alaska cruise with denali train

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Alaska Cruisetours to Denali National Park

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Denali National Park Guide

When booking your Alaska cruise, why not see everything The Last Frontier has to offer? When you decide to take one of our Alaska cruises, you have the option to select a Cruisetour (also known as a land and sea package), which extends your cruise vacation with a 2 to 6 night adventure into Alaska. With our Alaska Cruisetours , you can travel further inland and visit even more beautiful destinations like Anchorage, Fairbanks, and of course, the unforgettable Denali National Park.

When you’re looking into one of the many Alaska cruise itineraries we’ve carefully crafted, don’t forget to book a Cruisetour and create the ultimate land and sea adventure. Cruisetours must be booked when you’re booking your cruise. Unlike shore excursions where you can book excursions at anytime, our Cruisetours serve as land and sea packages to help you fulfill your dream Alaskan adventure, both on land and onboard our ship.

All of our Alaska Cruisetours overnight in Denali and include an excursion into the beautiful Denali National Park as part of our Cruisetour package. Depending on whether you choose to take a southbound or northbound Alaska cruise, you will be taking the land portion of your Cruisetour before or after your cruise. Southbound Alaska cruises start in Seward and have the land portion of the Cruisetour before setting sail. Northbound Alaska cruises start in Vancouver and have their land portion of the Cruisetour after the cruise docks in Seward.

An Alaska Cruisetour to Denali National Park is a sure-fire way to explore the incredible Alaskan wilderness, whether you prefer a laid back approach of walking tours and panoramic vistas, or you crave adventure, like whitewater rafting on the Nenana River or a soaring plane ride to catch panoramic views of Denali Mountain. This is what makes Denali must-see for any intrepid traveler. Experience the humbling and awe-inspiring spirit of Alaska for yourself when you go off the beaten path with Celebrity.

Top Sights & Attractions on an Alaska Cruisetour to Denali

Unwind in denali’s breathtaking scenery.

Booking an Alaska land and sea package is the ideal way to see Alaska. If you’re craving time in nature and fresh air, you’ll be glad you’re staying overnight in Denali on an Alaska Cruisetour. Denali National Park is unlike any other place on earth for its dense forest of evergreens and endless tundra. On the Natural History excursion, you’ll learn how early settlers lived in subarctic conditions and made Denali into what it is today. You’ll be amazed as you explore this quiet, undisturbed paradise.

Spot Bears, Moose & More Wildlife

The Tundra Wilderness excursion into Denali National Park can take you nearly 41 miles into the wilderness of the Arctic range into the subarctic tundra. You’ll have the best chance of spotting local wildlife and protected species that call the park home the deeper you go into the park’s depths. It’s extra special to spot the “Big 5” species unique to Denali: grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolf and Dall sheep. Keep your eyes peeled for these creatures as your roam.

Expand the Land Portion of Your Land & Sea Package with Land Excursions in Denali

Your Cruisetour experience with Celebrity is a build-your-own adventure. On an Alaska cruise, Denali is a hidden gem that’s not always easy to get to on your own. Denali is nearly 300 miles from the Seward cruise port after all. With Celebrity Cruises®, however, we take the guesswork out of Alaska’s most memorable places for you. While your Cruisetour has land experiences included in your package, you can also book optional land excursions on your Denali Cruisetour with your tour guide. Luckily, there are options for all types of vacationers, whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for your next adrenaline rush or a seasoned traveler wanting to learn something new about Alaska’s natural history.

Soar Above Denali Mountain in a Helicopter

Ever taken a helicopter tour at the end of the world? Well, you can on a helicopter ride across Denali National Park and Denali Mountain, which was once called Mt. McKinley, and is the highest mountain in North America. Glaciers and seemingly-endless stretches of tundra will fill your eye-line, and you’ll be surrounded by quiet, natural beauty, and roaming wildlife below.

Whitewater Adventure on Nenana River

An early morning on the Nenana River can be a peaceful, lazy experience for some, but if you’re looking for action, try out the two hour whitewater ride on intense, high class rapids. This unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime river tour is an adrenaline surge.

Explore Denali’s Many Hiking Trails

Hiking in Denali and the park’s sinuous trails of thriving evergreens are beautiful year-round. You can even hike with a dedicated park ranger and ask all your questions about Denali along the way.

Top Food & Drink Spots in Denali

Prospector’s Pizzeria & Alehouse

Is there any better combination after a day of hiking or white water rafting than pizza and a cold beer? Luckily, Prospector’s Pizzeria & Alehouse has both in spades. Beyond brick oven pizzas, they offer standard sandwich and salad fare. They provide special vegan and gluten-free entree options as well.

The Salmon Bake

Another option for eats on your Denali cruise the appropriately named Salmon Bake, is just one of the many spots to try local Alaskan salmon and other comfort foods during your time in Alaska. Stop in for live music, where local bands play every night, or fill up on crab cakes and halibut tacos, or simply to experience this fun, quirky location just a mile from Denali National Park.

Moose-AKa’s

Stray away from the conventional burger-and-fries territory and instead try Eastern-European influenced moussaka and schnitzel, plus cocktails and traditional tavern-style eats like fish and chips in a no-frills setting. Grab a cold beer and strike up a conversation with the bartender here.

Culture and History of the Denali National Park

Denali National Park came to be as Mount McKinley National Park way back in 1917, and since then, the park expanded and now encompasses over six million acres of preserved Alaskan nature. “Denali” means “the Tall One” in the language of the indigenous Athabaskan population who lived there long before 19th century settlers came out west. This name references the sweeping summit of Denali Mountain within the park. A huge part of the culture and appeal of a Denali cruise is the chance to spot native wildlife like caribou, moose, grizzly bears, and black bears. These sightings are a huge draw for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts visiting the park.

Getting to Denali on an Alaska Cruise

All of our Alaska Cruisetours have an overnight in Denali and include an excursion into the breathtaking Denali National Park as part of the Cruisetour package. There are several ways your Cruisetour will transport you to Denali before or after your Alaska cruise.

Depending on whether you choose to take a Alaska cruise southbound or northbound, your ship will either depart or arrive in the Seward cruise port . If your southbound Alaska cruise begins in Seward, you will take your Cruisetour to destinations like Denali National Park before hopping on the cruise. If your northbound Alaska cruise starts in Vancouver and ends in Seward, you would take your Cruisetour after the cruise.

When traveling on land between destinations, you will travel on an unforgettable train ride and deluxe motor coach. Our Cruisetours are carefully created to provide a comfortable, stylish and picturesque journey to the beautiful Denali National Park. Whatever you want your Alaska experience to be, your Celebrity Cruisetour to Denali will help you achieve it.

Transportation in Denali

Hourly shuttles are available between the Denali National Park Visitor's Center and the Denali Park Village lodge, where you will be staying. Your Cruisetour, however, includes all of your transportation needs during the land tour.

Shopping in Denali

While you probably won’t have time to shop when your cruise ship docks in Seward, you can pick up both kitsch and practical Alaska souvenirs when you arrive in Denali Park Village.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

Like other states, Alaska uses the U.S. dollar (USD) and the standard tipping practices that prevail across America are equally accepted here. Credit cards are generally okay to use as well. Tip your server or bartender 15-20% for good services, and don’t forget a 15% tip for taxi drivers and tour guides or operators as well.

Find Cruises to Alaska's Denali Port

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Alaska Cruise Itineraries

When Is the Best Time to Visit Denali National Park?

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Talkeetna Denali Alaska Rail Explorer | Cruise Connector

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INTRODUCTION

The Talkeetna Denali Alaska Rail Tour is a perfect 4-day itinerary for before or after a cruise.

The adventure begins in anchorage where you'll take alaska railroad for the scenic journey to denali national park, then take your choice of tours at denali and end at either the whittier or seward cruise terminal., this itinerary is one of our best sellers for a pre or post alaska cruise tour. .

Itinerary at a Glance

DETAILED ITINERARY

The below itinerary reflects our recommendations for this specific trip. This itinerary is also available in the reverse direction.

Departing Anchorage | Departing Seward,Whittier

Day 1 Anchorage to Talkeetna | Alaska Railroad Depart early on the Denali Star Train by Goldstar Railcar to Talkeetna, best known as base camp for climbers attempting Mount Denali and for the stunning views of this famous mountain. Take a stroll down the main street for river views, local brews and great eats. (Breakfast is included onboard the train today)

Day 2 Talkeetna to Denali National Park Entrance | Alaska Railroad This morning take the Denali Star, Alaska Railroad’s flagship train, in the Goldstar Railcar to Denali National Park. The afternoon is open for optional activities such as whitewater rafting down the Nenana River, helicopter flightseeing over the Park, landing on a glacier or hiking. (Lunch is included onboard the train today)

Day 3 Denali | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions Option 1. Denali Highway Jeep Excursion | Self-Drive Guided 4x4 Excursion Ranked #2 in Drives of a Lifetime by National Geographic Traveler magazine, experience the natural wonders of Alaska’s Denali Highway — this time by Jeep! This 4-hour guided excursion travels along a 135 mi (217 km) gravel road & takes you off the beaten path in a 4 x 4 to enjoy scenic views of Denali, the Alaska Range, glaciers and wildlife. Option 2. Tundra Wilderness Tour | Coach Tour This half day tour offers incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road and opportunities to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants. Picturesque highlights include the craggy cliffside of Cathedral Mountain, wildlife rich Sable Pass and braided wash of the East Fork River in Denali National Park. Option 3. Upgrade Option: Denali Summit Flightseeing | Small Aircraft Get a closer look at Alaska’s majestic Denali from the comfortable window seat of a small aircraft. Slip on your provided headset to hear commentary from your guide as you fly over the snow-covered peaks, jagged ridgelines, and glacier carved valleys of Denali National Park, and get within half a mile of the mountain peak. Option 4. Upgrade Option : Denali Glacier Landing | Helicopter Be immersed in the vastness of the Denali National Preserve. On your way to the massive Yanert Glacier, your pilot will serve as your guide through this unique glacially-carved environment. Soar over the rolling tundra, keeping an eye out for local residents – caribou, moose, bear, and Dall sheep. Snow capped peaks and glaciers abound on this journey before you set down on a river of ice.

Day 4 Denali to Whittier or Seward Cruise Terminal | Coach Early this morning depart Denali aboard a comfortable motorcoach. The driver will provide narration as you travel on the nationally recognized Parks Highway through Alaska’s spectacular scenery and small historic towns. You will have a layover of approximately 90 minutes in Anchorage so that you can purchase lunch. Continue on to Seward or Whittier along scenic Cook Inlet and Turnagain Arm. Few roads in the United States can offer the diversity of scenic landscapes and unique natural features all concentrated in one area. You will arrive in Whittier at 4:45pm or at the cruise dock in Seward at 5:45pm where your incredible Alaska land adventure comes to an end.

