Alaska | Winter Wonderland Highlights

Travel Alaska during the winter months is a truly unforgettable experience. The last frontier is covered with a thick blanket of snow that invites you for snowmobiling, x-country skiing, dog sledding and northern lights (Aurora Borealis) observation. Travel along Turnagain Arm with the scenic snowcapped Kenai Mountains in the background, ski and rejuvenate at the world-class resort of Alyeska - Alaska's largest Ski Area and enjoy a guided snowmobile or sled dog tour from Talkeetna in the shadows of Mt.McKinley. The tour concludes at Chena Hot Springs with its mineral pools and renowned world-class Northern Lights observation possibilities.

Anchorage – Alyeska Ski Resort

Upon arrival in Anchorage pick up your Jeep, Nissan Pathfinder or Ford Explorer 4x4 rental car and drive south along the Turnagain Arm with panoramic views of the Chugach and Kenai Mountain Ranges. Stopover at the Beluga Viewpoint were you may have an excellent chance to spot roaming Dall Sheep, Mountain Goats or Moose. Continue your journey to Girdwood with Alaska's only four Diamond Resort Hotel nestled at the base of the Alyeska Mountain. Driving Distance: 50 Miles Overnight: Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Ski Resort

The Alyeska Ski Resort is remarkably the lowest base elevation (250 feet) for any major ski resort in the United States. This burgeoning mountain resort features 1,000 acres of terrain, ranging from gentle slopes for beginners to double black diamond runs to challenge the experts - all surrounded by the majestic mountains and glaciers of the Chugach Mountains. Cross-country skiers may enjoy 50 km of untracked trails. Additional winter activities include Dog Sledding, Snowshoeing, Ice Skating and Sled Rides. The resort provides a luxurious spa area, large indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzis, ice skating ring, eight restaurants and bars. Overnight: Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Ski Resort – Talkeetna

Leave Girdwood and continue your journey north with a stopover in Wasilla - Home of the Iditarod Trail Headquarter. Check out the museum with trophy's, displays and photos. The Parks Highway is the state widest and a year-around open road who connects Anchorage and Fairbanks (360 Miles). Enjoy the many vistas before you arrive in Talkeetna - founded 1917 and gateway to the unspoiled wilderness areas of the Denali State Park with excellent panoramic views of the Alaska & Talkeetna Mountain Range, glaciers and snow capped mountain peaks. Stay at a lodge with breathtaking views across the Susitna River Valley of the magnificent 20.320 ft Mount McKinley, Mount Foraker and Mount Hunter. Driving Distance: 180 Miles Overnight: Talkeetna

Talkeetna

After breakfast you have the option to join a guided snowmobile or sled dog tour starting in historic Talkeetna with a hot beverages and a snack stop at a remote log cabin overlooking the Talkeetna River. (Optional Sightseeing & Activity Tour) Extended tours are available just a short drive from Talkeetna along the Petersville Road. During the remaining day you have plenty of time to enjoy other winter activities including x-country skiing, ice fishing or snowshoeing on the local trails. Don't miss the beautiful sunset against the Alaska Range and Mt. McKinley! During the evening you may spot already the magnificent Northern Lights. Overnight: Talkeetna

Talkeetna – Fairbanks - Chena Hot Springs

You continue your journey on the Parks Highway via Denali National Park and Nenana to Fairbanks. Stopover and Fairbanks and visit the renowned Alaska University Museum. After arriving at Chena Hot Springs you may enjoy a dip in the natural mineral hot springs. The area is internationally recognized as one of the best places to view the Aurora Borealis in the wintertime. The 440-acre resort area (Ice Hotel) is also known for its healthy outdoor opportunities in the pristine wilderness of Alaska´s great Interior. Driving Distance: 280 Miles 

Chena Hot Springs

Spend your day at leisure: use the different whirlpool tubs, pools and the renowned natural outdoor Rock Lake; snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, get a massage, relax or revitalize your spirit. Tonight join the spectacular snow coach tour to see the aurora up close (included). From the resort you travel by snowcoach 30 minutes to the top of a ridge where no city lights interfere the aurora. For the next few hours you can enjoy spectacular 360-degree Aurora displays.

Chena Hot Springs – Fairbanks

After breakfast spend some time at Chena Hot Springs before departing for Fairbanks. Driving Distance: 60 Miles. You may extend your stay and overnight in Fairbanks before heading back home.