Group of guests on a river rafting excursion in alaska with their guide

Three people hiking in kenai fjords national park in alaska

Rocks along the coast of the kenai peninsula in alaska

River rafting excursion in the kenai fjords in alaska

Kayak paddling into the purple and orange sunset in the kenai peninsula in alaska

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Alaska Wildland Collection

/11

$4595^USD

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Overview
Itinerary
Rates & Dates
Accommodations
Expert Reviews
Testimonials
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Travel Guides

North America Alaska Land Tour

Alaska Wildland Collection

The 7-day Alaska Wildland Collection is a seamless Alaska adventure that promises remote and in-depth exploration of the magical Kenai Peninsula and Kenai National Park, with three distinct Kenai lodges as home base. Spend two nights each at the classic Kenai Riverside Lodge, situated along the bank of the beautiful Kenai River; at Kenai Backcountry Lodge, a historic and ecologically managed lodge; and at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge, the first and only lodge in Kenai Fjords National Park.

Take a scenic rafting trip down the Kenai River, searching for moose, eagles and salmon. Hike in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, where alpine tundra and splendid views of Skilak Lake make epic photographing opportunities. Journey farther south to Seward for a boat ride into the remote Kenai Fjords National Park. Hike to Russian River Falls where salmon run upstream or pick berries on the Hideout Overlook Trail. Board a custom catamaran to view glaciers, whales and other marine wildlife. Sea kayak and canoe on pristine shores and relax in the lodges’ libraries, common areas, private cabins, saunas and sun decks. Return to Anchorage on the historic Alaska Railroad through backcountry wilderness that is truly astounding.

Along the way, enjoy an array of guided activities to suit your interests and energy level. In the evening, enjoy fresh fare like grilled salmon and comfortably appointed accommodations while you soak up the authentic Alaskan hospitality. Alaska Wildland Collection is the perfect blend of wild, remote Alaska and backcountry lodge hospitality, all at a great value. Easy access from Anchorage, short travel times, fun activities and special youth rates make this a great family travel option in Alaska.

AdventureSmith Explorations’ crew of award-winning Alaska adventure experts have personal experience visiting the lodges and wilderness of the Kenai Peninsula. Contact us to discover more about the Alaska Wildland Collection and other options that suit your travel interests and timeline.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Alaska land tours or all Alaska trips by land and sea.

Itinerary

Alaska Wildland Collection Itinerary

The 7-day Alaska Wildland Collection operates round-trip from Anchorage, Alaska, with an overland transfer on day 1 and a coastal cruise and Alaska Railroad trip on day 7. Enjoy a day of river rafting and multiple days exploring the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, Chugach National Forest and Kenai Fjords National Park, sleeping each night in a remote wilderness lodge.

Route map of Alaska Wildland Collection land tour, operating round-trip from Anchorage, with activities in Kenai Fjords National Park including river rafting, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge exploration, Chugach National Forest activities and time spent in Seward.

Day 1

Anchorage to Cooper Landing

Meet the trip leader in the lobby of the Lakefront Anchorage Hotel at 10:00am. Enjoy a scenic drive south along Turnagain Arm and through the Chugach National Forest, with an afternoon of guided hiking to break up the drive. In the evening, arrive in the quaint community of Cooper Landing, home to Kenai Riverside Lodge, for dinner and trip orientation.

Accommodations

Kenai Riverside Lodge

Meals

dinner

Day 2

Kenai River Rafting

From the lodge’s launch site on the Kenai River, gear up for a scenic raft trip into the heart of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. On this class II, casual stretch of river, experience stunning backcountry sights and protected wilderness areas. Scan the surrounding areas for moose, bald eagles and other bird species, and salmon. A delicious picnic lunch will be served along the river or on the shore of Skilak Lake. Late afternoon, arrive at the boat-in-only Kenai Backcountry Lodge, a unique, historic inn. Enjoy appetizers and dinner in the main lodge, followed by evening activities. Relax in the outdoor gazebo or in the wood-fired sauna. For those brave souls, take a dip into the glacier-fed waters of Skilak Lake.

