Itinerary
Days 1-3: Gustavus
Land in Gustavus, the gateway to Glacier Bay National Park, and stay at the family-run Gustavus Inn. From this full-service lodge, explore the park by boat to see tidewater glaciers and wildlife, by kayak in Bartlett Cove, and on trails. At day’s end, return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and relaxing evening.
Day 4: Anchorage
Fly from Gustavus to Anchorage – Alaska’s biggest, most bustling city. Fly to Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park for an incredible spectacle – grizzlies “fishing” for salmon! This is one of the most incredible bear watching opportunities on the planet. Fly back to Anchorage this evening after an exciting day, and sleep like a bear in wintertime.
Days 5-6: Seward
The historic and scenic Alaska Railroad awaits! Travel along Turnagain arm from Anchorage to Seward, relaxing while taking in the beauty along the way. Seward Windsong Lodge is your cozy Alaskan home base. From here, cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park, glassing for whales, seals, sea otters, sea lions, porpoises, and birdlife, while crossing your fingers for calving glaciers. Hike the trails around Exit Glacier, and have a salmon dinner on Fox Island. There will also be time to walk the streets along Seward Harbor, stopping in shops, galleries, and cafés.
Day 7: Anchorage
Head back to Anchorage and spend the night in the heart of the city, walking distance to restaurants, and within easy distance to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.
Days 8-10: Backcountry Lodge near Lake Clark National Park
Fly by floatplane to the shores of Crescent Lake, for a wonder-filled stay at Redoubt Mountain Lodge. Cabin accommodations boast wonderful views of Crescent Lake and the Chigmit Mountains, and meals, beverages, and an array of amenities and activities –fishing, bear viewing, kayaking, water skiing, hot tub, sauna – are at your fingertips.
Days 11-12: Kennecott
Have doubts about leaving Redoubt, then fly via Anchorage to the historic mining town of Kennecott, situated within the boundaries of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. From Kennicott Glacier Lodge, a modern lodge set in the historic mining town dating to 1910, take in surreal views of Kennicott Glacier, Mount Blackburn, and the Chugach Mountains. While here, take a mine tour and set out on a guided hike on Root Glacier.
Days 13-14: Denali National Park
Today is a big one! Fly to the entrance of Denali National Park, then catch the bus to the backcountry, 90 miles in, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife and taking in the beautiful river crossings, rolling tundra hills, and maybe a glimpse of Denali. Upon arrival, a delicious dinner, cozy cabin, and comfy bed await you. Spend a full day in the great outdoors, hiking and hoping for a view of the oft-socked-in Denali, marveling in the beauty regardless!
Day 15: Fairbanks
Board the bus back to the park entrance, then catch a train bound for Fairbanks, taking in the small towns, rivers, and scenery. Have the late afternoon and evening to explore Fairbanks.
Days 16-18: Bettles
Take a quick flight to the remote, historic Bettles Lodge, your last stop and a base for visiting Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. While here, take a village tour, a riverboat tour, and a flightseeing tour of Gates of the Arctic and Kobuk National Parks. Touch down in each park, hike a bit, and enjoy a picnic lunch. At each day’s end, return to the lodge for dining and reminiscing about the day.
Day 19: Fly Home from Fairbanks
Depart Bettles, and take a short flight back to Fairbanks for flights home.
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