DAY TWO.   AIR BOAT AND HIKING NEAR THE KNIK GLACIER From Anchorage we drive north to the Knik River Valley. On an airboat we travel to the head of the valley and the Knik Glacier. On foot and perhaps by kayak, we view the 6-mile across, 25-mile long, and 6-story high glacier. Can you say “awe-some”? That evening enjoy the views and relax at the Sheep Mountain Lodge.

DAY THREE.   RAFTING AND HIKING IN THE MATANUSKA VALLEY Experience the thrill of white water on the Matanuska River. Wander into the Talkeetna Mountains and spot for wildlife. In the evening kick-back at the lodge, view the midnight sun, and unwind in the hot tub or sauna.

DAY FOUR.   KENNICOTT AND GHOST MINE From Sheep Mountain we drive southwest toward Wrangell-Saint Elias National Park. We will fly in small aircraft over the mountains to the remote village of McCarthy, in the heart the wilderness.

DAY FIVE.   HIKING IN WRANGELL SAINT ELIAS NATIONAL PARK In the morning we’ll follow the Root Glacier Trail to the Root Glacier. Surrounded by mountains and glacier, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Alaska’s wilds.

DAY SIX.   FLIGHT TO VALDEZ Before the afternoon flight to Valdez you’ll have option morning activities include rafting on the Chitina River? Ice climbing for the ambitious types? Maybe just kick-back on the lodge porch and read a book soaking in the view? Because of its year-around ice-free status, Valdez was originally the entry point of people and goods headed for the interior of Alaska. Now, it’s best know as a departure point for huge quantities of oil from the north slope as well as the infamous Exxon Valdez oil tanker disaster. Surrounded by towering peaks, hanging glaciers, and fishing waters, Valdez is the focal point of Prince William Sound.

DAY SEVEN.   FERRY TO WHITTIER AND RETURN TO ANCHORAGE In Valdez we board the ferry for the 6 1/2 hour cruise to Whittier. In route look for marine life in Prince William Sound and gaze at some of its 150 glaciers. From Whittier we drive back to Anchorage. Along the way we view the Turnagain Arm and Chugach Mountain Range. We celebrate the end of our journey with dinner and a night out on the town.

DAY EIGHT.   DEPARTURE FROM ANCHORAGE