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Salmon Berry Travel & Tours

Explore Alaska with the Experts

Denali National Park Guided Tour from Anchorage

This base package is a great way to build your self-guided Alaskan dream vacation! More Info

Price per Person

• Description
• Cancellation Policy
• Travel Insurance

Day One – Train to Denali, Overnight Denali Day Two – Breakfast, Denali National Park Bus Tour, Lunch, Overnight Denali Day Three – Breakfast, Train to Anchorage

Travel from Anchorage to Denali aboard the Alaska Railroad’s adventure-class cars! Ride the Denali Star Rail passing by unique towns like Wasilla, Talkeetna, and the once-stopover rail town of Curry where weary travelers came to rest on the trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks. Enjoy the dramatic views of Denali on a clear day from Hurricane Gulch – keep your camera out because if Denali is visible along the route, it is a beautiful sight to see! Your overnight stay at the Grande Denali Lodge perched on Sugarloaf Mountain provides beautiful views of the canyon below. Your room is a non-view Standard with two beds and a private bath.

Today is your full-day adventure into Denali National Park. Traveling 92 miles into the park to the historic Kantishna Gold Mining area at the end of the road! This 13 to 14-hour Wilderness Experience offers a wonderful diversity for visitors. Incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road and some of the best opportunities to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants await you on this tour. Your guide will narrate for you along a spectacular road corridor, promising different experiences every day, as Denali’s wildlife moves at its own pace and according to the seasons. A full view of Mt. McKinley is a rare treat in Denali National Park and Preserve. Your tour will continue beyond the Eielson Visitors Center and Wonder Lake to the historic gold mine region of Kantishna. There you will enjoy some leisure time off of the bus for a lodge deli lunch and a stroll around the area. You can even try your luck at some authentic gold panning! Consider adding a scenic flight back to the park entrance in an Alaska bush plane. This scenic flight will cut your day tour timing significantly and also allow you to enjoy the views from the air of Denali and the Alaska Range!

This morning take the hotel shuttle to the Denali Rail Depot for check-in aboard Adventure Class on the Denali Star Rail. Consider upgrading to Gold Star Service for your return trip back into Anchorage! Gold Star Service includes lunch and dinner in the Gold Star dining car, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, treeline viewing in glass dome-topped cars, dining car priority seating, as well as an open-air, top-level viewing platform for epic photos along your journey!

Upgrades Available: *Canyon View Room at the Grande Denali Lodge *GoldStar Service aboard the Alaska Railroad -glass dome car seating, meals in the GoldStar dining, and open-air viewing platform *ADD a Scenic Flight Tour back to the Park Entrance from the Lodge following lunch – 35 minutes or 55 minutes *Pre- or Post- night accommodations in Anchorage *Early Morning Shuttle service to Anchorage Rail Depot on Day 1 *Shuttle service from Anchorage Rail Depot on Day 3

Multi-Day Itinerary Cancellation Policy

• A 50% deposit is required to start the booking process.
• Remainder is due 60 days prior to travel.
• Cancellations must be made in writing (email, fax, or mail).
• Processing fee of $100 per guest applies for cancellations more than 60 days before travel, or 50% of total if received less than 60 days from travel.
• No refund applies if cancellation is received less than 30 days prior to travel.

Day Tour Cancellation Policy

• For cancellations outside of 14 days before the first day of your tour, a 10% fee will be withheld.
• For cancellations inside of 14 days, no refund applies.

Salmon Berry Travel & Tours recommends travel insurance provided by TravelSafe Insurance . Our recommendation is based on positive guest feedback. In particular, the experience of one Salmon Berry guest is instructive:

• Our guest had booked the vacation of a lifetime and the ultimate Alaska package. She had to cancel the trip a week before it began due to unfortunate circumstances.
• She later told us that within ten minutes of phone time her claim was processed in full. She was very pleased with TravelSafe Insurance’s immediate and empathetic response. Getting a refund for her trip was the last thing she wanted to think about, and TravelSafe Insurance took care of her needs and concerns immediately.

Contact us to learn more about our array of available tours , or to book your adventure with us today!

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For our other policies, click here: https://www.salmonberrytours.com/covid-19-updates-from-the-sbt-family/

Alaska Coast to Denali

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Kayak along the spectacular seacoast in Kenai Fjords National Park.
• Explore the picturesque of Seward, Chugach Mountains.
• Take a journey north to a quaint mountain town, Talkeetna.
• Enjoy a marine wildlife and glacier cruise.
• Wildlife Viewing
• North America
• United States
• Kenai Peninsula

Full Itinerary

Day 1: marine wildlife and glacier cruise.

• 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 2: Explore Kenai Fjords National Park

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Return to Seward

Day 4: travel to talkeetna, day 5: north to denali, day 6: explore denali, day 7: return to anchorage.

• 1 Breakfast

Accommodations

Kenai fjords glacier lodge, seward windsong lodge, talkeetna lodge, tonglen lake lodge, dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $1,000 or 50% of trip total, whichever is less, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 70 days prior to departure by Accept checks, MasterCard, Visa and Discover

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners
• 6 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)

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Denali Train Tours

About denali train tours.

Available mid-May through mid-September 2024

Experience the unobstructed views of the Alaska wilderness and delicious cuisine from the comfort of a glass-domed luxury rail car on your Alaska vacation. In addition to wrap-around domed viewing windows, many rail cars feature an open-air platform for the ultimate viewing experience. Starting in Anchorage, choose between Denali National Park and the South Denali area near Talkeetna. Or take an extended Denali train tour and visit both!

Visit Denali National Park by choosing one of our Denali Rail Tours. All train tours include:

• Luxury rail travel
• Transfers and baggage handling in Denali and Talkeetna
• Hotel accommodations at Denali National Park, Talkeetna or both locations.

Enjoy scenic rail travel along the historic Alaska railroad and overnight at a Denali National Park hotel. TrainTours start and end at the Rail depot in Anchorage and range from 1 to 4 nights in the Denali area.

Tour Itineraries

Frequently asked questions, how long is a train ride from anchorage to denali.

Total travel time is approximately 7 1/2 hours between the Anchorage depot and the Denali National Park depot with a stop in Talkeetna.

How much does a train tour to Denali cost?