Day 1 Whittier or Seward Cruise Terminal to Denali | Coach Disembark the ship and begin your coach adventure towards Anchorage with a chance to see Cook Inlet and Turnagain Arm along the way. Few roads in the United States offer such diversity of scenic landscapes and unique natural features all concentrated in one area. After a short stop in Anchorage, continue to Denali National Park Entrance along the George Parks Highway and listen while your driver shares stories of the area. Weather permitting, you can admire the marvelous views of Denali - the tallest mountain in North America.

Day 2 Denali | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions Option 1. Denali Highway Jeep Excursion | Self-Drive Guided 4x4 Excursion Ranked #2 in Drives of a Lifetime by National Geographic Traveler magazine, experience the natural wonders of Alaska’s Denali Highway — this time by Jeep! This 4-hour guided excursion travels along a 135 mi (217 km) gravel road & takes you off the beaten path in a 4 x 4 to enjoy scenic views of Denali, the Alaska Range, glaciers and wildlife. Option 2. Tundra Wilderness Tour | Coach Tour This half day tour offers incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road and opportunities to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants. Picturesque highlights include the craggy cliffside of Cathedral Mountain, wildlife rich Sable Pass and braided wash of the East Fork River in Denali National Park. Option 3. Upgrade Option: Denali Summit Flightseeing | Small Aircraft Get a closer look at Alaska’s majestic Denali from the comfortable window seat of a small aircraft. Slip on your provided headset to hear commentary from your guide as you fly over the snow-covered peaks, jagged ridgelines, and glacier carved valleys of Denali National Park, and get within half a mile of the mountain peak. Option 4. Upgrade Option : Denali Glacier Landing | Helicopter Be immersed in the vastness of the Denali National Preserve. On your way to the massive Yanert Glacier, your pilot will serve as your guide through this unique glacially-carved environment. Soar over the rolling tundra, keeping an eye out for local residents – caribou, moose, bear, and Dall sheep. Snow capped peaks and glaciers abound on this journey before you set down on a river of ice.

Day 3 Denali National Park Entrance to Talkeetna | Alaska Railroad This morning is open for optional activities such as: whitewater rafting down the Nenana River, helicopter flightseeing over the Park, landing on a glacier, or hiking. At midday, board the Alaska Railroad and travel by Goldstar Railcar to Talkeetna, best known as base camp for climbers attempting Mount Denali. The evening is at your leisure. Talkeetna is a small but unique gold mining community, famous for its special charm and for its stunning views of Mount Denali. (Lunch is included onboard the train today)

Day 4 Talkeetna to Anchorage | Alaska Railroad The morning is at leisure. Late afternoon, board the Denali Star train and continue your rail journey to Anchorage. Enjoy the evening scenery as you travel south to Anchorage where your incredible Alaska land adventure comes to an end. (Dinner is included onboard the train today)

Package Includes:

• Accommodation including taxes for 3 nights
• Alaska Railroad – Anchorage to Talkeetna Goldstar Service (Dome car seating, private outdoor viewing deck & Meals included onboard train)
• Talkeetna Hotel Transfer
• Alaska Railroad – Talkeetna to Denali Goldstar Service (Dome car seating, private outdoor viewing deck & Meals included onboard train)
• Denali Highway Jeep Excursion
• Tundra Wilderness Tour
• Upgrade Option: Denali Summit Flightseeing by Plane
• Upgrade Option: Denali Glacier Landing by Helicopter
• Denali to Seward | Whittier coach transfer with driver commentary
• Meals as per Itinerary

Hotel & Rail Information | Moderate Grade

• Talkeetna - Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge | Main Lodge Room
• Denali Park Entrance - Denali Cabins | Standard Cabins

Hotel & Rail Information | Superior Grade

• Talkeetna - Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge | Mountainside Lodge Room
• Denali Park Entrance - Grande Denali Lodge | Standard Room

Alaska Railroad | Goldstar All our itineraries except the Glacier Discovery Train includes Gold Star Dome Service. These railcars feature large, curved glass windows that run the full length of the car, allowing excellent 360 degree viewing plus a private outdoor viewing deck. The service is inclusive of all meals that are served in the lower-level dining room.

Not Included:

• Activities other than specified
• Portage fees

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Arrange a call with an Alaska Travel Designer and bring your vacation to Alaska one step closer!

DATES & PRICING

Departs from Anchorage: Daily (Tour Code: TRA46) Departs from Seward or Whittier: Daily (Tour Code: TRA47)

STAY AT THESE HOTELS ON THIS ALASKA VACATION

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Days / Nights

Grande Denali Lodge

Denali Bluffs Hotel

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They were professional and pleasant to work with. When the fires starts in various areas that they would be touring Alaska By Design was great in helping to make adjustments to the clients reservations. The clients were thrilled with there trip.

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Explore Alaska By Train – Alaska Train Tours

Experience Alaska by Train as part of your Alaska cruise vacation. Book this shore excursion as part of your Alaska cruise to experience Alaska's beauty.

An Alaska train trip is one wild ride. Alaska trains go into the backcountry where cars cannot, and the scenery is spectacular. Ride over salmon-filled streams, through mountain tunnels, and on the edge of narrow cliffs. There are three main options for Alaska train tours: the McKinley Explorer® (part of an Alaska cruise tour), the Alaska Railroad, or the White Pass & Yukon railway.

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about Alaska trains.

What Is An Alaska Train Tour?

An Alaska train tour can be just a few hours long, or last several days on a journey along the Alaska coast or into the wild interior. On Holland America Line Alaska cruisetours, you can take a train to Alaska on the McKinley Explorer®, a domed train specifically used for transporting passengers back and forth from Anchorage to Denali National Park & Preserve.

Another Alaska train tour is the  White Pass Summit Scenic railroad  in Skagway. The White Pass & Yukon Railway links Skagway and Whitehorse and takes a narrow-gauge ride in the historic path of prospectors. Pass Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch plus tunnels, trestles, and more on these Alaska train rides. And all of this aboard a vintage rebuilt or replica train car. Find this  Alaska shore excursion  and more.

Do Alaska Train Tours Offer Food And Drink?

Yes. On the McKinley Explorer®, guests can order breakfast and lunch in the lavish dining area, and soft drinks and cocktails throughout the trip. The menu options range from simple fare to fine dining and a range of desserts, like salted caramel brownie sundaes. The Denali train tour takes about eight hours and chugs into its destination just in time for dinner. Read a cruise diary from a McKinley Explorer guest.

The Alaska Railroad train trips also feature dining options.

What Are The Top Cities To Visit On An Alaska Train Ride?

Most consider Anchorage and Fairbanks the top cities to visit on Alaska train rides. You can travel between Anchorage and Fairbanks on the Alaska Railroad, which also stops in Denali and Talkeetna, a small town known for flightseeing adventures.

Anchorage  started as a railroad construction camp — it is now a metropolis and the hub for Alaska train rides. Nicknamed the Golden Heart City, Fairbanks is a gateway to remote outposts and oil fields, and it still retains its raffish frontier charms. Both are worth a visit. Anchorage is known for moose, coffee, and friendly Alaskans. Fairbanks has Gold Rush history galore.

Whittier  is another cruise port that you can visit via Alaska train tours. Nicknamed the “Strangest Town in Alaska,” Whittier hugs the stunning Prince William Sound and almost the whole town lives in the same condo complex. It is only accessible by boat or a tunnel that’s shared by both cars and Alaska trains. Some Alaska cruises port in Whittier.

What Can I See On An Alaska Train Tour?

Train rides to Alaska and rail tours feature amazing scenery, from sparkling rivers to waterfalls and majestic wildlife, like grizzly bears and caribou. It's possible to see some of Alaska’s famous interior sights by rail out of Anchorage.

If you’re traveling by Alaska Railroad, you can take the Coastal Classic Route to Seward and spend the day at Kenai Fjords National Park. Or take the Glacier Discovery Train to backcountry glaciers. The Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop on the Glacier Discover Train delivers passengers into a remote wilderness area and to Spencer Glacier, a river of ice that travels down to Spencer Lake. These Alaska train tours leave from Anchorage and travel into the Chugach National Forest.

Skagway Train Tours

Explore waterfalls, glacial ribers, and stunning terrain on the White Horse & Yukon Railroad from Skagway to the summit of White Pass. It is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark and a favorite Alaska shore excursion among Skagway guests.

Denali Train Tours

Book a Holland America Line cruisetour and take an Alaska train trip on the McKinley Explorer® to Denali.

Best Routes For Alaska Train Rides

The McKinley Explorer route to  Denali  is the best route for a luxurious journey between Anchorage and Denali. If you want to explore Seward and Girdwood, the Alaska railroad’s Coastal Classic heads from Anchorage to Seward along the picturesque Turnagain Arm. It then winds through scenic wilderness and stops at Resurrection Bay.

Trains From Anchorage To Denali

The McKinley Explorer® is the best option for those on Alaska cruisetours, as it's tailored for cruise passengers. You can also take Alaska train tours from Anchorage to Denali on the Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star route.

Anchorage To Fairbanks Train Tours

If you want to take Alaska train trips from Anchorage to all the way to Fairbanks, the Alaska railroad is the only option. Many choose to take the Denali Star and stay in Talkeetna or Denali for a few nights, as the trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks is about 12 hours. Many Anchorage hotels will provide shuttles to the train station.

Ready to ride the rails? Find  Alaska cruises  and see the Last Frontier from a comfy train car.

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Alaska Cruisetours

Explore denali national park on an alaska land and sea package, what's an alaska cruisetour.

Cruise:  Enjoy our top-rated 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise vacation with two glacier-viewing experiences during your time on board.

Train:  Enjoy scenic rail travel from the ship to the lodge via our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® rail service for an all-encompassing Alaska cruisetour.

Lodge:  As a part of your Alaska cruisetour, spend three or more nights on land at Princess Wilderness Lodges located riverside near legendary national parks.

Explore Your Cruisetour Options

Need help choosing.

10 - 13 Nights

Denali Explorer

• Most popular
• 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise
• 3-6 nights on land
• Exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® Alaska rail service
• Stay in the Denali-area
• Natural History Tour into Denali National Park
• Fairbanks or Anchorage
• Select sightseeing included

13 - 15 Nights

Off the Beaten Path

• Go deeper into Alaska
• Kenai and/or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
• Unique National Parks and Canadian Rockies Cruisetour options
• 6-8 nights on land
• Princess Alaska rail service
• Fairbanks and/or Anchorage

12 - 17 Nights

Connoisseur

• Highest level of service
• Escorted by a Tour Director
• 5-10 nights on land
• Tundra Wilderness Tour into Denali National Park
• Most meals included

10 - 11 Nights

On Your Own

• Most affordable option
• For independent travelers
• 3-4 nights on land
• No pre-scheduled activities

Katmai National Park cruisetour

New and exclusive to Princess! Offering a deeper connection with Alaska wildlife, this brand new itinerary combines a 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise and two nights in Anchorage. Spend a day viewing brown bears at Katmai National Park and visit Alaska’s premier Wildlife Conservation Center

Ultimate Wildlife Adventure cruisetour

A Princess exclusive, this new cruisetour is curated to provide whales breaching in Glacier Bay National Park, bear viewing in Katmai National Park and observing Denali’s “Big 5” such as moose and caribou in Denali National Park. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled with the opportunities to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitats. This 13-night cruisetour also features a visit to Alaska’s premier Wildlife Conservation Center.

