Alaska Wildland Collection

From the launch site on the Kenai River, gear up for a scenic raft trip into the heart of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. On this class II, casual stretch of river, access stunning backcountry sights and protected wilderness areas. Along the river during the 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.

Spend a full day exploring the remote wilderness of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Hike the Cottonwood Creek Trail and travel through several fascinating ecological communities. At the top of the trail, explore the alpine tundra and enjoy splendid views of Skilak Lake and the surrounding wilderness. Return to the lodge in the afternoon and enjoy the wood-fired sauna or simply relax at the lodge. Depending on the weather, options for the evening may include an evening sunset kayak under the midnight sun or a fireside natural history presentation by one of the lodge’s guides. Overnight Kenai Backcountry Lodge.

After a great 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, and you will 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. Dinner and overnight: Kenai Riverside Lodge.

After breakfast, travel by van to the beautiful seaside town of Seward. Board a small ship bound for Kenai Fjords National Park–home to an array of glaciers and marine wildlife like whales, Steller sea lions, sea otters, puffins and more! A half-day marine wildlife and glacier cruise will allow us to explore the rugged coastline. Enjoy lunch in front of a tidewater glacier before arriving at our exclusive destination: Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.

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

Explore the wild delights of Kenai Fjords National Park for two full days. 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 our 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, we can sometimes glimpse bears and other wildlife from a safe distance. Our 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.

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 the 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.

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.