Alaska: Majestic Wilderness and Glacial Wonders

Hope - Seward

Photography, Adventure, Hiking, Exploration, Wildlife

Activity Level: 4

Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Alaska, a land of rugged wilderness and breathtaking landscapes. Here you can embark on exhilarating hikes through pristine trails, witness majestic glaciers up close on a thrilling cruise, and ascend to lofty heights aboard an aerial tram as you experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of America's Last Frontier. Wrap up your experience with a challenging but exhilarating hike to the base Exit Glacier and the Harding Icefield where you'll savor unforgettable views. Whether you're discovering Alaska for the first time or re-discovering it's beauty again, get ready for an action packed week of exploring the rugged Alaskan outdoors! Please Note: This is a participatory camping, in which all travelers will be assisting in setting up camp and cooking meals. Guides will teach you the best methods for quick set up and take down of tents, and will lead the cooking, providing clear instructions and oversight. If you’ve never set up camp or cooked outdoors before, this is the perfect opportunity to learn under expert supervision!

  • 7 days

  • 8 - 10 spots

  • Double occupancy in tents

  • 6 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches and 6 Dinners

  • TrovaTrip will provide 1 transfer from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) , between 12 PM and 1 PM

  • TrovaTrip will provide 1 transfer to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) on the last day

Activities Included

  • Portage Pass Trail
  • Glacier Cruise
  • Aerial Tram
  • Hike down from Mount Alyeska
  • Johnson Pass Hike
  • Exit Glacier Hike
  • Tonsina Point Hike

Other Inclusions

  • Double occupancy in tents
  • Local guide throughout trip
  • All city transfers
  • Arrival airport transfer (until 1pm on first day)
  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day) Please book your flights after 3:00 P.M.
  • All camping equipment (except pillow)
  • All Entrance Fees to the Parks and Activities are Included

Optional Activities

  • Kayak Tour

Exclusions

  • International flights
  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)
  • Visas and travel insurance
  • Airport transfers outside of designated times
  • Pillow
  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

Day 1

info

Day 1

Welcome to Alaska! TrovaTrip will pick you up from the airport and transfer you to the campground where you'll have dinner. Plan to arrive by 1 pm. Camping is part of this incredible experience; you will set up and pack up your tent and help prep all meals! Since you'll be out on adventures most days, lunch will be picnic-style or bagged lunches. If you've never camped before, no worries, your professional Guide will always be there to help.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Arrival Airport Transfer

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) to the campground between 12pm and 1pm. Please arrive by 1:00pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to your arrival based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to meet the group at the campground.

meal

dinner

Included welcome dinner at camp. Camp dinners typically consist of meals like pastas, stews, burgers, BBQ, stir frys, etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

accommodation

Coldwater Lodge/Creekbend Campground, or similar

Overnight in Hope

Day 2

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Day 2

This morning you’ll enjoy breakfast at camp and then head out for your first hike in the final frontier! After transferring to the trailhead, you’ll hike to amazing views of Portage Glacier and lake. You’ll have lunch on the hike and then after the hike you’ll head to the dock to hop on an afternoon glacier cruise. Sail through the icy cold waters as you get up close to the glaciers and ice. In the evening after the cruise, you’ll head back to camp to cook up dinner and close out the day. Be sure to bring a day pack, water bottle, hiking boots, sunglasses, sun screen, rain wear (jacket and pants if needed).

meal

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include pastries, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Transfer to the Trailhead

Take a private transfer to the trailhead (~1 hr)

activity

APPROX. 3 HOURS 30 MIN

Portage Pass Trail

Enjoy a morning hike with your group. Get a first look at Alaska's wilderness and a birds eye view of Portage Glacier and Portage Lake. You’ll begin the hike with a consistent and steady climb. Catch views of Learnard Glacier as you make your way to the top of the pass. As you begin to reach the pass, the trail levels out a bit with less incline. Distance: 4.4 miles out-and-back / Elevation Gain: 1437 ft / Duration: 3.5 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

meal

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, fruits, salads, etc.

activity

APPROX. 3 HOURS 30 MIN

Glacier Cruise

After the hike, you’ll take a quick 5 minute transfer directly to the water where you’ll embark on a public Glacier Cruise. Get incredibly close to the mighty glaciers and shimmering waterfalls cascading against the dark rock into the sea. Watch for sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, dall’s porpoises, whales, mountain goats, black bears and migratory birds.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Return Transfer to Campground

