Central Alaska Summer Camping - 11 days
Central Alaska Summer Camping - 11 days
Central Alaska Summer Camping - 11 days
11 Days Starting and ending in Anchorage, USA
Visiting: Anchorage, Denali National Park, Valdez, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Wrangell St. Elias National Park
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 12
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day adventure through the heart of Central Alaska with our summer camping tour. Begin and end your journey in Anchorage, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Denali National Park with a three-night camping experience. Discover the remote beauty of Paxson and the majestic Worthington Glacier in Valdez, where you'll enjoy a full day of sea kayaking. Immerse yourself in the vast wilderness of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest in the United States, with ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. Stay in simple lodges and campsites, with meals included, as you travel in a fully equipped vehicle under the guidance of an expert local tour guide. This small group tour offers flexibility and the chance to connect with fellow adventurers, making it a perfect escape into the wild beauty of Alaska.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Anchorage
Location: Anchorage
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Anchorage - Talkeetna - Denali National Park. Today, we embark on a journey to uncover the wild beauty of Alaska. Our adventure begins with a pick-up from Anchorage at 8:00. We’ll then stop in the charming town of Talkeetna before heading towards the stunning Alaska Range for our overnight stop.
Along the way, we might catch a glimpse of Denali, North America's highest peak (weather permitting), standing at nearly 6,200 metres (20,310 feet). We will be camping on the edge of Denali National Park for our first three nights.
On this tour, all camping equipment is provided at a full service campground with electricity, Wi-Fi, hot showers and flush toilets. You will need to provide your own sleeping bag, or can hire one for $40 per person per tour. Must be booked in advance, please let us know at time of booking.
Please note: This tour has a flexible itinerary, and the below is a general guide of what you can expect on tour. Your tour guide may alter certain night stops to maximize your enjoyment; maybe you opt to visit a local event or stay longer in a certain place. The beauty of a small group tour is that the itinerary can also be adapted to suit the group’s preference! We encourage you to relax and go with the flow!
Day 2: Denali National Park
Location: Denali National Park
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast today, we’ll set off to explore the majestic landscapes of Denali National Park on an exclusive bus tour provided by the national park. This thrilling journey offers fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities as we delve deep into the park.
We’ll make photo stops and take short walks through the rugged, untouched wilderness of Denali. After a day of adventure, we’ll return to our camp to unwind and share stories around the campfire, soaking in the serene evening atmosphere.
Day 3: Denali National Park
Location: Denali National Park
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is completely free for you to explore Denali National Park further at your own pace. You can choose to hike its stunning trails or dive into various activities within the park. Our guide will be on hand to help you plan the day.
You have the chance to encounter an incredible array of wildlife, including black bears, brown bears, beavers, bald eagles, foxes, and various songbirds. The surrounding area offers fantastic hiking opportunities around Denali National Park. With a stroke of luck, you might even spot grizzlies, the iconic symbol of the subarctic, which for many will be a trip highlight.
Day 4: Denali National Park
Location: Denali National Park
Accommodation Name: Maclaren River Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Denali National Park - Paxson. After breakfast today, we’ll drive along the renowned Denali Highway to the Maclaren River Lodge. Nestled in an alpine landscape, this remote wilderness resort promises an authentic taste of Alaskan hospitality.
This evening, we’ll take in the stunning views of the Maclaren River and the breathtaking Alaska Range. We’ll indulge in a delicious dinner at the lodge, where the warm Alaskan charm adds to the magic of the night.
Day 5: Paxson
Location: Valdez
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Paxson - Worthington Glacier - Valdez. Our adventure takes us further along the Denali Highway and south through the stunning Thompson Pass, where we’ll marvel at the region’s picturesque waterfalls.
Known as Alaska’s ice climbing capital, this area is a paradise for thrill-seekers. We’ll relish a mid-afternoon hike to the impressive Worthington Glacier before reaching Valdez. Once we’ve set up camp, we can explore this charming Alaskan port town and then unwind with a camp dinner and a cosy campfire to end our day.
Day 6: Valdez
Location: Valdez
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast today, we’ll embark on an included kayaking tour for an intimate exploration of one of Alaska’s stunning marine state parks. We’ll board a motorboat for a scenic water taxi ride to Shoup Bay, where our kayaking adventure begins.
We’ll paddle through a fjord carved by a retreating glacier, glide past a colony of black-legged kittiwakes, and along a lush coastline adorned with waterfalls, making our way towards the glacier’s face. We’ll stop for a walk on the beach and enjoy a delightful lunch with a spectacular glacier view. After our paddling adventure, the motorboat will whisk us back to Valdez. Head out into Valdez for dinner this evening, as the night is at leisure.
Day 7: Valdez
Location: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Valdez - Wrangell St. Elias National Park - McCarthy. After breakfast this morning, we set off from Valdez for the thrilling drive along the “infamous” McCarthy Highway, passing through the breathtaking landscapes of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park and preserve in the United States.
