On the day after our arrival in Anchorage, we will drive to Kennicott and Mount Blackburn, to the charming Mount Kennicott Lodge. Here a fascinating juxtaposition between the works of Man and Nature greet us. The inactive cooper mine near the lodge was once the world’s largest, and can still be toured for a close look at the boundless ingenuity and determination of the human race. The mine is thus a microcosm of Alaska itself, which has been inhabited and productive for thousands of years against inconceivable odds. In the other direction is the stark blue mass of the Kennicott Glacier, whose loveliness and liveliness (it can appear to be visibly in motion!) are uncanny.
Other highlights of our trip include Valdez where, as James Michener wrote, “the mountains dipped their toes in the sea”, a dramatic ferry ride to Seward, with opportunities for whale spotting, as well as the company of puffins, seals, otter, eagles, and a thousand islands. We will go to Saldovia, a tiny fishing village surrounded by majestic mountains, and spend some time with people who still pull their livelihood from the sea; to the fjords of the Kenai peninsula, and finally to the excellent Back country Lodge at Denali.
This six million-acre sanctuary includes Mt. McKinley, the highest place in North America at 20,320 feet. The Athapascans called it Denali, “The High One”. We will hike through the back country of the park, through he sub-arctic environment of delicate mosses and lichens, birch and willow, spruce and poplar. Once above the tree line (only 2700 feet here), the vegetation changes to tundra, with grasses, dwarf shrubs, and tiny varieties of wild flowers. All along the way we will see the fascinating variety of birds and mammals that live there. Then there is the mountain. Here is John McPhee’s impression: “From within its vapors, the mountain can emerge as swiftly as it disappeared. And when it is out, only the distant curve of the Earth can reduce its dominance; if you were looking at Mt. Everest from 40 miles away, you would lift your gaze only slightly to the highest in a sea of peaks. 40 miles from McKinley, you can stand at a benchmark of 300, and climb with your eyes another 20,000 feet. The mountain is a sky of rock, seemingly all above you, looming. Until it takes itself away, you watch it, as you might watch a hearth file, or a show in color of Aurorean light. The provocative intensity of Mt. McKinley seems to symbolize Alaska to many Alaskans.”
This is the local for our last few days in The Great North. From Denali we return, perhaps with new perspective, to civilization and the end of our tour.
Cost is $4,700.00 per person based on double occupancy. Single supplement available. Trip begins and ends at Anchorage airport. Prices are all-inclusive from destination meeting place. Not included are alcoholic beverages and personal items. Two departure dates are available in August. Please email us for a detailed itinerary.
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