Combine a classic journey aboard the Alaska Railroad from Anchorage to Denali and Fairbanks with the independence of touring by car on Alaska's oldest, and arguably most scenic, roadway. The easy pace of this tour allows ample time to enjoy the experience of Denali National Park with a wildlife tour and to explore Fairbanks and Valdez.

Day 5:  Fairbanks to Valdez / 368 miles

Plan 7 hours driving time, not including stops.
Today you will drive the Richardson and Alaska Highways southeast from Fairbanks to Valdez. As you depart Fairbanks, you will drive past the town of North Pole, the home of Santa Claus. During your drive, you will have many opportunities to stop at scenic overlooks to view the Alyeska pipeline, Mt. McKinley (on clear days) and the Wrangell-St. Elias Mountains. Before reaching Valdez, you will drive past Worthington Glacier and through Keystone Canyon with its numerous waterfalls, including the spectacular Bridal Veil Falls. Overnight Valdez.

Day 6:  Valdez

Valdez was almost completely wiped out by a tidal wave in 1964, but it is now rebuilt and is a busy port city at the end of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Today is free to explore the small town of Valdez. You may wish to go on an optional hiking or kayaking tour (not included). Overnight in Valdez.

Day 7: Valdez to Anchorage / Ferry from Valdez to Whittier (3 or 6 hrs). Drive Whittier to Anchorage (60 miles; plan 75 minutes drive time, not including tunnel waiting period or stops.)
Today, you will leave Valdez aboard the Alaska Marine Highway ferry and cruise through beautiful Prince William Sound. Upon arrival in Whittier, drive through the Whittier-Portage Tunnel (a one-lane tunnel shared with the train) In Portage, you have the opportunity to stop at the Portage Glacier Visitor Center. We also recommend a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. You will then follow the Seward Highway north to Anchorage. Overnight in Anchorage.

Day 8:  Anchorage departure
Return car today. Depart or start additional program.

7 nights accommodation. Train from Anchorage to Denali and Denali to Fairbanks. 6-8 hour bus tour into Denali National Park with snack and park admission. 5 days midsize car rental from Fairbanks to Anchorage including one way fee and unlimited mileage. Ferry passage for passengers and vehicle from Valdez to Whittier. All taxes.

Please note:  upgraded programs include taxi transfers on days 1 and 2 in Anchorage.  *All railroad and ferry times are approximate and subject to change.

LDW/CDW rental car insurance, additional driver fees, gas.
Taxi transfers in Anchorage for standard program.
Meals, optional excursions, park/admission fees other than mentioned, gratuities.
For additional car rental days please click here!

Tour operates May 16 - August 28, 2010.
May 16 - May 25: Monday, Thursday and Saturday departures only.
May 26 - August 28: Daily departures except Wednesdays.

BOOK NOW AND RECEIVE 2009 RATES Tour 152CTA based on standard program and midsize car
Season / Room Type	Single	Double/ Twin	Triple	Quad	4 share car 2 rooms	Child**
May 16 - 28	$2498	$1479	$1183	$1036	$1391	$349
May 29 - August 28	$2978	$1739	$1376	$1198	$1586	$349
**Valid for children 11 years and under sharing 1 room with 2 full paying adults with existing bedding. Max. 2 children / 2 adults per room.

 

BOOK NOW AND RECEIVE 2009 RATES Tour 152CTA based on upgraded program and mid size car
Season / Room Type	Single	Double/ Twin	Triple	Quad	4 share car 2 rooms	Child**
May 16 - 28	$3313	$1978	$1585	$1388	$1890	$409
May 29 - August 28	$3632	$2159	$1719	$1499	$1999	$409
** Valid for children 11 years and under sharing 1 room with 2 full paying adults with existing bedding. Max. 2 children / 2 adults per room.

 

Upgrade your Alaska Railroad Experience to Gold Star Service!!! (standard program only)

Enjoy luxury rail travel aboard lavishly appointed, double-deck dome cars, which offer 360-degree views and an outdoor viewing platform. Your upgraded service includes a confirmed seat in the domed upper deck, a commemorative GoldStar gift, and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages.

Surcharge per segment - available Days 2 and 3 only

Adult: $85 per person

Child: $42 per person

 

Upgrade your rental car!!! Surcharge per rental vehicle, for entire 5 day rental period.			Make your vacation even more enjoyable!   We recommend adding these tours:
Tour start date: May 16 - 28	Tour start date: May 29 - August 28		~ Cabin Nite Dinner Theatre, Day 2 ~ Arctic Circle Adventure, Day 4 ~ Columbia Glacier Cruise, Day 6
Full size: $25	Full size: $30
SUV: $215	SUV: $330
Minivan: $135	Minivan: $330