The cost ranges from $549 to $1,249 depending on length of tour and inclusions. Discounted promotional rates may be offered. (Rates are per person based on double occupancy, taxes and fees are additional.)

There are multiple options to choose from, ranging from 1 to 4 nights. Tours begin in Anchorage and stop in Talkeetna, Denali National Park or both.

What's included in a train tour to Denali?

Denali Rail Tours include rail travel, hotel accommodations in Denali National Park and/or Talkeetna, transfers and baggage handling. Your train seat will be onboard a luxury, glass-domed railcar, complete with a dining car with food and beverages for purchase and onboard hosts to point out the sights along the way. Sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery.

The perfect introduction to Denali

Enjoy the simple comforts of an authentic Alaskan cabin in the peaceful setting of the Alaskan wilderness at the Denali Cabins . Venture off the beaten path and explore Denali National Park.

For a complete Alaskan experience, we recommend pairing this itinerary with a trip to Kenai Fjords National Park .

Begin your adventure aboard the morning motor coach to Denali National Park from Anchorage. Explore the trails, shops and restaurants at the Park entrance or indulge in one of the many optional activities. Overnight at Denali Cabins.

See breathtaking views of Alaska! Explore Denali by foot, bicycle, or a guided bus tour. Overnight at Denali Cabins .

Explore Denali at your leisure with optional add-on activities. Try white-water rafting on Nenana River or take to the skies on a flightseeing tour. Overnight at Denali Cabins .

The morning is free for some last minute optional activities in the area. You will depart for Anchorage by motor coach in the afternoon.

Customize Your Itinerary

Optional Add-on Adventures

Take to the skies in Denali National Park. View spectacular landscapes, jaw-dropping glaciers, and get up close and personal with Denali and other towering peaks.

Experience the thrill of a whitewater rafting on a fully guided trip on the Nenana River.

All-inclusive adventure, deep in the heart of Denali National Park. Exclusive helicopter access. Private cabins. Stunning views. Warm hospitality and unmatched adventures. This is Denali Backcountry Lodge, where guests experience the best creature comforts in one of the world’s wildest landscapes.

Find more packages like this

A journey rich in wildlife, history and wilderness. Travel from Fairbanks to Denali and on to Anchorage from the unique perspective of the Alaska Railroad .

Hop on board for a scenic ride to the cliffs, wildlife and glaciers of the Kenai Fjords. By train and by boat, it's an adventure that delves deeper and gets you up close to Alaska's spectacular natural wonders.

A journey rich in wildlife, history and wilderness as you travel from Fairbanks to Denali and Talkeetna from the unique comforts on the historic Alaska Railroad.

Why Choose Pursuit?

Every person you meet from the first phone call to our tour guides and hotel staff are local experts

We own and operate some of the top tours and lodges in Alaska’s most iconic locations

Our tours take you farther than any other in Alaska, so you'll see the most secluded and pristine places

We live with a passion for place and a sincere desire to create life-changing experiences

Our local experts are here to answer any of your questions and help plan an unforgettable Alaska adventure.

1.800.808.8068   |  CONTACT US

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DENALI TOURS & SHORE EXCURSIONS

All Tours (23)

Animal & Wildlife (1)

ATV & Jeep (5)

Helicopter (3)

ATV Adventures (5)

Adventure (17)

Kid-Friendly (11)

Good for Kids Adventuresome Favorite/Top Tour Good for Families Historical ADA Accessible Roundtrip Transportation Historical Includes Food Reset All Filters

Denali Aurora Quest - Northern Lights Tour

$144 / person

The Aurora Quest in Denali is not to be missed! Search the skies for the Northern Lights and learn about Mother Nature's fireworks with your knowledgeable Alaskan guide. This 3-hour narrated tour will take you to one of the b READ MORE...

Husky Homestead Iditarod Tour

$64 / person

Visit the welcoming and unique husky homestead of a Hall of Fame Iditarod champion. Jeff King is often recognized as the "Winningest Musher in the World." He holds four championship titles for the 1,049-mile Iditarod Trail Sl READ MORE...

Train from Anchorage to Denali National Park via Denali Star Train - Alaska Railroad

$193 / person

Have you been asking, how do I get to Denali National Park? Your answer is this flagship train. The northbound Denali Star Train departs Anchorage for the 356-mile, 7.5-hour journey to Denali, with stops in Wasilla, Talkeetna READ MORE...

Denali Helicopter Tour & Glacier Landing

$595 / person

Experience the magic of stepping on a remote glacier deep in the Alaska Range with this trilling helicopter adventure tour! Fed from the precipice of Mt. Deborah, which towers over the glacial valley that you'll land on. We READ MORE...

Denali Heli Hike

$499 / person

Start your adventure at the private helipad where you will fly with one of our experienced pilots along with a naturalist expert through the Denali National Park area. Trek through the wild Alaskan backcountry and explore rem READ MORE...

Denali Tundra Express with Landing

$259 / person

Explore the mountains just outside Denali National Park with a chance to view the Alaska Range and Mt. Deborah. This breathtaking helicopter ride provides you an opportunity to step out and into the scenic landscape of Denali READ MORE...

Denali Self Guided Jeep Adventure

4.25-4.5 hrs

$244 / Vehicle

Get off the beaten path with your group on this rugged and wilderness-filled excursion. From the comfort of your 4x4 Jeep Renegade, you'll be able to explore the area on your own with assistance from the equipped GPS. These v READ MORE...

• Denali Highway Jeep Excursion Tour

$179 / person

Don't miss the Denali Highway, the #2 'Drive of a Lifetime' by National Geographic Traveler magazine! Your 100+ mile roundtrip excursion will give you the best opportunity to see wildlife, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and READ MORE...

• Denali ATV Wilderness Adventure

From: $135 / Vehicle

Get ready for some adventure! Whether a novice or expert ATVer, this trip is a memorable experience in the Alaskan wilderness on your own automatic single ATV or multi-passenger side-by-side ATV! Navigate through rocky creek READ MORE...

Denali ATV Midnight Sun

This trip is a memorable experience during the weeks surrounding the summer solstice and one not to miss! With prolonged sunsets, the trails are illuminated and your adventure will take place in the rosy alpenglow. The total READ MORE...

