Hiking Tours

8 Hikes in 2 of Alaska's 5 Regions: 

SOUTHCENTRAL REGION has an abundance of fishing and wildlife, wilderness trails, and includes the Chugach National Forest and Kenai Fjords National Park, known for its glaciers and marine wildlife.  This tour includes hinking in:

• Anchorage
• Talkeetna
• Seward

INTERIOR REGION is Alaska’s heartland, with wide expanses of tundra, forests teaming with wildlife, and the Alaska mountain range which includes the continent’s tallest peak, Denali. This tour includes hiking in:

• Denali National Park
• Denali State Park

Train Ride from Anchorage to Denali

Take the Alaska railroad for an informative, efficient, and relaxing mode of transportation northward.  View the amazing variety of passing sights and scenery from comfortable seats or the domed observation car, and host guides will point out highlights and walk throughout the cars to answer questions. Some people may find it interesting to follow the journey on the Alaska Railroad Map.

Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is a non-profit sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska’s wildlife through conservation, education, research, and quality animal care. AWCC takes in orphaned and injured animals year-round, most of the animals become permanent residents. The sanctuary maintains over 200 acres of spacious habitats for resident animals to feel at home, allowing them to display their natural wild behavior.

Dinner Theatre in Denali

Savour an all-you-can-eat family-style dinner while a cast of characters use music, humour and storytelling to present a Gold Rush tale of adventure.

Cruise in Kenai Fjord National Park

This adventure begins with the sail out of Seward harbour, watching for the resident bald eagle and seals.  During the Cruise of Resurrection Bay, there will be plenty of wildlife-watching opportunities, and stunningly craggy coastlines to see while the deckhands share their insights and stories. It’s a marine mammal delight with sea lions, sea otters, porpoises, harbor seals, and loads of whales in the waters off Kenai Fjords!

Day 2

1. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail - Anchorage

(H1/Easy – 8.0km/ flat)

Starting downtown, close to our hotel, this waterfront path stretches 17 kilometres along the Cook Inlet shoreline, eventually reaching Kincaid Park at the western edge of Anchorage. This trail network is full of hidden gems, connecting parks and neighbourhoods, and reaching nearly every corner of the city. We will walk a portion of the trail as a group, and there will be time for those who want to explore it further, on another day.

https://anchoragecoastaltrail.com/ 

Day 3

2. Eagle River Nature Reserve and Barbara Falls

(H2/Moderate – 8.0km/ some elevation)

Forty minutes from downtown Anchorage lies Eagle River Nature Center, a gateway to Chugach State Park and a glacial river valley as wild and dramatic as any in Alaska. With a private guide, we will enjoy a number of nature walks, with a stop at the Visitor Centre.  Easy in some places, moderate in others due to some elevation, the views will be worth the effort.

https://www.alaska.org/detail/eagle-river-nature-center#map 

https://hikingalaska.net/2022/06/15/barbara-falls-easy-waterfall-hike/ 

Day 5

3. Tundra Wilderness - Denali National Park

(H2/Moderate – 5.0km/ some elevation)

Following the Tundra Wilderness Tour at Denali National Park, there will be some opportunities to walk around, and then a short hike, likely about 5 km, on a trail near the Visitors’ Centre will be offered.

https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/denali-short-hike.htm 

(This link not only describes trails near the Visitors’ Center, it provides good information regarding wilderness safety.)

Day 6

4. Triple Lakes Trail - Denali National Park

(H3/Moderate/Difficult – 8.0km/ some elevation)

Inside Denali National Park, this hike is Denali’s longest trail, with bridges over two creeks and great views of three lakes. It is a difficult, 14.6 miles point-to-point, but we will cover less trail with a local guide to keep the experience more moderate, and still provide one of the best opportunities for a serene immersion into the boreal forest of interior Alaska. The hike begins with a gradual and consistent climb with spectacular views of the Nenana River and the expansive glacially carved Yanert Valley. It then descends and levels off to provide access to the three alpine lakes that give this trail its name. Beautiful views of the lakes bounded by the elevated ridges, make for some outstanding photo opportunities. The surface is a mix of compacted gravel, soil, rocks, roots, and sections of planks over marshy ground. The trail is up to 20% grade at times, generally 24" wide.

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/alaska/triple-lakes-trail-south-to-north?search=true&u=m 

Day 7

5. Wild Wilderness Trail - Denali State Park

(H3/Difficult – 8.0km/ 1100m)

For the active traveler, a Denali Wilderness Hike is the perfect way to discover this amazing place. This hike involves substantial elevation gain, getting you up to the big views above tree line. The trail is not steep or difficult, but it is the long, steady climb that makes this hike strenuous. Climb from lush forest to alpine tundra, and be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Alaska Range peaks and glaciers (weather permitting). This is THE BEST TRAIL for Denali Views! Denali hiking doesn't get any better than this!

