Off The Beaten Path : Group Guided Journey : Itinerary

Eagles, whales, and glaciers in Haines and Glacier Bay National Park


2013 DEPARTURES

6/9-6/15, 6/23-6/29, 7/14-7/20, 8/4-8/10

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Trip Length 7 days/6 nights
Group Size 4-16
Arrive/Depart Juneau, Alaska
Price From $3,195 to $3,595
If you have questions about this journey or would like to receive a detailed trip brochure, call 800-445-2995 or click here.
*Price varies depending upon departure's group size.

Trip Motif Wildlife Natural History Glacier Bay Discovery Itinerary And Map : Itinerary & Map


Territory Map

Day 1 (Juneau, ferry to Haines) After an early morning check-in at the Alaska Ferry terminal, we steam out of Juneau and up Lynn Canal, the longest and deepest fjord in North America. We arrive in Haines by late morning for a fun day of discovery in this beautiful area, rich in natural and cultural history.
Day 2 (Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve) Poke around on your own this morning or join the guide for a short exploration before our float through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Watch for eagles, bears, wolves, and moose under the spectacular backdrop of the Chilkat Mountains. This afternoon will be guide's choice hiking or possibly bear watching.
Day 3 (Scenic Flight to Gustavus) Today we take a spectacular scenic charter flight into Gustavus, at the entrance to Glacier Bay National Park. In the late 1800s, John Muir built a cabin near what is now called Muir Glacier. Muir was a tireless advocate for the protection of this “unspeakably pure and sublime” place. This afternoon, we’ll stroll a trail near park headquarters through a lush temperate rainforest of spruce and hemlock. There might also be time for some optional sea kayaking.
Day 4 (Glacier Bay National Park) This fantastic day is our full-day boat cruise up the West Arm, deep into the heart of Glacier Bay National Park. The West Arm features impressive tidewater glaciers, vast glacial outwash fans, and steep fjords. Each June thousands of harbor seals give birth to pups on floating icebergs, and the area also offers chances to see brown bears, mountain goats, sea lions, and a variety of other wildlife and birds. Our on-board naturalist guide gives us a full overview of this unique, evolving landscape.
Day 5 (Glacier Bay National Park) This morning we enjoy a half-day whale-watching cruise to Point Adolphus, one of the best places to watch whales in North America, known for its high concentration of humpbacks. At various times of the year, humpback, orca, gray, and minke whales are all seen in the waters of Glacier Bay. In the afternoon, our guides lead us out on some fun and interesting hikes through the lush and impressive temperate rainforest.
Day 6 (Glacier Bay and Juneau) After breakfast we fly back to Juneau, where we spend a couple of hours exploring the impressive Mendenhall Glacier. Enjoy the afternoon on your own, or join the guide for more exploring—maybe a ride up the Mt. Roberts tramway to walk the nature trails and take-in the panoramic view. A festive farewell dinner marks the end of this unforgettable journey.
Day 7 (Juneau) Catch flights out of Juneau at your leisure.