Denali ATV Trailblazer

From: $210 / Vehicle

Blaze the trails with us as we cruise through the beautiful Alaskan Range. On this off-road adventure tour, there'll be plenty of time for photo stops, lessons on survival in the wilderness, and exploring the rugged trails! READ MORE...

Denali Peak Flightseeing Tour

$449 / person

You will soar amongst the jagged mountaintops and over tumbling glaciers on a stunning 200-mile flight to get within 1/2 mile and circle Denali to see every spectacular corner of this massive mountain (weather permitting). T READ MORE...

Denali Express Flightseeing Tour

$365 / person

Offered during the Alaskan summer, this 45-minute flightseeing adventure will allow you to see the rugged and unique beauty of Denali National Park. Mystifying views of snow-capped mountain ranges, glacially carved terrain, READ MORE...

• Denali Park Zipline Adventure

$159 / person

Experience life above the trees ziplining just outside of Denali National Park! With 6 sky bridges and 7 ziplines, this zipline course is not to be missed! The built-in, hands-free braking system allows you to relax and enjo READ MORE...

Denali Talkeetna Float Adventure

$99 / person

Raft down the 6-mile expanse of the lower Talkeetna River! This glacial-fed river flows through the great Denali landscape with a backdrop of the Alaska Range and the local wildlife that inhabits the area. Looking out for be READ MORE...

Denali Canyon Wave Rafting

$130 / person

Discover spectacular views and thrilling rapids through Denali National Park on 11 miles of the Nenana River. This class III-IV rapids excursion will have you cruising through exciting glacial rapids all while taking in the READ MORE...

Denali Chulitna Float Adventure

$169 / person

Float through the famous Denali scenery and Alaskan Ranges. Starting in Trapper Creek, you will launch and float down the nineteen miles of the glacier waters of the Chulitna River. With wildlife, mountains, and the Denali Na READ MORE...

Denali Wilderness Wave Rafting

Glide along eleven miles of glacially carved terrain for a mellow, family friend rafting tour. This class II-III rafting adventure encounters the occasional rapid but provides an experience for the whole family to share alon READ MORE...

Talkeetna Wilderness Jet Boat Tour

$89 / person

Panoramic views, folklore, and artifacts await you on this unique 20-mile Alaska river adventure. Behold the splendor of Denali and the great Alaska Range from a spectacular vantage point on the Susitna River in our technical READ MORE...

Denali Wilderness Wonders Guided Trek

$190 / person

Venture off-trail through Denali's magical boreal forest and leave the navigation to your expert guide and naturalist. A four-hour, easy-to-moderate hike is perfect for the whole family. Discover how Alaskan ecosystems and READ MORE...

Private Transfer from Denali National Park to Anchorage

From: $699 / Vehicle

Travel with ease on a privately guided trip between Denali National Park and Anchorage, Alaska. The private transfer will allow you to sit back and take in the extraordinary scenery. Take a break halfway through the five-ho READ MORE...

Private Transfer from Denali National Park to Fairbanks

Let your guide lead the way as you are transported from your local accommodations in Denali National Park to Fairbanks, Alaska. Sit in comfort on a private, air-conditioned transfer with an optional stop in the town of Nenana READ MORE...

Train from Denali National Park to Anchorage via Denali Star Train

The southbound Denali Star Train departs Denali for the 265-mile, 7.5-hour journey to Anchorage, with stops in Talkeetna and Wasilla. This daily route spans two of Alaska's five geographic regions - Southcentral and Interior READ MORE...

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Denali Blogs

Top 10 Alaska Cruise Excursions

Best Time to Take an Alaskan Cruise

10 Best Things to Do at Denali National Park

Best denali tours & excursions.

• Helicopter Tour & Glacier Landing
• Aurora Quest - Northern Lights Tour
• ATV Wilderness Adventure
• Canyon Wave Rafting
• Peak Flightseeing Tour

About Denali

Best denali national park tours & excursions:, 1. jeff king's husky homestead tour.

On this tour, you get a behind-the-scenes look at how mushers create a championship team and you get to cuddle husky puppies.

2. Denali Helicopter Tour & Glaicer Landing

This helicopter tour takes you soaring over the Alaskan backcountry, up the Yanert river, to land on Yanert glacier.

3. Denali National Park Heli-Hike

Fly over the Alaskan wilderness while watching for all types of wildlife. You’ll make your way to a landing zone that is custom-picked by your guide to suit your interests and abilities.

4. Denali Highway Jeep Excursion

Denali Highway is one of National Geographics Drives of a Lifetime. Enjoy this 100+ mile round trip drive with amazing views.

5. Denali Aurora Quest

In August and September, this 3-hour narrated tour takes you to one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights.

6. Zipline Adventure

Families love the thrill of this three-mile zipline trail ride that includes 6 sky bridges and 7 zip lines. Soar through trees and over the tundra.

7. Denali ATV Wilderness Adventure

With options for single or side-by-side ATVs, you can ride along trails surrounded by Denali National Park with speeds up to 30 mph. Stop to take in views of the Alaska Range, Otto Lake and Healy Valley.

8. Ruth Glacier Landing and Air Tour

This tour departs from the Healy River Airport and takes you soaring over 80 miles of the beautiful, untouched scenery of Denali National Park. You get to take in views like the Polychrome Mountains, glacial erratics, the infamous Muldrow and Ruth Glaciers, and of course, Mt. Denali.

9. Denali Backcountry Safari

Head deep into the Alaskan bush with the destination of the Stampede Trail on this rugged 4-wheel drive safari.

10. Denali Tundra Express with Landing Excursion

On this breathtaking helicopter tour, you can look below for wildlife or keep your eyes on the horizon for a chance to see Mt. Denali or Mt. Deborah.

For more ideas and trip planning, read our complete guide on the best things to do in Denali National Park .

Denali Shore Excursions by Locals

We are a local Alaska company that aims to bring you the best tours and experiences that Denali has to offer. When you buy Denali shore excursions on your own, instead of through a cruise ship, we can offer you wholesale, local Alaska prices. Our goal is to make your Alaskan cruise the trip of a lifetime!

What are the best tours in Denali?

