Alaska: Wilderness and Wildlife

Touch down in Fairbanks, nicknamed the Golden Heart City, and settle into your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a reception and welcome dinner. Alaska, the 49th and largest of the United States, is a vast natural wonderland of craggy snow-capped mountains, shimmering ice-blue lakes, roaring rivers and coastlines frequented by magnificent marine life. In the Land of the Midnight Sun, where summer days are up to 21 hours long, Fairbanks is a cultural hub and your jumping off point for adventure.

Start your day with a guided tour of historic Fairbanks, and then board 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 snowcapped peaks. Arrive in Talkeetna, a charmingly quirky village set at the confluence of three rivers. Its location at the foot of Denali positions it perfectly for exploring the great outdoors. Tonight, gather with your fellow guests, relaxing with drink in hand.

This morning, embark by jetboat on a thrilling excursion into the heart of the wilderness, going ashore to hike to an authentic trapper’s cabin, learning local folklore as you go. Afterward, return to the hotel with time to rest and relax. 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 Iditarod champion Dallas Seavey’s 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 explore the diverse Alaska Native cultures through their art and design. Then, set out on a scenic drive to Girdwood, set at the base of Mount Alyeska. Surrounded by glaciers, peaks and rivers, Girdwood is a close-knit, welcoming community that thrives on hosting outdoor enthusiasts. Stay at a resort considered a world-class bastion for skiiing and as a hub for year-round outdoor exploration.

Board a boat to cruise the dramatic glacier and marine wildlife country of Prince William Sound. Spy calving glaciers, watch for whales and sea lions, and look overhead for a soaring bald eagle. 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 to take in 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 bears. Tonight, celebrate your Alaskan journey with a special farewell dinner, meeting with the chef for an engaging culinary experience.

After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.