Anchorage: 11 Day Grand Alaska Highlights Tour

Planning an Alaskan adventure? If you’re after a deep dive into the state’s wilderness, wildlife, and jaw-dropping landscapes, the Anchorage: 11 Day Grand Alaska Highlights Tour might just be what you’re looking for. I haven’t personally taken this tour, but after reviewing the details and hearing from past travelers, it seems like a solid choice for those wanting an immersive Alaskan experience that covers everything from Denali to glacier kayaking.

What I really appreciate about this tour is its focus on small groups—max 12 guests—which means you’ll likely get a more personalized experience and better interaction with your guide. Plus, the full-day glacier kayak excursion in Valdez sounds like a highlight for anyone craving a hands-on adventure on the water. On the flip side, it’s quite an itinerary, and with 11 days packed full, you’ll want to be ready for some busy days and potentially variable weather.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers who don’t mind camping, outdoor activities, and the occasional rugged experience. If you’re someone who loves wildlife, stunning vistas, and a touch of off-the-beaten-path exploration, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the Last Frontier. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, hotel-based trip, this might feel a bit too intense.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience with a maximum of 12 travelers.
• Wildlife viewing is a major highlight, with plenty of chances to see animals in their natural habitat.
• Active days, including hikes and kayaking, offer hands-on adventure but require a good level of fitness.
• Camping and lodge stays combine wilderness immersion with some comfort, though the camping sites are quite remote.
• Expert guides add insight and help tailor activities, making the trip more engaging.
• Stunning scenery from Denali to glaciers provides countless photo opportunities and memorable vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1-3: Into the Heart of Denali

Your journey kicks off early in Anchorage, with a stop in Talkeetna that hints at the wild beauty ahead. From there, you’ll head into the Alaska Range, and with luck, catch a glimpse of Denali, North America’s highest peak. The first couple of days include a specialized bus tour of Denali National Park, giving you excellent chances to see wildlife like bears, moose, and maybe wolves in their natural environment.

What’s great here: the exclusive nature of the bus ride means fewer crowds and a more intimate wildlife experience. The park’s vastness and the chance to see animals in the wild are genuinely memorable.

Potential downside: The weather can be unpredictable, and wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Also, the bus ride can be long, so it’s good to be prepared for some sitting and looking out windows.

Day 3-4: Wilderness and the Denali Highway

On day 3, you have some free time, which many travelers find appealing—you can hike, explore, or relax depending on your energy level. The next day, you’ll drive the famous Denali Highway to Maclaren River Lodge. This drive is a highlight in itself, offering breathtaking views of alpine landscapes and glaciers.

Staying at the Maclaren River Lodge provides a taste of authentic Alaskan hospitality. Surrounded by dramatic scenery, you can unwind after a day of travel, soaking in the views and enjoying a provided dinner.

Note: The lodge rooms are in 3-person bunk-style accommodations, which might not appeal to everyone, especially if you’re seeking more privacy.

Day 5-6: Southward to Valdez and Kayaking

From Maclaren River, you’ll head south through Thompson Pass. Here, an optional hike at Worthington Glacier offers a chance to get close to one of Alaska’s many stunning glaciers. Then, you arrive in Valdez, a charming port town.

The full-day kayaking excursion is what many would consider a tour high point. You’ll be on a water taxi to Shoup Bay, paddling past waterfalls, nesting seabirds, and the face of a retreating glacier. Lunch with glacier views sounds like a postcard moment.

What travelers love: the intimate interaction with nature, the chance to paddle past glaciers, and the opportunity to see wildlife like seabirds up close.

Considerations: Kayaking can be physically demanding, and weather on the coast can change quickly, so be prepared for wind, rain, or chilly conditions.

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Day 7-10: Wrangell-St. Elias and McCarthy

Your adventure continues with a drive along the McCarthy Highway into Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, one of the largest protected wilderness areas in the U.S. You’ll camp near the small town of McCarthy, a place that feels genuinely remote and rugged.

Activities here include hiking in the Wrangell Range, visiting the historic Kennicott copper mining town, and walking along glaciers like Kennicott and Root. For the more daring, there’s an optional flightseeing or ice climbing—activities that really elevate this trip.