The best tours in Denali are:

• Denali Iditarod Husky Homestead Tour
• Glacier Landing Expedition via Helciopter
• Denali National Park Heli-Hike
• Talkeetna Float Adventure

What are the best tours in Denali for kids and families?

The best tours for kids and families are:

• Husky Homestead Denali Iditarod Tour
• Denali Highway Jeep Excursion
• Denali Glacier Landing & Air Tour 

Is Denali a Mountain or a Park?

It’s both. Denali is the name of the tallest mountain in North America and the National Park & Preserve that surrounds it. Fun fact: the Park & Preserve area is larger than the entire state of New Jersey, so there is a lot to explore.

What are Alaska's Big 5?

Alaska’s “Big 5” animals are bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. You can find them all in the Denali National Park & Preserve.

More About Denali

Denali National Park offers fun for the whole family. You'll find some of the best ATV & Jeep Excursions and Zipline Tours that Alaska has to offer. 

You can get to Denali via the Denali Star Train . Learn more about transfers here .

While it's most common to view the Northern Lights from Fairbanks, you can also see them from Denali.

Reviews of our Denali Tours

Here's what visitors had to say about our tours.

Denali Helicopter Tour and Glacier Landing:

“Excellent tour probably the best I have been on. Spectacular views and breathtaking scenery as far as the eye could see. Landing and walking on the glacier was awesome. A very smooth ride and a knowledgeable pilot. Well worth the money. Would definitely do it again.” Michael

Denali Highway Jeep Excursion:

“This tour was beautiful. We saw beautiful scenery and a few Moose. The guide was very good and the jeeps were comfortable. One of my favorite things we did in Alaska.” Linda

ATV WIlderness Adventure:

“My kids 12 and 14 really loved this excursion . The ATV 's had good shocks and went over all bumps like clouds” Kelly

Talkeetna Float Adventure:

“Viollette was an amazing guide. She was very informative about the Talkeetna river and Alaska in general. Highly recommended.” Jerald

Self-Guided Jeep Adventure:

“We had an amazing adventure during our self guided tour of Denali National Park on August 23. It was wonderful to be able to take our time to view the beauty and wildlife of the park. We finished our day at the Denali National Park Visitor Center enjoying the displays and films that were available. We recommend renting a jeep through Alaska Shore Excursions and enjoying your own leisurely adventure.” Noca

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Anchorage To Denali

Some of the country's most iconic national parks are within easy reach of Anchorage, including the towering peaks and amazing wildlife of Denali National Park . When conditions are right, you'll be able to spot the peak of Denali and many other mountains of the Alaska Range from portions of urban Anchorage or along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. 

From Anchorage there are four main ways to get to Denali National Park:

The most popular way to experience Denali from Anchorage is a round-trip  sightseeing flight  departing from Anchorage or Talkeetna. You'll still get views of the mountain, save on time en route, and be back in town in time for dinner. Flights are available from Merrill Field or Lake Hood in Anchorage. If you plan to visit Talkeetna, the community's airfield is also a popular option for Denali flightseeing. 

If you want maximum flexibility,  rent a car  in Anchorage. It is five hours from the city to the park entrance, with most of the accommodations just one mile farther up the highway along the Nenana River. By renting a car, you'll be able to go at your own pace and stop wherever you see fit. Remember: private vehicles are only allowed on the first 15 miles of road inside the park during the summer. Beyond that, you'll need to make arrangements to hop on a park bus or another specially permitted vehicle to drive any further into the park.

If you love rail travel or won't be renting a car, consider the  Alaska Railroad . During the summer, the train departs daily from Anchorage, arriving in Denali at 4 p.m. In winter, the train passes by Denali on its weekly route to Fairbanks. The trip north passes through the town of Talkeetna. The Denali depot is right next to the park's visitor center. You won't have to wait to see Denali either; many of the best views are along the way.

Motorcoaches  also connect the city and the park. During the summer, Alaska Park Connection runs a daily motorcoach service from Anchorage to Denali. Booking with this company gives you a guaranteed seat on a motorcoach with an expert to do all the driving. Many  cruise lines  offer land packages pre- or post-cruise, so check with yours if planning to cruise Alaska.

If you plan to travel to Denali, there are a few resources that may be helpful. While in Anchorage, visit the  Alaska Public Lands Information Center  at 4th and F downtown for information on all federal lands in the state, including the park. In print for decades and updated annually, The  MILEPOST  book, is the best-selling travel guide to Alaska, with mile-by-mile descriptions of all major highways and roads in Alaska and northwestern Canada.

How far away is Denali?

On a clear day you can see Denali, once known as Mount McKinley, from Anchorage. North America's tallest mountain is located in Denali National Park, a four to five hour drive from Anchorage or an...

Bus, Van & Motorcoach Charters

Have a large group traveling in Alaska? Whether six people or 600, there's no need for a convoy. Bus, van and motorcoach rentals in Anchorage get everyone there with easy and comfort.

Places to Stay

Things to do, plan your trip, national parks, itineraries.

Passing Thru Travel

Alaska’s 10 Wild Wonders – A Guide to Experiencing Its Majestic Wildlife 2024

Posted: February 23, 2024 | Last updated: February 23, 2024

Alaska, a land of rugged beauty and untamed wilderness, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Alaska’s diverse landscapes are home to an array of spectacular wildlife, from the icy waters of the Arctic to the dense forests of the Interior. This guide takes you through the best spots and activities to witness Alaska’s majestic creatures in their natural habitats. Whether cruising through glacial fjords or trekking in national parks, each experience offers a unique glimpse into the wild heart of Alaska.

1. Bear Watching in Katmai National Park

Katmai National Park, a remote wilderness in Alaska, is a world-renowned destination for bear watching. The park’s large population of brown bears is most visible at Brooks Falls, where they famously catch leaping salmon. Observing these mighty creatures in their natural habitat is a thrilling experience. Besides bear-watching, the park offers stunning volcanic landscapes and opportunities for fishing and kayaking. The park’s visitor centers and ranger-led programs provide valuable insights into the ecology and behavior of these magnificent animals.

Insider’s Tip: Book a guided bear-watching tour for expert insights and safe viewing opportunities.

When To Travel: July to early September is the best time to see bears fishing for salmon.

How To Get There: Accessible only by plane or boat, you can fly from Anchorage or Kodiak to King Salmon, followed by a small plane to the park.

