Experience the magic of an Alaskan winter on a journey that combines breathtaking wilderness, iconic rail travel, and the unforgettable spectacle of the Aurora Borealis. With fewer visitors and greater opportunities to see snow-covered landscapes, winter reveals a quieter, more intimate side of Alaska.
Explore Denali National Park in its winter splendor, where crisp air and clear conditions often provide spectacular views of North America’s highest peak. Travel aboard the historic Alaska Railroad through dramatic mountain scenery, visit the kennels of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser for an inside look at the world of sled dog racing, and enjoy a stay at the renowned Alyeska resort in Girdwood, surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of the Chugach Mountains.
As darkness falls, venture into the Alaskan wilderness in search of the Aurora Borealis. Far from city lights, watch as ribbons of green, purple, and gold dance across the night sky, creating one of nature’s most extraordinary displays.
Feel the excitement of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, known as "Alaska's Last Great Race." Witness the Ceremonial Start in Anchorage before continuing to Willow for the Official Start, where mushers and their dog teams begin their epic 1,000-mile journey across Alaska's rugged winter wilderness.
With expert guidance and carefully selected experiences, discover Alaska's winter landscapes, traditions, and natural wonders in a way that's both seamless and unforgettable.
Itinerary
ARRIVE IN FAIRBANKS, ALASKA
Welcome to Fairbanks!
You’ve arrived in the “Golden Heart” of Alaska and gateway to Denali National Park. Later this evening, join your [LF] Local Guide and travel companions for your first glimpse of one of nature’s most magnificent shows—the aurora borealis (Northern Lights).
FAIRBANKS
Fairbanks Fun
Enjoy a leisure start to the day. This afternoon, explore Fairbanks on a city tour. Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, one of the most challenging and remarkable engineering feats of modern time. This evening is another opportunity to view the amazing aurora borealis light up the northern skies. (B)
FAIRBANKS – ALASKA RAILROAD – TALKEETNA
Riding the Rails
Travel from Fairbanks to Denali National Park to visit the Murie Science and Learning Center, Denali’s winter visitor center. Next, board the world-famous Alaska Railroad for your scenic journey south on the [LF] Aurora Winter Train to the quaint community of Talkeetna. Upon arrival in Talkeetna, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties. (B,L,D)
TALKEETNA – BIG LAKE – ANCHORAGE – GIRDWOOD
Heart & Soul on the Trail
Continue south today to meet four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser at his [LF] Happy Trails Kennel. Hear personal stories while viewing a glimpse of the grandeur Alaska has to offer along the Iditarod Trail. This afternoon, enjoy free time for lunch on your own and to explore Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage, before arriving at the town of Girdwood to overnight at the luxurious Hotel Alyeska for a 2-night stay. (B)
GIRDWOOD
Alaskan Adventure
Enjoy a full day at leisure—perfect for joining in a wide variety of optional activities. Consider flightseeing, fat-tire biking, snowmachine tours, downhill skiing, snowshoeing, a trip to the local brewery, ride on the aerial tram, or just relax at the Nordic Spa. (B)
GIRDWOOD – ANCHORAGE. CEREMONIAL START OF THE IDITAROD
Making Tracks
Return to Anchorage for the ceremonial start of the Iditarod. Meet the mushers and dogs, enjoy local food vendors, and join the celebration of Alaskan culture before they head into the wilderness. Later, discover the highlights of Alaska’s largest city on a guided sightseeing tour and enjoy free time this afternoon. Join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner this evening. (B,D)
ANCHORAGE. WILLOW
Official Start
Depart Anchorage for the adventure north to the Official Start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Visit Wasilla enroute to Willow, and cheer on your favorite teams at the starting line in Willow, at the true start of the race. Mushers take off across Willow Lake on the 1,049 mile (1,688 km) journey by dog sled to Nome. Return to Anchorage for free time this evening.
Includes Intra-vacation air transfers. Arrival and destination airfare not included.
Charges not included in the price may include but are not limited to: airfare to and from the start of your trip; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; applicable cruise taxes, fees, fares and port charges; passports; visas and vaccinations; transfers; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships' crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); additional excursions and activities not listed as 'included' in the itinerary; porterage at airports or train stations; Travel Protection premiums; and all other items of a personal nature.
The "Starting at" or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include international airfare. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Globus) in which case intra-vacation air and taxes are included in the price shown.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