Renowned for its majestic glaciers and rich mining history, this park offers us a chance to camp for three nights right in its heart, near the small access village of McCarthy. This evening is free for you to head out and explore this small, scenic settlement.
Please note: Our campsite in McCarthy is more basic than other campgrounds on this tour, with limited facilities.
Day 8: Wrangell St. Elias National Park
Location: Wrangell St. Elias National Park
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’ll dive into some thrilling hiking and activities in the Wrangell Range! From McCarthy, we have the option to explore the historic copper mining town of Kennicott for an additional fee, or stroll along the stunning Kennicott and Root glaciers. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, we can opt for a hike to the impressive Bonanza Mine trail.
Day 9: Wrangell St. Elias National Park
Location: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is another leisure day for exploring Wrangell-St Elias National Park. You can take a breathtaking flight over the glaciers for an additional fee, offering stunning aerial views. If you prefer, sign up for some exhilarating ice climbing, also available at an additional cost. Activities can be arranged and paid for locally with your guide.
Day 10: Wrangell St. Elias National Park
Location: Wrangell St. Elias National Park
Accommodation Name: Majestic Valley Wilderness Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
McCarthy - Chickaloon. Today, we journey along the stunning Glenn Highway towards Glacier View for our overnight stop. The Majestic Valley Wilderness Lodge, with its awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding Alaskan wilderness, awaits us. From the lodge, we can explore numerous hiking trails in the Tahneeta Pass right from our doorstep or simply relax on the covered porch with a glass of wine, soaking in the spectacular scenery.
We’ll arrive at our lodge in the late afternoon, where we can savour a farewell meal and unwind in the outdoor hot tub.
Day 11: Anchorage
Location: Anchorage
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Chickaloon - Anchorage. We’ll enjoy a leisurely morning and breakfast at the lodge before making our way back to Anchorage. Upon arrival around midday, we’ll have the chance to explore the trails and attractions of Anchorage with our expert guide. Our tour will conclude at approximately 17:00.
What's Included
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Meals
10 breakfasts, 11 deli style lunches, 7 camp dinners, and 2 lodge dinners are included in the tour.
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Accommodation
8 nights camping and 2 nights in simple lodges are included in the tour.
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Equipment
All camping and cooking equipment, except sleeping bags, are provided.
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Transportation
All relevant transportation in a specialist, fully equipped vehicle is included.
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Tour Guide
The tour is escorted by an expert local tour guide/driver.
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Denali National Park Bus Tour
An included bus tour of Denali National Park is part of the itinerary.
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Glacier and Kayaking Excursion
A full day glacier and kayaking excursion in Valdez is included.
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Hiking and Walking
Hiking and walking opportunities are available throughout the tour.
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Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are part of the tour experience.
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Tour Partnership
This tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators.
What's Not Included
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International Flights and Visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour.
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Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are not included in the tour.
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Tips for Tour Guide
Tips for your tour guide are not included and are an entirely personal gesture.
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Sleeping Bags
Sleeping bags are not included but can be rented for $40 per person.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities are not included, and approximate pricing is available in the Trip Notes.
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Local Payment
A local payment of US$265 per person is required to cover included meals.
Mode of Transport
Travel in a specialist, fully equipped vehicle, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your Alaskan adventure. The tour includes all relevant transportation, allowing you to explore the breathtaking landscapes and remote wilderness of Alaska with ease.
Accommodation
Experience the great outdoors with 8 nights of camping and 2 nights in simple lodges, offering a blend of adventure and comfort. Enjoy full-service campgrounds with electricity, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and flush toilets, while the lodges provide a cozy retreat with stunning views and Alaskan hospitality.
Age Policy
No minimum age No upper age limit BUT Clients should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain for an average of 1 to 3 miles at a time. Elevation gain and loss averages between 50 to 300 ft throughout the areas visited during this tour. Touring and overnight locations are above 6000 to 8000 ft above sea level
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife might I see during the tour?
During the tour, you have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife including black bears, brown bears, beavers, bald eagles, foxes, and various songbirds. In Denali National Park, you might even spot grizzlies, which are an iconic symbol of the subarctic.
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What activities are included in the tour?
The tour includes a Denali National Park bus tour, a full day glacier and kayaking excursion in Valdez, and various hiking and walking opportunities. There are also wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the tour.
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What should I bring for camping?
You will need to bring your own sleeping bag for camping, or you can rent one for $40 per person per tour. All other camping and cooking equipment is provided.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are optional activities available such as exploring the historic copper mining town of Kennicott, taking a flight over the glaciers, or ice climbing in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. These activities are available for an additional fee and can be arranged locally with your guide.
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What kind of meals are provided during the tour?
The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 11 deli style lunches, 7 camp dinners, and 2 lodge dinners. These meals are covered by the local payment on the tour.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
The tour includes 8 nights of camping and 2 nights in simple lodges. The campsites are equipped with electricity, Wi-Fi, hot showers, and flush toilets, although the campsite in McCarthy is more basic with limited facilities.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.