Accommodations

Kenai Backcountry Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3

Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Exploration

Spend a full day exploring the remote wilderness of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Hike the Cottonwood Creek Trail and travel through several fascinating ecological communities. At the top of the trail, explore the alpine tundra and enjoy splendid views of Skilak Lake and the surrounding wilderness. Return to the lodge in the afternoon and enjoy the wood-fired sauna or simply relax at the lodge. Depending on the weather, options for the evening may include an evening sunset kayak under the midnight sun or a fireside natural history presentation by one of the lodge’s guides.

Accommodations

Kenai Backcountry Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4

Chugach National Forest & Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

Cross the lake in the morning and say farewell to Kenai Backcountry Lodge as you return to Kenai Riverside Lodge. Enjoy a casual afternoon hike on a trail in the Chugach National Forest or Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. Ask your guide about hiking to the Russian River Falls to view salmon as they swim upstream, trying to leap over the falls to return to their spawning waters or venture along the Hideout Overlook Trail for views of open alpine meadows, a perfect opportunity to view wildlife and, in late summer, great berry picking! Relax in the evening on the riverside deck or enjoy a nice wood-fired sauna before savoring a hearty dinner at Kenai Riverside Lodge.

Accommodations

Kenai Riverside Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5

Seward & Kenai Fjords National Park

Following breakfast, bid farewell to Cooper Landing and the Kenai Riverside Lodge. Travel through the Chugach National Forest to the picturesque seacoast town of Seward, situated at the head of Resurrection Bay. Board a custom catamaran bound for Kenai Fjords National Park, home to an array of glaciers and marine wildlife such as whales, Stellar sea lions, sea otters and puffins. A four-hour cruise allows time to explore the dramatic coastlines. Enjoy lunch in front of a tidewater glacier before arriving at your exclusive lodge destination, Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge.

Nestled on the shores of a protected tidal lagoon, the Glacier Lodge offers miles of pristine beachfront for combing and views of the stunning Pedersen Glacier. This afternoon, meet your wilderness guides for a tour of the lodge and property and settle into your private cabins. Enjoy dinner and evening presentations.

Accommodations

Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6

Kenai Fjords National Park

After breakfast in the main lodge, choose from an array of activities to match your interest and energy level. Guided options include interpretive nature walks, canoeing, sea kayaking and coastal explorations; or, relax at the lodge and peruse the natural history library, or take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront.

Accommodations

Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 7

Seward & Alaska Railroad to Anchorage

This morning allows another opportunity to canoe, kayak or explore the area in the morning before bidding farewell to Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. Midday, embark on a return coastal wildlife cruise back to Seward. From there, board the historic Alaska Railroad for a scenic backcountry rail tour back to Anchorage. Dinner and hotel/airport transfers are not included, but meals are available for purchase on the train. Arrive at the Anchorage train station by 10:30pm and transfer to your hotel or the airport.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast, lunch

Details

Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Transportation from Anchorage, meals served family style in lodges indicated in itinerary, guided activities, return fare on the Alaska Railroad.

Exclusions

Airfare, taxes ($126.15 per person for 2021 double occupancy. Taxes are determined by each borough and municipality in Alaska and may change before final payment), beer and wine, meals on board the Alaska Railroad on the final day, Alaska Railroad Gold Star upgrades, fishing upgrades, cabin upgrades at Kenai Backcountry Lodge, gratuities and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of $1,000 is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 121 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 121 days – $300 or 10% of total trip cost, whichever is less
120 to 91 days – $600 or 20% of total trip cost, whichever is less
90 to 46 days – 50% of total trip cost
45 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The Alaska Wildland Collection begins and ends in Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). Plan to arrive in Anchorage in time to meet your trip leader at 10:00am in the lobby of the Lakefront Anchorage Hotel on day 1 (meeting location confirmed with reservation). The trip ends when your Alaska Railroad train arrives at the Anchorage station on day 7 at approximately 10:15pm. If you choose to fly home on the night of day 7, we suggest you book a flight that departs Anchorage after 1:00am the following day, in case of possible transportation delays.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the guides can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include rafting, a custom catamaran ride, sea kayaking, canoeing, interpretive nature walks, trail side picnics, swimming, hiking, berry picking, coastal explorations, wildlife viewing and a train ride.

