What to do on our next trip to Alaska

Question

Any suggestions on how to combine Denali NP, Fairbanks, trains and perhaps another national park or special part/experience of Alaska on a return visit?

We visited Alaska 4 times in the last 7 years (Anchorage/Girdwood in summer and winter, Juneau/Haines in summer and an inside passage cruise) and I can feel it calling me back... There are a few places I'd love to re-visit (Spencer glacier via train, helicopter glacier landing, maybe try our luck in Seward again) but also want to see new places, specifically Denali NP and possibly Fairbanks.

We've gone to Seward but it was raining most of the time so could not come out on any excursions (our daughter was only 1.5 yo back then). We love hiking, national parks and exploring the outdoors in general, so hoping to be able to do even more now that our daughter will be 9. Animal interactions and observations in the wild always seem to enhance our trips too. Also not looking for remoteness or complete seclusion, since hospitality of Alaskan people is probably one of the top reasons we keep coming back.

I'll be combing through threads and TRs for ideas, but if you have any suggestions on how we could split 7-10 days in August or if you have links to TRs with similar interests, I would love to hear. Thank you in advance!

Answer

For a 7–10 day return trip to Alaska with a focus on Denali, Fairbanks, trains, and additional unique experiences, you can create an itinerary that balances revisiting favorite spots and exploring new areas. Since you enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities without seeking complete remoteness, a combination of national parks, scenic train rides, and small-town hospitality will work well.

Suggested Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Anchorage/Girdwood – Fly into Anchorage. Spend a day exploring Anchorage or nearby Girdwood for a light hike or a tram ride at Alyeska Resort. This is also a good way to acclimate and pick up any supplies for your onward travels.
Day 3: Anchorage → Seward – Drive or take the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic Train to Seward (~2.5-3.5 hours). In Seward, enjoy a half-day excursion to Kenai Fjords National Park, possibly a wildlife cruise or a kayak tour if weather allows. Hiking options include Exit Glacier trails.
Day 4: Seward → Anchorage → Denali – Return to Anchorage and catch the train or drive north to Denali (~6-7 hours by car, slightly longer by train). Overnight near Denali National Park entrance.
Day 5-6: Denali National Park – Spend 2 days exploring Denali. Options include:

Tundra Wilderness Tour for wildlife viewing deep into the park.
Guided hikes along the Savage River area or other front-country trails for bear, moose, and Dall sheep sightings.
Optional rafting on Nenana River if your family wants a water adventure.

Day 7: Denali → Fairbanks – Drive or take the train (~2-3 hours). In Fairbanks, consider:

Visiting the Museum of the North for history and natural exhibits.
Riverboat Discovery Cruise on the Chena River for wildlife viewing.
If time allows, see the Chena Hot Springs for a relaxing dip.

Day 8-9: Optional Northern Adventure – Consider:

Day trips from Fairbanks, such as hiking in the White Mountains or exploring Denali State Park.
Flightseeing or glacier landing near Talkeetna if you want a helicopter/glacier experience without returning to Seward.

Day 10: Return to Anchorage – Either drive or take the train back to Anchorage for departure.

Additional Recommendations:

Train travel is scenic and allows for relaxed travel; consider Alaska Railroad for Anchorage → Seward and Denali → Fairbanks segments.
Booking guided tours early is essential, especially Denali wildlife tours and Seward kayak or glacier cruises.
For hikes, front-country trails in Denali and Seward are manageable with kids and offer excellent wildlife viewing.
Wildlife observations: In addition to Denali, along the train route from Anchorage to Denali, you may spot moose, bears, eagles, and foxes.

By combining Seward, Denali, and Fairbanks, you experience a mix of coastal glaciers, interior wilderness, and northern culture. Talkeetna can serve as a charming midway stop with local hikes and optional flightseeing if you want a helicopter/glacier experience without the drive back south. This itinerary provides a balance of revisiting favorite experiences and exploring new areas while keeping the travel pace reasonable for a 7–10 day trip.

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