Alaska: Wilderness & Wildlife

Arrive in Fairbanks, nicknamed the Golden Heart City, where you are met and privately transferred to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a reception and welcome dinner.

Start your day with a guided tour of historic Fairbanks, and then Ride Like a Local, boarding a small plane for a sightseeing flight (weather permitting) that carries you over the majestic Brooks Range to a landing above the Arctic Circle. Visit the far-flung outpost of Wiseman 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.

Journey overland through breathtaking scenery to Denali National Park. Take in the Denali Visitor Center before transferring to the train depot, where it’s “all aboard” a deluxe dome railcar. Get underway, gazing out spacious windows at the verdant wilderness. Savor lunch on board as you absorb 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 you experience the Land of the Midnight Sun.

This morning, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities. Embark by Jetboat on a thrilling excursion in to the heart of the wilderness, going ashore to hike to an authentic trapper’s cabin, learning local folklore as you go. Relax on a Leisurely River Float Trip, viewing mountain panoramas, watching for eagle, moose and grizzly bear, and stopping occasionally on the riverbank for a light trek. 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. Weather permitting, land on the slopes of Denali and step out onto a glacier for an exhilarating wilderness experience. Return to your lodge for an evening at leisure.

Start the day with a visit to the kennels of the Iditarod champion Seavey family in Talkeetna. Go up close with members of their Alaskan husky sled-dog teams. Afterward, drive to Anchorage for lunch, followed by a visit to the Anchorage Museum where you can explore the diverse Alaska Native cultures through their art and design. Then, set out on scenic drive to Girdwood, set at the base of Mount Alyeska.

Cruise the dramatic glacier and marine wildlife country of Prince William Sound by private boat. Spy calving glaciers and watch for whale and sea lion as well as bald eagle overhead, and, during your cruise, enjoy a guided beach walk. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for dinner on your own at any of the restaurants at the hotel or in nearby Girdwood.

Today, ride the Scenic Alyeska Tram from sea level up to 2,300 feet for a short hike with spectacular views of the rugged surrounding landscapes. Later this morning, set out for the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you enjoy visiting with the native Alaskan species being rehabilitated there, including bison, moose and grizzly bear. Tonight, celebrate your Alaskan journey with a special farewell dinner, meeting with the chef for an engaging Chef’s Table experience.

Transfer to the Anchorage airport and depart.