Anchorage & Denali National Park

Upon arrival in Anchorage transfer at your own cost to your hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the sights. With almost 300,000 people calling it home, Anchorage is the largest city and cosmopolitan centre of Alaska. While not the capital of the state, it is the self-proclaimed gateway to Alaska for many visitors. Built originally as a railway depot, the city grew with the development of the farming collective in the Mat-Su valley and the building of Air Force bases. With the discovery of oil, the city became the commercial and financial centre of the state. Situated on the Pacific Ocean on Cook Inlet and moderated by the ocean, the city does not often get the extreme weather that much of Alaska is renowned for. A vibrant and unique city on the edge of the Alaskan wilderness - parks, trails, and moose all make for a unique setting, and there are plenty of opportunities for exploring if you choose. The quaint log cabin visitor centre is a good place to start.

Stay: Hilton Anchorage Hotel, Anchorage (Superior)

Early this morning take the Denali Star, the Alaska Railroad’s flagship train, in the Goldstar Railcar with service to Denali National Park. Watch for views of Mount Denali and keep an eye out for wildlife. Arrive mid-afternoon; the rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy an optional activity. (Breakfast & lunch is included onboard the train today)

Stay: Grande Denali Lodge, Denali Park Entrance (Superior)

This morning you'll board a coach for a full day exploration deep into the Denali National Park. First you'll travel the restricted Denali Park Road en route to the Backcountry Lodge, during your journey keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife including bear, moose, caribou and Dall sheep that your driver/guide will help you spot. There will be plenty of stops for photography and to stretch your legs, lunch at Denali Backcountry Lodge is included and then there is time to try your hand at panning for gold or enjoying a nature hike before your scenic bushplane flight back to the park entrance.

Stay: Grande Denali Lodge, Denali Park Entrance (Superior)

Today the choice is yours. Spend some time relaxing at the lodge or embark on one of the many optional activities such as whitewater rafting down the Nenana River, helicopter flightseeing over the park, landing on a glacier, or hiking.

Stay: Grande Denali Lodge, Denali Park Entrance (Superior)

This morning is open for more optional activities before at midday boarding the Alaska Railroad and travel by Goldstar Railcar for the day trip to Anchorage. As you travel along the Susitna River, you may catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Denali or black bears along the banks of the river. (Lunch & dinner is included onboard the train today)

Stay: Hilton Anchorage Hotel, Anchorage (Superior)

Make your way back to Anchorage airport for your overnight flight back to the UK arriving on day 8