2. Whale Watching in Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is a marine wonderland offering some of the best whale watching in Alaska. The park’s icy waters are frequented by humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales, providing spectacular viewing opportunities. Boat tours from Seward take you into the heart of the fjords, where you can see glaciers calving into the ocean. The park’s rugged coastline is ideal for sea kayaking, offering a closer encounter with the marine environment. The sound of a whale’s breath as it surfaces nearby is an unforgettable experience.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a small boat tour for a more intimate, less crowded, whale-watching experience.

When To Travel: Mid-May to mid-September is the prime whale-watching season.

How To Get There: Drive or take a bus from Anchorage to Seward, where boat tours depart.

3. Birding in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge

The Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge is a bird watcher’s paradise, hosting millions of seabirds on its rugged islands and remote coastlines. The refuge’s diverse habitats are home to puffins, albatrosses, and many other species. Accessible mainly by boat, the refuge offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Alaska’s bird life. Guided boat tours provide access to some of the most spectacular bird colonies, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience.

Insider’s Tip: Bring binoculars and a good camera with a zoom lens for the best birding experience.

When To Travel: Late spring and summer are the best times for birding.

How To Get There: Accessible by boat or plane, tours typically depart from Homer or Kodiak.

4. Moose and Caribou in Denali National Park

Denali National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, is a prime location for viewing moose and caribou. The park’s vast wilderness, ranging from lowland forests to alpine tundra, provides the perfect habitat for these animals. Bus tours along the Denali Park Road offer the safest and most effective way to see moose, caribou, and other wildlife like wolves and grizzly bears. The park also offers numerous hiking trails and ranger-led programs for a more immersive natural experience.

Insider’s Tip: Take an early morning or late evening tour for the best chances of spotting wildlife.

When To Travel: Summer is the best time for wildlife viewing in Denali.

How To Get There: Drive from Anchorage or Fairbanks, or take the Alaska Railroad to Denali.

5. Sea Otters in Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound is a serene and beautiful area, home to a large population of sea otters. These playful creatures are often seen floating on their backs among the kelp forests, and boat tours from Valdez or Whittier provide excellent opportunities to observe them up close. The sound’s calm waters are also ideal for kayaking, offering a peaceful way to explore the area and possibly encounter otters and other marine wildlife.

Insider’s Tip: Choose a kayak tour for a quieter, closer encounter with the otters.

When To Travel: Late spring to early fall is ideal for otter watching.

How To Get There: Drive or take a train to Whittier or Valdez, where tours are available.

6. Bald Eagles in Haines

Haines, Alaska, is often referred to as the ‘Eagle Capital of America’ and for good reason. The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve in Haines is one of the best places in the world to see bald eagles, especially along the Chilkat River, where they gather in large numbers. The annual Alaska Bald Eagle Festival in November celebrates these majestic birds, featuring photography workshops and cultural events. Outside the festival, the area offers year-round eagle viewing opportunities in a stunning natural setting.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the Bald Eagle Festival in November for special events and guided tours.

When To Travel: Late fall, especially November, is the peak season for eagle watching.

How To Get There: Fly to Juneau, then take a ferry to Haines or drive from Anchorage.

7. Wolves in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, a vast and wild landscape, offers a rare opportunity to see wolves in their natural habitat. The park’s immense size and diverse ecosystems make it an ideal habitat for these elusive creatures. Guided tours and backcountry expeditions can increase your chances of spotting wolves, though patience and luck are key. The park also offers incredible hiking, camping, and mountaineering opportunities, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers.

Insider’s Tip: Engage a knowledgeable guide who knows the best areas for wolf sightings and can interpret tracks and signs.

When To Travel: Summer is the best time for accessibility to the park and wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: The park is accessible by road from Anchorage or by small plane for more remote areas.

8. Polar Bears in Kaktovik

Kaktovik, a small village on the Arctic coast of Alaska, offers one of the most unique wildlife experiences in the world – polar bear viewing. During the late summer and fall, polar bears can often be seen near the village, especially as they wait for the sea ice to form. Guided tours provide safe and respectful ways to observe these magnificent animals in their natural environment. This experience is a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change on Arctic wildlife.

Insider’s Tip: Book your tour and accommodations well in advance, as space is limited.

When To Travel: Late August to late September is the prime time for polar bear viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Fairbanks, then take a small plane to Kaktovik.

9. Dall Sheep in the Chugach Mountains

The Chugach Mountains, located near Anchorage, are an excellent place to view Dall sheep. These agile animals are often seen on steep, rocky slopes and ridges. The Seward Highway, running along Turnagain Arm, offers several pullouts where you can spot these sheep with binoculars or a spotting scope. Hiking in the mountains can also provide opportunities for closer encounters. Seeing these elegant animals in their rugged mountain habitat is a quintessential Alaskan experience.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center near Girdwood to learn about Dall sheep and other Alaskan wildlife.

When To Travel: Late spring and summer are the best times for visibility and accessibility.

How To Get There: The Chugach Mountains are easily accessible from Anchorage, with the Seward Highway offering scenic drives and viewing spots.

10. Arctic Wildlife in Gates of the Arctic National Park

Gates of the Arctic National Park, one of the least visited and most remote national parks in the United States, offers a true wilderness experience. This vast park is home to a variety of Arctic wildlife, including caribou, grizzly bears, and wolves. The park’s untouched landscapes provide a backdrop for some of Alaska’s most authentic wildlife viewing. Visiting the park requires careful planning and is best done with an experienced guide or outfitter. The experience of being in such a remote and wild place is both humbling and exhilarating.

Insider’s Tip: Consider a guided backpacking or rafting trip for an in-depth park exploration.

When To Travel: Summer, despite the mosquitoes, offers the best accessibility and wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Access is typically by air taxi from Fairbanks or Bettles.

The Bottom Line

In Alaska, the wild is not just a place; it’s a way of life. As you venture into this vast and pristine wilderness, remember that each encounter with its wildlife is a privilege. Respect the natural habitats and behaviors of these magnificent creatures. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your Alaskan wildlife experience will be spectacular and profoundly enriching.