National parks cruisetours

Explore five of Alaska’s National Parks with our National Park Cruisetour. Cruise Glacier Bay’s pristine waters, be awe-struck by Kenai Fjords icefields and feed your wanderlust by adventuring into Denali National Park. Accompanied by two more National Parks, the 15-night cruisetour is designed for explorers and wanderers.

Canadian Rockies cruisetours

Experience the breathtaking scenery of Banff National Park in the heart of the Rockies on our 14-night cruisetour with a 7-day Alaska cruise and luxury Rocky Mountaineer rail travel.

Alaska Cruisetour Experience

A closer look at Alaska’s interior.

Princess wilderness lodges

With Princess, you won’t just explore Alaska’s landscapes, you’ll live amidst them in our custom-built wilderness lodges. Located riverside next to some of the most renowned national parks, these warm and welcoming lodges are the perfect spot to bask in Alaska’s best attractions. As a part of your Alaska cruisetour, explore and unwind with comforting amenities and breathtaking scenery.

Voyage of the glaciers

Sail 500 miles deeper into the Gulf of Alaska and Prince William Sound on our top-rated Voyage of the Glaciers Alaska cruise vacation. Spend seven days traveling from Anchorage (Whittier) to Vancouver, B.C., stopping in historic port cities like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway. Along the way, enjoy two glacier-viewing experiences on every itinerary – including Glacier Bay National Park, and Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord.

Direct-to-the-Wilderness® Alaska Rail Service

With glass-domed railcars, our exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness® rail service takes you into the heart of Alaska without juggling multiple tickets or confusing transfers. Enjoy convenience and comfort from ship to train and then directly to your Princess Wilderness Lodge in the Denali-area. We’ve taken care of everything on your Alaska cruisetour, so you can spend less time worrying and more time exploring.

Visit Denali National Park on every Alaska cruisetour

Every Princess Alaska cruisetour takes you to Denali National Park so you can enjoy a land beloved by millions but only seen by the adventurous. This national park is a dream destination for any serious Alaska traveler. With some of the most stunning wilderness in existence and famous wildlife, it’s part of the definitive experience of traveling to the Great Land’s wild interior.

Princess Lodges & Alaska Cities

Comfortable riverside lodges surrounded by natural beauty.

• Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge®
• Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge®
• Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge®
• Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge®
• Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge®
• Anchorage (Whittier)

Embark on an unforgettable Alaska cruisetour to the Copper River Princess Wilderness Lodge®, where you can take in the beauty of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States. Snow-covered mountains dominate the skyline while rivers feed the earth below. Explore your surroundings on a Copper River rafting trip, or fish for Alaska salmon in the mesmerizing waters.

All of our Alaska cruisetours include a stay at our premier Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge®, just one mile from the entrance of Denali National Park overlooking the Nenana River. Access some of the most stunning sights on earth — wilderness, wildlife and untamed land. Go flightseeing by Denali’s snow-covered peak, fly-fish for Arctic grayling, raft the Nenana River or venture into Denali on a park tour.

On the banks of the Chena River lies the Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge®. With riverside dining and frontier décor, the Fairbanks Lodge is the perfect excuse to extend your Alaska cruise vacation and dive deeper into your surroundings. Cruise down the Chena River on a sternwheeler riverboat, pan for gold at Gold Dredge 8 or ride ATVs through surrounding forests underneath the midnight sun.

Situated on the Kenai Peninsula overlooking the Kenai River, the Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge® is surrounded by mountains, rivers and wilderness inviting you to explore. Adventure through Chugach National Forest, cruise past Kenai Fjords National Parks’ glaciers or fish along the Kenai River. Take in the sights of this natural masterpiece at a leisurely pace only on an Alaska cruisetour.

Situated within Denali State Park near the Chulitna River, the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge® offers unparalleled views of Denali from the treehouse as well as the Great Room and expansive deck in the main lodge. Tour a working Alaska homestead and learn how the Great Land’s residents have become so self-sufficient. Or land in a helicopter on a glacier beneath the tallest peak in North America on your Alaska cruisetour.

Only an hour and a half from the cruise port of Whittier lies the largest city in Alaska – Anchorage. Visit the Chugach National Forest, the second largest national forest in the United States. Spend the day absorbing history at the Anchorage Museum. Or visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and see brown bears, moose and bison living in a protected habitat that perfectly emulates the wild.

Explore the Great Land

Voyage closer to the sights, sounds, wildlife and traditions that make Alaska unique.

Between the natural masterpieces and the animate personalities, every part of Alaska tells an extraordinary story. On an Alaska cruisetour with Princess, discover what makes the Great Land so special, and craft your own tales of your time on land and sea.

A sensory experience

Don’t just see the Great Land’s glaciers, feel them come alive on an Alaska cruisetour. Get up close to Mother Nature’s masterpieces and listen for the crash of “white thunder”. Visit wilderness playgrounds like Glacier Bay National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – along with even more natural wonderlands like Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier, College Fjord and Hubbard Glacier.

A nature lover's dream

From bald eagles to humpback whales, many animals call Alaska home. The waters are teeming with marine life, like king salmon, while the land is decorated by the colorful coats of Denali National Park’s “big five” – including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, Dall sheep and caribou. On an Alaska cruisetour, encounter wildlife in their natural habitats and experience their unique personalities for yourself.

Mountains & National Parks

National treasures

Alaska’s national parks are nothing short of impressive. Denali National Park boasts the continent’s highest peak, and Glacier Bay National Park is one of the world’s largest protected areas. You can discover even more magnificence during your Alaska cruisetour at Wrangell-St. Elias and Kenai Fjords National Parks, where one of the four largest ice caps in the world invites guests to explore its terrain.

Alaska excursions

Don't just visit this famous land, live it on Alaska excursions. Rush across the snow on a dog sled with a professional musher, fly fish for salmon in fresh rivers and soar over miles of glacial tundra in a helicopter. Watch migrating humpback whales from the deck of a catamaran or Native craftsman carve a traditional totem pole, and expand your Alaska cruise experience.

Alaska Cruise Onboard Experience

Our award-winning North to Alaska program brings local personalities, culture and cuisine on board and ashore to immerse you in all things Alaska during your cruise to the Great Land.

Alaska Seafood

Fresh and bountiful, like Alaska itself

Alaska's seafood is famous, and we bring the best to you with locally inspired dishes from the state’s best eateries. With Cook My Catch excursions, catch your own salmon or halibut with the help of a local expert, and in the evening our talented chefs will prepare your haul for your dinner — a Princess exclusive. From ship to shore, the best is at your fingertips on our Alaska cruises.

Meet Local Alaskans

Real Alaska from local Alaskans

Alaskans are inviting people who love to share what makes their state unique. Watch lumberjacks in action, learn from Glacier Bay National Park rangers and craft with a Native totem pole carver. Or listen to harrowing Tales from the Deadliest Catch fishermen and climbers who have summited Denali during your Alaska cruise.

Unique Alaska Cruise Experiences

Great experiences from the great land

Travel back in time and pan for gold like a prospector during the Gold Rush. Snuggle sled dog puppies in the ship's Piazza, or see the Northern Lights in the planetarium. At the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, explore our treehouse and enjoy unmatched views of Denali. Or savor tree-inspired bites at our very own Sappy Hour. Dive deeper into what makes the Great Land special on your cruise to Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about Alaska’s must-see attractions, signature cuisine, and how to prepare for a wild adventure into the heart of The Great Land.

Discover Alaska with Princess in 2024-2025

The best cruise line in Alaska just keeps getting better! From top-rated cruises that visit Glacier Bay National Park to scenic rail travel and exclusive Princess lodges, you will find a seamless Alaska experience with Princess.

Best Dishes to Try on Your Alaska Cruise

No one does seafood quite like Alaska—which is why we brought the best of the Great Land on board, so you can experience it all with Princess.

Top Alaska Cruise Destinations

From exploring Denali National Park to fishing for salmon in Anchorage, discover the top Alaska destinations on a Princess cruise.

Inside Passage Alaska Cruise

From exploring historic gold mines to venturing in the footsteps of early explorers, learn about Alaska’s Inside Passage and discover the wonders awaiting you.

Alaska Ports of Call

From the sweeping mountains of Juneau to the fish-bearing seas of Ketchikan, discover our Alaska cruise ports and set sail into the adventures that await you.

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Check out our helpful checklist so that you know exactly what to pack for an Alaska cruise with Princess.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you could win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Alaska Connection

See Alaska through our guests' eyes.

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Alaska cruises.

See the Great Land’s glaciers, wildlife, and national parks.

Denali National Park

Home to North America’s tallest peak.

Train Travel

Explore Great Land with Princess exclusive rail service.

AlaskaTrain.com

Alaska Tour & Travel

Alaska Cruises and Trains

Alaska cruise and railroad tours.

The Alaska Railroad tracks run north from Seward, stretching 470 miles through Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park to the town of Fairbanks. The two primary cruise ports in the region are in Whittier and Seward. You can easily take the train to or from your cruise ship in both communities.

If you are travelling on a northbound cruise, you can catch the train to Anchorage in the evening from either Seward or Whittier. Both train departures are great for those wanting to catch a day cruise to see the glaciers and wildlife out of either port after disembarking their cruise ship. To continue north from Anchorage by rail you will need to overnight and catch another train the following morning. The northbound Denali Star train leaves Anchorage at 8:20am heading north to Talkeetna and Denali National Park. The train arrives into Talkeetna at 11:05am, and Denali National Park at 3:40pm. The same train continues on to Fairbanks departing Denali National Park at 4:00pm, and arriving into Fairbanks at 8:00pm.

If you prefer to disembark the cruise ship and go directly north to either Talkeetna or Denali National Park, you can book a seat on the Park Connection Motor Coach . This is the only scheduled service available that will allow you to travel from the port to either of the above locations in one day.

If you are cruising southbound and want to tour by train before your Alaska cruise, you will want to fly into either Anchorage or Fairbanks. Anchorage has the largest airport in Alaska, and most travelers choose that option. From Anchorage you can take the train directly to your cruise ship port city, either Seward or Whittier. You can also do a short land tour north to Denali National Park and or Talkeetna.  If you are short on time, consider returning to Whittier or Seward on the motorcoach . This is the only scheduled service that will allow you to travel to your cruise port from either Denali Park or Talkeetna in the same day.

