – a true insider’s experience in the world of the Iditarod! Travel along the Seward Highway along the Ternang Arm with its spectacular views before arriving in the town of Herdwood, home to Alyeska Resort. In the evening, join your Tourism Director for a wonderful celebratory dinner with wine and good spirits.
Day 7
Cruise Prince William Sound and depart from Anchorage
Use this morning to enjoy the surroundings and facilities of the beautiful resort of Alyeska. Head to Whittier to board the 26 Glacier Cruise for a 100-mile (160-kilometer) boat tour of Prince William Sound and College Fjord, with an opportunity to see the glaciers up close. Visit the captain in the wheelhouse to learn how he expertly navigates the icy waterways, and sit down to a sumptuous meal against an incredible backdrop. For those saying goodbye today, return to Anchorage where you will arrive at the Anchorage Airport at approximately 8:00 p.m.
