Denali Unexplored

With near-constant daylight the options for adventure are almost unlimited! After an early breakfast you’ll head for the tundra hills above camp for views of the Backside Glacier, Ruth Glacier and, weather permitting, “The Great One,” 20,310 foot Denali itself. On the hike, you’ll practice the skills necessary to hike off-trail in the Alaska wilderness – including reading a topographic map, choosing the best route, using trekking poles, and traveling efficiently. After a full day of exploration, you’ll tally the day’s wildlife and mountain peak sightings over a well-deserved meal.

Distance: 6-10 miles. Elevation gain: 1500-2500’

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll grab your day-pack and head out again to make your way onto the Backside Glacier. While not at all technical, your trek on the ice will give you the chance to learn firsthand the glacial features of this frozen river of ice, the valley that bears the scars of thousands of years of glacial activity, and the more recent visual indications of climate change on the Alaska landscape.

Distance: 8.0 miles. Elevation gain: 2000'

Another breakfast and hot drink fuels your last few hours in the wilderness. After breaking camp, and moving the kit to the lakeshore, you’ll await your flight back to civilisation, returning to Talkeetna by early afternoon. Enjoy a short walk around town before boarding the Alaska Railroad's Denali Star train bound for Anchorage. This 3-hour trip will takes you through the beautiful Matanuska-Susitna Valley, through southcentral Alaska's boreal forests and small farms & homesteads, and finally to Anchorage by 8pm.

Distance: 1.5 miles, Elevation Gain: 500'