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The post Alaska’s 10 Wild Wonders – A Guide to Experiencing Its Majestic Wildlife 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / JacobLoyacano.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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9 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Anchorage, Alaska

With salmon fishing (and eating), craft breweries, hiking trails, and a thriving local art scene, there’s a lot to love about anchorage..

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Anchorage is wreathed by the Chugach Mountains and the Cook Inlet waterway.

Photo by Shutterstock

Anchorage is the ideal jumping-off point for travelers looking for an Alaska-size adventure. From there, they can head north to Denali National Park and Fairbanks (237 and 359 miles away, respectively) or south to the Kenai Fjords National Park (125 miles away) and the various fishing communities of the Kenai Peninsula (the furthest being Homer, 223 miles away). Each year, millions of travelers fly into Anchorage and immediately hit the road, sticking around in Alaska’s most populous city just long enough to pick up some road trip snacks . But Anchorage is so much more than a staging area.

Because it’s encircled by the vast Chugach mountain range (and the eponymously named half-million-acre state park) and the waters of the Cook Inlet, it’s a place where city life and nature work in tandem. You’ll find meandering green belts, ample mountain trails, and creeks thick with trophy salmon in addition to the city’s shops, eateries, craft breweries, and world-class museums. And although Anchorage has a small town vibe , more than half of the state’s population lives here. If you spend a few days, you’ll see why. Read on for some of the best things to do in Anchorage.

The Anchorage Museum spans the history of the state.

Courtesy of Visit Anchorage/Ashley Heimbigner

Learn about Indigenous life at the Alaska Native Heritage Center and Anchorage Museum

Anchorage may be situated on the traditional homelands of the Dena’ina Athabascan people, but you can learn about all 11 major Indigenous groups that call Alaska home at the Alaska Native Heritage Center . As the largest cultural institution in the state, the Heritage Center explores more than 10,000 years of Indigenous history, culture, dance, and art through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.

The Anchorage Museum is another good place to learn about the cultural landscape of Alaska. The flagship exhibition is the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center , which holds more than 600 Indigenous artifacts, including archival photographs, Yupik hunting masks, Iñupiat feast bowls, and woven Haida baskets. All of the content was curated in collaboration with Alaska Native Elders, artists, educators, and scholars.

How to visit

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is $29 for adults; $25 for seniors; $19 for children age 4–17; $14 for Alaska residents and military with ID; and $12 for child Alaska residents. The Heritage Center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.

The Anchorage Museum is $25 for nonresident adults ($20 for Alaska residents); $18 for seniors, students, and active duty military; $12 for age 6–12; and free for children 5 and under. From October through April, it’s open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. From May through September, the museum is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Throughout the year, on the first Friday of the month, the museum is free and open until 9 p.m.

Flattop Mountain Trail is one of the most hiked trails in Anchorage.

Hike up Flattop or other trails in Chugach State Park

Look, we know you came to Alaska to experience nature, so plan to take a hike—there’s a trail for everyone.

Flattop is a popular hiking and running trail, minutes from downtown. It’s just over three miles round-trip and is moderate, save for the last 200 feet, a rocky scramble that requires using your hands to climb—but it’s worth it for the sweeping views of the Chugach Mountains and all of Anchorage. On a clear day, you can see Denali in the distance. Even the views from the trail parking lot are pretty incredible, and because it’s somewhat removed from the city’s ambient light, it makes for an excellent place to try to catch the northern lights in the winter . For those who don’t have their own set of wheels, there’s a Flattop Mountain Shu

ttle that operates in the summer and does pickups and drop-offs in downtown. For more of a challenge, consider O’Malley Peak . Gaining 3,293 feet of elevation over the course of 3.6 miles one-way, it’s a leg-burner. But the views from the top are unmatched. Alternatively, there’s the Williwaw Lakes Trail, which passes nine shimmering alpine lakes, including two stashed inside a mountain pass. Its elevation gain of 2,585 feet is fairly negligible when you consider that it’s spread out over a lengthy 16-mile round-trip hike. Another flat-ish but long trail is the Eagle and Symphony Lakes Trail, otherwise known as the South Fork Valley Trail . The 11-mile trail terminates at a pair of lakes—one minty green and the other aquamarine—separated by a narrow isthmus.

However, if you have kids in tow or don’t have a vehicle, you can also simply walk or bike a portion of the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail . The paved 11-mile trail hugs the coast from downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park and passes by Westchester Lagoon , Earthquake Park , and the airport. It’s also popular for cyclists—you can rent bikes downtown, at outfitters like Downtown Bicycle Rental or Alaska Pablo’s Bicycle Rentals . Of all the trails, it’s probably the one you’re most likely to see moose on.

Double Shovel is Anchorage’s only craft cidery, but one of many breweries.

Courtesy of Visit Anchorage/Wayde Carroll

Visit King Street Brewing, Double Shovel Cider, and other local breweries

Hop heads, rejoice. For beer lovers, there are few places with a higher number of breweries per capita than Anchorage. There are currently 12 in Anchorage proper and another 9 in the surrounding metro area, with more on the way.

Consider starting in the so-called Beermuda Triangle with either Anchorage Brewing Company , King Street Brewing Company , Turnagain Brewing , Cynosure Brewing , or Double Shovel Cider Co. —they’re all a quick walk or a short Uber away from each other. If you’re looking for both a designated driver and a master planner, “hop” on a Big Swig tour. The four-hour tour includes visits to three Anchorage-area breweries, a minimum of 14 samples, and some fortifying appetizers from Midnight Sun Brewing Co ., Anchorage’s oldest brewery.

Star the Reindeer takes a walk with its owner on Fourth Avenue.

Courtesy of Visit Anchorage/Jack Bonney

Meet Star, Anchorage’s unofficial mascot

Star, Anchorage’s unofficial mascot, is a reindeer that lives downtown. He’s actually the seventh reindeer to bear the name and title since the 1960s.

The story goes that a local couple named Ivan and Oro Stewart started the tradition of keeping a pet reindeer. Oro Stewart told her husband she wanted an Alaska pet, and he said OK because he thought she’d come home with a husky. The first in the line had a star-shaped white patch on her forehead, hence the name, but they kept the moniker the same so local kids would always know who to greet. After the Stewarts passed away, their friend, Albert Whitehead, moved into their home and took up the mantle (he’s owned Star the Sixth and Seventh).