Remember, we are happy to help with your trip, not only the train services and motorcoach transfers, but we can arrange complete pre and post cruise land packages as well.

Similar Questions and Topics

How to combine an Alaska Railroad tour and Alaska Cruise? How do I book the Alaska cruise train?

Related Questions and Topics

Tell me about Alaska cruise transfer options?

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Denali & Talkeetna Wilderness Rail Adventure

This 6-night pre-cruise escorted land tour features wilderness lodge stays in Denali National Park and Talkeetna Mountains, and hotel overnights in Anchorage. Throughout your adventure, each vantage point—whether ascending a mountain, riding the Alaskan Railroad, or in the most remote backcountry location—offers changing sights and things to do.

2021 rates:

Double: $4,345 per person

Single: $5,395 per person

Click here to download day by day

2022 Dates & Rates Coming Soon : Inquire for more. 

Itinerary includes:

• Meet & greet
• Airport/hotel/train transfers
• Baggage handling
• Listed hotel accommodations and meals
• Hotel taxes/fees

Not included:

• Any combination of flights to/from home city / Anchorage / Juneau / Ketchikan / Sitka
• Personal expenses

NOTE:  to operate this land tour, a minimum of 4 guests is required; maximum of 30 guests

*Must be booked 45 days prior to the departure date.

Deposit Payment:   A minimum of 50% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. Final Payment:   Due 60 days prior to stay / beginning of extension. Cancellation Policy:   After final payment, cancellations for any reason are subject to a penalty. Cancellations at 60 days or less are nonrefundable.

 Itinerary Highlights

• UnCruise Adventures escorted pre-cruise land tour
• Two nights at Denali National Park, two nights in Talkeetna, and two nights in Anchorage
• Deluxe dome train ride with guided narration
• Interpretive tour into Denali National Park
• Wildlife viewing and wilderness hikes
• Hike the Talkeetna Mountains
• Natural history presentations
• Discover Native cultures at the Alaska Native Heritage Center

Saturday: Anchorage

Welcomed at the Anchorage airport and escorted to your hotel, meet your guide and fellow travelers at an evening wine and cheese reception. Overnight at   Hilton Anchorage   (or similar).

Sunday: Talkeetna Mountains (BLD)

Hop the rails in a deluxe dome railcar to Talkeetna, while your guide narrates sights and points of interest along the way. Take a break for lunch and exploring at this “Denali adventure hub,” followed by a guided, meandering hike on the Talkeetna Lakes trail—the perfect introduction to the northern Alaskan forest. Later, check into the lodge. A local naturalist meets you after dinner for a presentation on tomorrow’s activities as well as the region’s natural history—flora, geology, fauna. Overnight at   Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge   (or similar).

Monday: Talkeetna Mountains (BL)

Expert backcountry hiking and kayak guides take you on a day of adventure. Denali State Park trails uncover the plants, birds, and animals of these mountains. You have two options today: tighten your hiking boots and take a steady climb as far as 1,500 feet with staggering views of Mt. Denali and the Alaska Range when the clouds part, or soak in the scenery on a lower elevation nature walk. After an included lunch, gear up and get out on Byers Lake with a kayak and local residents (trumpeter swans, loons, beavers). Keep your eyes peeled. Grab dinner in the charming recreation hub of Talkeetna or at the hotel on your own. Overnight at   Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge   (or similar).

Tuesday: Denali National Park (BLD)

Delve further into the Alaskan Range aboard a deluxe dome railcar for an eye-popping view on your way to Denali National Park. Optional tours for purchase include river rafting and Denali flightseeing, or take advantage of no-cost options like hikes and interpretive programs at the park headquarters. Overnight at   Denali Bluffs Hotel   (or similar).

Wednesday: Denali National Park (BLD)

All Denali, all day long. It’s a Tundra Wilderness Tour on a full-day excursion into the heart of the park. Your narrated tour with a certified driver-naturalist digs deep into Denali’s history while staying on the lookout for hawks, wolves, moose, bear, and Dall sheep. Relax from a big day with an overnight at   Denali Bluffs Hotel   (or similar).

Thursday: Anchorage (BLD)

Your morning motor coach ride is bound for Anchorage. Make a special stop for lunch and to visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Discover Native traditions and legends about Alaska's Native tribes through presentations, exhibits, and demonstrations. After your cultural exploration, it’s a short ride into the city to check in and freshen up before your final dinner with your travel mates. Overnight at   Hilton Anchorage   (or similar).

Friday: Anchorage (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to join your UnCruise adventure.

This land package aligns with Friday UnCruise departures. Departures on other days require additional hotel night(s).

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The best Alaska cruises for couples

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What is the best Alaska cruise for couples? If I could only do one Alaska voyage with my spouse, I know which one I would pick: A seven-night sailing out of Juneau on one of UnCruise Adventures ‘ small ships.

I love the adventure focus of these tiny, no-frills ships, which hold fewer than 100 people and focus on getting travelers into remote parts of Southeast Alaska for hiking, kayaking, whale watching and other outdoorsy pursuits.

That said, an Alaska cruise with UnCruise (so named because its cruises are designed to not be like a typical cruise) isn’t for everyone.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

If your idea of the perfect couples cruise to Alaska is being pampered at every turn (and you’re not worried about your budget), you might want to sign up instead for a sailing with an ultra-luxury line such as Silversea Cruises , Seabourn or Regent Seven Seas Cruises .

If you’re looking for an Alaska cruise for couples that won’t break the bank, I’d probably steer you to one of the Holland America ships sailing north to Alaska out of Seattle.

In short, there’s no one answer to the question of what’s the best Alaska cruise for couples. Many cruise ships and itineraries could fit the bill, depending on your vacation preferences.

Here we list our top picks for the best Alaska cruises for couples.

An off-the-beaten-path Alaska adventure with UnCruise

You’ve probably never heard of UnCruise Adventures. It’s such a tiny brand that all the customers who sail the line in a year probably wouldn’t fill a single giant Royal Caribbean ship. But if you’re a couple looking to get off the beaten path in Alaska for adventure, it’s the ship-based travel company you want to get to know.

Specializing in Alaska trips, UnCruise operates a fleet of super-tiny vessels — the biggest carries just 86 people — that are so small they can go to remote, outdoorsy parts of Southeast Alaska that no big ship could visit. We’re talking tiny bays surrounded by miles of forests where you’ll be the only ones around. Or a tiny native settlement that is home to just hundreds of people.

The main focus of UnCruise sailings in Alaska is the Great Outdoors. The company is known for trips into wilderness areas of Southeast Alaska, where passengers can enjoy hiking, kayaking and wildlife-watching. You’ll go days without seeing anyone else but the handful of people on your vessel.

On an UnCruise Adventures trip, the vessel serves as a floating adventure platform that can get you into the most remote areas in a small-group setting. The vessels carry skiffs for exploring and landings, kayaks, paddleboards and other adventure toys.

Related: The 18 best small cruise vessels sailing the world

Just don’t expect anything too fancy. UnCruise vessels are comfortable but no-frills. Many were built decades ago when cruise vessels were more spartan. On most of the vessels, you’ll find a single casual dining area, a lounge that doubles as a bar and basic cabins. That’s it. What you’re paying for is where the ship can get you and the adventure of it all.

By their very nature, these are trips that mostly cater to couples. In fact, because of the adventure focus of the daily activities, the line restricts children on board to those at least 8 years old. The small vessels also do not have any family-focused attractions on board like you’d find on bigger cruise ships.

Note that UnCruise Adventures’ nine small vessels break down roughly into two categories. Ships with Wilderness in their names are more no-frills and described as expedition vessels; those with Safari in their names are higher-end and touted as boutique yachts. My favorites are the Wilderness vessels, which are less pricey, on average. But to each his own.

A luxury Alaska trip with Silversea Cruises

Couples who want the ultimate in pampering when exploring The Last Frontier — and for whom money is no object — might want to look at an Alaska cruise on one of several ultra-luxury ships that sail regularly to Alaska. They cater mostly to older couples and solo travelers and draw relatively few families, though you do sometimes find some children on board.

Silversea Cruises is the leader in this market, with two ships sailing to Alaska in any given year. For the 2023 season, the line is sending one of its newer ships, the 596-passenger Silver Muse and the older, 382-passenger Silver Whisper to Alaska. But in 2024, it’ll swap in its newest, snazziest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova, for Silver Whisper. That’ll give it the most modern fleet of luxury ships in the state.

Other ultra-luxury lines that operate in Alaska are Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn and Scenic Luxury Cruises, each of which sends one vessel to the state for all or at least part of the summer season.

Related: The 8 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

What all three of the Silversea ships that will sail in Alaska over the next two years have in common is that they offer large, elegant and supremely comfortable suites (and every cabin is a suite on these ships); pampering service (that fancy suite comes with its very own butler); and gourmet cuisine of the sort you find at the finer restaurants in big cities.

Among the standout dining options on board is the modern French eatery La Dame, which offers a Michelin star-style evening that showcases ingredients like France’s sublime Limousin beef, presented with a flourish. The Atlantide restaurant offers such delicacies as caviar and lobster presented beautifully and at no extra cost.

Or if you want to have caviar in bed, your butler will only be too happy to arrange it — and will deliver it with white gloves and in full tuxedo tails.

In short, think of these ships as floating Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton hotels. They offer those sorts of lodging experiences with the pricing to match.

A low-cost sailing from Seattle with Holland America

Looking for the best cruises to Alaska for couples on a budget? My picks are the seven-night sailings to the state that Holland America offers out of Seattle.

Often, the lowest starting prices for any cruise to Alaska are these sailings, both on an absolute and per-day basis.

For the 2023 season, for instance, many Holland America sailings to Alaska from Seattle are available for under $750 per person for seven nights, as of this guide’s posting. I even found some as low as $429 per person for a weeklong cruise.

That’s even lower than the typical starting prices for Alaska voyages offered by Carnival Cruise Line , which is the low-cost leader for sailings out of most U.S. ports. When I was pricing voyages for this story, I found few Carnival sailings available for under $750 per person, with most Carnival sailings starting around $800 per person or more for seven nights.

Related: The ultimate Alaska cruise guide

With a history in Alaska that goes back more than 70 years, Holland America is one of the longtime leaders in cruises to the state (along with its sister brand, Princess Cruises), and its target market is couples (skewing to the older side, with lots of retirees) rather than families.

Holland America bases two ships in Seattle for cruises to Alaska: the 2,104-passenger Eurodam and 1,964-passenger Westerdam.

A land-and-sea hybrid trip with Princess Cruises

If you’re a couple looking to see more of Alaska than its coastal areas, a hybrid trip combining a cruise with a multi-day land tour to inland areas is your best bet. These “cruisetours” are a specialty of Princess Cruises, as well as its sister company Holland America.

