* Bookable for 2021 * Combine Denali National Park with a hidden jewel, Knik River Lodge. Sheltered by the Chugach Mountains and surrounded by over ten glaciers including Knik Glacier, Knik River Lodge is located above the Knik River in one of the most glaciated areas of Alaska. Relax at Knik River Lodge and enjoy the quiet and scenic surroundings of the lodge. Continue north through the Matanuska Valley via the classic Alaska Railroad, offering a scenic and comfortable adventure on your way to Denali National Park. After the beautiful journey to Denali, take a scenic bus tour into Denali National Park, a major highlight of Alaska. Search for wildlife and enjoy views of mountain Denali, North America’s tallest peak (weather permitting). Then it is all aboard the Alaska Railroad once again for your trip back to Anchorage – rounding out this classic Alaskan adventure
Anchorage Arrival
Arrive into Anchorage and transfer to your on own. Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city, nestled between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. Offering an abundance of shopping, cultural attractions, and gourmet restaurants, Anchorage provides an excellent start to your vacation. Overnight in Anchorage.
Anchorage to Knik River Lodge
In the morning, you have time to take part in an optional city tour (see Tour Add-Ons).
Later, a pretty drive, a glacier view and a little lodge living highlight today's short trip north. Transfer through part of the Matanuska Valley, passing through Eklutna Village, known for its historic Russian Orthodox Church, and the scenic vistas of the Chugach Mountain Range. Knik River Lodge is nestled in the mountains above the Knik River, a braided glacial river named by the Dena’ina people who first settled the area. From the lodge, take a nature walk and bask in this peaceful setting. Overnight at Knik River Lodge.
Knik River Lodge
Today is at your leisure to explore the area or enjoy an optional tour on Knik Glacier. You may pass an occasional stray iceberg, waterfalls and some of Alaska's most spectacular scenery. This glacier is awe-inspiring as it pours from the Chugach Mountains’ large peaks. The 25-mile river of ice is over 5 miles wide and hundreds of feet thick. The day is at your leisure at Knik River Lodge for hiking, exploring the area, or helicopter glacier dog sledding (see Tour Add-Ons). Overnight at Knik River Lodge.
Knik River Lodge to Denali
In the morning you will be transferred to the Wasilla train station to join the Alaska Railroad traveling north. The journey takes you from the heart of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley to the doorstep of Denali National Park. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel for time to relax before tomorrow’s adventure into the park. Overnight at the Denali National Park entrance.
Denali National Park
Today depart on a bus tour of Denali National Park. This tour takes you through the best wildlife viewing portion of the Park Road, approximately 55 miles into the park. As you travel through the pristine wilderness, look for wildlife, such as bears, caribou, and moose, as well as views of the Mountain. Your experienced driver/guide will provide commentary and make stops during your approx. 7-8 hour tour*. Overnight near the Denali park entrance.
Denali to Anchorage
Sleep in or enjoy a short optional excursion such as the Husky Homestead Tour (see Tour Add-Ons) before leaving the park area today. Transfer by hotel courtesy shuttle to the Alaska Railroad depot. Just after noon you will depart for Anchorage. Stunning views from the train include the Alaska Range, Summit Lake, Hurricane Gulch and – if the weather is clear – Denali’s 20,310-foot peak. Stroll through the train, visit the dining car and learn from the knowledgeable local guides on board. Upon arrival in Anchorage, transfer on your own and enjoy dinner at one of Anchorage’s many great restaurants. Overnight in Anchorage.
Anchorage Departure
Depending on your departure time, you might have free time for shopping or additional excursions. Transfer on your own to the airport. Tour concludes.
* Please note that in May/September the bus tour into Denali Nat Park may be shorter (only up to 4 hours) due to road and weather conditions.
2021 Booking Information
Book this tour for your 2021 Alaska vacation at 2020 prices now with just a $100 per person initial deposit. The deposit is fully refundable if cancelled before October 1. Don’t worry about choosing the exact date yet - free date changes are possible until October 1. View booking terms and conditions.
The program will include a combination of hotels or motels that are considered moderate to standard tourist class. Please be aware not all hotels have shuttle services.
If you would like to book the standard program but with upgraded rail seating, the option and surcharge will be listed when you save to your cart.
The program will include standard rooms at this category of hotel where possible. Alaska has very limited hotel choices in remote areas and small towns. The properties will typically offer a wider range of services such as a full-service restaurant, room service and perhaps a pool or spa facilities. Please be aware the upgraded accommodations in downtown Anchorage do not have hotel shuttle services. Many of the upgraded hotels also offer guaranteed view rooms for additional cost. If you would like a specific room type, in addition to the upgraded program, please ask us about availability and cost difference.
All journeys between Anchorage and Whittier are in standard seating as deluxe dome cars are not available on that route.
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Call or email us to help plan the perfect Alaskan vacation.
Book the "Knik River and Denali Explorer", to add these tour add-on's to your reservation.
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