Denali National Park, Alaska
In association with: Brand USA
Native history, remarkable landscapes and adrenaline-pumping excursions are all on offer on an action-packed trip to the US state of Alaska
With spectacular wildlife and views, Alaska offers adventure in abundance. It’s larger and more remote than any other US state and is home to bears and bison, as well as the tallest peak in North America and huge glaciers.
With the Mountains, Glaciers and Parks itinerary from Brand USA, your clients can tick off the must-see sights on a once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan road trip.
Anchorage, one of the world’s most northern cities, is the perfect place to start. There are plenty of museums and boutique stores to explore, but the real attraction is the glaciers. Choose from tours that range from two and a half to eight hours to see the Portage Glacier and Mount Alyeska in all their glory, as well as the plants and wildlife native to the Portage Valley.
Stop off at the Alaska Native Heritage Centre to learn about some local culture, or adventure seekers can opt to climb the 1,070-metre Flattop Mountain.
From Anchorage, venture south to Kodiak Island. As one of the largest islands in the US, second only to Hawaii’s Big Island, it’s home to more than 3,000 bears, which can be observed from a guided sightseeing excursion or sea float tour.
Back on the mainland, climb aboard the Denali Star Train and head to Denali National Park. The journey is almost as spectacular as the destination, including plenty of breathtaking views of Mount McKinley and the native Alaskan wilderness to enjoy before reaching the two-million-hectare park.
There’s everything here from hiking and ranger-led walks to mountain biking and white-water rafting on the Nenana River on offer.
A visit to Denali wouldn’t be complete without seeing the alpine forests, tundra and glaciers. Take one of the many bus tours on offer to enjoy the views, or opt for the Kantishna Tour to explore the historic gold town.
Wildlife, nature and history lovers alike will find an excursion that suits them, and with lengths ranging from four and a half to 13 hours, you can leave Denali with no stone unturned.
Head back south down to Anchorage, where discovering local crafts and sampling cuisines will round off your Alaskan adventure.
Download the itinerary in full here.
To book this itinerary for your clients, call Gold Medal on 0800 014 7777, or visit goldmedal.co.uk
Win a £100 John Lewis voucher
To be in with a chance of winning a £100 John Lewis voucher, answer a question about this itinerary. For more information, how to enter and terms and conditions, visit: travelweekly.co.uk/brandusa
Become a US expert
Expand your knowledge by completing the Great Outdoors badge on Brand USA’s USA Discovery Program. This online agent training programme has more than 60 modules, and can help you sell trips to the US more effectively to your customers. Whether it’s must-visit places, unique experiences, historical facts or dining tips, this resource offers comprehensive overviews of states, cities, and experiences across the country. Complete a badge today at: usadiscoveryprogram.co.uk
PICTURES: Brand USA/Yancy Caldwell