The next morning, you will continue south toward the coast. Following a scenic two-hour road trip to Seward, board a wildlife and glacier cruise into the heart of Kenai Fjords National Park. As you glide past tidewater glaciers, keep your eyes peeled for sea lions, puffins, and perhaps even orca whales.

Eventually, your vessel will arrive near Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge—the only lodge situated within the national park. From your base overlooking Pedersen Glacier, enjoy two nights of tailored experiences. This includes guided sea kayaking, canoeing to floating icebergs, interpretive glacier walks, and incredible wildlife viewing. As evening falls, relax with hearty Alaskan cuisine and naturalist-led programs in this remote, ecologically rich setting.

Then begin the journey back to Seward on a shorter yet still stunning return cruise through Kenai Fjords. Upon arrival at the harbor, your adventure continues with one of the most celebrated rail experiences in the state: the Coastal Classic route of the Alaska Railroad.

Traveling Alaska by train truly comes to life aboard this 4-hour journey, especially in GoldStar service. This exclusive services includes panoramic dome seating, dedicated dining, and open-air viewing platforms.

Upon arrival in Anchorage, your private driver will transfer you to The Wildbirch Hotel for a relaxing night.

Return to the Anchorage Railway Station to board the Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star service. This 7.5-hour train ride winds its way north through some of the most majestic wilderness in Alaska. With views of snow-covered peaks, deep gorges, and (weather permitting) Denali itself, this journey underscores why Alaska by train is one of the best ways to experience the state.

Once you arrive in Denali, your private guide will transfer you to Tonglen Lake Lodge. Set within a quiet forest near the park entrance, this lodge offers an authentic Alaskan atmosphere. That evening, your guide will help tailor your upcoming days with optional land tour activities. This includes hikes, scenic drives, or cultural visits.

One day, embark on a full-day private hike and paddle excursion through Denali’s untamed backcountry. A picnic-style lunch adds a rustic touch as you venture deeper into one of the best places to travel in Alaska.

Then the next, set out on a Tundra Wilderness Tour into the heart of Denali National Park. Indeed, you will explore 43 miles of backcountry terrain in search of moose, bears, caribou, and other iconic wildlife.

Afterward, take to the skies on a one-hour Denali flightseeing excursion. Soaring above the Alaska Range, this aerial tour brings you face to face with the continent’s tallest peak. It also offers sweeping views of surrounding glaciers and valleys. 

As your adventure through the best places to travel in Alaska winds down, board the Denali Star train once more for the return journey to Anchorage. Relax in your dome car and take in the passing scenery. Indeed, the ride back serves as a fitting bookend to your expedition. Upon arrival, return to The Wildbirch Hotel for a final overnight stay.