Princess has particularly robust offerings when it comes to such trips because it operates five wilderness resorts in Alaska that it incorporates into its itineraries. The resorts are spread across such iconic inland destinations as Denali National Park and the Kenai Peninsula.

Princess also has its own fleet of buses and rail cars to take you from its ships to its resorts, with all such transportation included in its packages.

The line sells 24 cruisetour itineraries that add three to 10 nights of land touring to a seven-night cruise. The options include Denali National Park-focused “Denali Explorer” routings that include a seven-night cruise; a scenic train ride to Denali National Park; two to four nights at a Princess lodge at Denali National Park; and an additional one or two nights in Anchorage or Fairbanks, Alaska, or both. These trips range from 10 to 13 nights in total.

In addition, Princess offers longer and more far-ranging “Off the Beaten Path” routings that add nights at the remote Copper River Princess Lodge in eastern Alaska near Wrangell-St. Elias National Park or the Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge on the Kenai Peninsula. These trips range from 13 to 15 nights in total.

Even longer “Connoisseur” cruisetours combine stays at up to five Princess lodges in multiple locations around the state and last up to 17 nights.

Related: The coolest things to do on an Alaska cruise  

All cruisetours are offered in conjunction with one-way voyages between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Alaska — something that Princess offers in abundance each summer during the short Alaska cruise season.

Many of the ships that sail on such itineraries have permission to visit Glacier Bay National Park, a highlight of any Alaska trip. Princess takes more guests to Glacier Bay National Park than any other cruise line, as 74% of all its itineraries include a visit to the park.

A more in-depth Alaska escape with Viking

For couples looking for a more in-depth exploration of Alaska’s coastal areas than most lines offer, Viking may be the perfect choice. A relative newcomer to Alaska sailings, the upscale cruise brand operates longer Alaska sailings than is the norm, with every one of its Alaska departures lasting at least 10 nights.

The longer sailings allow for calls in a broader mix of coastal Alaska towns than you’ll find on the seven-night itineraries that are more typical for cruises to Alaska. In addition to stops at classic Southeast Alaska cruise destinations such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Viking’s 10-night Alaska itineraries include a visit to Valdez, Alaska — a less touristy coastal town known for its fishing boat fleet that’s home to fewer than 4,000 people — and a cruise into little-visited Yakutat Bay.

Most Viking sailings to Alaska also begin or end with an overnight call in Anchorage, which is too far north for ships on seven-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle and Vancouver to reach. Passengers can visit attractions in and around the city that they couldn’t see on the sailings offered by almost every other line.

Viking, notably, offers included-in-the-fare tours in every one of these ports, allowing every passenger on board to get a guided experience during stops without paying extra. (Generally, Viking voyages are highly inclusive, keeping with its “no nickel-and-diming” philosophy.)

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking cruise

On board, Viking’s programming revolves heavily around what the line calls “cultural enrichment” — lectures by experts on topics related to the places its ships visit (in this case, Alaska), as well as cultural and culinary offerings that often have a local tie-in.

Indeed, Viking is known for catering specifically to a certain type of thoughtful, inquisitive, generally older traveler who is as interested in learning while on vacation as being pampered. Agewise, its sweet spot is travelers (mostly couples) who range from 55 to 75 years in age. So, if you’re on the younger side, this might not be the perfect couples cruise for you.

What Viking ships don’t offer is a lot of onboard amusements aimed at families and younger travelers. In fact, the line doesn’t even allow children under the age of 18 on its ships. It’s one of the only major cruise brands in the world with such a rule. That makes it by definition a cruise line for couples as well as some solo travelers.

For 2023 and 2024, Viking will base one ship in Alaska during the summer (the 930-passenger Viking Orion), but it’ll expand in 2025 with a second vessel (the 930-passenger Viking Sea). In addition to 10-night sailings to Alaska, the ships occasionally offer longer, 22-night sailings that extend beyond Alaska all the way to Japan.

Bottom line

More than a dozen major cruise lines operate Alaska cruises during the spring, summer and fall, giving couples wanting to explore the state on a cruise a wide range of choices.

What is the best Alaska cruise for couples? There is no one right answer. It’s defined by your personal interests and travel style, with the best Alaska cruise for you and your companion depending on how much adventure you prefer on a vacation, how much luxury you require, your budget and more.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Two Days in Anchorage pre-cruise help needed - Alaska Forum

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Two Days in Anchorage pre-cruise help needed

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My travel companions include:

My dad (senior, active but not super strenuous), English not his first language

Me (40s, active, hate heights, unsure about helicopters unless it is sooo amazing I need to suck it up)

Daughter (6 and active as all can be)

What can we do since we are all at different age/activity levels? Bike ride around anchorage will not work because she cannot bike that long. Hikes can be ok, but shorter for both of them.

I saw there are two options for helicopter rides/dog sledding which seem good, but costly. And which one is better? Is it worth the $600+ per person? This would be my one big day/big spend.

Should we take the train down and see Seward ? We will see a couple Glaciers at Glacier National Park and Hubbard Glacier via the cruise . I did the nature cruise in Seward many moons ago and it was ok. Didn't love it.

Getting to Whittier for cruise - should we do Alaska RR or Alaska Cruise Transfer Bus with the Wildlife park visit?

I've never really planned a trip with a senior and child, so this is new territory. Thank you so much!!!!!

3 replies to this topic

And yes, rent the car . You'll be severely restricted if you go only places you can walk to.

The glacier dog sledding in Palmer (1 hr. from ANC) with Alaska Helicopters has much more reliable weather than SE Alaska ( Juneau , Skagway) so it is seldom cancelled. One of the dog sledding companies in Juneau admitted they have a cancellation rate as high as 38%...glacier dog sledding is the most-cancelled cruise excursion in Alaska.

Palmer is an easy drive, and after the dog sledding (do that first so you can better judge the rest of the day's activities for your young one), you could consider stops at Eagle River Nature Center for the easy nature hike, Reindeer Farm in Palmer and/or Musk Ox Farm. Also a quick stop at Eklutna Village to see the colorful Spirit Houses. Then drive the extremely scenic hour south of ANC to Wildlife Conservation Center (check website for possible programs). Besides a few scenic stops, maybe Indian Valley Gold Mine for easy gold panning and/or Alyeska Tram if the weather is clear for a nice view. If time, you could include the easy hike to Byron Glacier. The glacier itself has retreated up the mountain, but there might be snow caves at the base. If there are, take photos from outside: do NOT go inside even if you see fools doing that. People have been injured or even killed when a snow cave suddenly collapses. Also check first to see if there is avalanche danger. If time, back in ANC take the 1 hr. Trolley Tour of the city for a nice overview, or even the longer tour if you want to include some stops that let you get off the bus. Depends how much stamina your dad and daughter have. Do the important things first in case they get tired. You might also check out the ANC playgrounds if Daughter might enjoy spending a bit of time at one of them.

"Is it worth the $600+ per person? "

You're the only one who can answer that. Most people do enjoy dog sledding.

If you're not keen on seeing marine wildlife out of Seward , don't go that far.

Consider Glacier Quest cruise out of Whittier prior to boarding the cruise ship. It's short (so better for small kids), gets you closer to a couple of tidewater (calving) glaciers than your cruise ship is likely to get, plus has a chance to see a bit of wildlife (birds, sea otters). Very scenic, too. No worries about seasickness since the company has a money-back guarantee!

As for how to get from ANC to Whittier: depends if you want to spend the morning in ANC or if you have something planned for Whittier such as the day cruise .

On one day, I would explore the Mat-Su Valley:

Independence Mine State Historical Park

Iditarod Museum

Reindeer and/or Musk Ox Farm

Possibly Eagle River Nature Center on the way back to Anchorage

On the other day in Anchorage, if good weather:

Hike at Glen Alps - in order of increasing difficulty: accessible overlook trail, walk on the Powerline trail as far as you like, Little O'Malley

Potter Marsh

Walk at Kincaid Park

If bad weather:

Alaska Native Heritage Center

Alaska Public Lands Information Center

Trolley Tour

Possibly Anchorage Museum

Both above have suggested great options. Some will depend on arrival time, but the more time you have the better. I personally think the train ride is WAY TOO slow and wastes time you could be doing other things. So, unless the train is a must, I'd find other ways to get there. Transport bus is cheaper and quicker.

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The best time to cruise to alaska in 2024.

Plan your bucket list adventure to explore the extraordinary beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

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Alaska's astounding beauty and vast wilderness are unlike any other destination in the U.S. – and even in the world. While you can plan land-based trips to the state, many of Alaska's majestic snowcapped mountains, pristine forests, glacial waterways and abundant wildlife are in remote locations, only reachable by plane or by boat. That's just one of the many reasons why Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

If you're ready to stop dreaming and start planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land, here are tips on the best times to cruise Alaska.

Best Overall Time: Shoulder Seasons

Best time for warmer weather, best time for wildlife viewing, best time for salmon fishing, best time for the northern lights, best time for shore excursions.

If you want to score a deal and have fewer crowds, travel during the shoulder seasons: May and September. In these months, cruise fares are typically lower and ships are not as full, offering more cabin availability. However, with changes in the global climate bringing more moderate temperatures to Alaska, and the cruise season now extending into April and October, cruisers can also expect to find deals in April and October. There will be fewer sailings to choose from, but you may find lower pricing and avoid the peak-season crowds on the ship and in the ports.

In addition, select shore excursions may be available at a discount in the spring and fall. If you're planning on exploring Alaska on your own before or after your cruise, you'll also find cheaper hotel rates at the beginning or end of the cruise season.

Alaska's weather can change dramatically, especially the further north you go, no matter the month or season. While the weather may not be as predictable in April as in the middle of summer, Alaska can be beautiful in springtime with temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Tyler Hickman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, an Alaska Native-owned port in Hoonah and a port of call in Southeast Alaska. Hickman says there are long stretches of sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, offering the opportunity for late-season viewing of the northern lights . He also adds that April is one of the favorite times of year for local Alaskans.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska in April, Norwegian Cruise Line has a few options, including weekly sailings on Norwegian Bliss beginning April 6. The line also offers Alaska itineraries through the end of October. Other lines sailing the extended season in Alaska in late April include Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise Line , UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions.

If you prefer to travel in the fall, early October temperatures are usually in the 50s, while the end of the month brings snow in the higher elevations. The days are longer and there are no crowds, so it may be an ideal time to visit if you're not interested in the summer outdoor experiences. Norwegian, Holland America and Seabourn Cruise Line offer sailings in October.

Read: The Best Alaska Cruise Deals

If you'd prefer warmer weather for your cruise, the summer season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-September. During that period, daytime temperatures typically range from 60 to 80 degrees, though they can drop into the 40s overnight. You can expect to have between 16 to 24 hours of daylight in the warmer season. May is considered the driest month, with around a 25% chance of precipitation, but the rain becomes more frequent throughout the summer.

