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Kenai Fjords & Denali Adventure

You'll experience epic scenery, thriving wildlife, and untamed beauty on this immersive Alaska adventure. Cruise among tidewater glaciers and seabirds in Kenai Fjords National Park, raft the turquoise waters of the Kenai River Canyon, and hike to the icy blue face of Exit Glacier. Then head north to Denali for guided hikes and wildlife viewing in one of North America’s wildest landscapes.

Start - End: Anchorage - Anchorage

Total trip: 8 days

Average group size: 12 people

Level: 3

from NZD 11,599/pp including taxes and fees

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Experience a true Alaska adventure filled with dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the wild beauty of Kenai Fjords and Denali National Park.

An unforgettable adventure awaits you in Alaska – America’s last great frontier. From the crystal glacial waters of Kenai Fjords National Park to the epic expanse of Denali National Park and the wild wonders in between, this is the Alaskan adventure of your dreams!

Begin your journey with a daylong narrated cruise of glacial waters of Kenai Fjords. Hike the Exit Glacier Overlook Trail for astounding views of the glacier, or challenge yourself to hike to the expansive Harding Icefield. Raft the Class II+ rapids of Kenai River Canyon with an expert guide at the helm. Hike Denali National Park to discover its enduring allure for yourself.

Guided by seasoned experts who know the terrain, history and uniqueness of these lands, you’ll set off by land and sea (and air if you wish!) to discover the wildlife, untouched landscapes and untamed beauty of Alaska.

^{Austin Adventures operates in part under a special use permit with the Chugach National Forest and is an equal opportunity provider.}

Trip Highlights

Hiking

Exit Glacier

Hiking

Harding Icefield

Hiking

Talkeetna Lake

Hiking

Triple Lake

Kayaking

Resurrection Bay

Kayaking

Byers Lake

Plus...

Rafting Kenai River Canyon

Plus...

Flightseeing - Denali National Park (Optional - additional cost)

Day by day trip

Curious how it all comes together? Dive into the day-by-day itinerary and click the detailed map below to see where this unforgettable Alaska adventure takes you.

Day 1

Meet group in Anchorage, Kenai Fjords Wilderness Cruise

The Alaska of your dreams comes to life today! You’ll drive about two hours south to the town of Seward – the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Here, you’ll board a boat for a six-hour narrated cruise of the glacial waters of Resurrection Bay, the Gulf of Alaska and Aialik Bay. Keep your eyes peeled for puffins, whales, sea lions, harbor seals, eagles and the epic crashing of glacial calving as you sail along the wonders of Kenai Fjords National Park.
Accommodation: Seward Windsong Lodge or Harbor 360 Hotel, Seward
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Cruise: 6 hours

Day 2

Hike Exit Glacier Overlook Trail or Harding Icefield Trail

A full day of exploring the land side of Kenai Fjords National Park is on tap today. Enjoy a moderate hike of the Exit Glacier Overlook Trail for stunning views of Exit Glacier and the valley it has ever so slowly carved.

Or, if you’re up for a challenge, opt to hike the Harding Icefield Trail; where you’ll start at the valley floor and gain more than 3,000 feet in elevation as you hike among alders, cottonwood trees and picture-perfect meadows on your way to behold the park’s icy crown – the Harding Icefield. The trip may be challenging, but the views will be the thing leaving you breathless!
Accommodation: Seward Windsong Lodge or Harbor 360 Hotel, Seward
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: Up to 8 miles (13 kilometers)

Day 3

Float/Raft the Kenai River & Explore Anchorage

Your day begins with an incredible float rafting trip on the Kenai River. We’ll have opportunities to see incredible wildlife with bears, moose, beavers and forest birds (including bald eagles!) frequenting the river banks. and we'll be immersed in the spectacular scenery!

After a tasty salmon bake we will make our way back to Anchorage for some free time to explore the city or relax at the hotel before dinner at a local favorite tonight.
Accommodation: Aspen Suites Hotel, Anchorage
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rafting: 2 hours

Day 4

Train to Talkeetna & Birch Tapping

Starting in Anchorage we will board the iconic Denali Star route for a three-hour scenic train ride on the famous Alaska Railroad, heading north to Talkeetna.
After some time to explore town we visit Alaska Wild Harvest and learn about the rich history of tapping birch trees for their tasty syrup and the wild Alaska Chaga mushrooms harvested for tea.

