Alaska's Northern Lights with Iditarod

Welcome to Fairbanks! You’ve arrived in the “Golden Heart” of Alaska and gateway to Denali National Park. Later this evening, join your [LOCAL FAVORITE] Local Guide and travel companions for your first glimpse of one of nature’s most magnificent shows—the aurora borealis (Northern Lights). LOCAL FAVORITE NATURAL WONDERS Witness the stunning Northern Lights spectacle in the sky with a Local Guide. Marvel at the kaleidoscope of light dancing across the night sky in a dramatic display of celestial waves and brilliant beams. When conditions are right, the aurora dances across the horizon and lights up the night sky with such beauty, even Alaska’s tough ol’ “Sourdoughs” (old timers) are impressed. (weather permitting)

Fairbanks Fun Enjoy a leisure start to the day. This afternoon, explore Fairbanks on a city tour. Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, one of the most challenging and remarkable engineering feats of modern time. This evening is another opportunity to view the amazing aurora borealis light up the northern skies. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT NORTHERN LANDSCAPE Explore Alaska Native heritage, natural wonders, diverse wildlife and Arctic dinosaurs at Alaska’s cultural landmark, the Museum of the North. Discover breathtaking architecture designed to convey a sense of Alaska, inspired by the lines and shapes found in Alaska’s coastlines, mountains, and glaciers. ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Fairbanks with a dinner out in this iconic Alaskan city. Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for the best bites, brews, and things to do!

Riding the Rails Travel from Fairbanks to Denali National Park to visit the Murie Science and Learning Center, Denali’s winter visitor center. Next, board the world-famous Alaska Railroad for your scenic journey south on the [LOCAL FAVORITE] Aurora Winter Train to the quaint community of Talkeetna. Upon arrival in Talkeetna, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties. (B,L,D) LOCAL FAVORITE EPIC RIDE Board the Alaska Railroad train for spectacular views through panoramic windows designed for soaking in the stunning scenery on this journey that showcases America’s 49th state. Keep an eye out for views of Denali (also known as Mount McKinley)—as well as wildlife along the way!

Heart & Soul on the Trail Continue south today to meet four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser at his [LOCAL FAVORITE] Happy Trails Kennel. Hear personal stories while viewing a glimpse of the grandeur Alaska has to offer along the Iditarod Trail. This afternoon, enjoy free time for lunch on your own and to explore Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage, before arriving at the town of Girdwood to overnight at the luxurious Hotel Alyeska for a 2-night stay. (B) LOCAL FAVORITE LEGENDARY LIVES Visit Happy Trails Kennels, home of Iditarod Champion Martin Buser and family. Happy Trails Kennel was established in Big Lake in 1982 with the express purpose of raising and training happy, fast long-distance sled dogs to race and win the Iditarod. Martin's loving care and faith in his hounds was made evident by his Iditarod wins to earn the 9-year record for the fastest Iditarod race ever. TOUR HIGHLIGHT ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Settle into your basecamp for adventure at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood - Alaska’s premier year-round destination featuring fine dining experiences, a saltwater pool, ski mountain along with the Nordic Spa. Alyeska is the perfect base camp for endless adventure and relaxation.

Alaskan Adventure Enjoy a full day at leisure—perfect for joining in a wide variety of optional activities. Consider flightseeing, fat-tire biking, snowmachine tours, downhill skiing, snowshoeing, a trip to the local brewery, ride on the aerial tram, or just relax at the Nordic Spa. (B) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Girdwood, a scenic mountain town originally built as a supply camp for gold miners, features outdoor activities for all levels. Ask your Tour Director or tap your GlobusGO mobile app for the highlights and recommendations for things to do!

Making Tracks Return to Anchorage for the ceremonial start of the Iditarod. Meet the mushers and dogs, enjoy local food vendors, and join the celebration of Alaskan culture before they head into the wilderness. Later, discover the highlights of Alaska’s largest city on a guided sightseeing tour and enjoy free time this afternoon. Join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner this evening. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT ICONIC FOOTSTEPS Take a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the start of the Iditarod race and cheer on the amazing sled dogs and mushers. See mushers compete from all over the world and enjoy other Iditarod festivities. ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Anchorage, one of the northernmost urban cities on Earth. Tap your GlobusGO mobile app for the highlights and recommendations for things to do!

Official Start Depart Anchorage for the adventure north to the Official Start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Visit Wasilla enroute to Willow, and cheer on your favorite teams at the starting line in Willow, at the true start of the race. Mushers take off across Willow Lake on the 1,049 mile (1,688 km) journey by dog sled to Nome. Return to Anchorage for free time this evening. TOUR HIGHLIGHT HERO DOGS The Iditarod race honors the emergency vaccine delivery in 1925, when mushers and dog teams delivered life-saving serum over 674 miles in under 6 days during a diphtheria outbreak. The current race highlights the Iditarod National Historic Trail and honors Native Alaskan heritage.

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. You may choose to extend your time in Anchorage and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)