Day 1. Welcome to Alaska!
1 x Standard Room, Double OccupancyCheck in time
Check In: Saturday, 3 September 2022
Check Out: Tuesday, 6 September 2022
Discover a relaxing getaway at Anchorage Marriott Downtown. This hotel provides endless opportunities for fun. After soaking in some of the local culture in the largest city in Anchorage, enter into peaceful settings in our spacious rooms. Indulge in the picturesque views and luxurious bedding, then order a meal with the convenient room service. If you prefer to dine in person, head to Cafe Promenade for fresh and locally sourced cuisine. We invite you to visit our fitness center and further your workout by swimming some laps at our indoor pool.
Ideally suited for two to four guests, you and your travel companions will love the comfort and style of our double/double guest rooms in downtown Anchorage. Enjoy a comfortable night's sleep with plush bedding, duvets and plenty of pillows. Each room also features a work tables with ergonomic chairs, flat-panel TVs and high-speed Wi-Fi. Our guest bathrooms offer the perfect space to prepare for a big day in comfort and style. Generous granite vanity tops easily hold all of your personal care essentials.
Day 2: Lake Clark National Park Fly-Out Bear Viewing (Meals L)Enjoy an hour and ten-minute stunning flightseeing tour via floatplane from Anchorage to Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. Your expert pilot will will land at Redoubt Mountain Lodge located on the incredible blue Crescent Lake where you will spend your day. Upon arrival you'll meet your knowledgeable bear viewing guide who will escort you by covered pontoon boat to lakeside areas where bears feed on spawning wild Alaska salmon.
Situated at the headwaters of Bristol Bay, Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is an epitome of the Alaska wilderness landscape. At four million acres, the Park encompasses volcanoes, jagged mountains, glaciers, wild rivers, waterfalls and diverse Alaska wildlife populations. You'll never forget your visit to one of America's most inaccessible national parks!
What to bring: Dress comfortably and in layers; Alaska weather can change dramatically. A sunny and warm day in Anchorage can turn windy, rainy, and cool in the national park. Please bring prescription medications.
This tour includes a homemade lunch in the rustic lodge located in Lake Clark National Park. Pilot and bear guide gratiuties not included, estimate $20 per person per guide.
Day 3: Fly-Out Fishing (Meals L)7:00am Check in time
7:30am Start time
5:30pm Return time
Please note at this date this will be catch and release options only.
Take an Alaska fishing trip via bush plane to fly into the remote Alaska backcountry and cast a line for wild Alaska king salmon, silver salmon, rainbow trout and grayling. Rust's Flight Service has been safely carrying anglers far away from combat fishing crowds since 1963. The specialized small bush planes are fitted with floats that can take off and land on small lakes and rivers across Alaska, allowing your pilot to fly you to some of the world's most secluded fishing hot spots.
This Alaska fly in fishing trip comes complete with an experienced Alaska fishing guide, all the necessary fishing gear and a hearty lunch from a remote lodge on the Yetna River, enjoyed riverside. Your fishing trip includes all fishing gear (including boots), the 35 minute scenic seaplane tour, a hearty lunch & refreshments as well as pick up from your Anchorage area hotel. Please be prepared to be outside for the day. We recommend layers. You should have good walking shoes or light hiking boots, sunglasses, long pants, t-shirt, sweatshirt, light coat, raingear and mosuito repellent.
Typically there are 3-4 people per boat/per guide. Due to the popularity there will be quite a few people on the river depending on the year. Your fishing guide will lead you in the lower 3 miles of Lake Creek which varies between 50-100 yards wide. Please note: King salmon fishing closes mid-July. If the kings are biting when you check into the flight office, you will be asked to purchase a king stamp prior to departure from Anchorage.
Dependent on species, season, and current regulations, some dates are catch-and-release only. If you want to keep your catch, your guide will clean it and prepare it for transport back to Anchorage. For further packaging, processing and shipping, Rust's Flight Service can assist. Lake Creek Fishing Regulations - Please check with the Alaska Fish & Game website for any updates to this regulation or call the flight office prior to travel.
Anchorage Aurora Quest10:00pm Start time
4:00am Return time
Your tour guide will pick you up at your hotel. Departure is generally between 9-11 pm. Once the tour is confirmed to run, you will receive a specific pickup time at your Anchorage area location by text and/or email no later than 7 pm the day of the tour. If you do not hear from your guide prior to 7pm, please call your photography guide to reconfirm tour departure time and location! You will sign a liability waiver prior to this 6 hour tour.
