Whales & Wilderness Retreat
SUGGESTED LENGTH:
10 DAYS
$10,891 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.
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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
The hotel shuttle will take you to the railway station and you’ll depart Fairbanks aboard the Alaska Railroad Denali GoldStar dome train, bound for Denali National Park. From the open-air platform or covered observation deck you’ll soak up views of tundra and soaring mountains. Arriving at the Denali Park entrance, you’ll meet your bus for your 90-mile trip into the heart of Denali. Watch for black bear, moose, Dall sheep, wolves, and more as you journey into the Park. Accommodations are at Camp Denali in a Cabin.
7-8 | DENALI NATIONAL PARK, AK
Camp Denali has been providing active learning adventures for travelers since 1952. Daily guided hikes provide information about Denali’s sub-artic ecology, geology, history and changing landscape and are available for all activity levels. Individual activities include paddling on Wonder Lake, cycling, fishing and photography. If relaxation is your desire you can put up your feet, take in the view, borrow a book from the library or relax in front of a wood fire. Accommodations are at Camp Denali in a Cabin.
9 | ANCHORAGE, AK
Mid-morning, meet your pilot for your scenic flight soaring through the awe-inspiring Alaska Range, over glaciers and the North Face of Denali before landing at the Denali Park Airstrip. You’ll board the Denali Star, GoldStar service for your journey to Anchorage. The trip takes you over Broad Pass, and over the jaw- dropping 918 footlong Hurricane Gulch trestle. On arrival in Anchorage, you will be met by your driver for the transfer to your hotel. Accommodations are at Hotel Captain Cook in a Captain’s Deck Deluxe King 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!
