The Ultimate Alaskan Travel Experience
Discover the Heartbeat of Alaska in Denali
Alaska remains a bucket list destination for many travelers in 2023 and while there is no shortage of ways to experience the Last Frontier—after all, it’s one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations—the ultimate Alaskan vacation involves paying a visit to North America’s tallest peak in the spectacular Denali. The 49th state can be awfully harsh given its expanse and climate so the summer months from May to September are typically the most appealing to tourists. This is also the period of time when visitors will have more options as many businesses are seasonal due to the challenging winter weather.
While visiting Alaska means embracing adventure it doesn’t require sacrificing convenience or comfort. Outdoor enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies, foodies, sports fans, history buffs and culture seekers alike are certain to make unforgettable memories here. As you plan your first or next Alaskan getaway, let this guide help you map your journey through this one-of-a-kind destination.
Fly into Alaska’s Largest and Most Accessible City
Flying into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) will be the easiest way to kick off your Alaska vacation as it can be reached from a slew of major U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Honolulu, Houston, New York, Seattle, Portland, Minneapolis, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Salt Lake City, among others.
ANC also boasts eye-popping Native art, scenic views for planespotting and tons of shopping and dining options, including Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse and Norton Sound Seafood House.
Explore Anchorage
Anchorage is a city worth exploring before you begin your journey north to Denali. This is a destination rich in history, culture and nature but visitors will also uncover plenty of traits they’ve come to love in other cities, including a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene. From world-class fine dining to dive bars, Anchorage won’t disappoint. If you’re in a rush, don’t set out before paying a visit to the one-of-a-kind Hotel Captain Hook.
Take Your Time in Talkeetna
As you make your way north toward Denali you’ll want to set apart some time to explore the charming and quaint village of Talkeetna—about a two-hour drive from Anchorage. Visitors can look forward to gorgeous views along the mighty Susitna River and a plethora of inviting shops and restaurants.
This place is so off-the-grid its unofficial mayor is a cat named Denali, which took over from another cat. You’re likely to find Denali roaming out front of Nagley’s General Store.
Drink and Dine Like a Local
Walkable highlights in Talkeetna include the Denali Brewpub and Homestead Kitchen. The latter is a foodie paradise, with Chef Richard Pace combining simple ingredients and Alaska’s special homesteading spirit to deliver satisfying dishes unique to the region, including chili with smoked reindeer sausage, a plethora of fresh Alaskan seafood like scallops, salmon and halibut as well as juicy burgers combining bison, elk and even wild boar.
Stay a Night or Two at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
Located just minutes from town, Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge is the ideal place to anchor your Denali adventure. Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge boasts 212 spacious guestrooms and suites across its guest lodge, main lodge and mountainside rooms. All rooms feature a full private bath and convenient amenities such as a hair dryer, coffee maker, refrigerator, satellite TV, telephone, and Wi-Fi.
Moreover, guests can upgrade to a suite to take advantage of a bubbling jacuzzi or walk-in shower and a cozy gas fireplace that will only enhance the stellar views of Denali.
Award-Winning Wine, Eats and Views
Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge guests are met by a cozy, crackling fire in the towering 46-foot-tall river rock fireplace, a jaw-dropping bear mount, and spectacular views of Denali and the breathtaking Alaskan landscape. Settle into a relaxing rocking chair for a moment of bliss and step out onto the deck for a fresh breath of air before checking out the unique selection of Native art in the gift shop and treating your taste buds at the lodge’s laidback Base Camp Bar.
Later, make plans to visit the mouthwatering Foraker Restaurant, which pairs panoramic views of Denali and the Alaska Range with an elegant menu of wild local seafood and game as well as an award-winning wine list.
Check into the Denali Cabins
When it comes to accommodations within Alaska’s majestic Denali National Park and Preserve, the Denali Cabins are a cut above, combining the perfect blend of Mother Nature and comfort in its 46 private cedar cabins located just eight miles south of the park entrance. These cabins can be reached after another two-hour ride from Talkeetna or about four hours from Anchorage. Or, you can take the train (more on that later).
Alaskan-Style Amenities
In addition to heated cabins complete with private baths, TVs, Wi-Fi and blackout curtains, guests can enjoy a complimentary shuttle to Denali National Park, grab a morning pick-me-up from the Mount Hunter Coffee Co., secure a special souvenir at the gift shop, soak in views, or take in the stars from the two outdoor hot tubs and drink and dine at the on-site restaurant in Prey Pub & Eatery.
The Best Food in the Park
Just steps away for Denali Cabins guests, Prey Pub & Eatery is serving up delicious breakfast and dinner items as well as desserts designed to enhance the classics travelers love with a unique Alaskan take. Examples include The Teklanika, which is house-made buttermilk biscuits topped with reindeer sausage gravy, and the Caribou Meatloaf served with tomato jam, red bliss smashed potatoes and Brussel sprouts.
Embark on a Denali Backcountry Adventure
Sightseeing in the Last Frontier doesn’t get any better than the Denali Backcountry Adventure. The full-day bus tour takes guests on a 65-mile journey along the scenic Denali Highway—named one of National Geographic’s “Drives of a Lifetime”—during which they’ll enjoy splendid views of the unspoiled wilderness, including wildlife and iconic landmarks such as the tour’s namesake mountain peak with the help of a knowledgeable guide. Keep in mind that the Denali Backcountry Adventure will not be running in 2023 but plans to resume tours in 2024.
Make New Friends at the Alpine Creek Lodge
The Denali Backcountry Adventure isn’t limited to a scenic bus ride. The tour also includes a stop at the Alpine Creek Lodge in Cantwell, where guests will receive a warm welcome from friendly lifelong Alaskans and be invited into their home to warm up and gear up for some epic excursions.
An Authentic Alaskan Experience
At the Alpine Creek Lodge, guests will have another chance to stretch their legs, enjoy a home-cooked lunch and participate in authentic Alaskan activities such as hiking, gold panning and even interacting with sled dog puppies. The lodge also boasts an on-site bar for those tourists in the mood for a local craft beer or cocktail.
Hop Aboard the Alaska Railroad
The award-winning Alaska Railroad offers both winter and summer packages for travelers, including a Centennial Special celebrating the railroad’s 100th year in operation in 2023. The railroad offers service to Alaska’s most popular destinations, including Anchorage, Denali, Fairbanks, Portage, Seward, Talkeetna and Whittier, among others.
Travelers can choose from easy one-way tickets to day trips and even comprehensive packages up to 12 days and 12 nights long. Onboard, guests can look forward to unrivaled service and amenities determined by which class they book. For example, GoldStar Service includes highlights such as glass-dome ceilings, upper-level outdoor viewing platforms, inclusive dining at the lower-level full-service dining car, a private bar and two complimentary adult beverages comfortable forward-facing seats and narration provided by an Alaskan tour guide.
The Rest is Up to You
As the peak season in Alaska quickly approaches, now is the time to talk to a trusted travel advisor and start planning your ultimate Alaskan getaway. What’s more, flexible travelers can even take advantage of rates from as low as $139 per night at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge this March and April.