This tour is designed to help you enjoy the magic and mystery of the aurora borealis, or northern lights. Whether you want to learn how to photograph it, or simply enjoy viewing it, this tour is for you! This tour runs when the conditions allow for potential aurora viewing. We pick you up at your accommodations and take you on a nocturnal adventure to witness the magical lights rippling over snowy peaks and dancing across dark waters. This Anchorage northern lights photo tour allows you to either select a single night or purchase a multi- day pass, increasing your chances of success. It's the perfect compliment to winter day tours and a great option for business travelers to Alaska during August to early May. Led by a professional photographer guide, this tour also provides information to help you understand the science behind the aurora borealis. Photographic coaching and aurora portraits are provided for those who desire.
Enjoy narrative on the science and lore surrounding auroras provided by your guide, hand and toe warmers, light snacks and water (we strive to reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in the environment, so fresh water from a jug along with refillable cups) as well as hot beverage selection including hot cocoa, apple cider, tea or coffee.
Tripods are available for loan and a Sony mirrorless camera is available for rent ($30/tour). Rentals must be arranged prior to tour departure!
Please bring with you:
*Camera with manual settings
*Wide angle lens wide aperture (something in 24-70mm f/2.8 range will work well, but the wider the better)
*Charged battery (preferably at least 2)
*At least 16GB memory card
*Sturdy Tripod (we have a tripods available to loan)
*Smartphone users are recommended to upload an aurora app and bring a phone tripod
*Photography equipment rental is available upon request.
Get prepared for your Anchorage Aurora Tour. Participants are encouraged to rest up before your scheduled tour. Each guest should dress in warm layers. We may be away from the vehicle for up to 1-hour. It's important to gear up appropriately and plan to keep moving while out. It's also better to wear one pair of warm socks than two. This is because the more socks you add, the more likely you are to constrict circulation. Try to leave a pocket of airspace around your foot in the boot. Also wear a warm, moisture-wicking under layer, mid layer [preferably fleece] and thick, snow proof outer layer, along with hat, scarf and gloves.
This is a moderate activity that involves short walks on snow and ice. Weather conditions may include wind, and temperatures range from -20°F [-29°C] to 50°F [10°C].Use the restroom in advance. There are very few restrooms open in state parks this time of year, and limited public options available in the wee hours of the early morning when the tour takes place. though there are complimentary trees and bushes available at all locations.
IMPORTANT TOUR NOTES: There will be a note online whether or not the tour is a "go" for tonight. If the tour is not a go, you will have the opportunity to reschedule, or cancel with a refund. This tour goes if the conditions are positive - the guide will use a number of factors to determine the likelihood of seeing aurora. Then the day of tour, check the website here:
https://alaskaphototreks.com/northern-lights-photo-tour/
Gratuity not included, estimate $10 per person.
Day 4: Private Guided transfer from Anchorage to Alyeska Resort12:45pm Check in time
1:00pm Start time
2:30pm Return time
Free Day in Girdwood!
With your free time at The Alyeska Resort consider booking spa services. They just opened the brand new Nordic Spa with elevated services such as massage therapy, saunas, cold plunge pools, relaxation areas, and much more. Visit alyeskaresort.com/Nordic-spa to make bookings for specific services (this just opened this year!)
If you are looking for an active option with your free time A local favorite is hiking the Winner Creek Trail. This is an out and back. It begins just behind the Alyeska Resort and goes to Crow Creek Road, it is approximately 6 miles roundtrip. There is a beautiful bridge across a waterfall. The hike includes gentle elevation gain, and is through Alaska's northernmost rainforest. See alaska.org and type in Winner Creek Trail for more details. We recommend downloading the app AllTrails for detailed information.
1 x Jr Suite, King Bed, Double Occupancy4:00pm Check in time
Check In: Tuesday, 6 September 2025
Check Out: Thursday, 8 September 2025
Welcome to Hotel Alyeska! Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by mountain peaks, hanging glaciers and spectacular ocean views of the Turnagain Arm. The Hotel Alyeska Offers guests comfortable accommodations with convenient access into the Alaska wilderness. This eight-story chateau-style hotel offers ammentities including saltwater pool, whirlpool, fitness center and yoga room, diverse dining options and complimentary internet access.
Make yourself at home in one of the 304 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Digital programming and iPod docking stations are provided for your entertainment, while complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature deep soaking bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Enjoy meals at one of the various on-site restaurants, rejuvenate at the Spa at Alyeska or venture out on the area trails!
Day 5: Breakfast Credit (Meals B, L)The $24.43 per person breakfast credit can be used at the Tramway Cafe, the Pond Cafe or towards Room Service. An additional form of payment will be required for any charges beyond the value of the voucher. This is a one-time use voucher.
