Authentic Alaska: Mountains, Rivers and Coastlines
Trip Highlights
This diverse Alaska adventure begins in Fairbanks and ends in Anchorage, taking you from the iconic wilderness of Denali National Park to the coastal beauty of the Kenai Peninsula and the charming town of Homer. Each day brings invigorating hikes to glaciers, braided rivers, dramatic viewpoints, and wildlife-rich terrain, with nights spent in cozy Alaskan lodges, cabins, and yurts. Along the way, we add to the excitement with river rafting and boat shuttles that access remote, pristine areas few visitors ever see. A highlight for many guests is our two-night stay in secluded cabins on Halibut Bay, featuring an unforgettable hike along Grace Ridge with panoramic ocean and mountain views.
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Stunning Hikes
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River Rafting
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Remote Cabin Experience
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Massive Glaciers
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Unique Alaskan Lodges
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Expert Alaskan Guides
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View Dates
Trip Details
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Trip Length
8 Days, 7 Nights -
Daily Hiking Distance
Up to 9 miles -
Group Size
2-6 Guests
- day by day itinerary
- logistical and travel information
- gear and clothing lists and more
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Is This Trip Right For me?
The hiking in Alaska is generally quite rugged. Expect sections of muddy, wet, overgrown and possibly snow-covered sections of trail. Most days feature moderate hikes, with some longer hikes (up to 9 miles) significant elevation gain/loss of up to 3200 feet.
Difficulty Level
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Solitude Level
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Trip Itinerary
Please Note: We always do everything in our power to follow the set itinerary, however it can change occasionally based on temporary access restrictions, weather, lodging/campground availability, guest ability/injury, natural events like fires and flooding, and other potential causes. Normal terms and conditions apply to trips with itinerary changes.
Day 1
Shuttle: 2.5 hours
Hiking Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,300 feet
Our adventure kicks off in Fairbanks, the northernmost point of Alaska’s rail corridor, where we’ll greet you at your hotel and start the day with breakfast. From there, we’ll visit the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center—a beautiful space that offers a deeper understanding of the land, culture, and people of Interior Alaska. It’s the perfect introduction to the region we’re about to explore. Next, we’ll head south toward Denali National Park for our first hike of the trip. As we make our way along the trail, we’ll encounter the park’s famous “canine rangers”—working sled dogs that have played a vital role in Alaska’s history. After the hike, we’ll settle into our accommodations, giving you time to unwind and freshen up before gathering again for a warm, satisfying dinner to close out the day.
Day 2
Shuttle: 3.5 hours
Hiking Distance: 6.5 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,300 feet
This morning, we’ll enjoy a nourishing breakfast and check out of our lodge, bidding farewell to Denali National Park. Heading south, we’ll embark on a classic ridge hike offering sweeping views of the majestic Alaska Range. If the skies are clear, we may be treated to one of the most breathtaking vistas of Denali itself—though the mountain often hides behind a veil of clouds, making such sightings all the more special. After our invigorating hike, we’ll continue our journey southward and arrive at a cozy lodge nestled at the edge of the Talkeetna Mountains. Here, you’ll have time to relax, soak in the tranquil surroundings, and settle in for a peaceful night in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.
Day 3
Shuttle: 3 hours
Hiking Distance: 3.1 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 344 feet
Today’s journey takes us deeper into Alaska’s stunning landscapes. Upon arrival to the trailhead, we’ll stretch our legs on the Albert Loop Trail, a gentle 3.1-mile hike. Along the way, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Eagle River and the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out—this area is known for active wildlife, including moose and bears. The loop begins and ends at the Eagle River Nature Center, which offers excellent interpretive displays and information about the region’s ecology and history. After our hike, we’ll continue south to our lodge, a cozy retreat nestled in the wilderness. It’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Day 4
Shuttle: 3.5 hours
Hiking Distance: 8.5 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,452 feet
This morning, we’ll set out to the trailhead for Hope Point, one of the most scenic hikes in the region. The trail winds through lush, forested terrain, gradually opening up to sweeping views of Resurrection Creek Valley, Cook Inlet, Turnagain Arm, and Fire Island. As we ascend above the tree line, panoramic vistas unfold—an unforgettable reward for those who venture higher. Given our afternoon water taxi reservation in Homer, we’ll hike only as far as time allows before heading south along the coast. The drive to Homer is a scenic journey in itself, offering glimpses of Alaska’s rugged beauty. By late afternoon, we’ll arrive at the Homer Spit to catch our water taxi to our charming cabins. Far from the busy shops and crowds of tourists, we will enjoy two nights in this secluded spot with evenings on the beach and delicious, hot meals prepared by your guide.
