Authentic Alaska: Mountains, Rivers and Coastlines

• Shuttle: 2.5 hours
• Hiking Distance: 5 miles
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,030 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.

• Shuttle: 3.5 hours
• Hiking Distance: 6.5 miles
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,030 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Shuttle: 3.25 hours
• Water Taxi: 1.5 Hours
• Hiking Distance: 3.9 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.

• 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.

• Shuttle: 3 hours
• Hiking Distance: 5.5 miles
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,000 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!