Take a private transfer back to the campground.

meal

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners typically consist of meals like pastas, stews, burgers, BBQ, stir frys, etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

accommodation

Coldwater Lodge/Creekbend Campground, or similar

Overnight in Hope

Day 3

info

Day 3

Good morning and get ready for some more memorable views! After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Girdwood and the Alyeska Resort. Rise above the Girdwood valley on an aerial tram. Have lunch with amazing views and then hike down from Mount Alyeska. After reaching the bottom, you’ll head back to camp to relax. Be sure to bring a day pack, water bottle, hiking boots, sunglasses, sun screen, rain gear (jacket and pants if needed).

meal

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include pastries, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Transfer to Girdwood

Take a private transfer to Girdwood.

activity

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Aerial Tram

One of Girdwood’s quintessential experiences is to ride the tram at Alyeska Resort to the top of Mount Alyeska. The 60-passenger tram provides a scenic ride to the 2,300-foot level, where you'll overlook dramatic views of Turnagain Arm and seven glaciers nestled in the surrounding peaks.

meal

lunch

Included picnic lunch on Mount Alyeska or in Girdwood - depending on weather. Picnic lunches usually consist of sandwiches, fruits, salads, etc.

activity

APPROX. 2 HOURS 30 MIN

Hike down from Mount Alyeska

Hike down from the top of the Aerial tram ride. Take in the views of the Girdwood valley as you descend the steep trail down the mountain over many switchbacks. Alyeska North Face Trail - Distance: 2.2 miles / Elevation loss: 2300 ft / Duration: 2.5 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Return Transfer to Campground

Take a private transfer back to the campground.

meal

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners typically consist of meals like pastas, stews, burgers, BBQ, stir frys, etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

accommodation

Coldwater Lodge/Creekbend Campground, or similar

Overnight in Hope

Day 4

info

Day 4

After breakfast, say goodbye to Hope as today you will be heading down to Seward. You’ll stop to hike a section of the Johnson Pass Trail, a historic byway that's seen many uses throughout its history. Enjoy lunch on the hike and continue your transfer to Seward where you will stop at different scenic viewpoints along the way. You’ll reach Seward in the evening where you’ll set up camp and cook and eat dinner. Be sure to bring a day pack, water bottle, hiking boots, sunglasses, sun screen, rain wear (jacket and pants if needed).

meal

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include pastries, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR

Transfer to Johnson Pass Trailhead

Take a private transfer to the Johnson Pass Trailhead.

activity

APPROX. 4 HOURS

Johnson Pass Hike

The Johnson Pass Trail originated in the 1890s as a route for Iditarod miners who raced north from Seward to Nome. It later was developed into a wagon road by merchants and miners who settled the area. The Alaska Road Commission then used it as a thoroughfare through the 1930s. Today this popular hiking trail travels portions of the historic Iditarod Trail between Moose Pass and Granite Creek with bridged streams and mostly easy grades. The entirety of the Johnson Pass Trail is over 20 miles long. You will hike approximately 5 miles depending on your group's ability. Distance: Approx. 5 miles out-and-back / Elevation: Varies / Difficulty: Moderate / Duration: Approx. 4 hours.

meal

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, fruits, salads, etc.

transfer

APPROX. 1 HOUR 30 MIN

Transfer to Seward

Continue your transfer from Johnson Pass to Seward. You will make stops at Moose Pass and a few other picturesque viewpoints along the way.

meal

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners typically consist of meals like pastas, stews, burgers, BBQ, stir frys, etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

accommodation

Millers Landing Campground, or similar

Overnight in Seward

Day 5

info

Day 5

Wake up rested as you’ll be tackling a spectacular and ambitious climb today! Fill up on breakfast and transfer to the Exit Glacier trailhead. You’ll spend the day climbing through the forest and eventually reaching the icefield. Fill up with lunch on the hike, then return to the bottom and back to camp to relax your weary legs! Be sure to bring a day pack, water bottle(s), hiking boots, sunglasses, sun screen, rain wear (jacket and pants if needed).

