Mat-Su Valley Base Camp
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Photo By: Frank Flavin
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A couple enjoying the Matanuska Glacier
Knik Glacier, Hatcher Pass, Palmer, Matanuska Glacier, Talkeetna, Glenn Highway
Arrive in Anchorage and drive to Wasilla, about 43 miles.
Day 1
Take an airboat trip to remote Knik Glacier. Not accessible to large group tours, your scenic journey will be up-close to a caving glacier face. Eat lunch on the moraine of the glacier. Visit the Iditarod Headquarters and learn about the internationally famous 1000-mile race to Nome. Overnight in Wasilla.
Day 2
Spend a day enjoying the history and beauty of Hatcher Pass. Start by taking a guided tour of Independence Mine Historical State Park and learn about the gold rush in the early 1900s. Then take a hike on one of Alaska's most popular trails in the high alpine tundra. Drive to Palmer and visit the Showcase Garden at the Palmer Visitor Center and discover the agricultural roots of the Mat-Su Valley by visiting the Colony House Museum. Overnight in Palmer.
Day 3
Head up the Glenn Highway, a National Scenic Byway, to Mile 100 and explore the magnificent Matanuska Glacier, the largest road accessible glacier in Alaska. Walk and take pictures of the ancient ice or take a guided tour with professionals who will outfit you and teach you about the ice formations. In the afternoon ride the whitewater rapids of the Matanuska River for an exhilarating adventure. Return to Palmer and overnight.
Day 4
Drive north to the quaint town of Talkeetna known as the base camp of Mt. McKinley. You will hear many different languages in the cafes on main street during the climbing season of May-July when over 1,000 climbers will attempt the summit of North America's tallest peak. You can take a scenic flightseeing trip for an up-close look at Mt. McKinley yourself. Even land on a glacier at base camp and experience the climbers return from their 3-week journey. Visit the Denali Ranger Station in Talkeetna and learn more. After a gourmet lunch at one of Talkeetna's cafes, take a scenic jetboat ride up the Susitna River and watch for wildlife and photograph McKinley. Overnight in Talkeetna.
Day 5
Spend a day on the world-class salmon rivers that surround Talkeetna. Hire a local guide for a half-day or full-day of memorable fishing. They will even clean and fillet your salmon and send it to your home so you can shire the memories with your family and friends at your own salmon bake. Overnight in Talkeetna.
Day 6
Return to Anchorage.
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