Exploring Alaska's Coastal WildernessAboard the National Geographic Sea Bird

Extend your Trip with an Optional Extension: Denali National Park

Optional Pre- or Post-Voyage Extension: Denali, Alaska
This extension to the heart of Denali can only be taken before or after selecting the August 2013 departure.

Pre-Voyage: August 4-10, 2013*
Post-Voyage: August 18-24, 2013

* Pre-voyage Extension, August 4-10, 2013 does not include one hotel night on your own, after the extension (and before the voyage).

DENALI NATIONAL PARK – 7 DAYS with the idyllic North Face Lodge as your base camp, you’ll experience Denali National Park as few visitors get to. Set deep in the heart of the park, this unique wilderness retreat offers unparalleled views of Mt. McKinley, a wide range of outdoor activities and nightly presentations that emphasize Denali’s natural and cultural history, locally-sourced cuisine and special access to the park. The North Face Lodge’s relationship with the park ensures exclusive opportunities for you to explore Denali's most pristine back-country areas for prime hiking and wildlife viewing. Additionally, the small group size of eleven guests per every naturalist enhances the intimacy of outings and opportunities for in-depth learning about Denali National Park.

Itinerary:

DAY 1 — FAIRBANKS, ALASKA
Arrive in Fairbanks, transfer to your hotel and settle into your river view cabin at Pike’s Waterfront Lodge. This evening meet your leader and traveling companions at a welcome dinner. (D)

DAY 2 — FAIRBANKS / DENALI NATIONAL PARK / NORTH FACE LODGE
In the morning visit the University of Alaska Fairbanks Museum featuring collections that represent over 11,000 years of cultural traditions in the North. In the late morning we depart on a wilderness drive to our temporary home located within the heart of the park, the North Face Lodge. We’ll travel in the lodge's private bus, on the otherwise highly restricted Denali Park Road, in order to access prime wildlife viewing areas; a privilege extended to the owners of North Face Lodge and their guests. The seven-hour, 90-mile drive is rife with opportunities to look for Denali's famed wildlife: grizzlies, caribou, moose, Dall sheep, wolves, eagles, Arctic terns and more. We’ll enjoy a hearty, picnic-style dinner, served at the midpoint of the drive alongside the East Fork River. Regular bathroom stops at National Park Service facilities provide additional chances to stretch your legs. (B,L,D)

DAYS 3-5 — DENALI NATIONAL PARK / NORTH FACE LODGE
Immerse yourself in the remote wildness and north-country charm of the North Face Lodge, and become one with nature. See Denali’s rich wildlife, flora and fauna firsthand and learn about its natural history during the daily activities of your choice – hiking, canoeing, fishing and biking. Hiking is among guests’ favorite activities, as the lodge offers exclusive opportunities to hike with trained naturalist guides in the protected wilderness backcountry of Denali National Park. Optional flightseeing offers breathtaking aerial views of Alaska and is available at an additional cost. Days wind down with nightly presentations by the fireplace that focus on various aspects of Denali’s natural and cultural history, including birds, mammals, wildflowers, tundra ecology, geology, mountaineering, land use and natural resource issues. Rest well in well-appointed, comfortable rooms and enjoy delicious meals featuring fresh baked goods and locally-grown produce throughout your stay. (B,L,D)

DAY 6 — DENALI NATIONAL PARK / ANCHORAGE
This morning we depart the North Face Lodge and enjoy the scenic drive back out the park entrance. Continue to experience the grandeur of Alaska aboard the Alaska Railroad, enjoying the first class, GoldStar Service en route to Anchorage. Lavishly appointed cars feature custom-designed interiors highlighted with original Alaska art and a private outdoor viewing deck. Dinner will be served on board the train. Overnight at the Anchorage Hilton Hotel. (B,L,D)

DAY 7 — ANCHORAGE / SITKA OR JUNEAU / HOME
This morning fly to either Sitka or Juneau to begin your Alaska voyage. Or if your extension is taken after your voyage, transfer to the airport for connecting flights home. (B)

Pre- or Post-Voyage Extension Cost Per Person*:

Double Occupancy - $5,490
Single Occupancy - $7,890

*To be added to your voyage cost. A deposit of $550 is required at the time of booking. A second deposit is required and cancellation penalties apply.

Prices subject to change.

Cost Includes: All accommodations; meals indicated; guided activities; transfers and luggage handling.

Not Included: Air transportation to Fairbanks and from Anchorage; personal items; taxes; gratuities to guides.