Hikers in blue jackets walk in tall green grass while photographing snow-covered Mt. Denali on the Ultimate Alaska Adventure.
A cute seal plays in the waters around the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge one of many different animals to see on this Ultimate Alaska Adventure
Rowing around the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge one of many different activities on this Ultimate Alaska Adventure
A black bear around the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge one of many different animals to see on this Ultimate Alaska Adventure
2 sea otters with brown fur float on their backs in blue water, seen on the Ultimate Alaska Adventure tour.
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North America Alaska Land Tour

Ultimate Alaska Adventure

The 8-day Ultimate Alaska Adventure is an action-packed backcountry exploration by kayak, helicopter, raft, dogsled and foot. Experience wild Alaska in comfort with true hospitality in four unique and authentic lodges on the Kenai Peninsula. With only 10 total guests per Ultimate Alaska Adventure, this experience is truly authentic with a small footprint and personalized attention.

Kick off with a helicopter ride to a snow-clad glacier where harnessed dogs and sleds await to take you on tour. Raft or fish the Kenai River, famous for incredible salmon spawning runs. At the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, hike secluded trails through fascinating ecological communities. Drift in a custom boat across Skilak Lake to a woodsy foray in the Kenai Mountains, where a trailside picnic lunch awaits. And gear up with crampons, a harness and helmet to hike the unforgettable Exit Glacier.

Whale watching and glacier viewing are highlights of a four-hour dramatic coastline cruise from Seward through Kenai Fjords National Park. Then beachcomb or launch a kayak with excellent bird-watching opportunities and take in the stunning views of Pedersen Glacier. Complete this active Alaskan adventure with a backcountry rail tour on the historic Alaska Railroad back to Anchorage.

Don’t worry, this action-packed adventure (one of our most top Alaska national park tours) is designed strategically with relaxation breaks right when you need them: wood-fired saunas, riverside docks, fireside chats, comfortable common areas, private cabins and delicious meals accompany every lodge. The Kenai Backcountry Lodge is located on the shores of Skilak Lake, surrounded by miles of wilderness. The Kenai Riverside Lodge is a world-class fishing retreat on the banks of the Kenai River. The Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge is the only accommodation located within Kenai Fjords National Park. And the Seward Windsong Lodge is a peaceful retreat conveniently nestled among trees at the entrance to Kenai Fjords National Park.

AdventureSmith Explorations’ crew of award-winning Alaska adventure experts have personal experience visiting the lodges and wilderness of the Kenai Peninsula. Contact us to discover more about the Ultimate Alaska Adventure and other options that suit your travel interests and timeline.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska land tours or all Alaska trips by land and sea.



Itinerary

Ultimate Alaska Adventure Itinerary

The 8-day Ultimate Alaska Adventure is an action-packed backcountry exploration of the Kenai Peninsula that begins and ends in Anchorage, Alaska.

Ultimate Alaska Adventure route map.
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Day 1
Anchorage & Glacier Helicopter Dog Mushing Excursion

Meet your trip leader and fellow travelers this morning in Anchorage. Travel from Anchorage along scenic Turnagain Arm to the small mountain community of Girdwood. Today’s adventure is a helicopter excursion to one of the surrounding glaciers to try your hand at the famous Alaskan sport of dog mushing. High on the snowpack, drive the sled yourself or, if you prefer, ride in the sled as you enjoy the dramatic scenery. In the late afternoon, continue south to the Kenai Riverside Lodge located along the banks of the Kenai River. Settle into your cabin and enjoy appetizers and dinner in the main lodge. Overnight Kenai Riverside Lodge.

Accommodations

Kenai Riverside Lodge

Meals

lunch, dinner

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Day 2
Raft the Kenai River

Gear up for a scenic raft trip into the heart of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Along the river during your raft trip, scan for moose, bald eagles and other bird species, and salmon. The Kenai River is famous for its salmon and, depending on the time of your visit, you may witness their incredible spawning runs. A delicious picnic lunch will be served along the river or on the shore of Skilak Lake.

Late afternoon, arrive at the boat-in only Kenai Backcountry Lodge, a unique, historic in holding. The Lodge utilizes a simple but effective hydroelectric power system to provide water and electricity, reducing the need for fossil-fueled power. Appetizers and dinner welcome you in the main lodge, followed by evening activities. Relax in the outdoor gazebo or enjoy a casual stroll along an established nature path. Overnight at Kenai Backcountry Lodge.

A fishing excursion on the Upper Kenai River may be substituted for today’s rafting trip for an additional charge. If interested in fishing, please contact an Adventure Specialist.

Accommodations

Kenai Backcountry Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 3
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

Spend a full day exploring the remote wilderness of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Hike a secluded trail and travel through several fascinating ecological communities, including riparian and hemlock forests. Return to the lodge in the afternoon and simply relax at the lodge or take a hot sauna. For those brave souls, take a dip into the glacier-fed waters of Skilak Lake. Depending on the weather, options for the evening may include an exploration of the lake by sturdy touring kayak or fireside natural history presentation by one of the lodge’s guides. Overnight Kenai Backcountry Lodge.

