Itinerary Details
Day 1: Welcome to Alaska
Today you will independently transfer between your hotel and Fairbanks International Airport (or vice versa). While you are welcome to use a taxi service or ride-share app, please note that many hotels and lodges offer complimentary shuttle services. If you would prefer to have a private transfer arranged for you, please speak with your Destination Specialist while planning your trip.
Hotel: Wedgewood Resort (3 Star Rating)
Immerse yourself in nature and comfort at the Wedgewood Resort. This Fairbanks hotel is surrounded by a 75-acre wildlife sanctuary and 2,000-acre migratory waterfowl refuge, creating an ideal place to experience the natural, breathtaking scenery Alaska has to offer. Enjoy the seclusion while only being a quick drive from downtown shopping, attractions, and cultural events. At the Wedgewood Resort, you'll feel miles from everything, yet minutes from all the best things to do in Fairbanks. The spacious, condo-style one, two, and three-bedroom suites are perfect for intrepid travelers and vacationing families alike, and offer fully equipped kitchens, separate dining areas and large living spaces to make our destination truly feel like your home away from home.
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Day 2: Sternwheel Riverboat Discovery Cruise on the Chena RiverBegin your tour at the Riverboat Discovery's dock and set off aboard a historic steamboat along the Chena River through Fairbanks' rich frontier history. En route you will watch a bush-pilot demonstration, visit the Trailbreaker Kennel to meet sled dogs and reindeer, dock at Chena Village to experience the traditional lifestyle of early Athabascan people, and finally board the steamboat again for a relaxing return to Steamboat Landing, where you can browse the gift shop.
Day 3: Soaking in the Sights from the Chena Hot SpringsTreat yourself to a relaxing sightseeing day on your Alaska vacation. This world-renowned resort offers a day of rest and relaxation in a historical location discovered by natives and early miners. Enjoy the mineral hot springs in a beautiful natural setting. Along the drive, moose are always spotted and there will be food and beverages available at the local restaurant. Please bring a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel.
Day 4: Goldstar Rail Service from Fairbanks to Denali National ParkToday you will independently transfer between your hotel and Fairbanks train station (or vice versa). While you are welcome to use a taxi service or ride-share app, please note that many hotels and lodges offer complimentary shuttle services. If you would prefer to have a private transfer arranged for you, please speak with your Destination Specialist while planning your trip.
Transfer: Alaska Railroad - Fairbanks to Alaska Railroad - Denali
Today you will independently transfer between your hotel and Denali train station (or vice versa). While you are welcome to use a taxi service or ride-share app, please note that many hotels and lodges offer complimentary shuttle services. If you would prefer to have a private transfer arranged for you, please speak with your Destination Specialist while planning your trip.
Hotel: Denali Bluffs Hotel (2 Star Rating)
Nestled in the heart of Denali's pristine wilderness, Denali Bluffs Hotel offers a true home-away-from-home experience. Whether you seek rustic charm or modern comfort, the diverse range of rooms and suites is designed to cater to every adventurer's needs. Wake up to breathtaking views, unwind in cozy interiors, and experience the perfect blend of nature and luxury during your stay.
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Day 5: Guided Self-Drive Jeep Excursion on the Denali HighwayDon't miss the Denali Highway, the #2 "Drive of a Lifetime" by National Geographic Traveler magazine! Once the gateway to Denali National Park, this 135-mile gravel road is surrounded by pristine nature & is a photographer's paradise. Snow-capped mountains, icy glaciers & panoramic vistas flank the Denali Highway. During your casually guided 100+ mile round trip excursion, there are opportunities to see Denali & other giants of the Alaska Range, weather permitting. New, 4-door Jeeps hug the dirt road, while comfortably seating four adults who can trade off driving. Each Jeep has a CB radio for communicating with the guide so stops can be made whenever desired. As driving the Denali Highway is prohibited by most rental vehicle companies, this exclusive excursion provides access to more of Alaska's spectacular scenery and wildlife & is a great alternative to crowded bus trips.