Day 8

6. Talkeetna Lake Trail

(H2/Moderate – 6.0km/ 125m)

Explore Talkeetna's best trail with a knowledgeable naturalist guide. A new scene of beauty unfolds around every turn on this 6 kilometre moderate hike. Look for loons and kingfishers on the lakes and moose and bears in the woods. This lush old-growth forest is alive with songbirds, wildflowers, berries, and mushrooms. Your local guide will tell you stories about wildlife encounters, life in Talkeetna, and how native people survived in this wild land. The fresh air, exercise, and healthy homemade snack will renew and invigorate you. This is a great trip in any weather.

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/alaska/talkeetna-lake-trail--2?u=m 

Day 10

7. Exit Glacier - Seward

(H2/Moderate – 5.0km)

Alaska’s most accessible glacier.  Led by a local guide we will explore a variety of trails where we will witness up close how glaciers re-shape a landscape and learn how plant life reclaims the barren rocky land exposed by a glacier’s retreat.

Day 11

8. Tonsina Creek Trail - Seward

(H2/Moderate – 5.0km/ 224m)

This enjoyable hike involves a moderate climb in the middle and then some switchbacks, and also includes a short loop out to the beach. Manageable for most hikers, definitely worth the climb for the gorgeous views at the end.

https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/alaska/tonsina-trail 

THIS IS ALASKA ... a trip of a lifetime!

Manageable Hiking, Rewarding Stunning Vistas

The focus is on the experience, not the distance, allowing time for all the senses to absorb amazing scenery and breathtaking views.  Some hikes involve elevation but the overall distances are not long.

An Organized Tour is the Way to Go!

Given the size of Alaska, distances between destinations of interest, limited access and sparce facilities, knowing where to go, how to get there, and where to stay and eat is key. As a result, hikers who try to do it themselves will spend a lot of time figuring out details and dealing with logistics, while guests on our tours spend a lot more time on the trail, with the benefit of professional, experienced guides.

• Private motorcoach transportation
• 12 nights of accommodation
• 12 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
• Local professional hiking guides 
• All park passes and entry fees for included highlights
• Services of a DeLuxe Hiking Tour Director

Prices are in Canadian dollars, are per person and include all applicable taxes.

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS

• 8 hikes, exploring Denali National Park, Denali State Park Talkeetna, and Seward
• train ride from Anchorage to Denali
• private shuttles to trailheads
• private tour of Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
• dinner theatre in Denali
• Fjord Cruise to Fox Island in Kenai Fjord National Park

Day 1

Guests will arrive at our centrally located downtown hotel in Anchorage and connect with the Tour Director and other guests. The free evening will allow everyone to rest and recover after a long travel day.

Stay: Clarion Suites Downtown Anchorage, AK

Nights: 3

Day 2

After breakfast in the hotel, a walk along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail will introduce us to the Anchorage waterfront. The rest of the day will provide free time to explore the city:  wander through downtown Anchorage, visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, or embark on the City Tolley Tour.  The Westchester Lagoon is ideal for bird watching, and bike rentals are an option to explore the 32 kilometres of cycling trails. The group will get together for a welcome dinner, sharing the day’s explorations before retiring for the evening.

Meals: B, D

Day 3

This morning’s hike is to the Eagle River Nature Reserve in the Chugach Mountain area. We will be picked up at the hotel by our private guide and transported to the Reserve, just outside Anchorage. The Chugach Mountains form a dramatic backdrop for the City of Anchorage and our hike will introduce us to the world-class Chugach wilderness, brimming with natural beauty. The trail follows the river in a beautiful valley where we view the mountain peaks. Returning early in the afternoon provides additional free time in Anchorage to explore the many sites and activities, or perhaps some relaxing at the hotel may be in order.

Meals:  B, L

Day 4

Today’s adventure is to travel by train from Anchorage to Denali Park, 234 miles/377 km through the mountains in the interior of Alaska. The first glimpse of the famous Denali, North America’s tallest mountain, is 30 minutes into the train ride.  On this 7-hour journey northward, the train will pass through spruce forests, over braided rivers, and along the base of the Alaska National Range to enter Denali National Park, and we’ll arrive at our hotel late in the afternoon. With the longer brighter days, following our dinner at the hotel, there will be time to begin to explore Denali with its boutiques and gold rush-themed shops.

Stay: Denali Bluffs Hotel, Denali National Park, AK

NIghts: 3

Meals: B, D

Day 5

Not to be missed, the Tundra Wilderness Tour is the premier tour of the Denali National Park and Preserve. It offers a narrated history of the park and the best opportunities to view the park’s wildlife. After the park tour, we have an opportunity to hike along the short trails located beside the Visitor Information Centre. Return to the lodge mid-afternoon and enjoy free time to explore the village.

