This morning disembark the ship and board our motorcoach headed to the Mt. Mckinley Princess Lodge, located in the Parks Highway in full view of Mt. McKinley. Leaving Whittier travel through the Anton Anderson rail and auto shared tunnel. This is the only road access to Whittier.
Traverse Turnagain Arm visited frequently by tidal changes that creat a bore tide because of the narrow with of this body of water. Pass through Anchorage to Palmer where we stop to visit the Musk Ox Farm. The farm is located just outside of Palmer, Alaska and is home to a unique domestication project which began in 1954. The Musk Ox Farm is an ideal place to observe and photograph these animals at close range. On the tour you'll learn about the history of the musk ox, a prehistoric remnant of the last great IceAge, and how it has been domesticated on the farm. You'll see cows, powerful bulls, and tame yearlings. The Musk Ox Project promotes the use of quiviut (the fine under-wool of the musk ox) as the basis of an Arctic native textile industry, which provides an economic industry, which provides an economic supplement to subsistence communities throughout Alaska.
Afterwards head north to Wasilla, where a stop is made at Iditarod Headquarters. You'll have chance to see original Iditarod Sled Dog Race equipment and numerous memorabilia from races of yesteryear. We stop of lunch (no host) along the way to the lodge.
The Mckinley Princess Lodge in Denali State Park, is located just 41 miles from Mt McKinley. Check with the front desk regarding numerous activities available.
The Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge sits on the banks of the Chulitna River, in Denali State Park, on the south side of Mr McKinley.
Day
2 : August 07
The drive today is about three and a half hours to Denali Nathonal Park. Along the way numerous fabulous views of Mr. McKinley are seen. Keep your camera ready and a sharp eye out for wildlife. At Denali we check into Denali Princess Wilderness lodge.
Thr Lodge is situated high above the Nenana River, is the premium river side accommodation in the area. An expansive deck over looks Denali National Park and the Nenna River -- the ideal spot to relax, visit with friends and savor the exquisite landscape.
Enjoy a soak in the outdoor hot tubs There are a numbers of restaurants and lounges in the hotel and many others close by. After check-in at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, go next door to the McKinley Chalets to exchange your Wildreness Tour voucher for tickets. Check at the Denali Park Resorts Tour Desk for the ticket exchange and also get the exact departure time and pick up location.
Depart from the McKinley Chalets, next door to your hotel at opproximately 1: 30pm, or the time assigned on your tour ticket, for your approximate six hour Wilderness tour.
On the Wilderness Tour you will travel deep into the park and may have the opportunity to spot some of the wildlife that roams freely-grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep moose, wolves and foxes. On a clear day you will have outstanding views of majestic Mt McKinley. A snack and beverage are provided. Be sure to wear layered clothing.
Day
3 : August 08
This morning you have free time to enjoy the National Park Service interpretative center or taken in a short and easy Park Ranger short hike.
Your hotel will ensure that your are transferred to the rail depot in time to check-in with the Gray LIne/Holland America representative at least 45 minutes prior to departure, for your seat assigment. The McKinley Explorer luxury dome rail car departs Denali at 12:15 pm. If you have luggage that needs to be checked, it will be tagged and taken tot he Alaska Railroad luggage car. You will be given instructions for luggage claim before arrivalin Anchorage.
Your conductor will keep you posted on points of interest along the way. A no-host, full-service restaurant is available on the lower level and coffee, tea and a no-host bar are available in the dome area for your enjoyment. Scheduled arrivel in Anchorage is 8:00 pm.
Transfer to your hotel with Holland America Tours / Gray Line. The Comfort Inn® Creek is located within walking distance from lovely downtown Anchorage on the banks of Ship Creek. Attractions that are just minutes away include the Alaska Railroad and the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. The hotel is along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, which offers spectacular views of Cook Inlet. The Anchorage Museum at Rasmusson Center, the Alaska Museum of Natural History and the William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center are also close by The downton area is full of wonderful shopping spots, numerous restaurants and local brewpubs.
Day
4 : August 09
Mid day we depart our hotel with luggage and transfer to the Anchorage Internatinal Aiport. But we leave in time to make a 2 hour visit to Alaska Native Heritage Center The Alaska Native Hertiage Center Offers the opportunity to explore the traditional ways of five distinct Alaskan Native cultures. The Welcome House cultures. The Welcome House contains interpretative displays and a theater hosting daily performances of traditional Native dance troupes. Five village exhibits representig the five major Alaskan Native representing the five major Alaskkan Native cultures will be nestled around a lake and walking trail. Traditional crafts and lifestyles will be demonstrated. The Center is open daily from 9:00 am - 6:00pm.
We will arrive at the airport about 5:30 pm in time for check-in and security clearance. We wish you a safe and pleasant journy home.
