Wild + Wonderful Alaska

Denali National Park and Preserve is an adventurer’s paradise! This scenic landscape and arctic tundra in the Alaska wilderness is one of the country’s most beautiful national parks, and with over six millions acres of land, the park offers plenty of exhilarating activities, breathtaking hikes, and majestic sights, all of which will leave you in awe. Go off-roading in an ATV through winding stretches of Denali forests, fly above snow-capped Denali Mountain and the Alaska range, take a rafting excursion along the Talkeetna and Susitna Rivers, or zip-line past massive spruce trees. While in the park, you’ll likely spot some spectacular wildlife, including grizzly bears, golden eagles, moose, and wolves. Untouched by urban light pollution, Denali National Park is the perfect site for stargazing; you may even catch a glimpse of the resplendent Aurora Borealis as it weaves through the sky.

Denali National Park and Preserve is an adventurer’s paradise! This scenic landscape and arctic tundra in the Alaska wilderness is one of the country’s most beautiful national parks, and with over six millions acres of land, the park offers plenty of exhilarating activities, breathtaking hikes, and majestic sights, all of which will leave you in awe. Go off-roading in an ATV through winding stretches of Denali forests, fly above snow-capped Denali Mountain and the Alaska range, take a rafting excursion along the Talkeetna and Susitna Rivers, or zip-line past massive spruce trees. While in the park, you’ll likely spot some spectacular wildlife, including grizzly bears, golden eagles, moose, and wolves. Untouched by urban light pollution, Denali National Park is the perfect site for stargazing; you may even catch a glimpse of the resplendent Aurora Borealis as it weaves through the sky.

Nestled at the base of the Alaska Range, Talkeetna is a charming town that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and small-town warmth. Often considered the gateway to Denali National Park, Talkeetna provides spectacular views of North America's highest peak, Denali. Visitors can embark on flightseeing tours that showcase the grandeur of the mountains and glaciers, or take a scenic train ride on the Alaska Railroad, which offers picturesque views of the surrounding wilderness.

Talkeetna's historic district is a delightful throwback to the early 20th century, with quaint shops, cozy lodges, and a vibrant arts scene. The town’s roots as a base for early climbers and adventurers add to its distinctive character. The Talkeetna Historical Society Museum offers insights into the area’s rich history, including its role in early Alaskan exploration and the famous “Tanglefoot” bartender who became a local legend.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Talkeetna provides ample opportunities. In the summer, visitors can explore hiking trails, go river rafting, or enjoy fishing in the nearby rivers. Winter brings a magical transformation with opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The annual Talkeetna Winterfest is a highlight, featuring a variety of winter activities and local festivities that embrace the snowy season.

Fun fact: Talkeetna is known for its quirky charm and has been an inspiration for the fictional town of "Talkeetna" in the TV show "Northern Exposure" . Its blend of natural beauty, history, and small-town allure makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring Alaska.

Nestled at the base of the Alaska Range, Talkeetna is a charming town that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and small-town warmth. Often considered the gateway to Denali National Park, Talkeetna provides spectacular views of North America's highest peak, Denali. Visitors can embark on flightseeing tours that showcase the grandeur of the mountains and glaciers, or take a scenic train ride on the Alaska Railroad, which offers picturesque views of the surrounding wilderness.

Talkeetna's historic district is a delightful throwback to the early 20th century, with quaint shops, cozy lodges, and a vibrant arts scene. The town’s roots as a base for early climbers and adventurers add to its distinctive character. The Talkeetna Historical Society Museum offers insights into the area’s rich history, including its role in early Alaskan exploration and the famous “Tanglefoot” bartender who became a local legend.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Talkeetna provides ample opportunities. In the summer, visitors can explore hiking trails, go river rafting, or enjoy fishing in the nearby rivers. Winter brings a magical transformation with opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The annual Talkeetna Winterfest is a highlight, featuring a variety of winter activities and local festivities that embrace the snowy season.

Fun fact: Talkeetna is known for its quirky charm and has been an inspiration for the fictional town of "Talkeetna" in the TV show "Northern Exposure" . Its blend of natural beauty, history, and small-town allure makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring Alaska.

Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska is a stunning showcase of glaciers, rugged coastlines, and pristine wilderness, making it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Located near the town of Seward, this park is home to the Harding Icefield, one of the largest icefields in North America, feeding over 40 glaciers that spill into the sea. Visitors can experience these dramatic landscapes by taking boat tours, which offer breathtaking views of the glaciers and a chance to see icebergs calving into the fjords below.

Wildlife is abundant in Kenai Fjords, adding to its allure. Visitors often spot orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, and harbor seals swimming in the icy waters, while bald eagles soar above the cliffs. On land, you might catch a glimpse of black bears or mountain goats navigating the rugged terrain. Birdwatchers will delight in the large colonies of puffins and other seabirds that call this park home. Whether you’re on a boat tour or hiking one of the park’s trails, the opportunity to observe Alaska’s diverse wildlife up close is a major draw.

For adventurers, the park’s Harding Icefield Trail offers an unforgettable experience. This challenging hike takes you through forests and alpine meadows before opening up to panoramic views of the icefield. It’s an arduous journey but well worth the effort for those seeking a truly immersive wilderness experience. For a more relaxed visit, you can explore the coastal fjords by kayak, gliding through the glassy waters surrounded by towering cliffs and ancient glaciers.

Fun fact: Kenai Fjords National Park was established in 1980, but the glaciers within it are millions of years old, having shaped the landscape over eons. Today, the park’s glaciers are a powerful reminder of the natural forces that have carved out Alaska’s spectacular fjords.