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Embark on a thrilling 9-day adventure with REI Adventures, exploring Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes. Hike glaciers, kayak through rich waters, and raft pristine rivers. Experience the best of Alaska’s wild beauty and abundant wildlife.
REI Adventures: Alaska Ultimate Adventure – Lodge Based
Alaska, known for its wild landscapes, jaw-dropping scenery, and abundant wildlife, evokes a sense of awe in globetrotters far and wide. From the glaciers and fjords of Prince William Sound to the snowy summits of the Alaska Range, the Land of the Midnight Sun is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. REI Adventures offers a lodge based, 9-day multisport adventure ($8,699 for REI Members) that captures the essence of Alaska, allowing participants to hike, kayak, and raft through the state’s most spectacular terrain.
Read our complete Alaska travel and adventure guide here.
Trip Highlights
- Ice Trek on Matanuska Glacier: Navigate through the vibrant, icy landscape of Matanuska Glacier, observing its unique formations.
- Prince William Sound Cruise: Witness calving glaciers and abundant marine life on a cruise through this stunning waterway.
- Kayaking Kachemak Bay: Paddle through biodiverse waters, exploring the Yukon Island National Historic Landmark.
- Rafting Kenai National Wildlife Refuge: Float through a pristine wilderness area teeming with wildlife.
- Hiking Curry Ridge: Enjoy breathtaking views of Alaska’s mountains and valleys.
- Exploring Denali National Park: Experience the grandeur of Denali and its diverse wildlife.
Activities
This trip is rated as Easy Active [2], meaning it is suitable for those capable of moderate physical activity. Participants should be prepared for hiking up to 6 miles with varying elevation, kayaking for up to 4 hours, and rafting for 2 hours. The adventure also includes periods of sitting during van and train transfers and boat cruises. Alaska’s extreme variations in temperature and weather conditions require participants to be prepared for a range of weather, including rain, snow, sleet, wind, and sun.
What’s Included
- Accommodations: Lodges, inns, and hotels for 8 nights.
- Meals: Meals are included as indicated in the itinerary, excluding specific meals on days 1, 3, 6, 8, and 9.
- Transportation: Transportation throughout the trip, except for free activity days.
- Guides and Leadership: Expert guide leadership and local knowledge.
- Permits and Fees: All necessary park admissions and permits.
- Gratuities: All gratuities, except for the lead guide and activities on day 8.
Accommodations
Participants stay in a variety of comfortable lodges, inns, and hotels, ensuring a restful experience after each day of adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Alaska: The adventure begins with arrival in Anchorage, where participants meet their guides and fellow travelers. After a brief orientation, the group enjoys a welcome dinner, setting the tone for the exciting days ahead. This initial evening provides a glimpse of the camaraderie and shared passion for the outdoors that will define the trip.
Day 2: Matanuska Glacier Ice Trek: The first full day kicks off with a drive to Matanuska Glacier, a stunning river of ice nestled in the Chugach Mountains. Participants strap on crampons and embark on an ice trek, navigating through the glacier’s colorful corners. The trek offers close-up views of crevasses, seracs, and blue ice formations, making for an exhilarating and educational experience.
Day 3: Prince William Sound Cruise: Day three features a scenic drive to Valdez, followed by a day-cruise through Prince William Sound. The Sound is renowned for its calving glaciers, bergy bits, and growlers. The highlight of the day is cruising off the Meares Glacier, where participants witness the powerful forces of nature at work. The abundant marine wildlife, including seals, sea otters, and orcas, adds to the day’s splendor.
Day 4: Kayaking in Kachemak Bay: After transferring to Homer, the group heads to Kachemak Bay for a day of kayaking. The bay’s biodiverse waters, part of the Yukon Island National Historic Landmark, are home to a variety of marine life and bird species. Paddling through these rich waters provides an intimate connection with Alaska’s coastal ecosystems.
Day 5: Rafting the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge: The adventure continues with a rafting trip through the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is a pristine wilderness area teeming with wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles. Floating down the Kenai River, participants experience the tranquility and beauty of one of Alaska’s most cherished natural areas. Trained guides ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, allowing participants to fully appreciate the surroundings.
Day 6: Exploring Homer and Free Time: Day six offers a chance to explore the charming town of Homer at a leisurely pace. Known for its artsy vibe and stunning views of Kachemak Bay, Homer is a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration. Participants have the option to engage in additional activities such as fishing, visiting art galleries, or simply strolling along the famous Homer Spit.
Day 7: Hiking Curry Ridge: The group then heads to Curry Ridge for a hike that promises stunning views. The trail winds through alpine meadows and offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This moderate hike provides ample opportunities for photography and wildlife spotting, making it a highlight for nature lovers.
Day 8: Denali National Park: One of the trip’s pinnacles is a visit to Denali National Park. Participants explore the park’s vast landscapes, dominated by the towering presence of Denali, North America’s highest peak at 20,310 feet. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Dall sheep, caribou, and grizzly bears. A ride on the historic Alaska Railroad adds to the day’s adventure, offering scenic views and a sense of historical context.
Day 9: Departure: The final day includes a farewell breakfast, where participants reflect on the incredible experiences shared over the past nine days. Goodbyes are exchanged, and the group departs with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Alaska’s natural beauty.
Conclusion
The REI Adventures Alaska Ultimate Adventure – Lodge Based is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that encapsulates the best of what Alaska has to offer. From trekking on ancient glaciers to kayaking through rich marine habitats, and from rafting pristine rivers to hiking majestic ridges, this trip delivers an unparalleled adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a novice adventurer, this 9-day journey through Alaska’s wild landscapes will leave you with memories to cherish forever.
Book your REI Adventures Alaska Ultimate Adventure – Lodge Based
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