Alaska: Glaciers, Wildlife Encounters, and Multi-Adventures

Location: North America
Duration: 9 Days
Price: From $8,295
Activity Level: High Energy

Alaska: Glaciers, Wildlife Encounters, and Multi-Adventures

Location: North America
Duration: 9 Days
Price: From $8,295
Activity Level: High Energy

Overview

Get ready for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure! Known for its stunning natural beauty, vast wilderness, and breathtaking wildlife, Alaska is a bucket-list location. You’ll kick off the trip by exploring Chugach State Park before arriving at the boat-only Kenai Riverside Lodge. Other highlights include rafting through the breathtaking Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and a dip in glacier-fed waters. You’ll hike in the Chugach National Forest, travel to the beautiful seaside town of Seward, and explore Kenai Fjords National Park with activities like kayaking and naturalist walks. A scenic train ride back to Anchorage and a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center wrap up this epic journey!

Main Attractions

Explore the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

Immerse yourself in the remote wilderness of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy scenic raft trips, hiking, and the untouched beauty of glacier-fed lakes. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in one of Alaska’s most pristine environments.

Exclusive Wilderness Lodges

Stay in exclusive lodges nestled amidst the wilderness, providing unparalleled access to nature. These lodges offer comfort and seclusion, making them the perfect base for your Alaskan adventure. Don’t miss the chance to relax and rejuvenate in these serene settings.

Historic Railroad Experience

Embark on a memorable journey aboard the historic Alaska Railroad’s GoldStar cars while enjoying spectacular views of the Alaskan wilderness.

Map of Alaska showing travel routes by air, car, and train between Anchorage, Kenai Riverside Lodge, Kenai Backcountry Lodge, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Seward. Includes a scale bar.
A moose stands in a lush green field surrounded by dense vegetation.
Two people kayaking on a calm lake with a cabin and pine trees in the background.
A group of people in a canoe paddles on a lake with snow-capped mountains and lush green hills in the background under a clear blue sky.
Mountain landscape with snow patches, grassy field, and dead tree trunks in the foreground under a sky with scattered clouds.
Person in a purple jacket takes a photo with a camera on a mountain, overlooking a lake and distant snow-capped peaks under a clear blue sky.
Two people in red kayaks paddle on calm water near a large glacier under a clear blue sky.

Itinerary

City skyline at dusk with snow-capped mountains in the background and a calm body of water in the foreground.

Welcome to Anchorage

Arrive at Anchorage International Airport (ANC) no later than 2 pm today and make your way to the Lakefront Anchorage hotel. Courtesy shuttles from the airport are provided. Meet your guide and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby around 4 p.m. for introductions, followed by a special visit to Oomingmak, a local Anchorage crafting cooperative of more than 250 Native Alaskan women from remote villages. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant and connect with your fellow travelers.

Meals dinner
Person in a green jacket and hat hiking in a forest, holding a walking stick, with binoculars around the neck.

Adventure Awaits

Start your day with a guided hike in Girdwood, exploring North America’s northernmost rainforest and spotting glaciers. After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive through the Chugach National Forest to Kenai Riverside Lodge. At dinner, learn about the lodge and upcoming activities. This adventure is the perfect introduction to Alaska’s natural beauty and a warm-up for the rest of your journey. Today’s hike covers approximately 4 miles, 800 feet of elevation gain, around 2.5 hours

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A wooden cabin nestled among trees on a lakeshore with mountains in the background.

Scenic Kenai Adventure

Prepare for a scenic raft trip into the heart of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy breathtaking backcountry vistas and spot wildlife like moose, bald eagles, and salmon. A delicious picnic lunch will be served along the river or on Skilak Lake’s shore. In the late afternoon, arrive at the boat-in only Kenai Backcountry Lodge, which uses hydroelectric power. After settling in, enjoy appetizers and dinner in the main lodge, followed by evening activities like relaxing in the outdoor gazebo or strolling along nature paths.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A person in hiking gear stands on a rocky hilltop, gazing at a wide view of a lake and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.