Alaska.org, a website run by local Alaskans that provides travel information and recommendations, advises that the best time to visit in summer is from June 15 to July 15. This 30-day period is regarded as the peak season for warm, dry weather – and it's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking. If you want to experience the most "midnight sun," plan to cruise a few weeks before or after the summer solstice – the longest day of the year – which falls on June 20 in 2024.

Come September, the days are generally shorter, rainier and cooler – but not always. You might get lucky with some unseasonably warm days amid the beautiful fall foliage ; as a bonus, September also means no bugs and fewer crowds.

If you have school-age children, you'll probably need to travel midsummer, during peak season. However, if you're flexible on dates, there's really no bad time to visit this magical destination. Mountain peaks shrouded in clouds or misty days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in late April are as beautiful as sunny days hiking through Tongass National Forest or whale watching on an excursion out of Icy Strait Point in July.

Read: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

According to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the top destinations on the Inside Passage itinerary, wildlife viewing is possible year-round, especially if you have your binoculars at hand. When you're not watching for turquoise ice calving in the bay from the glaciers, you might see humpback whales as long as 65 feet or black and brown bears up to 10 feet tall – as well as orcas, harbor and Dall's porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, seabirds, and bald eagles soaring overhead. And that's just what you can view from the ship.

During cruises through the park, rangers board the ships to offer commentary and information about the marine and terrestrial wildlife. They also help spot whales or other animals along the way. One of the highlights while cruising slowly through the park is to go outside on the bow of the ship – or even out onto your veranda – to listen to the incredible silence of this otherworldly place. You may hear nothing at all, or perhaps you'll be treated to the sounds of birds in the distance or the swoosh from a whale's blowhole before it dives down below the water's surface.

It's possible to view certain animals and marine life throughout the year, according to Hickman. "Whale sightings are consistent from May through September, with fewer occurring in April and October as they migrate from or to Hawaii for the winter," he says, adding: "Even on a foggy day when you can't see the whales, you can still hear them and feel their presence – and that's almost as incredible as seeing them from a ship or along the coastline."

If you're interested in spotting brown bears, here is Hickman's advice: "Bear sightings in the spring will depend on the snowpack and when they are leaving hibernation. This year we had very good bear viewing along the Spasski River starting in May when the coastal brown bears emerged from hibernation."

He adds, "They feed on the grass of the valley and eat skunk cabbage roots in May and early June. As the berries start to emerge in June, it holds many of the same bears, and as we get into mid-July, the salmon start heading upstream. There is a constant food source from May through September at Spasski. Many of the other bear viewing areas do not have the same features we have, and it leads to people thinking that bears are only around when fish are in the rivers."

Chichagof Island – the location of Hoonah and Icy Strait Point – was given the nickname "Bear Island" by National Geographic. The island boasts one to two brown bears per square mile, making it one of the largest brown bear populations in the world. Hickman says you're nearly guaranteed to see bears on one of Icy Strait Point's bear-watching tours. Icy Point Strait also offers whale watching adventures and other treks into the wilderness.

Alaska.org points to May through September as the best time for wildlife viewing, though you can spot some animals year-round, like moose or orcas. The website also advises that fly-in bear viewing starts in May but is at its best in July.

Looking to book a cruise to see Alaska's wildlife? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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If you are an avid angler – or just want to watch the bears fish for their supper – then visit Alaska during the peak salmon runs, from May to September. King salmon season begins in May and goes through the end of July. The silver salmon run lasts from July up until the end of November. Red salmon are available between mid-June and mid-August, while you can catch pink and chum salmon in the brief window from mid-July to mid-August.

If you prefer halibut or just want to get out on the ocean, the best time for this wild Pacific species is from May to September. You can also seek out many other river and ocean species, such as rainbow trout, arctic char and northern pike. Cruise lines offer fishing excursions, or you can arrange for a private or group charter in an Alaskan town like Ketchikan.

If you want to see brown bears during the salmon run, book a bear-viewing excursion in one of the ports, such as Icy Strait Point. Or, extend your trip by combining a visit to Katmai National Park and Preserve and the renowned Brooks River with a stay at Brooks Lodge. Brooks Falls is the site for iconic photos of bears catching salmon that are jumping over the falls, and you may be able to view the bears feasting in salmon season when the property is open, from June through mid-September. The lodge is accessible by floatplane from King Salmon. You can also add a flyover tour during your stay to see the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an area in southern Alaska transformed by ash from the 1912 Novarupta-Katmai volcanic eruption.

Aurora season – the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska – runs from mid-August to mid-April. While some passengers cruising the Inside Passage may catch a glimpse of the phenomenon in late summer and early fall, it's not guaranteed. As southeast Alaska typically has more precipitation and clouds since it's a temperate rainforest, you likely won't find optimal conditions for aurora viewing here.

Your chances to see the lights are better the further north you go, so you may want to look at booking a cruisetour: a land and sea package that's usually offered by some of the major cruise lines from May through September. These combined trips generally include the cruise, overnight accommodations in lodges, railway journeys and motorcoach travel between destinations.

With these tours, you'll be able to visit the vast landscape of Alaska, where you can explore cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks or spend time in Denali National Park and Preserve – and you'll have a better chance to view the northern lights. Lines that offer cruisetours include Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean.

Since 2024 is projected to be one of the best years to view the aurora borealis in Alaska, you might want to extend your trip to venture above the Arctic Circle or into Alaska's interior for a prime viewing opportunity. Fairbanks and the Arctic region are under the auroral oval, which is where the northern lights activity is concentrated. You can watch the forecast for the aurora borealis online at Explore Fairbanks' Aurora Tracker and the Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast .

Read: The Top Places to See the Northern Lights

Some of the excursions offered on an Alaskan cruise may be the most expensive tours you've seen on a ship, but they're also probably some of the coolest things you've ever thought about doing while on vacation.

Note that the probability of a tour being canceled for weather is almost the same for all tours offered between April and October, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Some of the more extreme tours, however, may not be available early or late in the season. If you want the best chance for optimal weather, consider the advice from Alaska.org and book your cruise between mid-June and mid-July.

If you're looking at splurging on a bucket list adventure while in Skagway – like Alaska Shore Tours' flightseeing helicopter adventure, which includes a dog-sledding experience on a glacier – you should check to make sure it's available the month you'll be cruising. This particular tour may not be open for booking before May or after September due to the conditions for the sled dogs.

Another over-the-top excursion dependent on optimal weather conditions is the Heli-Hike and Rail Adventure that begins in Skagway. This tour includes a helicopter ride from town that flies over glaciers and mountains, then drops you off for a roughly 5-mile guided hike to view Laughton Glacier and learn about the natural history of the area. After the hike, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad at Glacier Station for the scenic journey through the mountains back to Skagway.

If you're interested in the Misty Fjords Flightseeing tour in Ketchikan, this thrilling ride is also best on a clear day. This Alaskan bush plane tour soars over the Misty Fjords National Monument, which has more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and snowcapped mountains.

Tours that include activities like mountain climbing or navigating suspension bridges might also be best when done on a sunny day. The prime time for wildlife viewing and fishing, as mentioned above, will depend on what animals you're interested in seeing and which species of fish you want to catch.

The ship's excursion desk, local guides or tour providers can offer the best advice on how to plan your activities. No matter which tours you opt to take, be prepared for the ever-changing weather patterns by wearing layers – and make sure to bring a waterproof rain jacket. Before booking, you should check the individual tour operator's cancellation and refund policy.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

The Bottom Line

If you're flexible as to when you can travel to Alaska, you may be able to take advantage of lower pricing, travel incentives and added perks in the shoulder seasons – and you'll have fewer crowds than in the busy summer months.

If your goal is to view wildlife, then most of the cruise season, especially from May to September, will offer ample opportunities to see bears, humpbacks whales, bald eagles and other amazing animals – depending on the itinerary and excursions you choose. You'll also be able to catch Alaska's prized salmon throughout much of the cruise season.

And if extreme adventures are going to be the highlight of your vacation, then be sure to check with the tour providers to make sure your top picks are offered when you're planning to travel. Not all tour providers operate the full seven months of the season.

No matter when you decide to visit, a cruise to The Great Land will be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime.

Planning a cruise to see Alaska? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship to seek year-round outdoor adventure, view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

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Are guests visiting you in Alaska? Here are a few easy options for quick journeys or easy day trips.

Independence Mine State Historical Park and its parking lots become clear from cloud cover for a brief minute on July 30, 2023. This view of the valley is from Gold Cord Lake. (Anne Raup / ADN)

Ever since moving to Alaska decades ago, friends and relatives call or write to have me help them plan their trip. That often includes crashing on our couch and picking them up from their midnight flight.

Start planning now for your guests’ arrival. There are hundreds of options for your visitors, but here are a few plug-and-play day trips or quick journeys to get started.

On the first day, get your visitors up early and drive them up to Flat Top. Depending on their energy level and the snowpack, you can take a short stroll from the parking lot to the overlook, head up to the top of the mountain, or hike up Powerline Pass for some stunning alpine views.

Then, take them to some of Anchorage’s coolest places, rain or shine. That includes the Anchorage Museum, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Alaska Botanical Gardens and the Alaska Zoo. Let them buy you lunch!

For day two, consider a trip south to Girdwood for a ride on the tram at Alyeska Resort. It’s always a hit. Long-time Girdwood enthusiasts will insist on a stop at the Bake Shop for a big sweet roll.

After your tram ride, continue heading down the highway to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Check out the bears, the Musk Oxen, the elk, the porcupines, the bison and all the other critters.

Finally, take the cutoff to Whittier. Don’t go through the tunnel, though. That’s another full-day excursion to go on the 26 Glacier Cruise. Instead, head for the Portage Glacier Cruise for a journey on the MV Ptarmigan to the face of the glacier.

For day three, head north to Talkeetna. I was there yesterday for lunch at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, and Denali is still there — bigger than ever. A couple of flightseeing planes landed as I munched on a sandwich with some friends in the visitor industry. The flight up and around Denali is a fun thing to do, especially if your pilot lands on a glacier.

If you’re more comfortable at ground level, go for a jetboat ride with Mahay’s Jetboat Adventures. Just after launching from the dock on the Talkeetna River, there’s a great photo opportunity of Denali when they turn the boat and head up the Susitna River.

My favorite pizza in town is at Denali Brewing’s location close to the Parks Highway. Of course, there’s also a great selection of their beer.

The flightseeing trips are weather-dependent. If you can’t fly, head back to town, but take the cutoff to Palmer over Hatcher Pass. This is a fabulous drive through some incredible alpine country. The last time I saw a bear ... from a comfortable distance. Once you’re over the summit, you’ll see the Independence Mine historical site on the left. Make a stop. Stretch your legs and check out the old mine buildings. In fact, they’re still mining in the valley.

