Overview
Explore Denali National Park in its winter splendor, where crisp air and clear conditions often provide spectacular views of North America’s highest peak. Travel aboard the historic Alaska Railroad through dramatic mountain scenery, visit the kennels of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser read more for an inside look at the world of sled dog racing, and enjoy a stay at the renowned Alyeska resort in Girdwood, surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of the Chugach Mountains.
As darkness falls, venture into the Alaskan wilderness in search of the Aurora Borealis. Far from city lights, watch as ribbons of green, purple, and gold dance across the night sky, creating one of nature’s most extraordinary displays.
Feel the excitement of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, known as "Alaska's Last Great Race." Witness the Ceremonial Start in Anchorage before continuing to Willow for the Official Start, where mushers and their dog teams begin their epic 1,000-mile journey across Alaska's rugged winter wilderness.
With expert guidance and carefully selected experiences, discover Alaska's winter landscapes, traditions, and natural wonders in a way that's both seamless and unforgettable.
Itinerary
Welcome to Fairbanks!
You've arrived in the “Golden Heart” of Alaska and gateway to Denali National Park. Later this evening, join your Local Guide and travel companions for your first glimpse of one of nature's most magnificent shows—the aurora borealis (Northern Lights)
LOCAL FAVORITE - NATURAL WONDERS: Witness the stunning Northern Lights spectacle in the sky with a Local Guide. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of light dancing across the night sky in a dramatic display of celestial waves and brilliant beams. When conditions are right, the aurora dances across the horizon and lights up the night sky with such beauty, even Alaska's tough ol' “Sourdoughs” (old timers) are impressed. (weather permitting)
Fairbanks Fun
Enjoy a leisure start to the day. This afternoon, explore Fairbanks on a city tour. Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, one of the most challenging and remarkable engineering feats of modern time. This evening is another opportunity to view the amazing aurora borealis light up the northern skies.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NORTHERN LANDSCAPE: Explore Alaska Native heritage, natural wonders, diverse wildlife and Arctic dinosaurs at Alaska's cultural landmark, the Museum of the North. Discover breathtaking architecture designed to convey a sense of Alaska, inspired by the lines and shapes found in Alaska's coastlines, mountains, and glaciers.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: in Fairbanks with a dinner out in this iconic Alaskan city. Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for the best bites, brews, and things to do!
Riding the Rails
Travel from Fairbanks to Denali National Park to visit the Murie Science and Learning Center, Denali's winter visitor center. Next, board the world-famous Alaska Railroad for your scenic journey south on the Aurora Winter Train to the quaint community of Talkeetna. Upon arrival in Talkeetna, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties.
LOCAL FAVORITE - EPIC RIDE: Board the Alaska Railroad train for spectacular views through panoramic windows designed for soaking in the stunning scenery on this journey that showcases America's 49th state. Keep an eye out for views of Denali (also known as Mount McKinley)—as well as wildlife along the way!
Heart & Soul on the Trail
Continue south today to meet four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser at his Happy Trails Kennel. Hear personal stories while viewing a glimpse of the grandeur Alaska has to offer along the Iditarod Trail. This afternoon, enjoy free time for lunch on your own and to explore Alaska's largest city, Anchorage, before arriving at the town of Girdwood to overnight at the luxurious Hotel Alyeska for a 2-night stay.
LOCAL FAVORITE - LEGENDARY LIVES: Visit Happy Trails Kennels, home of Iditarod Champion Martin Buser and family. Happy Trails Kennel was established in Big Lake in 1982 with the express purpose of raising and training happy, fast long-distance sled dogs to race and win the Iditarod. Martin's loving care and faith in his hounds was made evident by his Iditarod wins to earn the 9-year record for the fastest Iditarod race ever.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: Settle into your basecamp for adventure at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood - Alaska's premier year-round destination featuring fine dining experiences, a saltwater pool, ski mountain along with the Nordic Spa. Alyeska is the perfect base camp for endless adventure and relaxation.
Alaskan Adventure
Enjoy a full day at leisure—perfect for joining in a wide variety of optional activities. Consider flightseeing, fat-tire biking, snowmachine tours, downhill skiing, snowshoeing, a trip to the local brewery, ride on the aerial tram, or just relax at the Nordic Spa.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: in Girdwood, a scenic mountain town originally built as a supply camp for gold miners, features outdoor activities for all levels. Ask your Tour Director or tap your GlobusGO mobile app for the highlights and recommendations for things to do!