Day 5
Water Taxi: 1.5 hours
Hiking Distance: 8.9 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 3,444 feet
Today’s adventure begins with a scenic water taxi ride across Kachemak Bay, dropping us off at the southern trailhead of the Grace Ridge Trail. This point-to-point hike is a true highlight of the trip, offering a rewarding challenge and unforgettable views. The trail begins in a quiet, forested area with limited visibility, gradually ascending into open alpine slopes blanketed in wildflowers. As we climb higher, expansive vistas of Kachemak Bay and the surrounding mountains unfold, offering a dramatic backdrop to our journey. The full hike spans nearly 9 miles with significant elevation gain, but we’ll pace ourselves and enjoy the scenery along the way. We’ll conclude the hike upon a beach, where our water taxi will meet us for the return trip to our cabins.
Day 6
Shuttle: 3.5 hours
Water Taxi: 1.5 hours
Hiking Distance: 4 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 777 feet
We’ll begin the day with a morning hike to Grewingk Lake—often described as “quintessentially Alaskan.” The trail climbs steeply at first, taking us up and over a saddle before descending into a rugged, overgrown path that leads to the lake. Though the terrain is rugged in places, the reward is a serene glacial lake surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery—an ideal spot for a quiet break and reflection. After the hike, we’ll take a water taxi back across Kachemak Bay to Homer Spit, where we’ll begin our drive to Seward. The journey south offers stunning coastal views and a chance to unwind as we transition from one breathtaking region of Alaska to another.
Day 7
Shuttle: 20 minutes
Activity Duration: 10.5 hours
Today we’ll trade hiking boots for paddles as we embark on a full-day sea kayaking adventure. After a short drive from our lodge, we’ll meet our guides and begin with a scenic wildlife boat tour across Resurrection Bay and into Kenai Fjords National Park. Our destination: Aialik Glacier, the park’s largest and most actively calving tidewater glacier. From the water, we’ll have a front-row seat to the dramatic ice formations and the chance to spot seals, sea otters, puffins, and possibly whales. Paddling through this pristine wilderness offers a unique and intimate perspective of Alaska’s coastal beauty. After the tour, we’ll return to our lodge for a well-earned evening of rest and reflection.
Day 8
Shuttle: 3 hours
Hiking Distance: 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain/Loss: 2000 feet
Today will be our closest experience with a glacier yet. As we approach the coastal town of Seward, we will head back up into the mountains and enter Kenai Fjords National Park. Here will hike along the lateral moraine of Exit Glacier, the only glacier in the park that is accessible by foot trail. We’ll hike to the top of the cliffs adjacent to the Exit Glacier for unparalleled views of Alaska’s most famous glacier. After our hike we’ll continue to Anchorage and the conclusion of our Alaska adventure – what a week it’s been!
Trip Dates
Click on a date to register. You can also click here to request new dates or book through customer service.
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What's Included
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7 nights of double occupancy lodging (single occupancy requires an additional single supplement)
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Top-of-the-line daypack and trekking poles
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All meals are included from breakfast the first day through lunch on the last day
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Trained hiking guide(s) with years of personal wilderness and hiking experience, medical certifications, and a passion for leading people into breathtaking landscapes. See Guide Bios.
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Transportation for the duration of the tour, beginning in Fairbanks and ending in Anchorage
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Entrance fees and national park permits
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Bear safety equipment including bear spray canisters
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Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device
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Mandatory 5% national park fee that passes through directly to the national parks
What's Not Included
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Clothes, raingear, and footwear -
Sunscreen, toiletries and personal items
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Water bottles and a headlamp or flashlight
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Alcoholic beverages
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Guide gratuity (industry recommendation is 10-20% of trip cost)
Accommodations
Denali Lakeview Inn
0-1 Night
Denali Lakeview Inn is a family owned, local mountain retreat on the shores of pristine Otto Lake. Through the windows of your individually decorated rooms, enjoy breathtaking views of Otto Lake, Mount Healy and Mount Dora. Guests can enjoy the lunch, grassy lawn and soak up the views of the lake and mountains, or dip your feet in the lake.
McKinley Creekside Cabins
0-1 Night
The McKinley Creekside Cabins establishment is a boutique, locally owned and operated Alaskan lodge, restaurant and bakery located on the shores of a pristine mountain creek flowing down from the alpine ridges above. Just 15 minutes from Denali National Park, this lodge provides a perfect blend of modern comfort and immersion in the natural landscapes of Alaska.
