Alaska Explorer

Day 1 : Fly to Alaska

We fly to Anchorage to begin our exploration of America’s Last Frontier.

Day 2 : Anchorage

Thrust between 5,000-foot peaks and an inlet, Anchorage is unlike any other city. Learn from a local what it’s like to call Alaska’s largest city home, with bears and moose within town limits. See where the original townsite of tents began and where an entire neighborhood slid into the sea during the powerful 1964 earthquake at Earthquake Park. Watch for planes taking off and landing at the world’s busiest seaplane base on Lake Hood, the same location where planes with skis can land in the winter when it freezes over. Enjoy a Holiday Vacations Welcome Lunch and get to know your fellow travelers. We top the day off discovering new things at the Anchorage Museum that celebrates everything about Alaska including art, culture, history, ecology, and ethnography.

Day 3 : Talkeetna

We depart from Anchorage to Talkeetna with free time and lunch on your own in historic downtown. Later, watch for views of majestic Denali on a Wilderness Jet Boat Adventure. The wilderness is our classroom as we learn about local animals and the indigenous Dena’ina people. This immersive experience kicks off our discovery of Alaska’s natural wonders. We check in to our Talkeetna hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 4 : Denali National Park & Preserve

This morning, as we make our way north, watch for views of Denali, North America's tallest mountain. Along the way to Denali, we break at the Alaska Veterans Memorial where you can stretch your legs and take pictures. We embark on a guided exploration of Denali National Park. Keep watch for Dall sheep, caribou, moose, grizzly bears, black bears, and wolves. From the boreal forest to the open tundra, experience the untamed beauty and vast landscapes of this protected wilderness.

Day 5 : Denali, Your Way

Today, discover the Denali area however you choose. From hiking to river rafting, shopping, or visiting a sled dog kennel, there are plenty of options. Later we travel from Denali to Fairbanks in domed rail cars with dinner service included. Relax and watch the changing landscapes as we travel further into Alaska’s Interior.

Day 6 : Gold Dredge 8 & Riverboat Discovery III

Start today with a visit to the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitor Center where we casually explore life in the interior during the four seasons. Discover methods of gold mining and learn how to pan for gold at historic Gold Dredge 8. Try panning yourself and keep what you find! We also see and learn about the incredible Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline, an engineering marvel, then feast on a "miner’s lunch" at Discovery Landing. Board the Riverboat Discovery III for a fascinating excursion on the Chena River. Witness a bush plane maneuver and watch dog mushing in action. Step ashore at a recreated fishing and hunting camp where we learn about the lifestyles of indigenous people in Alaska’s Interior.

Day 7 : Valdez

This morning, get a rare photo opportunity with the Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline, the monumental line that crosses the river on an impressive suspension bridge. Enjoy the remainder of the day on a relaxing ride south to Valdez.

Day 8 : Glacier & Wildlife Cruise

Today we embark on a great adventure on Prince William Sound with a Columbia Glacier & Wildlife Cruise. Our narrated cruise offers a chance to see some of the marine life that makes the sound its home. Watch for humpback whales, orcas, Dall’s porpoises, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles and sea birds.

Day 9 : Scenic Byway

Marvel at the abundant scenic views as we drive up Keystone Canyon, climb Thompson Pass, and stop at Worthington Glacier. We continue on the Glenn Highway, a scenic byway of majestic mountain views that takes us to sprawling Matanuska Glacier. Later we arrive in Girdwood.

Day 10 : Fond Farewells

Our last full day is filled with appreciation and celebration. Enjoy spectacular views as we glide up Mt. Alyeska aboard an aerial tram. We enjoy a delicious lunch while reliving our fun adventures exploring the great state of Alaska, then return to Anchorage with time to visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center for more insight into the native cultures that shape how people live in this amazing state. Later, our overnight flight returns us home.

Day 11 : Journey’s End