26 Glacier Cruise with Coach Transportation10:15am Check in time
10:30am Start time
6:45pm Return time
The 26 Glacier Cruise departs from Whittier and travels through the pristine passageways and fjords found in Alaska's Prince William Sound. Upon leaving Whittier, the vessel heads east out Passage Canal toward Egg Rocks or Perry Island in search of migratory Steller sea lions. From there it proceeds to the very scenic area called Esther Passage where only small ships can navigate the waterway. High mountains protect this narrow channel from rough seas and winds. Many different animals call this area home; bald eagles are commonly seen fishing in the area along with occasional black bear sightings. It is not uncommon to see orca whales, humpback whales, sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters and a variety of birds in this narrow passage.
Esther Passage opens into College Fjord where the vessel turns north for a panoramic view of all the glaciers named after the Eastern Colleges during the Harriman Expedition. Next, cruise to Surprise Glacier and Barry Arm located in Harriman Fjord. The Captain plots a path through the ice-filled waters up to the front of the glacier so passengers can watch for massive chunks of ice calving into the sea.
On the return trip to Whittier, the vessel will stop one more time at a kittiwake bird rookery that is located just across the bay from Whittier. Over 10,000 birds inhabit these rocky cliffs each summer laying eggs. They fish constantly in front of the rookery and then train the young hatchlings all the survival tips they will need before returning to fly south for the winter. The rookery is our last stop before returning to Whittier.
CHECK IN NOTES:
If arriving by motorcoach, the coach will bring you to the check in kiosk, at the appropriate time. The coach will pick up at a limited number of properties. You will see this noted above where and when you will be picked up. for your reference, the coach will pick up at the following properties at the following time...
9:15 AM Hotel Captain Cook, 939 W 5th Ave
10:30 AM Alyeska Resort @ Tram Circle, Girdwood
Day 6: Private guided transfer from Alyeska Resort to Anchorage Rail Depot (Meals B)6:00am Check in time
6:15am Start time
Anchorage to Talkeetna by Train, GoldStar Service7:20am Check in time
8:20am Departure time
11:05am Arrival time
CHECK-IN LOCATION:
411 W 1st Avenue, Anchorage AK 99501
You must have photo ID to check in for your Alaska Railroad journey. If you are traveling internationally, your passport is the required form of identification. From downtown hotels, the Anchorage rail depot is a 15-20 minute walk or a quick taxi/Uber trip. If you are staying away from downtown, check with your lodgings to see if there is a free shuttle. Check your luggage at the podium outside, and request that your luggage be tagged for Talkeetna.
Your Alaska Railroad experience will be onboard the GoldStar Service railcars. These upper level glass-dome ceiling railcars allow for you to sit in your spacious and comfortable assigned seating while panoramic views of Alaska unfold along the tracks! Your Alaska Railroad tour guide is stationed in the GoldStar railcar, providing narration and answering any questions you may have. You will also have access to the exclusive GoldStar open-air, 2nd story viewing platform, which offers fresh air and makes for excellent photo opportunities!
Onboard dining and bar service is included with your GoldStar ticket! Enjoy soft drinks and two complimentary adult beverages per person (for those over 21 years of age with valid government issued photo ID) at the bar on the upper level. Breakfast will be served in the lower level, full service Dining Room. Choose from a variety of hot and cold meal selections. Depending on capacity, you may be seated four to a table on busy days to best accommodate all guests. Additional onboard purchases must be made with American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa cards (this includes debit and gift cards). Cash payments are no longer accepted on the Alaska Railroad. Cash gratuities to Railroad representatives are still accepted and encouraged.
Today you will travel from Anchorage to Talkeetna aboard the Denali Star, passing by unique towns like Wasilla, Houston, and the dog mushing town of Willow. Enjoy dramatic views of Denali on a clear day during the journey - keep your camera out because if The Great One is visible along the route, it is a beautiful sight to see! Upon arrival into Talkeetna, collect your luggage outside, and make your way to your local lodgings, or meet your tour operator, as per your itinerary.
Luggage Policy:
During your ride on board the Alaska Railroad, you are allowed one carry-on and two pieces of checked luggage.
Southside Explorer Flight with Glacier Landing12:45pm Check in time
1:30pm Start time
3:00pm Return time
Today you will take to the skies and get a birds-eye view of the landscape of Denali National Park and Denali! A robust introduction to Denali and the Alaska Range. Follow the river systems of Talkeetna across the Susitna Valley into an incredible landscape of icefalls, glaciers, and snowy peaks. This one-hour bush plane experience gives everyone a window seat to the grandeur of Denali, the tallest mountain on North America!
