Alaska - Denali Explorer
Denali National Park is the pinnacle of superlative Alaska. Five great days – exploring, hikes led by top-notch guides, gourmet meals, incredible wildlife and maybe, views of Mt. McKinley.
Alaska – Denali Explorer
Anchorage is our gateway city for the start of five glorious days in Denali National Park, home of Mt. McKinley. We’ll travel from Anchorage to the park entrance, where the educational journey begins with expert guides meeting you for the 90-mile private bus ride to the end of the park’s only road. You’ll enjoy incredible views with skilled narration and the possibility of seeing grizzlies, moose, caribou, eagles, and more.
You’ll stay at historic Camp Denali and enjoy fantastic meals and camaraderie. Guides offer day tours for all levels – strenuous, moderate, and gentle – designed to showcase the park’s flora, fauna, and, of course, mountains – including Mt. McKinley.
Evenings include natural and cultural history presentations at the lodge. Your Denali stay wraps up with the return bus ride – another great opportunity to see wildlife and scenery.
You’ll enjoy a leisurely return to Anchorage aboard the scenic train, with comfort and more incredible views. A great tour to hone your photography skills!
Note – Alaska is nearly as big as Europe! You’ll want to see more than Denali and we’d love to help you plan your adventures. Please talk with us about other “must-sees” – including the fjords of the Kenai Peninsula and the remote glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
From 1,000 Places to See Before You Die:
“The tallest peak in North America is 20,320 feet, Mount McKinley and its regal reflection in the aptly named Wonder Lake are the primary attractions of Alaska’s Denali National Park… Mount McKinley (Denali) is often wreathed in clouds, but your best shot at a clear and close-up view is from a hillside in the very heart of the park, where you’ll find the rustic Camp Denali, founded by two female ferry pilots (and one of their husbands) in 1951 when they homesteaded land not yet designated national park.
If you stay at the camp’s cluster of seventeen log cabins you’ll be one of forty happy campers who not only enjoy the wonderful and knowledgeable staff and excellent cooking, but the chance to experience the park on naturalist-guided hikes, or during evening educational programs, and explore wildlife-sighting possibilities at a relaxed pace.”
Important Details For Alaska – Denali Explorer
Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, sightseeing
Rating: Moderately easy to Moderate
Group Size: 2-11 guests
Length: 5 days/4 nights (arrival at park entrance on Monday – departure Friday):
Meeting Time & Place: 7:00 am on Day 1 at the Anchorage Egan Center. This is a 5.5 hour/237 mile scenic drive with an Alaskan driver with intimate knowledge of the area.
Departure Time & Place: 8:00 pm on Day 5 at the Anchorage train station. We include the first class, GoldStar train service upgrade because of confirmed seating, complimentary appetizers and access to a private outdoor viewing platform reserved exclusively for GoldStar guests. You arrive in Anchorage at 8:00 pm, in time to catch a late night flight home.
Best time to travel: Early June- Early September
Weather and Climate: Due to the alpine environment, weather is variable throughout the day and by elevation. Dressing in layers will be essential to your comfort throughout the day. Rain is possible at any time and weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so having rain gear is highly recommended.
At the same time, the sun is strong at higher elevations, and therefore adequate precautions should be taken to prevent sunburn, even on cool, sunny days. On average, the temperature in June through August range from highs in the 70’s and 80’s Fahrenheit and lows in the 40’s and 50’s Fahrenheit. More detailed weather information is available by visiting www.weatherbase.com.
Physical preparation: This tour is designed for energetic and flexible individuals who like to be active, have a spirit of adventure and possess a positive attitude. All guided outings are in the park for the full day, though the different levels vary in distance traveled, elevation gain, and type of terrain.
It is very important that you realistically assess your physical condition with regard to the demands of this trip. All participants must be in good overall physical condition. The more physically prepared you are for this tour, the more you will enjoy this unique, adventure experience.
We encourage you to call us and talk more specifically about any questions you have on the activities, your fitness, and any other aspects of the trip – please don’t be shy!
Ready For Your Next Adventure?
For more information about this tour or to book your next group adventure, contact us today and we will create a fun and exciting adventure you will cherish forever.