THE AMERICAS
Along the Alaska Railroad 8 days from $4,375
Get acquainted with the culture and character of Alaska—and its magnificent landscapes—on a journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage aboard the Alaska Railroad that includes three days in Denali National Park and Preserve. WHERE TO STAY Springhill Suites Fairbanks A comfortable hotel with spacious suites that feature separate sitting areas, located next to the Chena River in downtown Fairbanks. Kantishna Roadhouse A historic log-cabin lodge in the heart of Denali National Park that offers a true backcountry experience, with hiking, biking, fishing, dogsled demonstrations, and insight into local Athabascan culture. Hotel Captain Cook A celebrated hotel in downtown Anchorage offering views of the Cook Inlet or the Chugach Mountains from every room. 30
HIGHLIGHTS �
Ride the legendary Alaska Railroad through spectacular scenery, traveling from Fairbanks to Anchorage.
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Take a sternwheeler river cruise on the rivers of Fairbanks to learn about local history and culture
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Explore incomparable Denali National Park and Preserve on a variety of guided excursions and activities.
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Learn about native Alaskan culture throughout the trip, during presentations and demonstrations, and in the cultural hub of Anchorage.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Day 1 – Fairbanks, Alaska Fly to Fairbanks, in the heart of Alaska’s interior, and transfer to your downtown hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to discover the town and its surroundings. You might delve into the gold mining history of the region at a nearby gold dredge, or visit the SS Nenana National Historic Landmark—a sternwheeler ship built in the 1930s that allowed access to the Alaskan wilderness before roads were built. Day 2 – Fairbanks Board a sternwheeler riverboat for a shared cruise on the rivers surrounding Fairbanks. Step into history as you learn about the gold rush days at the start of the
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20th century, and get acquainted with local life and the native cultures of the region. Day 3 – Alaksa Railroad to Denali Set off on a scenic train journey aboard the Alaska Railroad, wending through magnificent landscapes on your way to Denali National Park and Preserve. A guide meets you for the transfer to your lodge, deep within the park’s wilderness. Keep your eye out for wildlife along the way. Settle into your cozy wooden cabin and explore the lovely grounds of your lodge. Days 4 & 5 – Denali National Park and Preserve Spend two full days exploring the heart the park. Your lodge offers a range of naturalist programs to choose from, including guided hikes, a visit to Wonder Lake, cultural presentations by native Alaskans, mountain biking, fly-fishing, gold panning, and wildlife viewing. You can also opt to take a light aircraft flight around the soaring Denali mountain. Day 6 – Alaska Railroad to Anchorage Watch for wildlife as you drive with your guide out of the park, then board the Alaska Railroad for the second leg of your train journey. Admire everchanging views of the Alaska wilderness as you travel south to Anchorage. Days 7 & 8 – Anchorage Enjoy a free day to explore Alaska’s largest city as you wish. Visit one of the city’s museums, such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center, rent a bike for a ride along the shores of the Cook Inlet, or meander among cafés and shops selling local art and handicrafts. Return home your final day.