Meals:  B, L

Day 6

Today we hike the Triple Lakes Trail, a “must do” Alaska hike for any Denali visitor. It is rated moderately strenuous due to the reasonably steep ascent at the onset of the hike, but then the landscape levels off, and outstanding views await.  Our experienced guide will point out things not to be missed. After the hike, we will have time to rest and take in the beautiful scenery at our lodging, and then we’re in for a special treat. Enjoy a local musical dinner theatre, hearing colourful stories of the great Alaskan Gold Rush while enjoying an all-you-can-eat family-style meal.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 7

Today we depart our lovely accommodations in Denali, and with a private transportation, make our way south towards Talkeenta. On the way, we will meet another local guide who will take us on a hike through the Denali State Park (Yes, this is a different park than Denali National Park.) After hiking, we will arrive in Talkeenta, with time to explore our new surroundings before our group dinner at this spectacular lodge.

Stay: Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, Talkeetna, AK

NIghts: 2

Meals:  B, L, D

Day 8

Enjoy a leisurely morning with free time to sleep in, indulge in some quiet time at the lodge, or taking the shuttle into Talkeetna to explore this quaint village. After lunch, we will join our hiking guide, and head to the Talkeetna Lakes Trailhead for an enjoyable hike. The evening is free to enjoy either at the lodge or in Talkeetna.

Meals: B

Day 9

This morning, after breakfast, we depart from Talkeetna and head south towards Seward, stopping for lunch at Girdwood. After lunch, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for a walking tour with an expert naturalist who will provide a narrative of the Center’s wildlife and history. After visiting the animals, we’ll continue south to scenic Seward, check into our accommodations, and enjoy a group dinner at the lodge.

Stay: Seward Windsong Lodge, Seward, AK

NIghts: 4

Meals: B, D

Day 10

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, we will be picked up by our private guide for a guided tour to Exit Glacier, “Alaska’s most accessible glacier.” There will be time to browse the Visitor Centre before being dropped off in Seward for free time and lunch. A short hike will be offered in Seward for those who are interested, otherwise, free time is provided to explore this town. For the adventurous, a fantastic optional addition can be arranged:  a helicopter ride over the Kenai Fjord National Park.

Meals: B

Day 11

Today’s guided hike is the Tosina Trail, a longer hike with private transportation there and back again. On the way back to Seward, we’ll stop to watch the salmon run. Enjoy a free evening, either at the lodge or in town.

Meals: B, L

Day 12

Today, an amazing grand finale adventure in Alaska is in store: a cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park. During the boat ride, view jagged cliffs, seabirds, alpine glaciers, and marine wildlife. Fox Island is a picturesque, primarily mountainous island in the heart of Resurrection Bay. We’ll enjoy lunch at the Day Lodge on the island before returning to Seward. Our farewell dinner will provide the opportunity recount our favourite, memorable experiences.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 13

With an abundance of memories and unique experiences to share with family and friends, our tour has come to an end. At this point, there are choices: continue the Alaska experience with a Princess Cruise to Vancouver, and then fly home; or transport back to Anchorage via train or bus, and fly home from there. Our knowledgeable staff are able to assist with your choice of arrangements for the journey homeward.

Meals: B

Clarion Suites Downtown Anchorage, Alaska (3 nights)

https://www.choicehotels.com/alaska/anchorage/clarion-hotels/ak030?mc=llgoxxpx

Denali Bluffs Hotel, Denali National Park, Alaska (3 nights)

https://www.denalialaska.com/denali-bluffs-hotel/the-hotel

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, Talkeetna, Alaska (2 nights)

https://www.alaskacollection.com/lodging/talkeetna-alaskan-lodge/

Seward Windsong Lodge, Seward, Alaska (4 nights)

https://www.alaskacollection.com/lodging/seward-windsong-lodge/

The weather in Alaska is fickle, especially in spring and fall. Guests need to be prepared for all kinds of weather by dressing appropriately in layers.   

Further, while many of these hikes are rated H2/Moderate, they are definitely at the top end of that range due to elevation. Guests will require proper footwear, and poles are also recommended.  Crampons (icers) should be brought in case snow is found at higher altitudes.

This itinerary includes some boat rides.  Although for most people medication is not required, there may be some who may want to bring along a remedy for motion sickness.  You don’t want to let a little thing like that spoil these amazing experiences.

This tour begins in Anchorage, Alaska, so guests can join this tour from anywhere in the world!  

Alaska is known for its wilderness, sense of adventure and free spirit.   A helicopter ride may appeal to some and can be included in a personal itinerary with advance notice (and own cost) at either Denali or Seward (or both!)

The tour ends in Seward, Alaska, and from there, for your journey home, there are two options available that we can help you with:

• Take a bus or a train back to Anchorage for the return flight home
• Why not extend your adventure and take a cruise to Vancouver out of Whittier, then fly home?  This hiking tour ends on June 7, and the starting location of the cruise is a short distance away on the same day!  Our staff can help you with the booking to ensure you get the lowest price for your cruise.

Please contact us to discuss your airfare and pre-and post-tour accommodation options.