Alaska Wildland Collection Adventure
Highlights
The very best of Kenai is only accessible via kayak, canoe or cruise, and you’ll have plenty of time to do all that and then some on this weeklong excursion. Alaska Wildland Adventures takes you deep into the remote, untouched wilderness of Kenai Fjords National Park and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge for the ultimate adventure experience.
Embark on a marine wildlife and glacier cruise through this awe-inspiring arctic landscape shaped by thousands of years of nature working its magic. Search for land wildlife on the banks of the beautiful Kenai River. Spend a full day rafting its jade-green waters among the harbor seals and glacial ice. And at the end of each fun-filled day, enjoy a taste of rustic luxury during your stay at all three iconic lodges within the parks.
The Basics
- Start and Finish: Anchorage, United States
- Note from the experts: Arrive in Alaska at least one day before your trip begins and plan to spend the night in Anchorage.
Experience
The Alaska Wildland Collection takes you on an unforgettable adventure through the Kenai Peninsula including stays at all three of our wilderness lodges: two nights at Kenai Riverside Lodge, right on the bank of the beautiful Kenai River; two nights at Kenai Backcountry Lodge, a forested and remote eco-lodge; and a two-night stay at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge, the first and only lodge in Kenai Fjords National Park.
- By land, watch caribou, moose, Dall sheep, grizzly bears, bald eagles and more.
- By sea, spot whales, Steller sea lions, sea otters, puffins and more.
- Explore Kenai Fjords National Park, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and Chugach State Park and National Forest.
- Embark on an epic marine wildlife and glacier cruise.
- Enjoy a whole host of activities such as hiking, rafting, mountain biking, gold panning and stargazing.
- Ride the historic Alaska Railroad back to your starting and departing city, Anchorage.
Videos
Itinerary
Meet your trip leader this morning, then enjoy a scenic drive south along Turnagain Arm and into the Chugach State Park and National Forest area, where you’ll embark on a beautiful guided hike complete with a delicious lunch in nature. Then, continue to the quaint community of Cooper Landing, home to Kenai Riverside Lodge. Arrive at the lodge this afternoon in time to get settled before a delicious dinner. Spend the night at Kenai Riverside Lodge.
Gear up for a rafting adventure into the heart of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and explore at the river’s pace! Watch for moose, bears, bald eagles and other bird species and enjoy a delicious picnic lunch along the river or on the shores of Skilak Lake before arriving at Kenai Backcountry Lodge in the late afternoon to settle into your cabin and enjoy a freshly prepared dinner served by candlelight. Spend the night at Kenai Backcountry Lodge.
Spend a full day exploring the remote wilderness of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Hike a secluded trail and at the top, explore the tundra and enjoy captivating views of the lake and surrounding wilderness. Return to the lodge in the afternoon and enjoy the wood-fired sauna or simply relax at the lodge. Depending on the weather, options for the evening may include an exploration of the lake by sturdy touring kayak or fireside natural history presentation by one of the lodge’s guides. Spend the night at Kenai Backcountry Lodge.
After a tasty breakfast in the main lodge, bid farewell to Kenai Backcountry Lodge and cross the lake on a scenic watercraft transfer. Enjoy a casual afternoon hike on a trail in the Chugach National Forest or Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Ask your guide about hiking to the Russian River Falls to view salmon as they swim upstream or venture along the Hideout Overlook Trail for views of open alpine meadows, a perfect opportunity to view wildlife and, in late summer, great berry picking! Relax in the evening on the riverside deck or enjoy a nice wood-fired sauna. Spend the night at Kenai Riverside Lodge.
This morning, we’ll head to Seward, a picturesque seacoast town situated at the head of Resurrection Bay. Embark on a four-hour marine wildlife and glacier cruise bound for Kenai Fjords National Park, home to an array of glaciers and marine wildlife such as whales, Steller sea lions, sea otters, puffins and more! Enjoy lunch in front of a tidewater glacier before arriving at their exclusive lodge destination: Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. Spend the night at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.
Enjoy a full day of exploration at the lodge and choose from an array of activities to match your interest and energy level. Guided options include interpretive nature walks, sea kayaking amid glacial ice, canoeing in the lagoon and coastal explorations. Or relax at the lodge by the woodstove, peruse the natural history library or take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront. Spend the night at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.
This morning allows for a final half-day activity at the Glacier Lodge before boarding the boat for the return coastal wildlife cruise to Seward. From there, board the historic Alaska Railroad for a scenic backcountry rail tour to Anchorage, arriving at approximately 10:15 pm.
