Alaska Coast to Denali Adventure
Season
Early June to Early September
Price
$8095
Start & End Cities
Start: Anchorage
End: Anchorage
Land Package Type
Adventure Tours
This week-long trip covers two of Alaska's most rewarding national parks — Kenai Fjords and Denali — each offering a completely different side of the state. You'll explore the rugged coastline of Kenai Fjords by kayak and small boat, then head north to take in the sweeping Alaska Range views that make Denali such a bucket-list destination. The towns of Seward and Talkeetna are worth the stop on their own, and the trip wraps up with a ride through the backcountry on the Alaska Railroad's first-class cars — a classic way to see the state.
FAQs
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What is included if I travel with Alaska Wildland Adventures?
When you travel with Alaska Wildland Adventures, all activities are included as outlined in your trip-specific itinerary, including all meals and snacks, accommodations, pre-trip planning materials, first-class equipment and guide support. All you’ll need to bring is personal gear and clothing (outlined in our Packing List) and high spirits, and they’ll take care of the rest!
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What kind of food do you serve?
Meals are a highlight of every trip. Their highly skilled and imaginative cooks emphasize freshness and flavor. From delicious Alaskan seafood with fresh garden salad, to homemade breads and rolls, to decadent desserts, you will be amazed at how well you can eat in the wilderness. They’re able to accommodate a variety of dietary requirements with advance notice, and there will be opportunities to let them know about those during the booking process.
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Are there any physical requirements I should be aware of?
Most trips are for folks in average physical condition. Participants should be comfortable trail walking three to four hours with short breaks. Some trips offer non-exertive options while others include more strenuous hiking. Ask their reservations staff about the right trip for you.
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What are the best trips to bring children on?
Kenai Riverside Lodge is ideal for parents and grandparents traveling with children 7-11. For well-traveled children and youth, ages 12-18, we recommend the more active Alaska Wildland Collection, although any itinerary is suitable for older teens.
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Will I have opportunities to see wildlife on my trip?
Alaska Wildland Adventures intentionally plans their itineraries to travel to remote areas including visits to various national parks, state parks and wildlife preserves in the state. Kenai Fjords National Park – which is featured in many of their trips – is home to whales, sea lions, seals, sea otters, porpoises, bald eagles, Dall sheep, puffins, murres and more aquatic wildlife. Interior regions such as Talkeetna and Denali are home to moose, caribou, Dall sheep, grizzly bears, porcupines, foxes, wolves, golden eagles, ptarmigan and other land creatures – though these creatures can be spotted in many areas of the Kenai Peninsula, as well. The longer you stay in wild places, the more opportunities you’ll have to view wildlife.
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Itinerary
Arrival: Plan to arrive in Alaska at least the day before your trip begins and to overnight in Anchorage. On the first day of your trip, meet your Trip Leader early in the morning (meeting time and location to be confirmed upon reservation).
Enjoy a scenic drive south along Turnagain Arm and through the Chugach National Forest to Seward, a picturesque seacoast town situated at the head of Resurrection Bay. Board a small boat bound for Kenai Fjords National Park, home to an array of glaciers and marine wildlife such as whales, Steller sea lions, sea otters, puffins and more! A four-hour cruise allows time to explore the dramatic coastlines. Enjoy lunch in front of a tidewater glacier before arriving at our exclusive lodge destination: Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.
Nestled on the edge of a protected tidal lagoon, the Glacier Lodge offers miles of pristine beachfront and breathtaking views of stunning Pedersen Glacier. This afternoon, meet your guides for a tour of the lodge and property before settling into your private cabins. Enjoy dinner and evening presentations. Overnight at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. (L,D)
After breakfast in the main lodge, choose from an array of activities to match your interest and energy level. Guided options include interpretive nature walks, canoeing, sea kayaking and coastal explorations; or, relax at the lodge and peruse our natural history library, take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront or relax in a rocking chair taking in the spectacular view. Overnight at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. (B,L,D)
This morning allows another opportunity to canoe, kayak, or explore the area in the morning before bidding farewell to Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. Midday, we'll embark on a return coastal wildlife cruise back to Seward, then continue to Kenai Riverside Lodge in Cooper Landing. Tonight, enjoy a fine dinner and relaxing along the banks of the Kenai River. Overnight at Kenai Riverside Lodge.
Begin the journey north to the historical town of Talkeetna, mountaineering gateway to the Alaska Range. Once in Talkeetna, choose from several activities, including a guest favorite - flightseeing. Take to the skies on an optional flightseeing tour of Mount McKinley (Denali) and its adjacent glacial canyons or wander through "downtown" Talkeetna and learn about mountaineering and this quaint town's history. Tonight, you have the flexibility to dine with the other members of your group or enjoy a great meal on your own. Overnight in Talkeetna. (B,L,D)
After breakfast, continue traveling north to the entrance area of Denali National Park. We'll make stops along the way to enjoy views of the Alaska Range from the southside, and on clear days, we may glimpse the awe-inspiring peaks of Denali. Today, we'll meet with Denali locals to learn about the park's rich geography, ecology and history, and we'll put our newfound knowledge to work in the field on a guided hike. Afterward, we'll retire to our delightful accommodations at Tonglen Lake Lodge, where cozy and private guest cabins await.
One of the best ways to spot Alaska's iconic wildlife is to spend devoted time to sightseeing in and around migratory paths and nature habitats. We'll explore Denali by bus today, scanning for caribou, moose, eagles, ptarmigan, Dall sheep and possibly grizzlies. This evening, share stories with your fellow travelers on your favorite sights from the day during appetizers, and after dinner, enjoy time around the bonfire or on a casual stroll around the property, enjoying the lake views.
Enjoy a relaxed morning in the peaceful setting of Tonglen Lake Lodge. Later this morning, bid farewell to Denali and board the first-class Goldstar cars of the Alaska Railroad for your comfortable return journey to Anchorage, arriving at approximately 8:30 p.m.
Prices & Dates
| Season | Early June to Early September |
| Duration | 6 Nights / 7 Days |
| Rates | Alaska Coast to Denali Adventure // $8095 |
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