meal

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include pastries, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

activity

APPROX. 8 HOURS

Exit Glacier Hike

Lace up your hiking boots and take a 30 minute transfer to the trailhead and follow your guide to a hike above the tree line to the top of Exit Glacier where it meets the Harding Icefield. The icefield stretches to the horizon and is one of the most awe-inspiring views you will ever experience. This is a strenuous hike and in order to reach the Harding Icefield you will gain over 3,000 feet in just 4 miles. You will begin by hiking up through trees and brush before it thins and you make your ascent on switchbacks trails. This is the most difficult portion of the hike. After you reach the top, you'll continue on a slower but gradual incline as you make your way to the icefield. You will not need crampons; if the trail has too much snow or ice, your guide will route you on a different path or you will hike back for your safety. On your way back down the mountain, keep your eyes open for marmots, mountain goats, and of course, bears! After returning to the trailhead you'll take a 30 minute transfer back to the campground. *Depending on conditions the top may not be fully accessible. Distance: 9.2 miles out-and-back / Elevation gain: 3,641 ft on the ascent / Duration: 6-8 hours / Difficulty: Strenuous/Hard

meal

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, fruits, salads, etc.

meal

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners typically consist of meals like pastas, stews, burgers, BBQ, stir frys, etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

accommodation

Millers Landing Campground, or similar

Overnight in Seward

Day 6

info

Day 6

Enjoy the morning off and relax after the strenuous hike from yesterday, or, for those who signed up, spend this morning gliding across the water in Resurrection Bay. Depending on weather you may enjoy lunch at the campground as a group or enjoy it on your hike this afternoon. You’ll hike along the shoreline of Resurrection Bay for your last hike and take in the views and smells of this amazing wilderness one last time. In the late afternoon or evening, you’ll return to the campground to cook and enjoy your final meal together. Be sure to bring a day pack, water bottle, hiking boots, sunglasses, sun screen, rain wear (jacket and pants if needed).

meal

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include pastries, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

activity

APPROX. 4 HOURS

Kayak Tour (Optional)

This half day trip offers a perfect introduction to sea kayaking, the best way to experience Resurrection Bay. Glide across the water as you gaze up at towering mountains and soaring bald eagles, enjoy a visit from curious harbor seals, or stop and explore the enchanting Ghost Forest. For millennia, this serpentine coastline has been traveled by kayak, the traditional transportation in this area. This activity combines purposeful exploration, adventure, and fun! You will be provided with a paddle, pogies for your hands, life jackets, spraydecks, and splash gear (if necessary). No prior experience required. For this activity you’ll want to wear warm synthetic/wool layers and rain gear (jacket and pants), and bring a water bottle. Please note this activity has a weight limit of 220 lbs.

meal

lunch

Included pack lunch at the campground or on the hike - weather dependent. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, fruits, salads, etc.

activity

APPROX. 2 HOURS 30 MIN

Tonsina Point Hike

A short 10-15 minute drive from the campground takes you to the trailhead. This amazing trail will take you through the beautiful nature from the beach sections into the forest sections. This trail is a gradual climb along the shoreline of Resurrection Bay. As you head into the forested areas you’ll see blooming irises, cottonwood, spruce, and hemlock trees. If you’re lucky you may see salmon spawning in Tonisa creek. After returning to the trailhead, you’ll head back to camp. Distance: 3.4 miles / Elevation: 730 ft / Duration: 2.5 hours / Difficulty: Moderately Easy

meal

dinner

Included farewell dinner at camp. Camp dinners typically consist of meals like pastas, stews, burgers, BBQ, stir frys, etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

accommodation

Millers Landing Campground, or similar

Overnight in Seward

Day 7

info

Day 7

All good things must come to an end! After breakfast you'll transfer to the airport and bid farewell for now. Please book your flights after 3pm.

meal

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include pastries, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

transfer

APPROX. 3 HOURS

Departure Airport Transfer

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from the campground in Seward to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) on the last day. Please book your flights after 3:00 P.M. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC).

Itinerary Details

Itineraries may change throughout the year due to several factors including logistical issues, Traveler feedback, or operational changes. The provided itinerary, including estimated times, serve as guidelines only. As your date of travel approaches, our Operators will amend the itinerary to include more details, adjust activities and provide updated information.

TrovaTrip and our Operators reserve the right to alter itineraries as we deem necessary before and during your experience in-destination.

Our 1% Promise

In partnership with The Cool Effect, 1% of your booking will be donated to reduce carbon emissions through community-based initiatives around the globe. Learn more at cooleffect.org.

$1829+ USD

per traveler
Request trip

$1829+ USD

per traveler