Making Tracks
Return to Anchorage for the ceremonial start of the Iditarod. Meet the mushers and dogs, enjoy local food vendors, and join the celebration of Alaskan culture before they head into the wilderness. Later, discover the highlights of Alaska's largest city on a guided sightseeing tour and enjoy free time this afternoon. Join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner this evening.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ICONIC FOOTSTEPS: Take a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the start of the Iditarod race and cheer on the amazing sled dogs and mushers. See mushers compete from all over the world and enjoy other Iditarod festivities.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: in Anchorage, one of the northernmost urban cities on Earth. Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for the highlights and recommendations for things to do!
Official Start
Depart Anchorage for the adventure north to the Official Start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Visit Wasilla enroute to Willow, and cheer on your favorite teams at the starting line in Willow, at the true start of the race. Mushers take off across Willow Lake on the 1,049 mile (1,688 km) journey by dog sled to Nome. Return to Anchorage for free time this evening.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - HERO DOGS: The Iditarod race honors the emergency vaccine delivery in 1925, when mushers and dog teams delivered life-saving serum over 674 miles in under 6 days during a diphtheria outbreak. The current race highlights the Iditarod National Historic Trail and honors Native Alaskan heritage.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. You may choose to extend your time in Anchorage and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase.
Trip Inclusions
- Venture into the Fairbanks wilderness with a Local Guide on two evenings to search for the spectacular [LF] Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights (weather permitting)
- Explore Fairbanks on a guided sightseeing tour featuring the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the engineering marvel of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline
- Discover Denali National Park and visit the Murie Science and Learning Center, gateway to Alaska's 6-million-acre wilderness preserve
- Travel aboard the legendary Alaska Railroad on the [LF] Aurora Winter Train enjoying spectacular winter scenery from Fairbanks to Talkeetna
- Visit to [LF] Happy Trails Kennel, home of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser, an experience a firsthand mushing demonstration from expert sled dog trainers
- Experience the excitement of the Ceremonial Start of the legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, plus guided sightseeing in Anchorage
- Witness the Official Start of the Iditarod in Willow, where mushers and their dog teams begin their epic journey across the Alaskan wilderness
- Enjoy a two-night stay at the renowned Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, surrounded by the spectacular peaks and glaciers of the Chugach Mountains
- 6 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinner
- Fairbanks: Pike's Waterfront Lodge (Moderate First-Class):
Along the banks of the impressive Chena River sits Pike's Waterfront Lodge. You'll rest easily in comfortable rooms, all with Aveda aromatherapy room amenities and many featuring scenic views, a steam room & sauna, riverside deck, restaurant, and a cozy lounge. The hotel is minutes from the Fairbanks Alaska airport and next door to famous Pike's Landing restaurant. It's a convenient and stunning spot for your time in Fairbanks. - Talkeetna: Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge (First-Class):
At the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, it's all about the view. Built atop a high bluff, the lodge overlooks the Susitna River Valley and surveys the entire Alaska Range, with Mt. McKinley right in the middle. On a clear day, all of the common rooms (and 72 of the guest rooms) offer this same stunning panorama of river valleys and rugged peaks. Accommodations are comfortable with plush bedding and all the amenities you'll need to feel right at home. - Girdwood: Alyeska Resort Hotel (Superior First-Class):
Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by mountain peaks, hanging glaciers and water views, The Hotel Alyeska offers guests convenient access into the Alaskan wilderness. The hotel is situated on the Turnagain Arm only 40 miles from Anchorage International Airport. The hotel features an indoor pool, hot tub, health club, jogging trails, gift shops, business center, concierge service, restaurant, café, and sushi bar. - Anchorage: Marriott Downtown Anchorage (Moderate First-Class):
This full service, luxury hotel is situated downtown near businesses, museums & historic buildings. The hotel features one restaurant (open breakfast, lunch & dinner), a full service fitness center, indoor pool, gift shop and more. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the lobby and public areas.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Aurora viewing is not guaranteed, as it is dependent on weather and solar activity.
- The aurora is most active February – March with viewings scheduled from 10 pm – 2 am. Appearance of the Northern Lights is dependent on temperature and sky conditions. Schedule arrival by 3 pm to attend the evening viewing. Guests may choose to arrive a day early and purchase a hotel pre-night in Fairbanks to ensure arrival in time for the Aurora Borealis evening outing on Day 1.
- All activities are dependent on temperature, weather and solar activity/sky conditions. The order of sightseeing is subject to change.
- For maximum enjoyment, guests should be able to walk with ease and over uneven pathways in wintry conditions.
- In the event the Iditarod Ceremonial Start is cancelled due to weather or road conditions, activities will be substituted in Anchorage.
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