For day number four you can head back down the Seward Highway to either Seward or Whittier for a glacier and wildlife cruise.

Trips further afield include overnight accommodations, which require a little more advance planning.

A trip to Homer is fun. The Homer Spit is one of our family’s favorite beaches in Alaska. Be sure and make plans to head across the bay. Ride with Mako’s Water Taxi and take a trip to hike to Grewingk Glacier. Pack a lunch from La Baleine Cafe , located near Mako’s office at Homer’s small boat harbor.

Take the Seldovia Bay Ferry from Homer over to Seldovia for the day. The town is walkable — and you can hike the Otter Bahn trail to Outside Beach for some beautiful views.

The Danny J sails each day from Homer’s small boat harbor to Halibut Cove, where guests can enjoy lunch or dinner at the Saltry restaurant. The restaurant looks over the cove — and it’s a great way to spend a day on the water.

Combine a trip to Fairbanks with a ride on the Alaska Railroad. The train leaves each morning headed north. It’s an all-day excursion. But it’s a fun ride. The train slows down going over the Hurricane Bridge, where you can look down into the gulch, nearly 300 feet below. This is the railroad’s 101st season.

You’ll need a car to get around Fairbanks. Don’t miss a visit to the Museum of the North on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus. On the drive over, you might see some migrating waterfowl at Creamer’s Field .

Check out Explore Fairbanks’ website for a list of great things to see and do. Then fly back home to Anchorage on Alaska Airlines. One way on the train is enough!

Look east for one of my favorite adventures: to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Take the scenic drive up the Glenn Highway from Anchorage through the Matanuska River Valley. Once you get to Glennallen, take a right and head down the Richardson Highway to Valdez. Take the cutoff to Chitina past Copper Center. After you cross the Copper River, you’re officially inside the nation’s largest national park. The McCarthy Road is one of Alaska’s classic 35-miles-per-hour highways, along with the Denali Highway and the Taylor Highway. Most of it is gravel.

Be sure and let your hosts know when you expect to arrive in McCarthy. Some lodges are before the bridge over the Kennicott River — and they can give you directions. Otherwise, park at the bridge, walk across and get a shuttle on the other side. You can stay up at the historic mining district at Kennecott, about five miles north of McCarthy. Or, there are several options right in McCarthy.

Be sure and check out options to tour the old mill buildings and hike on the Root Glacier with St. Elias Alpine Guides.

You also can skip the drive on the gravel McCarthy Road and fly back with Wrangell Mountain Air from Chitina. The 60-mile flight is one of the best flightseeing tours around. The pilot often will fly up through Fourth of July Pass and come out over the Kennicott Glacier for million-dollar views of the whole valley, including the historic Kennecott Mining District. The word “Kennecott” is alternatively spelled with an “e” or an “i.” There’s a whole story behind the various spellings.

After spending a couple of days in the McCarthy area, head back to the Richardson Highway and drive south to Valdez. The drive up over Thompson Pass and then down past the waterfalls in Keystone Canyon is spectacular! Plan on spending the night in Valdez to be on time for the early-morning departure of the Alaska State Ferry. Be sure and confirm the schedule well in advance.

Roll your car onto the ferry and sail away to Whittier. This is the ultimate shortcut for your return to Anchorage! Once you arrive in Whittier, it’s just a one-hour drive back to Anchorage. Plus, there’s no fee to drive out through the tunnel!

These are just a few itineraries to get started. Stitch together your own plan using these guides, available online or through the mail:

a. The Visit Anchorage guide offers lots of options in and around our city.

b. The Travel Alaska guide features options all over the state, from Ketchikan to the Arctic.

c. The Mat-Su Valley’s guide includes options from Talkeetna to Lake Louise to Knik Glacier.

d. The Homer Chamber of Commerce offers tips on fishing, bear viewing and sightseeing.

So get some rest and fill up your tank. Company’s coming.

Scott McMurren

Scott McMurren is an Anchorage-based marketing consultant, serving clients in the transportation, hospitality, media and specialty destination sectors, among others. Contact him by email at [email protected]. Subscribe to his e-newsletter at alaskatravelgram.com. For more information, visit alaskatravelgram.com/about.

Climber dies, another seriously hurt after 1,000-foot fall on Alaska peak

ANCHORAGE, Alaska ( KTUU /Gray News) - A person died and another was seriously hurt after falling roughly 1,000 feet down a steep slope at Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska on Thursday night.

The National Park Service reported that the two climbers were going up the 8,400-foot Mount Johnson — which towers over the Ruth Gorge and is a popular area for mountaineers — when they fell on the technical route that park officials described as featuring a mix of steep rock, ice, and snow.

The park service identified the deceased climber as 52-year-old Robbi Mecus of Keene Valley, N.Y. The surviving clumber, a 30-year-old woman from California, was rescued by Denali’s high-altitude helicopter pilot and two National Park Service mountaineering rangers on Friday morning. She was taken to Talkeetna and then to an Anchorage hospital by helicopter.

The two climbers were roped, Denali park officials said and were working their way up the Escalator, a 5,000-foot section that is steep and technical.

Officials said another group of climbers saw the fall and alerted the Alaska Regional Communication Center around 10:45 p.m. Thursday before making their way down to the area where the two people had ended up. Once there, officials say the second group stayed with the surviving member through the night by digging a snow cave.

A high-altitude rescue helicopter responded to the area from Talkeetna around 7 a.m. Friday, where rescue crews used ropes to drop a mountaineering ranger at the site and pick the injured climber up, taking them to a flat staging area on the glacier in the Ruth Gorge.

Rescue crews later attempted to return to the site to retrieve the body of the dead climber, but deteriorating weather kept them from reaching the body, park officials said.

Park rangers were eventually able to access the area and recovered the climber’s body on Saturday morning.

Denali National Park Superintendent Brooke Merrell expressed her sympathies to the climbers.

“We are grateful for the rescue efforts of Denali mountaineering rangers and the two good Samaritans on Mt. Johnson who helped save a fellow climber’s life,” Merrell said. “We extend our thoughts and condolences to the friends and family of Robbi Mecus”.

Copyright 2024 KTUU via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Alaska an important Special Operations training ground, as Arctic sees interest from Russia and China

The United States military has become more focused on training in Alaska, as Russia and China have looked to expand into the resource-rich and increasingly ice-free Arctic.

And that goes not just for conventional forces, but also for Special Operations forces like Navy SEALs and Army Green Berets. Both were training in Alaska this past winter by parachuting into frigid water off Kodiak or skiing through the woods around Fairbanks, among other exercises.

That was the subject of a story this month by the Washington Post , which was given rare access to Special Operations training in Alaska.

Washington Post reporter Alex Horton wrote the story and says the unforgiving environment is unique for such training.

Alex Horton : In the Arctic, just surviving is the important part. You know, the extreme cold can have such an impact on you and your equipment that the first mission, really, is just to stay alive. And then the second mission is to conduct whatever you’re doing, right, whether it’s a patrol, an attack or a recovery operation. That survivability piece is, like, amped up more than any other environment on Earth.

Let’s just say, for example, you’re a Green Beret, and you’ve been shot. And you’re probably wearing big pants, coats, you know, the big thick boots. And the first thing that happens when you are wounded and a medic comes to help you is they open up your coat, they open up your pants, and all that heat just goes rushing out. And if you’re bleeding, that’s another way for your body to lose warmth. And even an IV bag that has blood in it, if they’re giving you a transfusion, the act of them giving you a transfusion is going to lower your body temperature even more. So the threat of hypothermia, the threat of water making you hypothermic, it’s an ever-present looming danger everywhere you operate in the Arctic.

Casey Grove : We’re talking about, you know, the importance of this training and what the military says about that and the whole, you know, sort of the geopolitical situation that we find ourselves, in this day and age. What did you hear from, you know, the military about that, about why it would be important for the special operations folks to be training in Alaska?

AH : You know, it’s important for Special Operations forces to be ready in any kind of environment and terrain where conflict can happen. And as climate change makes the ice recede, and there’s ships and all kinds of operations. You know, there’s energy exploration, there’s cruise ships, you know, they’re up in the Arctic, and that invites what the Pentagon calls “competition” (from) Russia and China, because there are resources to exploit, there are shipping routes to claim. You know, the sort of northern part of Russia, the way to get that energy to markets in Asia is going through the Bering Sea, around Alaska, to, you know, where Japan and Korea are. So it’s an important route for them. And it’s important route for China as well.

Why it’s important for Special Operations, specifically, too, is, you know, for the last 20 years, the command has really been focused on what they call “direct action” in Iraq and Afghanistan. That’s going on raids, doing high-profile stuff like the SEAL raid to kill Osama bin Laden. That’s what they’ve been doing, and that’s what they’ve been focused on. So now, once the Pentagon has started looking to Russia and China as more of a strategic threat and as strategic competitors, they have to find a role for Special Operations. That means they have to change. They have to focus on places like the Arctic, to operate in a climate where they didn’t have to work in, you know, 5, 10, 15 years ago.

CG : Yeah, we’ve talked kind of about like, shipping lanes opening up and exploration and that kind of thing. But every once in a while, some Russian parliamentarian, you know, says, “We should take back Alaska,” and sort of puts this idea in Alaskans’ heads that maybe somebody’s going to invade mainland Alaska. From, you know, the individual Special Operations members to the commanders, did anybody that you talked to, like, even allude to something like that?

AH : It was interesting, because, you know, the folks who were helping coordinate the trip, Northern Command, which is the the military authority that oversees, you know, North America and also NORAD, like the missile command and defense of the country, their primary mission is homeland defense. When I asked them about how they view Alaska, it’s like, you know, as you said, it has a lot of bases, has a lot of training ranges. And I asked them, like, “Do you view Alaska as, not just a place to go train, but a place to go fight? You know, maybe you will be in the same places in the future, but shooting real rounds at real enemies?” They stopped short of saying that.

And, you know, they made the point that a lot of the training includes, you know, side-by-side with NATO partners. There were Norwegians in Alaska. There were the Danish soldiers training. So a lot of it is relevant to Northern Europe, you know, all those Arctic nations, because they have similar challenges up there that you find in Alaska. There’s glaciers, there’s extreme weather, and they’re right next to Russia, and Russia has substantial Arctic infrastructure. And it’s growing, too. They’re starting to turn the lights back on in some of those Soviet, Cold War-era bases. So yeah, I think they think of this in kind of two slices. One, this kind of exercise helps you, the U.S., get strong and competent in the Arctic, in extreme cold-weather training that they can apply if something were to happen in Europe. But I think what’s left unsaid is, this could also happen in the theoretical scenario of Russia or China invading through what the military calls the “Northern Approach,” which is through Alaska.

CG : Was it difficult to get access to this, to these training exercises? Or was the Pentagon, you know, the military, like, “Please, come do a story about this?”