Accommodations

Kenai Backcountry Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 4
Kenai Watershed Hike

This morning, after a hearty breakfast, cross Skilak Lake on a custom boat and take a short van ride to a local trailhead, for a scenic foray near the Kenai watershed that offers gorgeous vistas. Lunch always tastes better in the backcountry, and you’ll enjoy lunch during a break from a trail hike. Return to Kenai Riverside Lodge this afternoon for relaxing, and don’t forget to check out the riverside deck and bonfire pit–perfect for post-dinner s’mores! Overnight Kenai Riverside Lodge.

Accommodations

Kenai Riverside Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 5
Exit Glacier Hiking

After a hearty breakfast, travel to Exit Glacier just outside of Seward–the only portion of the Harding Ice Field accessible by road. You won’t just be able to see the glacier; you and the other intrepid travelers in your group will be able to experience the glacier firsthand on today’s ice hiking adventure! Today’s adventure is excellent for travelers who don’t shy away from vigorous exercise while on vacation.

To start the hike, you’ll gain almost 1400 feet of elevation while covering 1.6 miles of gorgeous terrain. The payoff for this challenging hour-and-a-half-long hike is the ability to spend up to two hours on the glacial ice, encountering otherworldly geological features, waterfalls and even wildlife! Once you reach the ice, trained guides will assist you with crampons, harnesses and helmets, so you can safely navigate the icy surface of the glacier. You won’t want to forget your camera for this incredible day trip!

After a full day in the field, return to your comfortable accommodations in Seward this evening and savor a well-earned dinner at Resurrection Roadhouse. Overnight Seward Windsong Lodge

Accommodations

Seward Windsong Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 6
Seward to Kenai Fjords National Park

Following breakfast, travel through the Chugach National Forest to board a small boat bound for Kenai Fjords National Park, home to an array of glaciers and marine wildlife such as whales, Stellar sea lions, sea otters, puffins and more! A half-day cruise allows time to explore the dramatic coastline. Enjoy lunch in front of a tidewater glacier before arriving at your exclusive lodge destination: Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.

Nestled in a protected tidal lagoon area, the Glacier Lodge offers views of the stunning Pedersen Glacier and miles of pristine beachfront for combing. This afternoon, meet your lodge guides for a tour of the lodge and property and settle into your private cabin. Enjoy dinner and evening presentations. Overnight Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.

Accommodations

Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 7
Kenai Fjords National Park

Today, explore the wild delights of Kenai Fjords National Park. After breakfast in the main lodge choose, from a wide array of activities, those that are best suited to your energy level and interest. Guided options include naturalist walks, sea kayaking, group canoe paddles and more. In the spirit of adventure and to take advantage of tidal and weather patterns, guides will discuss specific nature outings and options with the group this morning. All activities are suitable for beginners and require no previous experience.

For those seeking a more relaxed approach, the main lodge offers ideal comfort with direct views of nature. Curious sea otters and seals frequent the lagoon, just steps from the main lodge deck. In a nearby meadow, one can sometimes glimpse bears and other wildlife from a safe distance. The natural history library offers amazing resources and interesting reads–cozy up with a good book and let your worries drift out with the tide! Upon return to the main lodge, share stories from your day’s adventure with other guests and join an evening natural history presentation given by local expert guides or guest speakers. Overnight Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.

Accommodations

Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 8
Kenai Fjords National Park to Seward & Alaska Railroad to Anchorage, Alaska

Savor another morning in the wilds of Kenai Fjords National Park. A morning outing allows for another opportunity to kayak, canoe, hike or beach comb for a half-day before boarding a boat for the return wildlife cruise to Seward. Along the way, photograph the sheer cliff walls teeming with birds, plants and other vegetation and scan for more marine wildlife. Upon arrival in Seward, take the provided short transfer to the rail depot, where you’ll board the historic Alaska Railroad’s first-class GoldStar cars for comfortable sightseeing en route back to Anchorage. This deluxe train trip features confirmed seating in the dome cars for enhanced wilderness and wildlife viewing; dinner and a few special goodies are included with your GoldStar service, and the onboard service staff will assist you with your dining options. You’ll arrive at the downtown Anchorage depot by 10:15 p.m. Taxis are located directly outside the rail terminal and are easy to access. Although transfers to the airport or local hotels are not included, some hotels include courtesy shuttle service from the rail depot to their property.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Transportation from Anchorage, meals served family style in lodges indicated in itinerary, guided activities, return fare (including dinner) on the Alaska Railroad in Gold Star service, and special guide/pilot gratuities for the heli- dog sledding.