Alaska Wildland Adventures
Read more about Alaska Wildland Adventures
Alaska and adventure go hand-in-hand. Snow-capped mountains, ice-age glaciers, white rapids, clear water streams, dense forests and wide-open tundra. Discover the allure of America’s Last Frontier on a small-group, interactive experience with Alaska Wildland Adventures that blends the best of outdoor adventuring by day and the most comfortable lodge experience by night.
Accommodations
Stay at one, two or all three of the award-winning eco-lodges on the Kenai Peninsula: the Kenai Riverside Lodge located on the banks of the famous Kenai River, the remote Kenai Backcountry Lodge on glacial-carved Skilak Lake or the seacoast paradise Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. AWA’s three amazing wilderness lodges feature the perfect balance of rustically modern and private cabins, delicious and locally-sourced food, immersive activities and locations that introduce you to the real, authentic Alaska.
Kenai Riverside Lodge
The original log lodge and cabins in Cooper Landing, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and located right on the banks of the upper Kenai River. Guest cabins are nestled into the trees surrounding the main lodge and have the rustic charm of historic pioneer cabins but with modern comforts like heat, lights, private bath, comfy beds and Adirondack chairs on the front porch. The cozy cabins accommodate up to four people. The newly expanded property features nine gorgeous acres of peaceful, wooded beauty on the banks of the Kenai River. Choose from a mix of charming lodging styles, the riverside cabins—which come standard with every stay—to one of the upscale guest suites and homes.
- Spacious elevated deck with Adirondack chairs
- Firepit
- Wood-fired sauna
- Self-guided nature paths
- Sand volleyball
- Badminton
- Horseshoe
- Canopy-covered ping-pong table
Kenai Backcountry Lodge
Originally built in the 1930s as a remote hunting lodge, the lodge is located on a glacier-carved lake accessible only by boat. The nine guest cabins in wooded settings are connected to the historic main lodge by gravel pathways and boardwalks. The newly renovated guest cabins each have a minimum of two comfy beds, a private bath and shower, a private porch and propane light and heat. Electrical outlets for recharging electronics are available in the main lodge and other public spaces on the property.
- Wood-fired sauna
- Canopy-covered ping-pong table
- Lakeside chairs and campfire area
- Screened-in gazebo
- CPAP machines supported in certain cabins
Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge
The newest wilderness lodge, this seacoast paradise is surrounded by Kenai Fjords National Park and is the only lodge located within the park. A network of boardwalks connects the cabins to the main lodge which features a beautiful dining room and lounge area, as well as a staffed bar. Each guest cabin features cozy beds, on-demand heat and electricity, a private en-suite bathroom with amenities and a private porch with views of Pedersen Lagoon Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Spacious elevated deck with rocking chairs
- Wood-fired cedar sauna with Finnish stove and stone hearth
- Walking trails
- Rocky beach on Aialik Bay
- Off the grid (no internet or cell service)
*Your trip may include a lodge not featured above, but rest assured that all overnight stays on your tour will feature rustically modern lodges and private cabins on par with the accommodations above.
Map
FAQ
- Airfare or other transportation to/from Anchorage
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips or gratuities
- Any other services or add-ons not listed in the itinerary
This packing list will help to ensure that you have everything you need for your trip. Plan your travel wardrobe around informal and comfortable clothing; even at mealtimes, dress is casual. The weather in Alaska is quite variable so clothing which can be layered is ideal. Of special note is to make sure you bring a high-quality rain suit so that even if it rains, you can stay comfortable outdoors and have an enjoyable experience. Items made of wool or synthetic fabric remain comfortable and warm even when wet.
LUGGAGE: Due to the small-scale, remote nature of their lodges, they ask that you bring duffel bags as luggage. However, if your trusty roller bag is best for you, bring that along. Please note that your luggage will not always be accessible during travel so bring a day pack for any items that you will want to have at hand at all times.
RAIN GEAR: During kayak excursions, group canoe paddles and explorations on foot, a good quality rain suit (both top and bottom) is a must to keep you warm and dry. Please do NOT bring a plastic or vinyl rain suit or poncho; these tend to tear easily and quickly.
Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge is located in pristine, remote Alaskan wilderness and is only accessible by boat. In rare circumstances, due to high winds, weather fronts or ocean conditions, we are unable to access the lodge at scheduled times. Alternative activities and accommodations have been planned for this uncommon occurrence and will be discussed with you when you check in at the Seward office if necessary.
1. Seamless Convenience. Explore Alaska at a relaxed pace knowing that all of your itinerary details are taken care of in one seamless adventure: round-trip ground transportation to and from Anchorage and lodges included; a variety of guided activities; accommodations at three distinct Alaska lodges; delicious meals and more!
2.Exceptional Wilderness Destinations. This in-depth exploration of the magical Kenai Peninsula focuses on some of Alaska's most stunning wilderness areas. Experience Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge within Kenai Fjords National Park and Kenai Backcountry Lodge surrounded by a million acres of wilderness in Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.
3. Authentic Alaskan Activities. Choose daily activities to meet your energy and interest level. Spend a day rafting the jade-green waters of the Kenai River searching for wildlife as you float through the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Take in the sights while enjoying a picnic lunch on the shore of a glacier-carved lake. This exclusive itinerary also includes hiking, kayaking, canoeing, a Kenai Fjords National Park marine wildlife & tidewater glacier cruise and more with expert guides.
4. Rustic Luxury & Alaskan Ambiance. Whether you spend your day hiking through hemlock forests or paddling a kayak amid harbor seals and glacial ice, in the evening, return to the comforts of their elegantly rustic lodges, delicious meals prepared by our talented chefs and comfortably appointed accommodations.
5. More Value for Your Vacation Dollar. Wilderness Alaska is remote and very expensive to access...usually. This seamless itinerary links seven days and six nights of all-inclusive Alaska adventures at a great value, including special youth rates.
Terms
Trip operated by Alaska Wildland Adventures, which owns and operates the Kenai Backcountry Lodge, the Kenai Riverside Lodge, the Kenai Riverside Fishing Program, and the Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.
Payment Policies
All trip prices are based on double occupancy. Taxes and seasonal fuel surcharges, when applicable, are not included in the trip price and are subject to change prior to trip departure. We accept checks, MasterCard, Visa and Discover.
Payment Schedule: Amount Due per Person:
- 121+ days prior to departure: $1,000 or 50% of the trip total, whichever is less
- 120 to 61 days: 50% of total
- Within 60 days: 100% of total
For Alaska Trip Add-Ons, additional deposits will apply in accordance with the specific Trip Add-On and operator. These deposit terms will be explained at the time of booking.
Reservations made within 60 days must be guaranteed with MasterCard, Visa or Discover. Late payments may result in releasing your reservation and rebooking will be subject to availability. Cancellation fees will apply.
Upon receipt of your initial deposit, we will send you written confirmation, trip planning materials and a travel insurance application. We recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Cancellation Policy
Our policies go into effect at the time of book and upon receipt of the deposit. Written cancellations and changes must be received in our reservations office to be valid. Non-appearance for the program will result in no refund. We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
If the cancellation or change occurs:
- 121+ days prior to departure: The fee is $300 or 10% of the trip total, per person, whichever is less
- 120 to 91 days: The fee is $600 or 20% of the trip total, per person, whichever is less
- 90 to 46 days: 50% of total trip cost, per person
- Within 45 days: 100% of total trip cost, per person
Refunds
No refunds will be made on individual features, transfers or sightseeing voluntarily omitted by the participant. No refunds for unused services will be issued. Our tours operate rain or shine. Refunds for canceled flights or any services reserved outside of Alaska Wildland Adventures will be made in accordance with the rules of the carrier.
Travel Protection
We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans can include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more.
A Note About Occupancy
In addition to our standard double occupancy, we also offer solo supplement, triple and quad pricing options for our Alaska adventure vacations. Requested solo accommodations, when available, are subject to a solo supplement fee; however, for a solo traveler interested in sharing accommodations with another same-sex traveler, we will make every effort to pair you, and the solo supplement fee will be waived. Occasionally, pairing is not possible and a “forced solo” rate will apply during the Alaska vacation. If you are a solo traveler and you’d like to experience an Alaska vacation with Alaska Wildland Adventures, we will do all we can to have you join us!
A Note About Weather
Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge is located in the pristine, remote Alaskan wilderness and is only accessible by boat. In rare circumstances, due to high winds, weather fronts or ocean conditions, we are unable to access the lodge at scheduled times. Alternative activities and accommodations have been planned for this uncommon occurrence and will be discussed with you when you check-in at our Seward office if necessary.