Whales & Wilderness Retreat
SUGGESTED LENGTH:
10 DAYS
$15,820 USD
PER PERSON
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PLAN YOUR TRIP
This 10 day/9 night itinerary takes you in to the heart of the Alaskan wilderness where you’ll encounter whales and wildlife while paddling and cruising the rugged coast of Glacier Bay National Park. You’ll also go deep into Denali National Park, using a historic wilderness lodge as your base for exploration.
Scroll down for a detailed itinerary
The Route
The Entrée Difference
WHAT SETS US APART
Our Attention to Detail: You don’t have to think of anything, we’ve got it covered.
Our In Depth-Knowledge: Working with us means having the top insider knowledge of Canada and Alaska at your disposal.
Our Responsive Nature: We ensure 24/7 support is given to you while traveling, and if necessary, back-up plans are executed seamlessly.
Our Custom Approach: Your trip is tailored just for you, by our expert travel planners.
The Itinerary
1 | JUNEAU, AK
Upon your arrival at the airport in Juneau, you will be met for a private transfer to your hotel. Historic Jorgensen House is located in a quiet neighbourhood within walking distance to restaurants, shopping, museums and hiking trails. Accommodations are at Jorgensen House in the Azalea Suite.
2 | GUSTAVUS, AK
Today the adventure truly begins, as you fly from Juneau to Gustavus via wheel plane. Upon arrival in Gustavus a scheduled shuttle will deliver you to Bear Track Inn. This scenic property offers first-class Alaskan hospitality. After you’re settled at the Inn, you’re off on a whale watching cruise in the waters known for having the greatest concentration of whales in Southeast Alaska. Watch for humpbacks or orcas, and for a myriad of other marine life such as sea lions, and birds. Accommodations are at Bear Track Inn in a View Room.
3 | GUSTAVUS, AK
After a restful night at the inn, you’ll be ready to further explore the waters of Icy Strait. A full day guided kayak tour will give you a closer look at the marine life in the nutrient rich waters off Pt. Adolphus. Watch for 50-ton humpback whales as they gather to feed. Spot Steller’s sea lions, harbor seals, porpoises, otters, bald eagles and other bountiful wildlife. Accommodations are at Bear Track Inn in a View Room.
4 | GUSTAVUS, AK
Today you will be shuttled to Bartlett Cove to board a high-speed vessel bound for Glacier Bay‘s West Arm. Along the way you’ll observe abundant wildlife including otters, seals and other marine animals. Keep your eyes peeled for black bear, grizzly bear, moose and wolves roaming the beach, as well as seabirds such as eagles, Puffins, Murre, Cormorants and Kittiwakes. Aboard the vessel is a Park Ranger, there to help you spot wildlife and provide commentary. You’ll take in everything from lush green vegetation near the Inn to bobbing ice further afield, ‘calving’ away from tidewater glaciers and into the frigid water. Accommodations are at Bear Track Inn in a View Room.
5 | FAIRBANKS, AK
Today you will travel from Gustavus to Juneau on a scheduled wheel plane flight, and then fly commercially on to Fairbanks (booked on your own). Upon your arrival in Fairbanks, a private transfer will deliver you to your hotel. You’ll have time to explore this bustling river city complete with unique shops, a vibrant art scene and wide variety of restaurants. We’d be happy to assist with dining reservations or restaurant recommendations. Accommodations are at Springhill Suites Fairbanks in a Suite.
6 | DENALI NATIONAL PARK, AK
Today, your Alaskan journey continues with a privately guided transfer from Fairbanks to Denali National Park, a scenic drive of up to five hours through the heart of the Interior. This stretch of road, flanked by boreal forests, winding rivers, and open tundra, offers plenty of opportunities to pause and take in the natural beauty, whether it’s a photo stop overlooking the Nenana River or a chance encounter with wildlife along the Parks Highway. Accommodations are at Tonglen Lake Lodge in a Cabin.
7 | DENALI NATIONAL PARK, AK
The morning of your seventh day following breakfast, you’ll embark on an exhilarating journey into the backcountry. Enjoy a full day of private hiking, rafting, or a blend of both in the Denali region, complete with a boxed lunch. Delve into river rafting aboard paddle or oar frame rafts, with plenty of rapids to choose from. Alternatively, tailor your hiking experience to your skill level, from traversing maintained trails to venturing off-trail into the rugged alpine tundra. Accommodations are at Tonglen Lake Lodge.
8-9 | DENALI, AK
Today’s adventure begins with a private transfer from your hotel to embark on a shared tundra wilderness tour, a 5 to 5.5-hour journey deep into Denali National Park. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, wildlife sightings, and a visit to the historic Murie Cabin. As you traverse the park’s rugged terrain, keep an eye out for grizzly bears, moose, and Dall sheep. After the tour, your guide will meet you at the park entrance for a private transfer back to your hotel. Accommodations are at Tonglen Lake Lodge.
On your ninth morning, you’ll be privately transferred from Tonglen Lake Lodge to the Denali Railroad Depot to board the iconic Denali Star train. Enjoy panoramic views from your GoldStar Dome seat, with glass ceilings, an open-air platform, and complimentary meals and drinks. As the train winds south to Anchorage, take in the vast Alaskan landscape—mountains, rivers, and, on a clear day, Denali itself. Upon arrival, a private transfer will deliver you downtown. Accommodations are at Hotel Captain Cook in a Captain’s Deck Deluxe Room.
10 | ANCHORAGE, AK
Your driver will transport you from your hotel back to the Anchorage International Airport in time for your return flight. Safe travels!