Exclusions

Airfare, taxes ($147.87 per person for 2025 double occupancy. Taxes are determined by each borough and municipality in Alaska and may change before final payment), beer and wine, fishing upgrades, cabin upgrades at Kenai Backcountry Lodge, gratuities to Alaska Wildland Adventures staff and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 121 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – $300 or 10% of total trip cost, whichever is less
120 to 91 days – $600 or 20% of total trip cost, whichever is less
90 to 46 days – 50% of total trip cost
45 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Ultimate Alaska Adventure begins and ends in Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). Plan to arrive in Alaska at least the day before your trip begins and overnight in Anchorage. On the first day of your trip, meet your trip leader at 8:00am in the hotel lobby (meeting location confirmed with reservation). The trip ends when your Alaska Railroad train arrives at the Anchorage station on Day 8 at approximately 10:15pm. If you choose to fly home on the night of Day 8, we suggest you book a flight that departs Anchorage after 1:00am the following day, in case of possible transportation delays.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the guides can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Ultimate Alaska Adventure activities may include helicopter excursions, dog sledding, outdoor picnics, rafting, fishing (extra charge), trail hiking, boating, kayaking, bird watching, wildlife observation and train rides. Due to the unique activities on this trip, some of which require travel by helicopter or small plane, safety protocols and seat rating limits require guests of the Ultimate Alaska Adventure to weigh no more than 300lbs. As a condition of enrolling in this adventure, guests will be asked to provide weight and shoe size information at the time of booking.

A Note on Fishing

The Kenai River offers world-class salmon and trout fishing and the Kenai Riverside Lodge is one of the premier fishing outfitters in Alaska. If you are interested in substituting fishing for rafting on Day 3, we encourage you to do so at the time of booking as fishing programs fill up quickly. The best way to guarantee fishing availability is to book your fishing arrangements in advance. Please contact an Adventure Specialist for more information.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select rooms upon availability. Single travelers interested in sharing accommodations with another guest of the same gender, will be charged the 25% single supplement then refunded this amount once a share is found. If a share is not found then the 25% single supplement will apply. Triple and quad rates with applicable taxes subject to availability, please inquire about discounts. Upgrades may be available, contact us for details.

Families & Children

Kids 13 years and older are welcomed to participate on the Ultimate Alaska Adventure.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captains’ and guides’ discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of adventure travel unique. Note that in rare circumstances due to high winds, weather fronts or ocean conditions, access to the Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge may not be permitted at scheduled times. Alternative activities and accommodations are planned for this uncommon occurrence, but please be prepared for a possible change in schedule.

Rates & Dates

Trip Rates & Dates

May 30 - Jun 06, 2025
8 days
From $6745USD
Per Person
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Jun 07 - Jun 14, 2025
8 days
From $7395USD
Per Person
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Jun 11 - Jun 18, 2025
8 days
From $7395USD
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Jun 23 - Jun 30, 2025
8 days
From $7395USD
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Jul 07 - Jul 14, 2025
8 days
From $7395USD
Per Person
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Jul 21 - Jul 28, 2025
8 days
From $7395USD
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Aug 04 - Aug 11, 2025
8 days
From $7395USD
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Aug 18 - Aug 25, 2025
8 days
From $7045USD
Per Person
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Aug 26 - Sep 02, 2025
8 days
From $6745USD
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Accommodations

Learn About the Lodges on Your Itinerary

Lodge
Kenai Backcountry Lodge

Rustically elegant and heated by wood stove, the Kenai Backcountry Lodge is an exemplary backcountry lodge, offering an intimate Kenai Peninsula experience with up to 18 guests and off-the-grid sustainability efforts that help preserve and protect the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.

Lodge
Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

The wilderness eco lodge Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge is completely surrounded by Kenai Fjords National Park and is the only lodge located within the park.

Lodge
Kenai Riverside Lodge

Conveniently located on the scenic Upper Kenai River near Cooper Landing, Alaska, the Kenai Riverside Lodge is more than a world-class fishing lodge. You can hike, raft, fish, attend naturalist programs or stroll the nature trail overlooking the breathtaking Kenai River.

Lodge
Seward Windsong Lodge

Nestled in a spectacular glacier river valley, Seward Windsong Lodge is an exceptional wilderness retreat located at the entrance to the Kenai Fjords National Park. The 180 guest rooms located nearby to the main lodge, are set back in a wooded setting, surrounded by spruce trees and wildflowers.

Deal

Current Deals on This Trip

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Offer expires April 30th, 2025
Save $350-$650 On Select 2025 Ultimate Alaska Adventures

Book your select 2025 Alaska adventure to save up to $650 per person in this special deal.

Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts so You Know What to Expect

Leslie Camacho • August 24th, 2017
Expert Review: Northern Passages with Glacier Bay & Sitka Cruise, Plus Kenai Lodges

Adventure Specialist Leslie Camacho reviews her Alaska small ship cruise aboard the 76-guest Wilderness Explorer and post-cruise land trip on the Kenai Peninsula.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"Beyond Expectations!"

Ultimate Alaska Adventure was beyond expectations! All the lodges and activities were outstanding!

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"Destinations Were Great, but Our Guide Added the Most"

The destinations were great, but our guide added the most. No skill or talent missing. More than anything else, she made this vacation.

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"Excellent Blend Of Activities In Beautiful, Remote Scenery"

Excellent blend of activities in beautiful, remote scenery. Good pace. Great trip overall.

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