Mat-Su Resort
1 Night
Mat-Su Resort is a boutique hotel on the shores of a gorgeous lake with sweeping views of the Chugach Mountain Range, one of Alaska’s most famous ranges. It has 12 rooms, all with modern amenities and either a balcony view or a front veranda so you can soak up the beauty of Alaska.
Bear Creek Lodge
1 Night
Bear Creek Lodge is a cozy, rustic, very authentic retreat in the wilds of Alaska. We enjoy their private cabins with backcountry feel and their majestic property for only one night, but we wish it could be more. The rustic cabins are nestled between a majestic pond and rushing mountain stream, and the on sight restaurant is a guest favorite. Please note this lodge does not have private bathrooms and showers, but the communal area is very clean. (shared bathrooms and showers, wifi in the restaurant, cell service, sauna)
3 Moose Cabins
2 Nights
At these remote cabins, that we catch a water taxi to access, you can step off your front covered porch into 70 miles of hiking trails through iconic Alaskan wilderness. On the shores of Halibut Cove, this is a warm, cozy eco-lodge co-existing in harmony with nature. From your cabin, watch for sea otters, eagles, and even bears and whales. All rooms have private bathrooms with flushing toilets, sinks, and hot showers.
Nauti Otter Yurt Village
2 Nights
The Nauti Otter offers a unique, quirky Alaskan experience, where we stay in yurts nestled in the vibrant forests of the Kenai Peninsula. The yurts are cozy and bring us closer to nature while still providing some modern amenities like heaters, fans and access to wifi. Bathrooms and showers are communal at the Nauti Otter.
Trip Logistics & FAQs
Where Do We Meet?
You will meet your guide and group at 6PM at the Springhill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks the evening before your trip begins. Your guide will be in contact approximately 10 days in advance to coordinate the rendezvous and answer any last minute questions you have.
Click here to see a printable, downloadable trip information packet with more detailed guidance about flights, shuttles, recommended lodging and more.
Travel to Fairbanks, AK
Fairbanks International Airport and its connecting flights from many major US cities make Fairbanks very accessible. The major airlines that fly to Fairbanks are Delta, United, American, Alaska Airlines and Sun Country.
Start/End Times
Your guide will inform you of the first day’s pick-up time during the pre-trip communication. Generally, you can expect it to be around 6 am, although the exact time will depend on several factors such as planned activities, current weather and road conditions. On the final day of the trip, you can expect a return to Anchorage around 8 pm, and your guide will drop you off at your hotel or the airport. Note: A variety of circumstances can influence our timeline on the final day of a trip, therefore Wildland Trekking does not guarantee return times.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is our top priority. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMT’s, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Guides adhere to standardized risk management protocols in case of any potential or actual incident, and all tours carry an emergency communication device and comprehensive first-aid kit. Additionally we have a “24/7” system through which guides or guests can reach Wildland support personnel at any time.
If you have any further questions about safety, please contact us at 1-800-715-HIKE (4453) for more information.
Age Restrictions
Age restrictions on this trip are as follows:
- 12 and older to join scheduled tours (mixed groups)
- 5 and older to join private tours, with final approval and specific logistical requirements (such as porter or stock assist) determined on a case by case basis
Reviews
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Jonathan Y
1 year agoSpectacular trip!!
Spectacular trip!! The guide was as cool as ice and very knowledgable on all things Alaska. Lots of driving but it’s a must for this trip to work the way it does. You get to see a lot of this beautiful state in the short time of this trip. The lodging is really something else on this trip. A lot of off cozy cabins and yurts. What stuck out the most was the cabin in Halibut Cove. Nice nestled away cabin with a beautiful view a couple miles from Homer accessible only by water taxi. The food you get to eat is another staple of the trip. Highly recommend for seafood lovers. Best crab I’ve ever had. Don’t forget you can book side tours!! My girlfriend and I booked a fishing charter for one of the days in Seward and it was something I would highly recommend. If you have enough time the guide stops at little hole in the wall places during the trip which was a big highlight for me. Very unique trip would highly recommend 11/10.
Ken L
1 year agoAmazing Journey
It was an amazing journey to explore popular parts of Alaska in a short period of time.
Laura W
1 year agoMagnificent
If you want to experience the magnificent beauties of Alaska through a guided hiking trip, this one cannot be beat. It was beyond what I hoped for. Our guide, so deeply engaged with what Alaska has to offer, led an extremely well conceived itinerary through gorgeous landscapes with magnificent views you can only have by hiking to them. The locations, lodgings, food and the intimate company was superb. I'm deeply grateful!
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