Itinerary Details
Day 1: Welcome to Alaska
Transfer: Anchorage International Aptto Anchorage AK
Balancing city comforts with raw nature, a day at leisure in Anchorage offers plenty of choice. You may choose to explore the Anchorage Museum, browse Native art at local galleries, or stroll the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail with views of Cook Inlet and Turnagain Arm. Downtown cafes and breweries invite relaxed stops, while fresh seafood features prominently on local restaurant menus. With mountains rising just beyond the city, Anchorage delivers culture, cuisine, and wilderness in one easygoing day, making for an excellent day on your own.
Hotel: Hotel Captain Cook (4 Star Rating)
With 557 finely appointed rooms, including 94 suites, the Hotel Captain Cook offers a multitude of options to meet your needs. Pairing attentive service and meticulous care for detail, the hotel is nestled in the heart of Downtown Anchorage and within walking distance from arts and entertainment, shopping and local parks and trails. With five on-site dining options, you'll have plenty of choices for great food, and if you're looking to stay in shape while exploring Alaska, the on-site fitness center is sure to please.
![]()
Day 2: Deluxe Trolley Tour with Lake Hood, Earthquake Park & Point WoronzofStep aboard the Deluxe Trolley Tour and enjoy 20 miles of Anchorage exploration guided by a friendly local Alaskan. This journey features a comprehensive city tour with the opportunity to hop off at four or more scenic stops. Visit Lake Hood to watch float planes take off, Ship Creek to see Alaska salmon, Earthquake Park to learn about the 1964 earthquake, and Point Woronzof for stunning city and mountain views. Along the way, keep an eye out for majestic moose.
Day 3: A Day Trip to Whittier with Light Hiking and Portage Glacier CruiseThis immersive day tour from Anchorage offers a deeper look into the landscapes of Portage Glacier Valley with a knowledgeable local guide bringing each stop to life. The experience begins with a scenic drive along Turnagain Arm, followed by an interpretive hike on the Trail of Blue Ice through Chugach National Forest, winding past ponds, streams, and temperate rainforest. A one hour cruise aboard the M V Ptarmigan crosses Portage Lake, providing front row views of Portage Glacier from an open deck or heated cabin, with insights shared by an onboard naturalist. The journey continues through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to the coastal town of Whittier.
Day 4: Adventure Class Rail Service from Anchorage to DenaliToday 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.
Transfer: Alaska Railroad - Anchorage 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 Cabins (3 Star Rating)
Located in the vibrant landscapes of Denali National Park and Preserve, just eight miles south of the National Park entrance, Denali Cabins are the perfect base camp to embark on your Denali adventures. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the congested park entrance, our 46 private cedar cabins are peaceful abodes quietly nestled in the wilderness. You'll unwind, relax and experience what authentic Alaska is all about.
![]()
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 5: Wilderness & Wildlife Rafting Tour in DenaliSoak in Denali's beauty from the river! This scenic 20-mile (32 kilometer), beginner-friendly trip winds through the eastern border of Denali National Park. Drifting through picturesque stretches of the Nenana River, with calm water and a few splashy spots along the way to keep things exciting, this is the perfect opportunity to soak in panoramic views of towering mountains and lush forests. The run features mostly Class I and II rapids and has one Class III rapid at the end. Keep your eyes peeled - you might spot moose, caribou, Dall sheep, or even a bear along the way! This tour includes shared transfers as well as lunch along the river.
Day 6: Morning Zipline Experience and Afternoon Goldstar Rail Service from Denali to FairbanksExperience life above the trees ziplining just outside of Denali National Park! Your adventure begins with a three-mile (five kilometer) trail ride through the scenic Alaskan wilderness. After gearing up, certified guides will lead you along six sky bridges and seven thrilling zip lines, including the dual racer
finale! The built-in, hands-free braking system allows you to relax and enjoy the breathtaking mountain views. Challenge yourself by traversing to the top of the boreal forest on the uniquely designed Ascending Bridge Tower. Soar through the trees and over the tundra on over half a mile of ziplines. Complete this once in a lifetime experience by racing to the finish zipping alongside your friends and family!
Transfer: Alaska Railroad - Denali to Alaska Railroad - Fairbanks
Today 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.
Hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks (3 Star Rating)
Experience comfort at this recently renovated Fairbanks hotel. Springhill Suites Fairbanks offers numerous modern amenities, such as free high-speed Wi-Fi and a downtown location surrounded by unique dining and shopping. Right next to the Chena River, the hotel is in close proximity to University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fort Wainwright Alaska and the historic Pioneer Park. When in town, bask in the midnight sun or chase the wonderous northern lights at a favorite in-town spot. When you retreat to your spacious suite, you'll find separate areas to work and relax. Unwind in deluxe bedding and with premium cable and movie channels on screen. After a restful sleep, recharge with a complimentary breakfast buffet.
![]()
Day 7: 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 8: 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 9: Depart from AlaskaToday 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.