If Star isn’t in his specialized pen, it usually means he’s out for a walk on the Park Strip or elsewhere with Whitehead.

Star lives on the corner of 10th Avenue and I Street. Visiting is free.

The Outhouse Race sees portable toilets on skis racing along the main drag in downtown.

Photo by Bailey Berg

Go to a local festival

If timing is on your side, make plans to attend one of several annual festivals in Anchorage.

Fur Rendezvous: February/March

Arguably the most well-known Alaska festival is Fur Rendezvous . Otherwise known as Rondy, it’s the precursor to the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race . Over the course of two weeks in late February and early March, locals and visitors don their finest furs (it was originally a fur sale for trappers and miners) and brave freezing temperatures to ride Ferris wheels, participate in the Running of the Reindeer (similar to the Running of the Bulls), and push outhouses on skis down the main street. It all culminates on the first Saturday of March when people pack Fourth Avenue to watch the ceremonial start of the Iditarod.

Summer Solstice Festival: June

Another popular festival is the Summer Solstice Festival . On the longest day of the year, Anchorage sees roughly 22 functional hours of daylight. Revelers celebrate at block parties downtown and while watching the Anchorage Glacier Pilots baseball team play under the midnight sun.

Construction of the railroad started in 1903 and ended in 1923 when President Harding drove the golden spike into the line near Nenena, signifying the completion of the nearly 500-mile line.

Courtesy of Alaska Railroad/Mike Criss

Ride the rails

For 101 years, the Alaska Railroad has connected Seward, a port town in south central Alaska, to Fairbanks, a mining community 500 miles away in the state’s interior region. Initially constructed to haul freight that would be the key to the success of mining and military efforts in the then-territory, it’s now more commonly used to shuttle visitors through these vast and wild lands. The primary depot is in downtown Anchorage and from early May to mid-September, the Alaska Railroad operates three main train routes from the city, including the Coastal Classic to Seward, the Glacier Discovery to Spencer Glacier, and the Denali Star to Fairbanks. None is a straight shot—each train makes a series of stops in communities along the way. (The Denali Star, for example, pulls into depots in Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and Nenana while en route.)

There’s also the Hurricane Turn Flagstop service, which runs from Talkeetna to Hurricane Gulch, a nearly 300-foot-tall bridge spanning a canyon that, on clear days, offers views of Denali, North America’s highest mountain. All but the Denali Star can be done as a day trip.

Ticket prices vary by route; check alaskarailroad.com for schedules and availability.

Wild Scoops serves ice cream flavors that run the gamut from classic to unexpected, including Thai tea, chocolate, spruce tips, and fireweed

Photo by Jay Juno/Shutterstock

Eat at Anchorage’s local restaurants

While Anchorage’s restaurants are largely low-key (you’ll probably see more people wearing Xtratuf boots than something laced or heeled), it doesn’t mean the kitchens aren’t churning out some impressive food.

Case in point: Altura Bistro . Don’t let its strip mall location fool you; it’s one of the hardest places to get a table in town—and that was before the owner/chef, Nathan Bentley, was named a 2024 James Beard Foundation Best Chef semi-finalist . The dinner menu features entrées like king crab mac and cheese or halibut in saffron butter, with lemon-herb polenta, Castelvetrano tapenade, and asparagus. Be sure to get dessert. The Pop Rocks–topped prosecco cheesecake is a winner

Another popular spot is Moose’s Tooth . It doesn’t matter what time of year (or what time of day) you swing by, there will be a wait. Revered by locals, this pizzeria has an extensive menu of signature pies, including the Mac N Cheese (topped with reindeer sausage, macaroni noodles, four kinds of cheese, and garlic oil) and the Amazing Apricot (covered in blackened chicken, cream cheese, apricot sauce, red peppers, carrots, green onions, cilantro, mozzarella, and provolone). The drinks menu includes about two dozen beers from the restaurant’s sister brewery, Broken Tooth.

Other spots that should make your Anchorage short list:

• Snow City Cafe for snow crab omelets
• Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop for artisan bread and pastries
• Spenard Roadhouse for whiskey cocktails and bacon-infused mains
• F Street Station for free cheese and the best halibut sandwiches in town
• Rustic Goat for pulled pork nachos
• Whiskey and Ramen for . . . whiskey and ramen
• Wild Scoops for ice cream churned with all local ingredients
• Tent City Taphouse for hard-to-find beers and decadent seafood entrées
• Club Paris for old-school steakhouse vibes and classic cocktails

Oh, and be sure to get a reindeer hot dog at some point—there are lots of stands downtown.

Anglers line the shores of Fish Creek, the only urban king salmon fishery in the world.

Courtesy of Visit Anchorage/Ken Graham

Fish for king salmon at Ship Creek

During peak season, many locals leave a fishing rod in their car so they can hurry down to Ship Creek in downtown Anchorage after work (or on their lunch break). Ship Creek is the only urban king salmon fishery in the world, where anyone can try to land one of the fish, often weighing 30-plus pounds. With the price of wild Alaska king salmon ranging from $30 to $70 per pound, it makes sense that anglers are willing to stand shoulder to shoulder in the water in hopes of reeling in a free fish.

You’re welcome to go watch, either from the bridges above the creek or from the banks. However, if you choose the latter and someone nearby yells “fish on!” it’s best to get out of their way—kings are big, and they put up a fight.

If you’re keen to fish yourself, it’s possible to rent gear from the Bait Shack , near the mouth of the river. The company also hosts fishing contests each summer, including the Slam’n Salm’n Derby in June, where prize money and gold nuggets are awarded to the angler who wins the battle with the largest king salmon, and the Coho Rodeo Derby in July, where anglers try to land the fattest silver salmon.

The aerial tram at Alyeska Resort transports skiers, snowboarders, and diners to the top of the mountain.

Courtesy of Visit Anchorage/Juno Kim

Take a day trip to Girdwood

While the funky little community of Girdwood is technically part of Anchorage, it’s about an hour from downtown. To get there, travelers need to drive the Seward Highway, which is often ranked one of the world’s most beautiful roadways. On one side of the road is a sheer rock face, where nimble-footed mountain goats and skilled climbers often share space. On the other side is the Turnagain Arm, a long, shallow waterway that features beluga whale sightings and the reflections of the mountains across the way. If you time your trip right, you can see the Cook Inlet bore tide—it’s one of the tallest in the world. Once a day, when the tides change, a single tidal wave that reaches heights of 10 feet thunders through the waterway. Local surfers like to try to catch the wave—if they make it, they can ride it for roughly 50 miles. There are myriad pull-out points along the highway to watch the wave or simply to take pictures of the impossibly scenic area.