Room Configuration

Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy room may do so at a 25% supplement of the per-person listed rate in select rooms upon availability. Single travelers interested in sharing accommodations with another guest of the same gender, will be charged the 25% single supplement then refunded this amount once a share is found. If a share is not found then the 25% single supplement will apply. Triple and quad rates with applicable taxes subject to availability, please inquire about discounts.

Families & Children

Kids 7 years and older are welcomed to participate on all adventures. Youth rates for kids ages 7-18 are available where applicable, in shared room with adult chaperone(s).

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captains’ and guides’ discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of adventure travel unique. Note that in rare circumstances due to high winds, weather fronts or ocean conditions, access the Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge may not be permitted at scheduled times. Alternative activities and accommodations are planned for this uncommon occurrence, but please be prepared for a possible change in schedule.

Rates & Dates

Trip Rates & Dates

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Aug 11 - Aug 17, 2021

7 days

From $3595^USD

Per Person

Aug 25 - Aug 31, 2021

7 days

From $3595^USD

Per Person

Accommodations

Learn About the Wilderness Lodges on Your Itinerary

Lodge

Kenai Riverside Lodge

Conveniently located on the scenic Upper Kenai River near Cooper Landing, Alaska, the Kenai Riverside Lodge is more than a world-class fishing lodge. You can hike, raft, fish, attend naturalist programs or stroll the nature trail overlooking the breathtaking Kenai River.

Lodge

Kenai Backcountry Lodge

Rustically elegant and heated by wood stove, the Kenai Backcountry Lodge is an exemplary backcountry lodge, offering an intimate Kenai Peninsula experience with up to 18 guests and off-the-grid sustainability efforts that help preserve and protect the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.

Lodge

Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

The wilderness eco lodge Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge is completely surrounded by Kenai Fjords National Park and is the only lodge located within the park.

Expert Review

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Todd Smith • November 13th, 2017

Expert Review: Alaska Wildland Collection

Alaska's Kenai Peninsula captures every environment that the state has to offer all in one small region. AdventureSmith's founder reviews his time at three wilderness lodges on the Alaska Wildland Collection.

Testimonials

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

"Absolutely Loved This Trip"

We absolutely loved this trip. The planning, communication, and coordination were seamless, and the many people with whom we interacted--from guides to waitstaff, cooks, and drivers--were knowledge, flexible, helpful, and pleasant. They all appeared to enjoy their jobs and to take pleasure in helping us appreciate Alaska's flora, fauna, and stunning natural environment as much as they do.

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

"Pristine Quality of the Wilderness"

The care this company has given to preserving the pristine quality of the wilderness while still showing clients the best the area has to offer, and a comfortable stay is really top drawer.

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

4 /5

"A++ Experience"

The whole staff were wonderful. Knowledgeable, accommodating, personable... The group dynamics were wonderful and truly enhanced the whole experience.

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

Vic C. - Miami Beach, FL

"Absolutely Loved This Trip"

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

Note that this review also includes comments from the additional nights stay at the Kantishna Roadhouse on the Denali Backcountry Explorer trip with AdventureSmith Explorations.

Accommodations Review

The lodges varied significantly in terms of locations and special features, but each provided a special environment for experiencing Alaska. The Wilderness Lodge, lacking running water or electricity in the rooms, was challenging in some respects. Getting up at 2:00 am and walking through cold dark woods to common toilet facilities wasn't particularly pleasant, but the lodge's remote location and rustic ambiance compensated. Moreover, two members of our group who had been looking unsuccessfully for the northern lights, accident found them one night on their way to the toilet. Thus a negative became a positive.