Explore Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

Spend a full day exploring the remote Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, nearly two million acres in size, and considered to represent Alaska in miniature. Hike a secluded trail through diverse ecological communities, including riparian and hemlock forests. In the afternoon, unwind at the lodge with a hot sauna or take a plunge into the glacier-fed waters of Skilak Lake. Depending on the weather, evening options include kayaking on the lake or enjoying a fireside natural history presentation by a lodge guide. Today’s hike covers approximately 5 miles with 2,027 feet of elevation gain, taking 2.5-3 hours.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Two moose stand in a marsh with green vegetation, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and cloudy skies.

Return to Cooper Landing

After a hearty breakfast in the main lodge, bid farewell to your backcountry setting and cross the lake on a scenic watercraft transfer. Your driver will meet you at the boat landing. Take a short van shuttle back to Kenai Riverside Lodge. Enjoy a casual afternoon hike on a trail in the Chugach National Forest or Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A puffin with a colorful beak flies low over the rippling ocean water.

Discover Kenai Fjords

After breakfast, travel to Seward and board a small ship for a half-day cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park. Spot glaciers and marine wildlife like whales, sea lions, and puffins. Enjoy lunch with a view of a tidewater glacier before arriving at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. Nestled in a tidal lagoon, the lodge offers stunning views of Pedersen Glacier and pristine beachfront. In the evening, meet a prominent female environmental advocate who will share insights on climate issues affecting glaciers.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Person with a backpack stands on a hilltop, overlooking a scenic coastal landscape with mountains and a blue sky in the background.

Adventure Activities in Kenai Fjords

After breakfast, choose from a variety of activities tailored to your interests and energy level. Options include naturalist walks, sea kayaking, and group canoe paddles, all suitable for beginners. For a more tranquil experience, relax at the main lodge with views of nature, where you might spot sea otters, seals, and bears. Enjoy the natural history library or simply unwind. In the evening, share stories with fellow guests and attend a natural history presentation by local experts.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
A blue and yellow train travels along a rocky coastline with forested cliffs in the background.

Journey from Kenai to Anchorage

Start your day in Kenai Fjords National Park with kayaking, canoeing, hiking, or beachcombing. After a morning of exploration, board a boat for a wildlife cruise to Seward. Capture stunning images of cliff walls and marine wildlife. In Seward, transfer to the Alaska Railroad’s GoldStar cars for a scenic journey to Anchorage. Enjoy reserved seats in dome cars, dinner, and exceptional views. Arrive in Anchorage by 10:15 pm, with taxis and complimentary hotel shuttles available at the rail terminal.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
People in traditional attire perform a cultural dance under a wooden structure, holding fans and wearing fur hats.

Farewell to Alaska

Enjoy your last morning in Alaska with a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Discover fascinating exhibits and meet talented local artisans. Then, say goodbye to the incredible guides and fellow travelers who have shared this memorable journey with you. Depart from Anchorage International Airport (ANC) any time after 12 PM. A group shuttle to the airport will be provided by 12 PM; if your flight departs later, the hotel’s 24/7 shuttle service can be arranged.

Meals breakfast
A turquoise river flows between lush green trees with mountains in the background under a cloudy blue sky.

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

A red seaplane flies over a calm lake with reflections of trees and a large building. Mountains are visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Lakefront Anchorage Hotel (or similar)

Set against the tranquil shores of Lake Spenard and neighboring Lake Hood, The Lakefront Anchorage invites you to experience a unique blend of Alaskan wilderness and modern comfort. As Anchorage’s sole lakeside hotel, it offers breathtaking views of floatplanes gliding against the backdrop of the majestic Chugach Mountains.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, flatscreen TV, safe, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Kenai Riverside Lodge

Experience the charm of Kenai Riverside Lodge, nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the turquoise Kenai River and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Situated near the nation’s second-largest national forest, Chugach National Forest, and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, this lodge is the perfect base for exploring the wilderness.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, heat, electricity, private baths (there are no TVs, phones or internet connection in the cabins)

Kenai Backcountry Lodge

Located in the heart of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, Kenai Backcountry Lodge is a remote wilderness retreat. Accessible only by boat, this historic property offers a chance to relax and reconnect with nature far from busy tourist areas. The cozy guest cabins are nestled into the forest and just steps away from the outdoor gazebo, wood-fired sauna and main lodge. The lodge uses a custom hydro-electric system, which utilizes the power of a nearby creek to lessen the dependence on generators. This property is off the grid (electrical outlets for charging electronics are available in the main lodge) and can support CPAP machines in certain cabins.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, linens, comforters, propane heaters and lights, private en suite bathroom, shower and porch

A rustic log cabin interior with two quilt-covered beds, a small wooden table, and a vanity area. Walls and ceiling are made of light wood. Three small windows provide natural light.

Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

As the only wilderness lodge within Alaska’s 700,000-acre Kenai Fjords National Park, a stay at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge offers unparalleled wilderness access. Nestled within an Alaska Native-owned wildlife sanctuary, the lodge and guest cabins enjoy stunning views of Pedersen Glacier. The lodge features a beautiful dining room and lounge area, as well as a staffed bar for a glass of beer or wine. An expansive deck with rocking chairs and views of the Glacier are just steps out from the main lodge. This property is off the grid (no internet or cell service).

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, linens, blankets, on demand heat and electricit, private en-suite bathroom and porch.

What People Are Saying

I just wanted to thank you for the incredible Alaska trip, it couldn’t have been more perfect. The guides were the best, felt like they were old friends. They bent over backwards to make sure we were taken care of. It was a wonderful group of ladies too which made it one of the best trips I’ve ever done. I will be going on another adventure with you in the future without a doubt.

What People Are Saying

There is not a day that goes by when I don’t think of my time in Alaska. I will never forget the experience of the trip and the great women that were in our group… I have never laughed so hard and had so much fun.

What People Are Saying

I felt thrilled at the reality of Alaska, supported and safe and free to be the wild woman, and relaxed and having so much fun. Truly, the happiest happy hours of all hours of the days and evenings together.

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
Jun 1 Jun 9
Space Available
$8,295*
Standard Room, Single
$10,095 total, $800 deposit
Standard Room, Double
$8,295 total, $800 deposit

*Additional Pricing Information: 2026 Optional Single Accommodation: $1,800

Arrival: Arrive at Anchorage International Airport (ANC) no later than 2 pm on Day 1 and make your way to the Lakefront Anchorage hotel. Courtesy shuttles from the airport are provided. When you arrive in Anchorage, gather your luggage and call the Lakefront at 907-243-2300 to let them know you’ve arrived. Your shuttle will meet you on the shuttle island outside the Main Terminal of the Anchorage Airport.

Departure: Depart from Anchorage International Airport [ANC] at any time after 12 PM on Day 9. A group shuttle arriving at the airport by 12PM will be provided. If your flight departs later that day, your transfer to the airport can be arranged through the hotel’s 24/7 shuttle service.

What's Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on single occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • All ground transportation (unless otherwise specified)
  • Activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • Tea/coffee/juice at all meals
  • Professional, Alaska-based guides
  • All park fees

What's Not Included

  • Airfare to and from Anchorage
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities

FAQs

Absolutely! We happily welcome all women as long as you are physically capable of doing the activities on your chosen trip. Our guests range from 18-85+! It is important to us to talk to each guest to make sure each woman chooses the right trip for her physical ability and interest.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. However, internal flights are included in some itineraries so please read the itinerary carefully.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Moderate: These adventures exercise your mind more than your body and are designed for women who prefer a leisurely, less rigorous experience. For example, you could walk up to 2 miles per day through cities and villages, stand in museums for a few hours, relax on a boat, or view wildlife from a vehicle.
  • Active: Adventures that get you on your feet! You should be in good physical condition where you are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces, such as cobblestone streets, biking manicured nature trails or kayaking calm waters.
  • High Energy: These adventures are designed for women who enjoy a physical challenge and crave being on the go! You should be prepared for itineraries that include (but are not limited to): a full day of biking on a rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, whitewater rafting, or skiing.
  • Challenging: Adventures that get your heart rate pumping, these are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition, and be able to hike up to 10 miles, in steeper, more rugged terrain.