Alaska Expedition - 24
Trip Summary
For 24 days, step into the Last Frontier, a wild region surrounded by turquoise fjords, lush forests, and massive glaciers. Explore the Chugach Mountains' mossy alpine meadows and spruce and birch forests, and ice climb on the impressive Matanuska Glacier. Navigate the bluest-green waters you’ve ever seen while sea kayaking in Prince William Sound. Finish your trip with a backpacking adventure in Denali State Park, where you might catch a glimpse of North America's highest peak, followed by a thrilled whitewater day on the Nenana River.
The Alaska Expedition is perfect for teens looking for the next level of challenge in the outdoors.
Itinerary
Backpack in Chugach National Forest
For four days, refresh your backpacking skills as you set out on perhaps the most scenic hike in the entire range: Crow Pass (which follows the original Iditarod Trail). You and your group will pass over glaciers, through mine ruins and wildflower fields, and beside waterfalls. You may see moose, caribou, goats, and other wildlife native only to this subarctic region. Prepare to glissade down a snowfield!
Ice climb on the Matanuska Glacier
One of our students' favorite activities: Spend two days learning how to ice climb on this sparkling blue glacier. Learn how to ascend gently sloping walls with ice tools and crampons, and pose for a photo op at the top of each climb. You may even get up close and personal with a crevasse!
Sea kayak in Prince William Sound
Four days on these turquoise waters will heighten your appreciation for Alaska’s wildest natural landscapes. Glide through calm fjords right next to waterfalls, calving glaciers, and peaks soaring up to 9,000 feet. The wildlife is abundant; you may see bald eagles, otters, porpoises, and maybe even an Orca! At night, surround yourself with your best friends while camping on black sand beaches. When the sun peeks out, you may find yourself jumping into a turquoise swimming hole.
Backpack in Denali State Park
Finish your trip with four days in the rugged territory that houses North America’s tallest and most awe-inspiring mountain. Hike along the Kesugi Ridge through lush forests, vast tundra, and past an alpine lake. You’ll definitely want to do a “clear day dance,” as the view of the 20,308-foot Denali is jaw-dropping on a bluebird day!
Whitewater raft the Nenana River
Get excited for a day on the Nenana River—one of the coolest rafting spots in Alaska. The gorge is home to neat wildlife like sheep, moose, bear, wolves, anbd golden eagles. Bordering Denali National Park, you're guaranteed a memorable and beautiful day!
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