One of the main reasons people visit Girdwood is to spend time at Alyeska Resort . For powder hounds, there are few places like Alyeska, which has a reputation for being “steep and deep” and having the longest continuous double black diamond ski run in the country. But you don’t have to be a thrill-seeker to enjoy the resort’s outdoor activities. Those who’d like to check out the views of Turnagain Arm from up high (and maybe have a cocktail while they’re at it) can ride the tram to the mountain top, where there are two restaurants. The resort also recently opened the first Nordic Spa in Alaska, featuring a circuit of pools, ranging from grin and bear it cold plunges to hot tubs that’ll melt your problems away. There’s also a bevy of saunas, including Finnish, barrel, Himalayan rock salt, and Russian banyas, plus a steam room and an exfoliation cabin. Guests can also enjoy signature cocktails in the on-site bar and restaurant or sign up for a massage. (We recommend the Nordic massage, which includes warming and cooling elements.)

Off-mountain, Girdwood has a number of tasty eateries, berry-lined hiking trails for all ability levels, and the popular Girdwood Brewing Company , a dog-friendly beer garden with views of the slopes.

Where to stay in Anchorage, Alaska

The hotel captain cook.

Book now: The Hotel Captain Cook

There aren’t many sky-scraping buildings in Anchorage’s skyline. That’s because a fault line runs through the downtown area. After the famous 1964 Good Friday earthquake (which lasted four minutes and had a magnitude of 9.2, making it the second most powerful earthquake ever recorded ) leveled most of downtown, it was made law that no structure could be more than 22 stories for safety reasons.

The Hotel Captain Cook is one of the few tall buildings in the city. The highest of its three towers is 18 stories, and from its upper-level rooms and Crow’s Nest restaurant, the views of the mountains and sea are memorable. Billed as the only luxury hotel in Anchorage, its 546 guest rooms have hosted nearly every celebrity and dignitary who has passed through Alaska, ranging from Sir Elton John to President Barack Obama.

The Lakefront Anchorage

Book now: The Lakefront Anchorage

What is interesting about the Lakefront is that it’s located on Lake Hood, the largest seaplane base in the country. From many of the rooms, you can watch floatplanes (most hold only four passengers) take off and land on the water. The Lakefront has 248 rooms, two restaurants, and a free airport shuttle.

This story was originally published in 2022; it was most recently updated with new information on May 8, 2024.

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i might consider a bear viewing tour when i get to anchorage.

looking at the options, and time constraints, the only two i can find are the Redoubt Bay Lodge Bear Viewing, and the Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing - both from the website flyrusts.com.

which one is recommended, or is there a better one? i listed these ones because theyre 6hrs long meaning i can come back in time to join my group tour that starts at 6pm that same day. i cant do the day before as thats when i land at alaska.

but the skeptical part of me questions: there is surely no guarantee of bear viewing, or is bear viewing successful on these trips? these trips are quite expensive, and am considering them as a 'shortcut' way to ensure i see bears during my trip there!

4 replies to this topic

Is your date still July/August? That is an excellent time for bear viewing tours.

"there is surely no guarantee of bear viewing, or is bear viewing successful on these trips?"

I assume if bears were seen on 100% of their trips, Rust's would guarantee that. But the chances of success are really high. You'd have to ask them for actual stats, my *guess* would be in the high 90% range. The only companies I know of that do guarantee bear sightings fly out of Homer. Unless you can add another day, you don't have time for a Homer tour.

Another company to consider is this one, which gets mostly great reviews: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g60880-d12214696-Reviews-Alaska_Air_Service-Anchorage_Alaska.html I read through the 2 Terrible reviews plus the response from the company. Read them for yourself, but IMHO the company's comments were valid.

If you go with Rust's (a highly respected company...but, they also get a small percentage of Terrible reviews, again read those for yourself), their Redoubt trip is done by boat and Chinitna by shuttle/on foot. My own preference is on foot, but opinions may vary....

For whichever trip you consider, ask the company:

1. your chances of seeing one or more bears on your date

2. what you can expect to see the bears doing on your date (grazing/clamming, or fishing)

3. how long you can expect to be viewing bears at that location (some are only 1 hr., some are 3 (IMO the best option for most folks considering time and expense), a few are a bit longer, though you likely don't have time for those anyway.

4. what happens if there is a weather delay--tell them you need to be back by 5 (or whatever) to meet up with your 6 pm tour.

"am considering them as a 'shortcut' way to ensure i see bears during my trip there!"

Your chances of seeing bears in Denali are much lower than on a bear-viewing tour. I don't know what the current stats are with the road shortened to mile 43 due to construction, but when the full road was open bears were seen on more than 80% of the tours. Whether they were just dots in the distance or right up on the road is a matter of luck. I've had both experiences.

I would encourage you to go for the tour. Most people have a great experience. But this is your time and money, not mine.

BTW, does your tour in Denali include Tundra Wilderness Tour or the Natural History Tour? If the latter, either upgrade to the TWT or book the East Fork Shuttle. NHT goes only 17 miles into the park vs. 43 miles with the other two.

thanks for the replies. i reached out to the operator and they said its unpredictable insofar as seeing bears at a distance or close as 40 metres away. and the itinerary says 6hrs - 4hrs total spent travelling, with about 2hrs bear time in Chinitna. Redoubt Bay has less fly time but you dont have the open space and lots of fishermen will be there.

i dont know. considering the cost - 1grand - i am starting to have second thoughts about this thing. its too expensive, even more than my 4-day bolt-on tour i have for my trip there. if it was half the price, i'd give it a go.

i don't know, i'm pondering this one, slightly doubting if wanting to do the bear thing. the cost is too high for me. thats 2 weeks pay burned in 6hrs!

I really wanted to see bears fishing as well, but decided that the price was more than I was willing to pay. I've had amazing experiences for that kind of money.

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