Alaska: Glaciers, Wildlife & the Last Frontier

Alaska is nature at its most epic, glaciers calving into the sea, whales breaching, bears fishing for salmon, and mountains that go on forever. It is a bucket-list trip that is surprisingly easy to do in comfort, and one I love to plan. Here is how.

Cruise, land, or both

Most people experience Alaska by cruise through the Inside Passage, sailing past glaciers and calling at towns like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. The best trips add a land portion (a “cruisetour”) inland to Denali National Park for the wildlife and North America’s tallest peak. I plan either, or both.

Glaciers, wildlife, and the light

Highlights include Glacier Bay, whale watching, bear viewing, and float planes to remote lodges. In summer the days are endlessly long; in the shoulder season, some travelers come chasing the Northern Lights.

When to go

The season runs roughly May through September, when the weather is mildest and the wildlife most active. Peak summer is busiest and priciest; late spring and early fall can be a sweet spot.

Why plan Alaska with me

The right cruise line, cabin, and land itinerary, and the excursions worth doing, make all the difference, and the best sailings sell out far ahead. I arrange it end to end through my trusted partners, with VIP recognition where available. It is a wonderful family or multi-generational trip.