Hiking in the park offers stunning views and a real sense of wilderness. The camp, located along the Kennicott River, is basic but surrounded by wild scenery, offering a true backcountry experience.

Potential drawbacks: The camping is in a backcountry setting, which means limited amenities. It’s not a comfortable hotel stay, but for many, that adds to the charm.

Day 9-10: Glaciers and Farewell

On the final days, you can opt for a scenic flight over glaciers—or even try ice climbing, which is paid and booked separately. You’ll finish your adventure with a scenic drive along the Glenn Highway, stopping at trails or simply relaxing with a drink on the porch of your lodge.

Your last night includes a farewell dinner and a soak in an outdoor hot tub—an excellent way to unwind after days of activity.

Day 11: Return to Anchorage

The trip wraps up with a relaxing morning, breakfast, and a scenic drive back to Anchorage. You’ll arrive around midday and have some free time to explore the city before concluding your Alaska adventure.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated package that balances guided activities, camping, and lodging. All transportation is included, with the itinerary organized efficiently so you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time soaking up the scenery.

Wildlife viewing opportunities are plentiful, thanks to the expert guides and small group size. The full-day kayak tour in Valdez is a standout, giving you a rare chance to paddle close to glaciers and seabird colonies in a peaceful marine setting.

Camping gear is provided, including tents and foam sleeping pads—you just need to bring your own sleeping bag or rent one. This setup suits travelers who enjoy outdoor experiences but prefer not to carry gear themselves.

Pricing at $2,775 per person covers a lot of ground: guided excursions, transportation, camping equipment, and some meals. Considering the variety of activities and remote locations visited, many see this as a good value, especially for an 11-day adventure.

Practical Considerations

• Group Size: Limited to 12 guests, which is ideal for a more personal experience but also means spots fill up fast.
• Physical Activity: Many activities involve hiking, kayaking, and walking on glaciers, so a decent fitness level helps.
• Accommodation: Expect a mix of camping and lodge stays. The camping parts are in remote, scenic settings with limited facilities.
• Weather Preparedness: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable—pack layers, waterproof gear, and be ready for rain or chilly conditions.
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 16, so this is more of an adult adventure or for older teens confident in outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want to see Alaska’s most iconic sights without sacrificing the intimate, small-group experience. It offers a balanced mix of wildlife, glaciers, hiking, kayaking, and cultural touches, all wrapped in a true wilderness vibe.

If you’re after a trip that captures the rugged essence of Alaska while providing enough guided structure to keep it manageable, this tour delivers. The stunning views, wildlife encounters, and unique activities like glacier kayaking and flightseeing make it worth considering.

However, be prepared for some physical activity, camping in the wilderness, and a busy schedule. It’s not a luxury resort experience, but for those craving outdoor adventure, the value and scenery are hard to beat.

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for an immersive, adventure-packed trip that showcases Alaska’s wild beauty. It’s perfect for seasoned travelers who love the outdoors and want to explore remote landscapes with expert guides by their side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children under 16?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 16 due to its active nature and outdoor camping components.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all transportation, expert guides, small group size, camping equipment (tent and foam pad), a full-day kayak trip, and most meals.

How many nights do we camp?
You’ll camp for 8 nights and stay 2 nights in lodges, giving a good mix of wilderness and comfort.

What kind of activities are involved?
Expect wildlife viewing, hiking, kayaking, glacier walks, and optional activities like ice climbing or flightseeing.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, some activities like hikes, kayaking, and glacier walks require a reasonable level of fitness. Be prepared for outdoor conditions.

What is the weather like?
Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable—pack layers, waterproof clothing, and be ready for rain or chilly temperatures.

Are meals provided?
Most meals are included, except for some dinners in towns like Valdez and McCarthy, where you pay separately.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 guests, providing a more personalized and engaging experience.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Meet in the lobby of your designated Anchorage hotel or specified meeting location; details are provided upon booking.

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Alaska’s wild side—full of glaciers, wildlife, and rugged landscapes—this 11-day tour offers a comprehensive, active adventure that’s hard to beat. Happy planning!

You can check availability for your dates here: