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Discover Denali National Park

  • July 13 – July 18, 2025
$3,995

per person based on double occupancy

Reserve Now

  • DURATION

    6 Days

  • GROUP SIZE

    40

overview

Journey into the scenic wilds of America's northernmost state, through Alaska's rugged forests and wildlife. Your destination: the magnificent six-million acre Denali National Park and Reserve. Uncover the many wonders of the park during guided trail hikes and walks. And choose from a variety of exciting optional excursions to further personalize your experience. A highlight of this adventure includes traveling the historic Alaska Railroad route with superior viewing from your train's upgraded glass-dome seat.

tour map

tour highlights

– Fuel your inspiration. On board the train to Denali National Park, admire the rugged panoramic landscapes with prime viewing from the comfort of your upgraded glass dome seat.

– Customize your adventure. While in Denali National Park opt for independent touring or choose between a variety of exciting, unique optional excursions.

– Connect with nature. Immerse yourself within the beauty of the park with hopes of spotting moose, Dall sheep, eagles, wolves, migrating caribou and grizzly bears.

– Gain perspective and insight. Enjoy a special dinner presentation featuring a Murie Science & Learning Center educator. Also hear the dramatic tale of an Alaskan homesteader's summit of Denali.

day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Fairbanks, AK
Day 2: Fairbanks | Alaska Railroad | Denali National Park
Day 3: Denali National Park Wilderness Excursion
Day 4: Denali National Park
Day 5: Denali National Park | Talkeetna | Anchorage
Day 6: Depart Anchorage

full itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Day +1: Arrive in Fairbanks, AK

Sunday, July 13, 2025 (D)

Welcome to Fairbanks—known as “The Golden Heart of Alaska,” a reference to the discovery of gold in 1902 and its location in Alaska’s interior. Meet your Orbridge Expedition Leader and fellow travel companions at a welcome dinner, and prepare for your upcoming Denali activities and excursions.

Day +2: Fairbanks | Alaska Railroad | Denali National Park

Monday, July 14, 2025 (B,D)

With your Orbridge Expedition Leader, board the train to Denali National Park, traversing one of the most scenic stretches of the world-famous Alaska Railroad. It cuts through the northern boreal forests of interior Alaska where gold miners came to seek their fortune. Enjoy a rich panoply of views of America's northernmost frontier as you travel in the upgraded glass-dome train car.

Delight in breakfast aboard the train before arriving in Denali. Upon arriving at the park, take a short walk with your Expedition Leader to the Denali National Park Visitor Center for a brief orientation. View the exhibits or sign up for ranger-led talks, hikes, and other activities available during your stay in Denali. Afterward, take the courtesy shuttle to the Grande Denali Lodge.

This evening enjoy a lively dinner where you'll explore fun and unique features of the park with a presenter from the Murie Science and Learning Center.

You may purchase the following optional excursions in advance from our Guest Services team.

DogGoneIt Dog Sled Tour:
$65 per person; $55 per youth 12 and under (not recommended for children under 3)
Visit the home and kennel of Iditarod musher, Mike Santos, for an authentic look into rural Alaskan life. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating a championship dog-sled team, and hear compelling stories from the trail—see actual racing sleds, arctic survival gear, and equipment used to traverse 1,100 miles of Alaska’s most rugged terrain. Meet Alaskan husky puppies before watching adult huskies explode from the kennel on a training run. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 3 hours. Transportation is included.

Denali Glacier Landing Flight:
$685 per person; $635 per youth 9 and under
This exclusive 100-minute plane tour of Denali is the only tour where guests are granted permission to land and stand (for approximately 20-25 minutes) on one of Denali's glaciers. On board the aircraft, witness dramatic views of Denali's summit and the surrounding peaks and glaciers in the park, including the worlds deepest gorge at Ruth Glacier. Flight routes may change based on weather conditions. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Transportation is included.

Arctic Circle Flight:
$565 per person (not recommended for youth under 10)
Travel to the Arctic Circle on an extensive air-and-land adventure. From Denali, fly north across the Arctic Circle for a birds-eye view over the Alaskan wilderness, including the Brooks Mountain Range, Yukon River and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Land and visit an Arctic community with a population of less than 15. In the Brooks Mountain Range, take a walking tour with your guide, a descendant of the first homesteaders, and learn about subsistence living, survival ingenuity and the choice to live in the Arctic year-round. Re-board the plane for the return flight and, if the weather permits, take in aerial views of Denali. Upon returning, receive an official Arctic Circle Certificate. This excursion (including round-trip transportation) lasts approximately 7 hours. Transportation is included. Age and weight restrictions apply.

Wilderness Wave Raft Tour:
$120 per person; $70 per youth 5-11 years old
Enjoy a rafting trip along the natural boundary of Denali National Park. Glide through 11 miles of glacially carved valleys and amazing vistas with panoramic views of Mount Fellows and the Nenana Canyon with your rafting guide. Although you’ll encounter the occasional rapid, this option is mellow enough for all ages. You can actively paddle or sit back and relax.

Canyon Wave Raft Tour:
$120 per person; $70 per youth 5-11 years old
Set off on a rafting excursion through 11 miles of amazing rapids on the Nenana River with spectacular views of Mount Healy and Sugarloaf Mountain. Paddle with the rafting team or sit back and enjoy the ride on the oar boat.

Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure:
$130 per single-rider ATV; $225 per 2-person side-by-side ATV
Whether a novice or experienced ATVer, this excursion is a memorable experience in the Alaskan wilderness on your own automatic single ATV or 2-passenger side-by-side ATV. Led by knowledgeable guides, ride along trails around Denali National Park, at speeds up to 30 mph, including photography stops with breathtaking 360° views of the Alaska Range. This excursion covers approximately 10 miles during 1.5 hours on the trails.

Midnight Sun ATV Adventure:
$130 per single-rider ATV; $225 per 2-person side-by-side ATV
Make the best part of your day the start of your night. Novice and experienced riders, night owls and daylight adventurers can appreciate this exclusive Wilderness Adventure guided tour departing at 9:00 pm during the weeks surrounding the Summer Solstice. The Midnight Sun illuminates forest trails and prolonged sunsets bathe the mountains in a rosy glow. Choose from an automatic single ATV or multi-passenger side-by-side ATV. This excursion covers approximately 10 miles during 1.5 hours on the trails. NOTE: This tour is offered during certain departure dates due to seasonality and varying hours of daylight. Call for more information.

Optional excursions are non-refundable within 90 days of departure; prices subject to change. Not all excursions may be available. Availability is subject to sufficient participation and weather conditions. Space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability. For flight excursions, weight and minimum age requirements apply. Individual dressed weight and birthdate must be provided at time of booking.

Day +3: Denali National Park Wilderness Excursion 

Tuesday, July 15, 2025 (B,L,D)

Today travel along the Denali National Park Road on a naturalist-guided, back-country adventure for incredible scenery and some of the best opportunities to view the majestic Mount Denali. This tour includes walks and in-field discussions inside the park. Be sure to have your binoculars ready as you watch for wildlife. Enjoy a box lunch in this special setting.

The evening is at leisure. Choose either tonight or tomorrow evening to redeem your Alpenglow Restaurant dinner voucher at the lodge. The restaurant features breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and gourmet menu selections.

Day +4: Denali National Park

Wednesday, July 16, 2025 (B,R)

After breakfast participate in one of the pre-purchased optional excursions or enjoy free time to explore Denali. Take advantage of the self-guided hiking trails or informative ranger-led talks and activities offered in the park while marveling at the scenery.

Later reconvene for wine and dessert as you listen to Alaskan homesteader, Jimmie Hendricks, as he relives his journey and lifelong dream to explore Alaska and make it his home. Be amazed by his years of training, hard work, determination, and eventual summiting of North America’s tallest peak.

Day +5: Denali National Park | Talkeetna | Anchorage

Thursday, July 17, 2025 (B,R)

After an early breakfast continue your journey to Anchorage by motor coach.

At 2,363 feet, Broad Pass is the highest point and a migratory route for caribou. Arriving in Talkeetna embrace the panoramic views of Denali, North America's tallest peak (weather permitting). Enjoy free time to explore the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum and the Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station to learn about mountaineering operations, the scenic Talkeetna river trail, and various shops and cafes in town.

In Anchorage visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center—a vibrant cultural and educational institution dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of Alaska's Indigenous peoples. The center offers an immersive experience into the diverse cultures, traditions and histories of Alaska's 11 major Native groups through its comprehensive exhibits and interactive displays.

Later gather for a special farewell reception followed by an evening at leisure to explore Anchorage's many fine eateries and shops.

Day +6: Depart Anchorage

Friday, July 18, 2025 (B)

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the hotel before taking the complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • 1 night at Pike's Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks, 3 nights at Grande Denali Lodge and 1 night at Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage
  • 5 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners (including a dinner voucher for Grande Denali Lodge’s Alpenglow Restaurant) and 2 receptions
  • Rail transport to Denali National Park along the distinguished Alaska Railroad with reserved seating in the upper-level glass-dome car and priority seating in the dining room for breakfast and two complimentary alcoholic beverages (and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages) 
  • Hotel courtesy shuttle between the rail depot, Grande Denali Lodge, the Denali Park Visitor Center and town
  • A full-day guided wilderness tour into Denali National Park
  • Deluxe motor coach transport to Talkeetna and Anchorage
  • Admission to the Alaska Native Heritage Center
  • Services of an Orbridge Expedition Leader
  • Gratuities for Orbridge Expedition Leader, local guides, drivers, porters, housekeeping and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

rates

Category Rate*
Double: $3,995
Single: $5,295

*Special group rates; limited offer. Rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.

Travel Insurance

We recommend you look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. It's important to note that some coverage can be linked to timing of your initial payment.

Orbridge's travel insurance partner, Redpoint, has a specific policy option to meet your needs. Visit redpointtravelprotection.com/partner/orbridgecavalry for a quote and more information. To speak with a Redpoint agent directly, call (415) 481-0610 and their team will be glad to assist.

Membership Statement

One member of the traveling party is required to make a sustaining financial contribution of $50 to the Johns Hopkins Alumni Association within the fiscal year. Please visit www.alumni.jhu.edu/support. NOTE: A small portion of the cost of your trip supports the Johns Hopkins Alumni Travel Program.


Booking Flights

Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.

your guide(s)

Orbridge Expedition Leader

On this program, you will have the benefit of an expert Expedition Leader with extensive local knowledge and experience as a cultural, historic, and naturalist interpreter. With their contribution of exceptional know-how and enthusiasm adding depth to your experience, enjoy the cultures and locations you explore with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation. 

FAQS

Orbridge looks forward to welcoming you on tour. Find frequently asked questions below to help you prepare for your travels.

NOTE: For guests confirmed on this tour, important Program Documents will be sent to the email address provided during the reservation process approximately four to five months prior to your departure date. Final Documents will be emailed and shipped via FedEx approximately two weeks prior to your departure date.

If you have questions about those documents or have questions not addressed below, contact Orbridge Guest Services at (206) 855-6929 or via email at guestservices@orbridge.com.

ABOUT THE TOUR

The majority of this tour's activities will take place outdoors, and you can expect a fair amount of walking on varying terrain. The park has dirt trails, but they are usually fairly smooth for walking. Some have paved pathways and boardwalks. We expect that guests on can board and exit a motor coach or train without assistance and be sure-footed on terrain that can be muddy, slightly rocky or have exposed tree roots. If you can walk a moderately paced mile, you will be able to enjoy all of the excursions. Guests with differing abilities may have other opportunities to enjoy the park. Also, keep in mind that you will experience varying altitudes up to 3,980 feet in Denali National Park. You may not be accustomed to higher elevations, and it will be important to keep hydrated, get plenty of rest, and not over exert yourself.

Arrival and departure information is provided in the Air & Transfer section of the Confirmation Documents emailed to reserved guests approximately five to seven days after booking a tour. Guests who arrive and depart during the suggested times are eligible to receive complimentary airport transfers. If you need an additional copy of your Confirmation Documents or have questions, email guestservices@orbridge.com for assistance.

A visa is not required for this tour for U.S. citizens.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, traveling to the U.S. requires a passport and a visa unless you are coming from a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country. Ensure that your passport has sufficient space for entry and exit stamps and is valid for six months after the date of your return from this program. To check your visa status, visit www.travel.state.gov.

The U.S. Dollar is the currency used throughout this tour. We recommend you carry cash for meals and other items not included in the itinerary, such as beverages, incidentals, and personal shopping expenses, as well as for merchants who may not accept debit or credit cards. Although major credit cards are typically widely recognized, businesses may require a minimum purchase. Even when traveling domestically, inform your bank or credit card company of your travel plans prior to departure.

Summer temperatures in Denali are generally cool and damp with average high temperatures in the mid-60s°F and evening lows in the low 40s°F.

Check the forecast for the dates of your stay on www.weather.com to help you prepare.

All properties visited on this tour are equipped with standard North American 120-volt electrical outlets.

In Alaska's isolated terrain, cell phone service is sporadic. Pay phones are typically available in towns, and cell phones only work near the more populated areas. Wi-Fi is not available onboard the GoldStar Train. While it's rare, Wi-Fi may be available at shops or businesses in the more populated towns you visit. Wi-Fi is available at the hotels, but expect slower than normal internet speeds.

While viewing wildlife in their natural habitat, we strive to minimize our impact on the animals and the environment. Your Expedition Leader will ask you to follow these guidelines:

  • Litter, including biodegradable food waste, can be dangerous to wildlife. It's important to dispose of garbage properly. Carry it with you until you have access to a garbage bin.
  • Stay on marked trails, and follow other instructions for trail use. This will minimize soil erosion, and protect the environment and homes of wildlife.
  • Maintain a distance of at least 25 feet between yourself and any wildlife you encounter.
  • While viewing wildlife, maintain a quiet voice so as not to disturb the animals or other wildlife watchers.
  • Flash photography is not permitted when taking photos of wildlife.

Due to weight limits on trains and motor coaches, limit your luggage to one medium suitcase or duffle bag that is approximately 26 x 18 inches plus one small carry-on.

Check with your airline(s) for regulations on luggage sizes and fees for checked luggage. Check the TSA website for airport security screening protocols, including a list of prohibited items, instructions for traveling with liquids, and identification requirements.

We recommend traveling light. Warm, comfortable, casual clothing is appropriate for this tour. Summer weather in Alaska differs considerably, depending upon locations and weather patterns, so prepare for varying temperatures. Jeans and fleece outwear are the norm, including at the farewell dinner. Rain gear, including boots, will be provided on board according to the sizes you provide on the Rain Gear Form in your Confirmation Documents.

Dress in layers to help transition between the chilly outdoors and warmer, heated spaces or overcast skies and sun breaks. Pack like you would for winter: a windproof jacket; nylon, fleece or insulated pants; fleece sweatshirt and/or wool sweater; turtleneck; wool socks; long underwear; warm gloves or mittens; and a warm hat or beanie.

Bring lightweight hiking boots (preferably waterproof) for shore hikes and comfortable sneakers or closed-toe walking shoes. Bring boots/shoes that are already comfortable and broken in.

For those choosing to join longer hikes, bring collapsible trekking poles to help maintain balance in more challenging terrains, such as river crossings, tree-root-strewn trails, and wet-and-slippery wood bridges or boardwalks.

Consider bringing a daypack for cameras and binoculars, which are helpful for observing wildlife. Small compact binoculars have a very narrow field of view, making it difficult to locate objects. Smaller binoculars also restrict light and have very limited use in low-light conditions. We recommend a pair labeled 7X35 or 8X40 (a binocular 7X or 8X power range is adequate, and an exit ocular at 35 or 40 is good).

If you are sensitive to insect bites, be aware that both biting and non-biting insects can be an annoyance, especially in the state's interior locations where you'll tend to find a higher concentration of pests.

A packing list will be included with your Final Documents. Use this form to personalize for your own needs.

Click here to view comprehensive wellness protocols for this tour.

ABOUT MY RESERVATION

The online Guest Information (GIF) does not allow you return and make updates once originally submitted. To update existing information, email the details to guestservices@orbridge.com, and your account will be updated accordingly.

To complete the GIF for the first time, access the secure online form here. It should take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. The system will not save partially completed forms, so it's important to complete and submit the form in one sitting.

Access the secure passport form here to input information and upload an electronic copy.

Some domestic tours require us to collect a copy of the photo ID you plan to use while traveling in order to confirm on-tour arrangements. If you have been requested to provide a copy, upload a copy of your ID here.

To pay by check, make the check payable to Orbridge LLC and mail it to:

Orbridge
P.O. Box 1376
Poulsbo, WA 98370

To pay by credit card, click here to access our secure online credit card portal. Be sure to click “submit information” at the bottom of page one in order to be directed to the payment screen.

To pay by electronic funds transfer (EFT), click here to access our secure payment portal where you will be able to conveniently and securely provide your account and routing number.

Payments made by check or EFT may be eligible for a discount. Reference your final payment reminder or email guestservices@orbridge.com to learn more.