Day 6: Husky Homestead Adventure with Afternoon at LeisureEnjoy a warm welcome and experience a true Alaskan lifestyle at Iditarod Champion Jeff King’s Husky Homestead. Husky Homestead is widely heralded as an authentic look into rural lifestyles based on 40 years of Alaskan adventures: from freight hauling on Denali to crossing the finish line in Nome with a champion Iditarod team. Cuddle puppies and share an intimate view of the Alaskan Husky as a team explodes out of the kennel on a training run. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating a championship team and carving a life in Alaska’s Interior. Hear compelling stories from the trail and see actual racing sleds, arctic survival gear and equipment used to traverse 1100 miles of Alaska’s most rugged terrain.Immersed in vast wilderness, a free day near Denali National Park is all about scale and serenity. On your day at leisure consider taking the time to explore the Denali Visitor Center, which is operated by the National Park Service, where you can wander through the exhibits, watch a 20-minute park film, speak with park rangers and witness a brief dog sledding demonstration. Please note, the Denali Visitor Center is only open in the summer (in other seasons, only the Murie Science and Learning Center is open). Later, explore scenic trails independently, or consider a guided tour deep into the park for opportunities to spot moose, caribou, or grizzly bears. On clear days, Denali itself dominates the skyline. End your day relaxing at a local lodge, swapping stories over hearty Alaskan fare and endless mountain views.
Day 7: Scenic Coach Transfer from Denali National Park to SewardTransfer: Denali National Park and Preserve AK to Seward AK
Hotel: Seward Windsong Lodge (4 Star Rating)
Set alongside Resurrection River, on the edge of Chugach National Forest near Exit Glacier, Windsong Lodge is a tranquil retreat designed to showcase Alaska’s wild beauty and unparalleled eco-adventures. While the bustling port of Seward, and vast protected expanse of Kenai Fjords National Park are mere minutes away, Windsong’s peaceful setting and unique dining experiences offer a quiet and cozy escape after an exhilarating day of exploration.
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Day 8: Hiking at Exit GlacierThis moderate hiking adventure is great for viewing the jewel of the Resurrection River Valley - Exit Glacier. This massive wall of blue ice descends the mountainside from the Harding Ice Field, down to the Resurrection River. Walking trails wind through the alders and rock cropping's to this glistening mass of ice. Your naturalist guide provides insightful narration about the topography, vegetation, and natural habitats of a glacial environment. Walking routes vary based on tour departure and may include the Overlook Loop Trail and/or the Nature Trail.
Day 9: Kenai Fjords National Park CruiseThis cruise travels through the pristine waters of Resurrection Bay for up close encounters with wildlife. The wildlife cruises are guided alongside large bird rookeries and sea lion colonies, providing stops for pictures and to view passing whales and sea otters. You have the opportunity to view several types of glaciers, including the enormous Bear Glacier, the largest glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park
Day 10: Goldstar Rail Service from Seward to AnchorageToday you will independently transfer between your hotel and Seward train station (or vice versa). While you are welcome to use a taxi service or ride-share app, please note that many hotels and lodges offer complimentary shuttle services. If you would prefer to have a private transfer arranged for you, please speak with your Destination Specialist while planning your trip.
Transfer: Alaska Railroad - Seward to Alaska Railroad - Anchorage
Today you will independently transfer between your hotel and Anchorage train station (or vice versa). While you are welcome to use a taxi service or ride-share app, please note that many hotels are located in close proximity to the train station. In particular, guests staying at the Hilton Anchorage may prefer to walk as most guests will find the journey takes approximately five minutes. If you would prefer to have a private transfer arranged for you, please speak with your Destination Specialist while planning your trip.
Hotel: The Wildbirch Hotel - JDV by Hyatt (3 Star Rating)
Your Alaska adventure begins in the center of downtown Anchorage at the Wildbirch Hotel. Fully renovated and redesigned, the hotels 251 rooms and suites weave local heritage into a sophisticated design set off by rich materials and colors. Revel in this boutique property's vibrant urban spaces that will refresh and inspire you, including a brewery, marquee restaurant and a coffee bar. The Wildbirch Hotel serves as an excellent basecamp for treks into the wilderness or onward travels through Alaska.
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Day 11: A Taste of AnchorageDiscover Anchorage's vibrant culture and cuisine on an engaging fun walking food tour led by a professional guide. You'll explore local stories while savoring gourmet reindeer sausage, fresh seafood, and delightful desserts. Visit charming small businesses and enjoy a variety of regional treats, all while soaking in the city's rich history. Join for a delicious journey through Alaska's culinary scene!
Day 12: Depart from AlaskaToday you will independently transfer between your hotel and Anchorage International Airport (or vice versa). While you are welcome to use a taxi service or ride-share app, please note that select hotels offer complimentary shuttle services. If you would prefer to have a private transfer arranged for you, please speak with your Destination Specialist while planning your trip.
