The Ultimate Alaska Adventure is our most adventurous trip and features the widest range of unique, authentically Alaskan activities. These iconic experiences include a helicopter landing on glacial snowpack for a real Alaskan dogsled ride; a once-in-a-lifetime hiking adventure to step foot on and explore an Alaskan glacier; a sea kayaking experience deep inside Kenai Fjords National Park; and more. After a day of true backcountry exploring, the cozy accommodations at our wilderness lodges ensure an unforgettable Alaska vacation.
This adventure begins with a journey along Turnagain Arm to the small mountain town of Girdwood. From here, we’ll take a helicopter to a nearby glacier to experience the Alaskan sport of dog sledding! After a taste of wintry Alaska, the trip continues to our Kenai Riverside Lodge, nestled on the banks of the turquoise Kenai River. Tonight allows for some relaxation in your cabin, with appetizers and a cozy dinner in the main lodge.
On day 2, gear up for a scenic raft trip on the Kenai River and into the heart of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. We’ll search for moose, bears, bald eagles and more along the way. Our destination is our boat-in only forest retreat, Kenai Backcountry Lodge. Days 3 and 4 are spent exploring the remote wilderness of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, including a hike to high elevation tundra and amazing views of glacier-carved Skilak Lake. Later on Day 4, we’ll head back to Kenai Riverside Lodge – tonight is perfect for relaxing on the riverside deck, jumping in the sauna and enjoying a toasty s’more next to the outdoor fire.
We get up close to Alaska’s glaciers on Day 5 with a very special glacier hike adventure! After donning crampons, harnesses and helmets, we’ll safely navigate the glacier, with plenty of opportunities for photos. We’ll finish our day in the beautiful seacoast harbor town of Seward.
On day 6, we’ll board our private landing craft vessel for a half-day marine wildlife and glacier cruise to Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. We’ll check out a few tidewater glaciers on our journey, as well as search out whales, Steller sea lions, puffins and more on this introduction to Kenai Fjords National Park. This evening, you’ll have a chance to settle into your cabin for your two-night stay at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.
Activity options at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge abound! On Day 7, we love the full-day kayak exploration of Kenai Fjords National Park, including kayaking among icebergs from the calving of nearby glaciers, exploring caves and crannies along the saltwater bay, and searching for wildlife. Other great options include canoeing and beachcombing, or simply relaxing on the expansive deck and enjoying the wood-fired sauna.
On day 8, enjoy a final half-day activity before enjoying a coastal wildlife cruise back to Seward. From there, hop on the first-class Goldstar cars of the historic Alaska Railroad for your return trip to Anchorage.
We love this trip for active families with teenage travelers or couples seeking to make lifelong travel memories together. This itinerary includes a few challenging hikes and is best suited for travelers 13 years of age and older. With each departure of our Ultimate Alaska Adventure being limited to only 10 guests or less, our intentional focus on small group travel means more personalized service and support from our skilled naturalists and outdoor guides. An emphasis on safety is built in to all our nature tours, and you’ll feel confident while engaging with once-in-a-lifetime guided activities.