Your local bush pilot will tell you about the area as you soar over glaciers, the Don Sheldon amphitheater, intense blue meltwater pools, and the Great Gorge of the Ruth Glacier. This tour includes a glacier landing on Denali and about 20 minutes atop the glacier.
1 x Main Lodge Mountain Side Room, King Bed, Double Occupancy3:30pm Check in time
Check In: Thursday, 8 September 2025
Check Out: Friday, 9 September 2025
Set on a ridge above the small community of Talkeetna on the south side of Denali, the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge offers unforgettable views of Denali and the Alaska Range, yet just minutes from adventures of a lifetime. Enjoy the view as you relax next to the 46-foot river rock fireplace or shop for Native art from villages across Alaska. Enjoy casual or fine dining featuring Alaska specialties and the best wine selection in the neighborhood.
All rooms feature a full private bath, hair dryer, coffee maker, refrigerator, satellite television, telephone, and wireless internet.
Enjoy your own private north-facing view towards Mt. Denali and the Alaska Range. This main lodge room features king or 2 Queen Beds with an interior entrance. The only rooms in Talkeetna with a view of Denali and the Alaska Range, this room is quite unique with panoramic views from the lobby, restaurants and your own room. Enjoy relaxing and reflecting on your days adventures.
Day 7: Breakfast Voucher, Adult (Meals B)
Transfer Details10:00am Pickup time
The hotel courtesy shuttle will depart the lobby entrance for the downtown rail depot. A shuttle schedule is available at the front desk.
Talkeetna to Fairbanks by Train, Adventure Class10:20am Check in time
11:20am Departure time
8:00pm Arrival time
You must have photo ID to check in for your Alaska Railroad journey. If you are traveling internationally, your passport is the required form of identification. Check in at the Talkeetna Rail Depot for your rail journey north to Fairbanks this morning. The Talkeetna Rail Depot is located at Mile 13.5 Talkeetna Spur Road, Talkeetna, AK 99676.
Your Alaska Railroad experience will begin onboard the historic Adventure Class railcars. These single story railcars offer assigned seating in comfortable chairs with large windows in each row. Open-air vestibules between railcars provide an opportunity for fresh air! Onboard dining and bar service is available for purchase on your own in the Wilderness Café. Onboard purchases can be made with American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa cards. Cash payments are not accepted on the Alaska Railroad.
The ride from Talkeetna to Fairbanks takes you over the impressive Hurricane Gulch and out of the Alaska Range, before passing through the beautiful Tanana Valley and into Fairbanks. Upon arrival into Fairbanks, collect any checked luggage inside the depot and make your way to your local lodgings, or to your pre-booked transportation, if applicable.
Luggage Policy:
During your ride on board the Alaska Railroad, you are allowed one carry-on and two pieces of checked luggage.
Aurora Tour8:30pm Start time
3:00am Return time
Enjoy an evening in an Alaskan home off the grid with indoor restroom, listen to your host share their story of living in rural Alaska, and watch the aurora borealis right from the comfortable living room. Enjoy free pick-up at your Fairbanks accommodation. Your hosts will serve hot drinks and cookies!
Proof of covid-19 vaccination is required at time of pick up.
1 x Suite Room, King Bed, Double Occupancy8:30pm Check in time
Check In: Friday, 9 September 2025
Check Out: Sunday, 11 September 2025
Offering an unbeatable stay in the heart of downtown, SpringHill Suites Fairbanks places you within walking distance of vibrant shops, restaurants, and businesses. Located next to the Chena River, this hotel is close to the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, and some of Fairbanks' best restaurants. To complement your Alaskan adventures, the Springhill provides recently renovated suites to help you unwind between activities.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the entire property. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided each morning.
Day 8: Chena Hot Springs Tour with Aurora Viewing at Aurora Farms (Meals B, D)5:30pm Start time
2:00am Return time
Enjoy aurora viewing with a local host! Tonight's tour includes both the ice museum tour admission and soak/swim pass at Chena Hot Springs Resort.
After soaking in the hot springs, we'll escape the artificial lights of the resort and extend the evening with dinner & aurora viewing! Get assistance in setting up your camera to take photos of the aurora. Dinner, hot beverages and round-trip transportation is provided by a local Fairbanks guide.
Please note that those under the age of 18 are not permitted in the rock-bottom hot springs pool. Those under18 are free to enjoy the outdoor hot tub, or the indoor pool. Adult supervision in these areas are required.
Day 9: Hotel Courtesy Shuttle (Meals B)10:00am Pickup time
Check with the front desk in advance to arrange the hotel courtesy shuttle to the airport. Please check individual airline rules for recommended airport arrival times. These time suggestions in this itinerary are our recommendations, but the airline recommendation is the most accurate.
Farewell from Alaska!