Alaska's Scenic Highlights: From Denali to the Kenai Fjords

Admire the soothing beauty of the Talkeetna Lakes on an evening hike. This well-maintained 3.5-mile walking trail goes around the lake, through lush old-growth forest. During the hike, you could spot belted kingfishers, darting swallows, and many other birds in the surrounding spruce trees. In addition, you might spot spot shy loons with beautiful black-and-white markings camouflaged on the shimmering surface of the lake. Hear stories about wildlife encounters, life in Talkeetna, and the survival of the native people in this remote wildland, from your guide. If you’re lucky, you might see migratory trumpeter swans as they head further north. (Duration: half day; Self-explore activity; No guide; No transfers; Entrance fees and meals are not included; Fitness level: very active; Available May-Sept; Please bring camera, good walking shoes and a jacket)

If you have the time and the weather allows it, we recommend taking a Transit Bus to explore Denali National Park in Alaska. The buses depart from Denali Bus Depot, located inside the park. They give you the option of hopping off along the way to spend more time enjoying a particular view or to explore the park on foot. When you are done, you can hail any passing transit bus and hop on, provided seating is available. All the transit buses make regular restroom stops as well. The bus driver will give you basic park and safety information and answer any questions you might have. Enjoy views of the mountains and picturesque river valleys as you ride on the highway. Your driver will also help you spot wildlife such as Dall sheep, moose, and even wolves and bears. If you do come across wildlife, your bus will stop so you can enjoy the sight and take photographs. (Duration: full day; Available from May 20 to mid-September; This is an unguided, independent activity; Entrance fees, transfers and meals are not included; Depending on your personal itinerary, weather conditions and time available to you, it may not be possible to do all recommended activities)

Enjoy a gentle scenic rafting tour along the Nenana River. Begin your rafting expedition near the entrance to Denali National Park. Choose oar rafts or paddle rafts for a unique experience. Best suited for first timers, oar rafts are rowed by an expert guide, while you hold on tight and enjoy the scenic views. Alternatively, in a paddle raft, you could be an active participant and follow the instructions of your guide to help paddle the raft downriver. Watch out for moose, caribou, bear, and sheep as you raft downstream for about 11 miles. (Only Possible From 20 May to 10 Sep; Duration: Half Day; Shared Activity & Transfers; Min Age: 5; Please dress in warm outdoor clothes and in layers if possible; Do wear a wool or fleece beanie style hat, two pairs of wool socks, and eye glass retainers where necessary; A Gore-Tex dry suit, neoprene booties, and a life jacket will be provided; Five people are required to paddle each raft and thus, groups of guests may be combined to reach this figure; Please let us know in advance if you are allergic to latex)

Set sail into an ice age! The Kenai Peninsula plays host to Kenai Fjords National Park, where nearly 40 glaciers flow from the Harding icefield into the Pacific Ocean. Board a cruise to explore them and the unique habitat they engender for the seals, whales and puffins that call this region home. Depart from the town of Seward with your trusty and knowledgeable captain in charge. The unique experience of the crew in navigating the Arctic aquatic landscape makes all the difference, as they are able to point out the coastal rainforests, remote Alaskan islands and tidewater glaciers you pass on your journey. Make sure to pack your camera! Please note that this tour is weather-dependent. (Shared Activity; Transfer not Included; Duration: 6 hrs; Timings: 8am and 11:30am departures; Please arrive 1 hour before your departure time; Lunch included)