AH : I gotta say, it was an unusual amount of access for Special Operations Command. You know, this is something that we were invited to, and it was very limited media availability, just because of the infrastructure, you know, like seats on aircraft and cold weather equipment to go around. Like, it was just logistically difficult to have any media there. So, you know, the Special Operations Command North facilitated this trip, and, you know, all the things we saw.

And yeah, it was fairly remarkable. You know, I was just a regular Army soldier in an infantry unit, and I served on a combat deployment in Iraq. And some of the teams and the aircraft that I saw, I’d only read about, I’ve never even seen in person, like the Special Operations variant of the Chinook (helicopter) is something I saw in movies, you know, so it was kind of cool to see that stuff. The soldiers are being flown around by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, which is the unit that flew SEAL Team Six on the mission to kill Osama bin Laden. So they’re a very storied unit. And they were just, you know, the nicest, most professional folks you could meet. So, it was unusual, I would say, for reporters to meet with folks in that unit, and to be in those aircraft and to witness some of the training. It was a rare opportunity.

Casey Grove, Alaska Public Media - Anchorage

Casey Grove is host of Alaska News Nightly, a general assignment reporter and an editor at Alaska Public Media. Reach him at [email protected] . Read more about Casey here . 

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Talkeetna Denali Alaska Rail Explorer | Cruise Connector

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INTRODUCTION

The Talkeetna Denali Alaska Rail Tour is a perfect 4-day itinerary for before or after a cruise.

The adventure begins in anchorage where you'll take alaska railroad for the scenic journey to denali national park, then take your choice of three tours from a backcountry adventure tour or jeep tour to a tundra wilderness tour., this itinerary is one of our best sellers for a reason. .

Itinerary at a Glance

DETAILED ITINERARY

The below itinerary reflects our recommendations for this specific trip. This itinerary is also available in the reverse direction.

Departing Anchorage | Departing Seward,Whittier

Day 1 Anchorage to Talkeetna | Alaska Railroad Depart early on the Denali Star Train by Goldstar Railcar to Talkeetna, best known as base camp for climbers attempting Mount Denali and for the stunning views of this famous mountain. Take a stroll down the main street for river views, local brews and great eats. (Breakfast is included onboard the train today)

Day 2 Talkeetna to Denali National Park Entrance | Alaska Railroad This morning take the Denali Star, Alaska Railroad’s flagship train, in the Goldstar Railcar to Denali National Park. The afternoon is open for optional activities such as whitewater rafting down the Nenana River, helicopter flightseeing over the Park, landing on a glacier or hiking. (Lunch is included onboard the train today)

Day 3 Denali | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions Option 1. Denali Highway Jeep Excursion | Self-Drive Guided 4x4 Excursion Ranked #2 in Drives of a Lifetime by National Geographic Traveler magazine, experience the natural wonders of Alaska’s Denali Highway — this time by Jeep! This 4-hour guided excursion travels along a 135 mi (217 km) gravel road & takes you off the beaten path in a 4 x 4 to enjoy scenic views of Denali, the Alaska Range, glaciers and wildlife. Option 2. Tundra Wilderness Tour | Coach Tour This half day tour offers incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road and opportunities to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants. Picturesque highlights include the craggy cliffside of Cathedral Mountain, wildlife rich Sable Pass and braided wash of the East Fork River in Denali National Park. Option 3. Upgrade Option: Denali Summit Flightseeing | Small Aircraft Get a closer look at Alaska’s majestic Denali from the comfortable window seat of a small aircraft. Slip on your provided headset to hear commentary from your guide as you fly over the snow-covered peaks, jagged ridgelines, and glacier carved valleys of Denali National Park, and get within half a mile of the mountain peak. Option 4. Upgrade Option : Denali Glacier Landing | Helicopter Be immersed in the vastness of the Denali National Preserve. On your way to the massive Yanert Glacier, your pilot will serve as your guide through this unique glacially-carved environment. Soar over the rolling tundra, keeping an eye out for local residents – caribou, moose, bear, and Dall sheep. Snow capped peaks and glaciers abound on this journey before you set down on a river of ice.

Day 4 Denali to Whittier or Seward Cruise Terminal | Coach Early this morning depart Denali aboard a comfortable motorcoach. The driver will provide narration as you travel on the nationally recognized Parks Highway through Alaska’s spectacular scenery and small historic towns. You will have a layover of approximately 90 minutes in Anchorage so that you can purchase lunch. Continue on to Seward or Whittier along scenic Cook Inlet and Turnagain Arm. Few roads in the United States can offer the diversity of scenic landscapes and unique natural features all concentrated in one area. You will arrive in Whittier at 4:45pm or at the cruise dock in Seward at 5:45pm where your incredible Alaska land adventure comes to an end.

Day 1 Whittier or Seward Cruise Terminal to Denali | Coach Disembark the ship and begin your coach adventure towards Anchorage with a chance to see Cook Inlet and Turnagain Arm along the way. Few roads in the United States offer such diversity of scenic landscapes and unique natural features all concentrated in one area. After a short stop in Anchorage, continue to Denali National Park Entrance along the George Parks Highway and listen while your driver shares stories of the area. Weather permitting, you can admire the marvelous views of Denali - the tallest mountain in North America.

Day 2 Denali | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions Option 1. Denali Highway Jeep Excursion | Self-Drive Guided 4x4 Excursion Ranked #2 in Drives of a Lifetime by National Geographic Traveler magazine, experience the natural wonders of Alaska’s Denali Highway — this time by Jeep! This 4-hour guided excursion travels along a 135 mi (217 km) gravel road & takes you off the beaten path in a 4 x 4 to enjoy scenic views of Denali, the Alaska Range, glaciers and wildlife. Option 2. Tundra Wilderness Tour | Coach Tour This half day tour offers incredible scenery, a narrated history of the park road and opportunities to view the park’s wildlife inhabitants. Picturesque highlights include the craggy cliffside of Cathedral Mountain, wildlife rich Sable Pass and braided wash of the East Fork River in Denali National Park. Option 3. Upgrade Option: Denali Summit Flightseeing | Small Aircraft Get a closer look at Alaska’s majestic Denali from the comfortable window seat of a small aircraft. Slip on your provided headset to hear commentary from your guide as you fly over the snow-covered peaks, jagged ridgelines, and glacier carved valleys of Denali National Park, and get within half a mile of the mountain peak. Option 4. Upgrade Option : Denali Glacier Landing | Helicopter Be immersed in the vastness of the Denali National Preserve. On your way to the massive Yanert Glacier, your pilot will serve as your guide through this unique glacially-carved environment. Soar over the rolling tundra, keeping an eye out for local residents – caribou, moose, bear, and Dall sheep. Snow capped peaks and glaciers abound on this journey before you set down on a river of ice.

Day 3 Denali National Park Entrance to Talkeetna | Alaska Railroad This morning is open for optional activities such as: whitewater rafting down the Nenana River, helicopter flightseeing over the Park, landing on a glacier, or hiking. At midday, board the Alaska Railroad and travel by Goldstar Railcar to Talkeetna, best known as base camp for climbers attempting Mount Denali. The evening is at your leisure. Talkeetna is a small but unique gold mining community, famous for its special charm and for its stunning views of Mount Denali. (Lunch is included onboard the train today)

Day 4 Talkeetna to Anchorage | Alaska Railroad The morning is at leisure. Late afternoon, board the Denali Star train and continue your rail journey to Anchorage. Enjoy the evening scenery as you travel south to Anchorage where your incredible Alaska land adventure comes to an end. (Dinner is included onboard the train today)

Package Includes:

• Accommodation including taxes for 3 nights
• Alaska Railroad – Anchorage to Talkeetna Goldstar Service (Dome car seating, private outdoor viewing deck & Meals included onboard train)
• Talkeetna Hotel Transfer
• Alaska Railroad – Talkeetna to Denali Goldstar Service (Dome car seating, private outdoor viewing deck & Meals included onboard train)
• Denali Highway Jeep Excursion
• Tundra Wilderness Tour
• Upgrade Option: Denali Summit Flightseeing by Plane
• Upgrade Option: Denali Glacier Landing by Helicopter
• Denali to Seward | Whittier coach transfer with driver commentary
• Meals as per Itinerary

Hotel & Rail Information | Moderate Grade

• Talkeetna - Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge | Main Lodge Room
• Denali Park Entrance - Denali Cabins | Standard Cabins

Hotel & Rail Information | Superior Grade

• Talkeetna - Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge | Mountainside Lodge Room
• Denali Park Entrance - Grande Denali Lodge | Standard Room

Alaska Railroad | Goldstar All our itineraries except the Glacier Discovery Train includes Gold Star Dome Service. These railcars feature large, curved glass windows that run the full length of the car, allowing excellent 360 degree viewing plus a private outdoor viewing deck. The service is inclusive of all meals that are served in the lower-level dining room.

Not Included:

• Activities other than specified
• Portage fees

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Arrange a call with an Alaska Rail Travel Designer and bring your vacation to Alaska one step closer!

DATES & PRICING

Departs from Anchorage: Daily (Tour Code: TRA46) Departs from Seward or Whittier: Daily (Tour Code: TRA47)

STAY AT THESE HOTELS ON THIS RAIL VACATION

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Days / Nights

Grande Denali Lodge

Denali Bluffs Hotel

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We saw spectacular sights, met warm and friendly people, saw the Northern Lights, and made a lifetime of memories. We want to thank you for the wonderful job you did in setting everything up, and also for your courteous assistance and recommendations along the way.

Nick Florida, United States

We had a fantastic time. Everything ran like clock work, the activities we did were extremely well organised, informative and above all fantastically enjoyable. We cannot thank everyone enough for their professionalism and organisational skills. To top everything off we saw the most amazing display of the Northern Lights, something I will never forget.......we certainly will be back.

Hazel Scotland

Excellent trip. Well planned out. We were able to get all our additional destinations accommodated.

Paul Williams Canada

Nothing was too much trouble for Jennifer or Karen when we were planning our holiday. They were able to tailor our trip to what we wanted. We have recommended Alaska Rail Vacations to our friends and they also had an amazing experience.

Anne Mathews Australia

Alaska Rail Vacations were very helpful and had a quick turn around on price quotes. All my clients have enjoyed their trips thanks to the arrangements made by there amazing team

Tracey Los Angeles, CA

Excellent services!Our clients were extremely satisfied with the itinerary, hotels and tours you have offered.We will contact you again for our next clients.Thanks again for all!

Polona Australia

I enjoyed working with Alaska Rail Vacations, I was introduced to them by Debra Roberts and Karen did a great job for me with a couple of my reservations

Haleh M California, USA

The team at Alaska Rail Vacations never fail to off excellent service. Clients enjoyed a wonderful experience! Our go to company for Alaska

Tina M Los Angeles, CA

Start planning your tailor-made rail vacation in Alaska by contacting our rail specialists

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