A short drive takes us to Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge with amazing views of the surronding mountains. Enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner on your own.
Accommodation: Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, Talkeetna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5

Kayak Byers Lake, optional Denali Flightseeing

Your morning, your choice! Relax this morning at the lodge and enjoy the views on the deck.
Or, if you’re up for an adventure, you can choose a flightseeing trip of Denali for an additional cost. Board a 10-passenger plane and get a bird’s-eye view of the Alaska Range, including the south, east, and west faces of Denali and its sister peaks, Mt. Hunter and Mt. Foraker. You’ll spend an hour and fifteen minutes in the air, taking in the iconic features of the landscape like horizon-spanning glaciers, stunning icefalls, and soaring peaks. Touch down on a glacier and spend a half hour walking around and beholding the epic scale and jaw-dropping beauty of this untouched wilderness. Fly back with memories that will last a lifetime.

In the afternoon, you’ll make your way north to Denali State Park for kayaking at Byers Lake. End your day at your new basecamp, just minutes from the expansive Denali National Park.
Accommodation: Denali Bluffs Hotel or Grande Denali Lodge, Denali National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kayaking: Up to 2 hours

Day 6

Denali Exploration

Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast before heading into the park. Your choice this morning to either head into the backcountry or explore some of the front country. Head out on 4-5 hour bus ride on 40+ miles of rugged territory as you keep your eyes peeled for Denali’s Big 5 – bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. You’ll make frequent stops along the way to take in the stunning scenery and snap photos of wildlife.

Or head out on your own for a short hike at Horseshoe Lake or visit the dogs and see the dogsledding demo from these dogs who work all winter to help protect the park.

After your morning adventure enjoy lunch together before some time to further explore or relax at the lodge.
Accommodation: Denali Bluffs Hotel or Grande Denali Lodge, Denali National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Hike Triple Lakes Trail

The longest established trail in Denali National Park, Triple Lakes Trail is surprisingly secluded, offering you a true backcountry hike feel just minutes away from civilization.

Today, you’ll hike the well-maintained trails (9 miles one way or 6 miles out and back), exploring the beauty of the forests and searching for wildlife like industrious beavers and stoic moose. This evening, look back on your Alaskan adventure with old and newfound friends at a lovely local restaurant.
Accommodation: Denali Bluffs Hotel or Grande Denali Lodge, Denali National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: Up to 9 miles (14.5 kilometers)

Day 8

Exploring Denali State Park, say your goodbyes!

On our way back to Anchorage we will stop off for one more hike together at Denali State Park. As we make our way up above the trees we will be treated to views of the surrounding wilderness and potentially one last glimpse of Denali.

Afterwards we will enjoy lunch before driving back to Anchorage for fond farewells. We hope the memories and friendships made on your Alaskan adventure last a lifetime!
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Hiking: 3 miles (5 kilometers)

This trip includes:

7 nights’ accommodation
7 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 6 dinners
You’re supported from start to finish by our highly experienced guides and leaders
Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
All activities described in the itinerary
Delicious and nutritious snacks to keep you fueled
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
Special "Wow" moments you'll never forget
Your queries answered by our knowledgeable Customer Care Team - only a call, chat, or email away
You’re “trip ready” with our Customer Care Team’s calls prior to your trip
“My Account” - your own online space with everything required for your adventure

What Our Guests Say

FAQs

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are The Lakefront Anchorage at 7:30am or the Four Points by Sheraton Anchorage Downtown at 7:45am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at either of these hotels directly or any other hotel in Anchorage, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Please dress comfortably with extra layers as we'll be exploring Kenai Fjords National Park by boat. Keep any essentials you'll need for the day in your daypack for easy access.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Anchorage International Airport at 6pm in time for flights below or at a hotel of your choice in Anchorage around 6:30pm.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Anchorage at least the day before your trip starts. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Anchorage after 8pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What are the accommodations we stay at on this trip?

We have selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character and adventuresome feel – it’s not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Alaska. We prefer to stay in accommodations close to the park and our activities for the day that are comfortable after a full day of exploration.

Where you’ll be staying each night is detailed on the trip itinerary above. Occasionally, for operational reasons, we may stay somewhere different, which will always be a similar standard and just as comfortable.

While there are laundry facilities at some locations, they may not be convenient or there may only be one machine to service your entire group. We recommend bringing enough clothing to not have to do laundry during your trip. If needed the best time will be in Denali on Days 5-7.

How fit do I need to be for this trip?

This is one of our more adventurous trips, so a solid level of fitness is recommended. Most hikes typically take between three to five hours, though some days may involve more or less hiking depending on the itinerary. While it’s not our most physically demanding trip, you'll defintiely feel accomplished after a day on the trails!

Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full, we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply. Read more here.

Photos From the Trip

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Why Travel With Us

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.