Adventures in Alaska
Alaska is quite literally America’s last frontier, with landscapes that stretch seemingly to infinity. The 49th state of the United States is rich with calving glaciers, volcanic valleys, jagged sea cliffs, the Northern Lights and more. Kayaking to icebergs, flying over the highest peak in North America, staying out all night in awe of the Midnight Sun and spotting wildlife (envision eagles, whales, bears and caribou) are just a few of the exhilarating elements that await visitors.
For our team at Pique Travel, customizing an Alaska adventure specific to your interests is always important. Whether it’s seeing this beautiful state by water (we love some of small ship or expedition cruise options) or by land, there are definitely some unique and fascinating experiences we keep on in our arsenal. Here are a few of our top picks:
Discover Denali by Rail Board the world-famous Alaska Railroad GoldStar dome train for the scenic, full-day ride to Denali National Park. From the open-air platform or glass-covered observation deck, soak up views of tundra, river canyons and mountains — including magnificent Denali (Mt. McKinley). The following day, hop on the Denali Backcountry Adventure Bus to venture into the park, spotting moose, bear, wolves and other wildlife along the way. While you’re there, experience flying in an Alaskan bush plane through the awe-inspiring Alaska Range, over glaciers and past the North Face of Denali.
Epic Photo Expedition
Refine your photography skills while trekking through southeastern Alaska. Search for the largest congregation of bald eagles while rafting through a bald eagle preserve hoping to get a snapshot of these majestic birds. Explore tidewater glaciers and icebergs in search of humpback whales off Icy Strait to capture the perfect whale shot.
Dogsled Alaskan Glaciers
This trip combines some of Alaska’s most iconic experiences. Strap on climbing harnesses and crampons to traverse a glacier, receive a personal introduction to the sport of dog sledding and “The Last Great Race on Earth,” and stand among granite peaks while taking in the immense scale of the surrounding mountains. Get a chance to fish along the Talkeetna River, which boasts the second largest run of migrating fish in the world, and view Denali up close on a flightseeing tour. You’ll enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery on earth.
Beach-comb with Walruses This unforgettable journey will have you up close and personal with the local residents—both wild and human. Learn about the topography of this diverse region, the history and various cultures of its people, beachcomb and explore dramatic landscapes as you soar over the “land of dreams.”
Fly Across Last Frontier
Step into the wild, with a multi-day adventure that’s completely customizable. At your disposal are planes, whitewater rafts, fishing poles, freshly prepared meals, and 13 million acres of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. A true wilderness paradise, you'll have the opportunity to go where no one has gone before (literally!) with expert pilots able to land gently in wild places. Engage in glacier exploration and trekking, salmon and trout fishing, wildlife viewing or downhill sledding on glaciers - any time of the year! Unplug and venture to the edges of the earth.
Kayak Within An Ice Melt
Discover quintessential Alaska as you observe bears feeding, listen to loons, spot whales and cast a line in pristine rivers teeming with fish. View wildlife galore as you enjoy as much (or as little) activity as you like: hike, mountain bike, fish, canoe or kayak. Traverse glaciers, paddle among icebergs, and raft down a wild river. Each night, authentic wilderness lodges provide ideal accommodations. A helicopter trip facilitating such backcountry adventures as glacier trekking and sport fishing is a trip highlight.
White Pass Rail & Yukon Route
Travel north by train and catch a glimpse of the Gold Rush Cemetery. While ascending to White Pass, learn about the history of the Klondike Gold Rush and view scenic highlights that the guide points out. Pass cascading waterfalls and approach Tunnel Mountain to reach Inspiration Point. Descend the mountain while listening to stories of the challenges overcome and the triumphs it took to cut the railroad out of solid granite cliffs.
Interested in learning more about traveling to Alaska? Email Kris Nosworthy for a custom land itinerary or Liz Matassa (cruise specialist) to experience the Inside Passage and the many ways to see it by water.
