MOUNTAINS, GLACIERS AND PARKS
SCHEDULES
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA
Day 1
Arrive in Anchorage by air or water. In one the world’s most northern cities, take the opportunity to explore the many museums, restaurants and eclectic boutiques and stores. A visit to the Alaska Aviation Museum is a must, and do not miss the spectacular views during dinner at the Crow’s Nest atop The Hotel Captain Cook. For the second day, explore the wildlife and glaciers of Alaska.
Take one of the many tours available that range from 2.5 to eight hours long. Customize your day to include the Portage Glacier, Mount Alyeska or Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Cruise across Portage Lake to see glaciers and learn from guides about the plants and animals in Portage Valley. Ride a tram to the summit of Mount Alyeska to view the Turnagain Arm off Cook Inlet and many alpine glaciers. Those visiting the wildlife center will see wolves, elk and grizzly bears.
Accommodation: Anchorage
ANCHORAGE TO KODIAK ISLAND, ALASKA
Start the morning at the Alaska Native Heritage Center to see dwellings and demonstrations that introduce the state’s 11 major cultural groups. Those who are adventurous can follow a 2.4-kilometer trail and hike to the summit of the 1,070-meter Flattop Mountain. In the afternoon, take a 45-minute flight from Anchorage to Kodiak Island for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Kodiak Island
KODIAK ISLAND TO ANCHORAGE, ALASKA
Day 2
On Kodiak Island, take a guided sightseeing excursion or sea float tour to see some of the 3,000 bears living on the island. Alternatively, rent a car and explore the island by yourself. The island, the second largest in the USA after Hawaii, is one of the country’s true adventure desti-nations. Take an early evening flight back to Anchorage.
Accommodation: Anchorage
ANCHORAGE TO DENALI, ALASKA
Day 3
Depart Anchorage on a scenic journey aboard the Denali Star Train to Denali National Park. Consider upgrading to a dome car for better sightseeing. Your journey willtake you north through Talkeetna, with spectacular views of Mount McKinley and the Alaska wilderness en route. Alternatives to the train are the Park Connection Motorcoach that runs daily and may be a faster way to get to your destination. Many people choose to ride the train in one direction and the bus the other way to view different scenery. Another option is air service, which also operates from Anchorage to Denali.
Accommodation: Denali
Day 4
Enjoy a full day exploring Denali. Covering more than 2 million hectares, this remote wilderness features the tallest peak in North America as well as alpine forests, tundra and glaciers. Bus tours take you through the park via 148-kilometer Denali Park Road. Tours range from 4.5 to 13 hours, and advance reservations should be made. Choose from nature and wildlife tours as well as the Kantishna Tour, which deposits you in a historic gold town. Denali has no shortage of outdoor recreation- al opportunities. Set off on a hike from the visitor’s center or Savage River. Join a ranger-led walk or program, go white-water rafting on the Nenana River, try mountain biking or visit the Denali sled dog kennels to see a demonstration.
Accommodation: Denali
DENALI TO ANCHORAGE, ALASKA
Day 5
Return to Anchorage by bus, train or airplane and enjoy an afternoon and evening discovering the shopping, arts, crafts, museums and dining options in the city.
Accommodation: Anchorage
