Hiking In Denali National Park
- Duration
- 6 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,989
MODERATE | SMALL GROUP TOURING: Experience the untamed beauty of Alaska on a walking tour that loops you inland from coastal Anchorage to the spectacular Denali National Park, where the tallest mountain on the continent reaches high into the sky. Hike tundra trails that weave through wildflowers, walk across a massive glacier of ancient ice, and maybe even spot some wildlife. By the end of your tour, you’ll understand why, in the indigenous Aleut language, Alaska means “The Great Land.”
This 6-day walking tour gives you a taste of Alaska’s untouched beauty, from coastal Anchorage to the breathtaking snow-capped peaks of Denali National Park, where you’ll face off with the tallest mountain on the continent. Your package includes small group tours with independent tours, giving you the chance to make some new hiking buddies along the way.
As the state’s largest city, Anchorage is your gateway to Alaska’s wild interior, where you’ll meet your tour leader and head for the hills along the Glenn Highway. It’ll be hard to miss the Matanuska Glacier, a 27 mile-long stretch of pure ice that you’ll traverse with the help of an Alaskan guide and a pair of ice cleats. The blue and white hues will transform before your eyes as you hike high into the Chugach Mountains, as it is a dynamic structure that changes every day despite being frozen solid.
Ice may rule the land, but Alaska’s beauty is still subject to variety, which you’ll discover on a hike to Hatchers Pass. You’ll follow your leader off the beaten path, allowing you time for quiet reflection as you steer away from the crowds and focus on the peaks that loom before you. Alpine tundra will give way to glacial lakes, winding rivers, and the occasional moose, if you’re lucky.
Your long awaited-entrance to Denali National Park will not be one that disappoints, as you hike through the rolling tundra to Curry Ridge. If weather conditions are in your favour, you’ll have sweeping views of Mount Denali, stretching 20,310 feet above sea level as North America’s tallest peak. You’ll have the chance to do some independent hikes throughout the park as well, whether you want to head to dizzying heights for the best viewpoints or frolic in alpine meadows, keeping an eye out for bears and caribou.
Your return trip to Anchorage is not complete without a stop at the famous Denali Viewpoint for a last glance of the towering beauty that surrounds you. You’ll also saunter down a new trail to feel the roar of Thunderbird Falls, which often freezes over in winter, making for an unforgettable sight.
Back in the city, you may opt for dinner with your new travel friends at Alaska’s most famous restaurant, the Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria, or a chilled hang-out at 49th State Brewing Co. There’s no shortage of cultural sites either, giving you the chance to learn about the indigenous cultures that have called Alaska home for centuries. To make the most of your last night, you can catch the sunset on a stroll along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, saying goodbye to the gorgeous state where sea meets city and mountain ahead of your departure the next day.
- Duration
- 6 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,989
Itinerary View Trip Map
Matanuska Valley
Welcome to Alaska! You’ll meet your leader at 10 am at the Springhill Suites by Marriott Anchorage Midtown in Anchorage for a welcome meeting before embarking on a scenic drive along the Glenn Highway towards the town of Palmer, a trip that’s packed with gorgeous mountain vistas and plenty of time for photo ops. You’ll eventually reach the famed Matanuska Glacier, Alaska's largest road-access glacier – it’s a jaw-dropping 27 miles long and 4 miles wide and has some of the most accessible walking areas of any glacier in the state. Don your ice cleats and helmet (included) and begin exploring the glacier on foot with the help of an Alaskan guide and glacier expert. Marvel at ice that formed thousands of years ago, high in the Chugach Mountains as you walk for about 2 hours, covering 3 miles. Amazingly, every day is unique at Matanuska, due to the dynamic nature of the glacier. Similarly, your tour will be customized to suit your group’s interests. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a local eatery with stunning views of the glacier and surrounding scenery, before heading to Palmer for the night.
Overnight Palmer
| Duration | 1 Night |
|---|
Hatcher Pass / Talkeetna
Today you explore the wild beauty of Hatcher Pass for a hike among the alpine tundra of the Talkeetna Mountains. While Hatcher Pass used to be one of Alaska’s best-kept secrets, it’s become fairly popular in recent years. Luckily, you’ll have your expert leader with you, who will know which trails to take to avoid the crowds! After your hike, sit back, relax and take in the scenery outside your window as you drive onwards to Denali National Park. Enjoy sweeping landscape views of mountains, rivers and forests – and maybe even spot some Alaskan wildlife. Today’s hike is approximately 5 miles (8 km), with moderate elevation gain.