Meals Review

The lodges in the Alaska Wildland part of the trip stand out in regard to meals. Chefs at each lodge were both happy to accommodate our "pescatarian" preferences and available to discuss menus and recipes. Indeed, the chef at the Wilderness Lodge spent a good deal of time sharing some recipes we particularly enjoyed. The quality of food at these Wildlands lodges far exceeded our expectations.

Crew & Guides Review

Our trip leader in the Wildlands Collections was Christine. We have never met anyone as well-suited for her job as Christine. She brought new meaning to the word "enthusiastic," and she was incredibly well-prepared. She communicated clearly and at the right time so that we were always prepared for next steps and so that we would have an opportunity to share our needs or preferences with her. She seemed able to meet every need. Truly a wonderfully skilled and smart individual. All the guides were knowledgeable and personable--excellent in every respect--but two who stand out in our memories were KayDee in the Alaska Wildlands and Kerstein at the Kantishna Roadhouse. KayDee was remarkable for her flexibility and especially her willingness and ability to fit hikes to the widely varying needs of different individuals. Hiking with Kerstein was like attending a college class in the wilderness, and one taught by a charismatic and exciting teacher. She made even the most drab looking plant or dull rock interesting.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Excellent. Tiffany is a marvel of organization and communication. We were never confused or surprised by any of the connections in our complicated trip.

Traveler Advice

1. Use AdventureSmith. 2. Fly from Kantishna to the park headquarters. 3. Take advantage of every opportunity provided to enjoy the outdoors with guides.

Melissa A. - Tallahassee, FL

"Pristine Quality of the Wilderness"

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

4 /5

Alaska Wildland Adventures is a top notch company. All employees were excited about their jobs, friendly, helpful, eager to share their knowledge about the area, wildlife, etc.. The care this company has given to preserving the pristine quality of the wilderness while still showing clients the best the area has to offer, and a comfortable stay is really top drawer.

Accommodations Review

The Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge was gorgeous! Very impressive facility, in a breathtaking environment. Wildlife sightings very exciting. Activities were well planned, with excellent and knowledgeable guides. Back Country Lodge was excellent in every way with the exception of the challenge of not having bathrooms in the individual cabins. Hiking to the bathroom in the middle of the night (in a place where they were concerned about bear encounters !) might be OK at scout camp, but not so much as a middle age or older adult.

Crew & Guides Review

Elias was very thoughtful, pleasant, knowledgeable, in every way a perfect gentleman, constantly showing awareness and thoughtful concern for the welfare, comfort, and pleasure of his clients.

Learn More

Featured in this Traveler Review

Alaska Wildland Collection
Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge

Cindy H. - The Villages, FL

"A++ Experience"

Overall

5 /5

Accommodations

5 /5

Meals

5 /5

Alaska Wildland Adventures is an incredible company and offer an A++ experience. Christine and her team were perfect. Knowledgeable, accommodating, personable... I would certainly travel with them again. We also enjoyed the group and we had a great time with the other guests. There were 17 of us with a nice mix of young adults. The group dynamics were wonderful and truly enhanced the whole experience.

Accommodations Review

Loved them all, particularly the Backcountry Lodge.

Meals Review

Food was great.

Crew & Guides Review

Christine was incredible. As I mentioned above, her whole staff and the staff at the lodges were wonderful. I would offer a particular shoutout to Evan and Kelly. They both added that something special to the experience.

Traveler Advice

Be prepared for the cold and rain.

Learn More

Featured in this Traveler Review

Alaska Coast to Denali Journey
Denali Backcountry Lodge
Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge
Seward Windsong Lodge
Talkeetna Lodge

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Alaska Wildland Collection

Alaska Wildland Collection Itinerary

Trip Rates & Dates

Learn About the Wilderness Lodges on Your Itinerary

Reviews from Our Experts So You Know What to Expect

Hear It from Travelers Who Have Explored with Us

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Crew & Guides Review

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Traveler Advice

Accommodations Review

Crew & Guides Review

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Crew & Guides Review

Traveler Advice

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Land Tour

Inspiration, Education & Travel Journals

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