Arrival in Anchorage

Arrive in Anchorage, Alaska's largest city surrounded by mountains and ocean. Despite being urban, wildlife is always nearby – moose often walk through residential neighborhoods. Depending on arrival time, take a short city tour or visit the Anchorage Museum or Alaska Native Heritage Center. Overnight in Anchorage.

Travel to Talkeetna

Drive north to the charming town of Talkeetna, a gateway to Denali National Park and climbing expeditions to Mount Denali (6,190 m). The town retains a rustic charm with historic buildings from the 1920s. Stop along the way for an easy 6 km (3.7 mi) walk around Talkeetna Lake. Upon arrival, explore the town's local shops and cafes. Overnight in Talkeetna.

Talkeetna – Denali National Park

Free morning with options for a scenic flight over the majestic Ruth Glacier and Mount Denali, or try your hand at gold panning. In the afternoon, travel to Denali National Park. On arrival, enjoy a short 3 km (1.9 mi) walk to Horseshoe Lake, known for beavers and moose sightings. Overnight in Denali.

Full Day in Denali National Park

Spend the day immersed in the wild nature of Denali NP. A park shuttle will take you deep into the park, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking landscapes and the chance to spot grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and bald eagles. Alternatively, explore on your own with a hike or bike rental. Overnight again in Denali.

Denali – Anchorage via Hatcher Pass

Return to Anchorage via scenic Hatcher Pass, one of central Alaska's most beautiful locations. Stop at the historic Independence Mine, a major gold mining complex in the 1930s–1950s. Tour the restored buildings and equipment, and learn about gold mining history. Overnight in Anchorage.

Anchorage – Cooper Landing

Travel south to Cooper Landing, the site of the first gold discoveries on Cooper Creek. Today it’s popular for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Optional scenic drive along Skilak Lake Road, hiking, or gold panning. Explore the town’s history on foot. Overnight in Cooper Landing.

Rafting and Transfer to Seward (Kenai Fjords NP)

Enjoy a relaxing Kenai River rafting trip, suitable for beginners and offering access to remote wilderness areas. In the afternoon, head to Seward, stopping for a short 2 km (1.2 mi) walk to Exit Glacier. Overnight in Seward.

Day in Kenai Fjords National Park

Spend the day exploring Kenai Fjords NP. In the morning, consider hiking up Mt. Marathon (7 km / 4.3 mi round trip) for stunning views over Resurrection Bay. Choose from activities like whale and glacier watching cruises, fishing trips, or kayaking near Aialik Glacier. Wildlife sightings (whales, eagles, seals, orcas) are likely. Overnight in Seward.

Return to Anchorage

Drive back to Anchorage with a stop at Portage Glacier and a 3 km (1.9 mi) hike to a viewpoint. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where moose, bears, musk oxen, and more can be seen in a natural setting. Overnight in Anchorage.

Flight to Skagway

Morning flight to Skagway, a town famous for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush. The town center preserves its original atmosphere with wooden sidewalks, vintage shops, and saloons. Free afternoon to explore. Overnight in Skagway.

Skagway – White Pass & Yukon Route Train

Ride the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railway through dramatic mountain terrain, offering spectacular views of valleys, waterfalls, and Tongass National Forest – the world’s largest intact temperate rainforest. The route follows the original trail of gold rush prospectors. Alternatives include gold panning, hiking in nearby mountains, or a glacier excursion. Overnight in Skagway.

Ferry to Juneau

Board a ferry for a 5.5-hour scenic cruise along Lynn Canal, the longest fjord in North America, heading to Juneau, Alaska’s capital. Look out for coastal mountains and marine wildlife along the way. Short city tour upon arrival. Overnight in Juneau.

Mendenhall Glacier Day

Spend the day at Mendenhall Glacier (20 km / 12 mi long), part of the Juneau Icefield, which feeds over 30 glaciers. Activities include hiking, kayaking, rafting, and dog sledding on the icefield. The Visitor Center offers glacier views, exhibits on geology and ecology, and access to marked trails. Overnight in Juneau.

Travel to Gustavus

Morning ferry to Gustavus, the starting point for Glacier Bay National Park. Take a short 1.5 km (0.9 mi) walk on the Forest Loop Trail to enjoy the tranquility of Alaskan forests and birdwatching. Overnight in Gustavus.

Glacier Bay National Park

Full-day boat tour of Glacier Bay, surrounded by towering mountains and active tidewater glaciers. Witness calving glacier walls and marine wildlife like whales, seals, sea lions, and seabirds including puffins and bald eagles. Onboard naturalist guides provide educational commentary. Overnight in Gustavus.

Return to Juneau

Ferry back to Juneau. Free afternoon for souvenir shopping or visiting the Glacier Gardens Rainforest Botanical Garden. Overnight in Juneau.

Departure

Morning transfer to the airport and flight home.