Overnight Denali National Park area
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 Nights |
Denali National Park - Curry Ridge
It’s another scenic day today in the Great Land, with a moderate-level hike and stunning views through the front country of Denali National Park. Curry Ridge is a 6.5-mile out-and-back scenic hike into the rolling tundra of the Alaskan wilderness. On a clear day, you can expect spectacular views of the surrounding mountain range and the towering Denali Mountain (formerly known as Mt McKinley), the highest peak in North America. Today’s out-and-back hike is 6.5 miles (10.5 km), gaining 2417 ft (737 m) in elevation.
Overnight Denali National Park area
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Denali National Park - Savage Alpine Trail
Today is truly an adventure! You’ll embark on the Savage Alpine trail transit bus to reach the trailhead of popular but strenuous hike. The ride is short and soon you will head on a self-guided hike starting around Miles 13-15 on the Park Road. The most common place to begin the hike it at the river. It will allow you to gain altitude and views in the least amount of time. Beginning from the river you gain around 900ft elevation in the first mile. Once on the ridge it's a gentle hike along the ridge, with fantastic views of Denali! Following the side of the mountain, you’ll descend back down to the valley and Savage Campground. You’re free to head off on your own unguided adventure but before you go, Tour Leader will clearly describe the trail, and set up a meeting point and time towards the end of the day. After your hike, catch the bus back to your accommodation, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way! Today you will be hiking without a guide, but all necessary information is available beforehand.
Today’s hike is 4 miles (6.5 km), gaining 1500 ft (450 m) in elevation.
Overnight Denali National Park area
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Anchorage
Head back to Anchorage with a stop at the iconic Denali Viewpoint (depending on conditions) for one last look at the highest point in North America. You’ll also stop for a walk into the Alaskan woods to take in the picturesque Thunderbird Falls at the end of the trail. Then load back into the tour van and make your final stretch to Anchorage. Your leader will drop you off at your hotel for your last night and you may want to gather the group for a goodbye dinner. For good food and great views, 49th State Brewing Co. is an excellent option, or you could go for pizza at Alaska’s most famous restaurant, the chilled-out Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria. If you’d like to get in more walking time, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a perfect sunset activity and is easily accessible from downtown. Today’s hike is 2.1 miles (3.7 km), gaining 393 ft (120 m) in elevation
Overnight Anchorage
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
Anchorage
Your tour ends after breakfast and you’re free to depart home at your leisure unless you plan to explore more of Anchorage on your own.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2023
June 10, 17, 24
July 1, 15, 22, 29
August 5, 12, 19, 26
September 2, 9
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 5 nights moderate accommodation
- 5 breakfasts
- 1 lunch
- Transport by private vehicle
- Matanuska - Glacier guided walking tour
- Talkeetna Mountains guided hike
- Curry Ridge out-and-back scenic hike
- Self-guided Savage Alpine Trail hike
- Horseshoe Lake hike
- Denali viewpoint
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Entrances fees to sites not explicitly listed as included
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
- Visa fees if applicable
OTHER INFORMATION
- Travellers on Intrepid trips are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19.
- Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 10am on Day 1. Please consider booking extra pre tour night in Anchorage to make sure you will be on time for the start of your adventure.
- There are no activities planned for the final day so you may depart at any time.
- A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- Many Alaska businesses are facing an unprecedented shortage of workers as customers return and the pandemic retreats. Hotels and restaurants are amongst the most affected. Please be aware this may result in a longer than usual hotel check-in procedures. If you face any issues with hotel or restaurant services while on the tour, please advise your Tour Leader immediately.
- This is a hikig trip. Please carefully read descriptions of all walks. A good level of fitness is desirable to fully enjoy all included hikes.
- Be sure to bring appropriate gear: good walking boots, rain gear, warm clothing and sun protection for glacier hikes, including sunglasses.
- This trip starts on Day 1 at 10 am in Anchorage and travels to the Matanuska Glacier immediately after the welcome meeting. If you are at risk of being late, please consider arriving a day earlier and staying in Anchorage before the tour begins.
- On Day 4 you will have an opportunity to embark on a popular Savage Alpine Trail hike. Please note it will be a self-guided trek and guide will not be trekking with you on this day.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
26 Aug 2023
