Spring Alaska & Canada Escorted Group Tour 2012

18 May - 19 Jun 2012
Trip Code:    GCB2

Glorious Canada - big shouldered mountains chiselled into rugged splendour by glaciers and the elements. Alaska - the people, the places, the beauty. It’s like nothing else on earth. When you visit, Alaska becomes a part of you forever. Let us introduce you to the real Canada and Alaska! 

We also run a shorter version of this trip, Spring Alaska & Inside Passage group tour.
PRICES
Land arrangements
including twin share		$8,900
Internal Air Travel$700
TRIP TOTAL
excl international flights		$9,600
International Flight
Optional (read more)		$2,300
International Flight Tax$150
GRAND TOTAL$12,050

Vancouver

With its variety of culinary options, outdoor activities and multicultural experiences, Vancouver is considered one of the best cities to live. Skyscrapers rise from the downtown skyline and not far out of town is the vast British Columbia wilderness. Attractions include walks in Stanley Park, Chinatown, Robson Street, Gastown and the waterfront.

Anchorage

Anchorage began as a tent city during the building of the Alaska Railroad in 1914. It is located in a valley at the base of the Chugach Mountains. During the summer months, the streets are filled with brightly coloured hanging flower baskets.

Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise

Climb aboard the Klondike Explorer for an unforgettable cruise to the most spectacular glaciers in Prince William Sound. Look forward to breathtaking scenery, towering waterfalls, massive glaciers and wildlife such as eagles, harbour seals, otters and bird rookeries. Take photos from the viewing decks as glaciers calve or you are welcome to relax in the comfort of the heated cabin.

Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad route spans more than 500 miles from the coastal community of Seward, to the wilderness of Denali National Park before reaching its terminus in the Interior city of Fairbanks. Travelers on this journey pass through alpine forests, coastal regions, and traverse two major mountain ranges. On board the train, local guides provide informative and interesting commentary.

Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour

This 7-8 hour narrated tour takes you approximately 53 miles into the heart of Denali National Park. Denali National Park has a spectacular centerpiece, Mt McKinley or Denali (Koyukon Athabaskan), the highest mountain in North America. Clear views of this impressive mountain are seldom seen so it’s a special occasion when it comes out on display.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks was originally a trading post when gold was found in 1902. Today the city is a blend of old and new; modern shopping strips stand beside log cabins and historic buildings. A popular highlight is the Riverboat Discover; a sternwheeler ride down the Tanana River and Eldorado Gold Mine. During certain months, Fairbanks has some of the best northern lights viewing in the world.

Riverboat Discovery Tour

The ‘Riverboat Discovery’ tour provides an interesting insight into various aspects of Alaskan rural life such as reindeer herding, dog sledding and fishing. The tour includes a visit to an Athabascan Native Village where you will learn about their traditional way of life.

Dawson City

More than one hundred years ago, Dawson City was the center of “the largest gold rush the world has ever known”.  Today it is one of the best preserved frontier towns in Canada. Wandering the dirt streets and boardwalks, past historic sites and brightly colored wooden buildings gives you a glimpse of the past.  Attractions are the Midnight Dome, Dredge #4, Discovery Claim, Diamond Tooth Gertie’s and Author’s Corner with Jack London’s cabin.

Gold Dredge No. 4

Dredge No. 4 was built in 1912 for the Canadian Klondike Mining Company in Dawson City, and was the largest wooden hulled bucket lined dredge in North America. It worked in the Klondike Valley on the "Boyle Concession" until 1940 and then was relocated to Bonanza Creek and worked this valley until 1959.

Whitehorse

Located on the banks of the Yukon River, Whitehorse is the largest city in the Yukon Territory, as well as the capital. The city can be easily explored by foot. Walking along the banks of the Yukon River read interpretive signs about the Klondike Gold Rush and visit the restored SS Klondike sternwheeler.

Haines

Originally a Russian and Native American trading post, this town provides beautiful views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal, North America’s deepest fjord. With only a few small cruise ships docking each summer, Haines has retained its local identity as a quiet South East Alaskan town. Walk the un-crowded streets, explore the shops and quiet cafes, or purchase a bear watching tour or river float trip from local guides. There are regular water taxi services to the nearby town of Skagway.

White Pass Rail Summit Excursion

This historic route, built during the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, is known as the ‘Scenic Railway of the World’. With a lot of determination, 450 tonnes of explosives and the work of tens of thousands of men the railway was built. Out of the one hundred thousand people that headed to the Klondike gold fields only thirty to forty thousand made it all the way. A few hundred of those who found gold actually became rich.

Inside Passage on Alaska Marine Highway System

Local residents use the Alaska Marine Highway System ferries (AMHS) as means of transportation between the towns along the Inside Passage. The ferries can navigate their way through narrow stretches of the Inside Passage that cannot be accessed by larger cruise ships.

Wrangell

Wrangell is one of the most interesting small towns on the Inside Passage. The town began as a Tlingit trading post and became the site of a Russian fort built in 1834. The town has a relaxed feel that allows visitors to wander comfortably and converse with locals from the town. Local attractions are tours to the Stikine River, LeConte Glacier, Petersburg, a number of short walks and AnAn Bear Observatory.

Le Conte Glacier & Petersburg Tour

Depart on LeConte Glacier and Petersburg tour visiting the southernmost active glacier in the northern hemisphere. This glacier calves quite frequently and fills the bay with several miles of icebergs. LeConte Bay boasts a large population of harbor seals and their pups. After leaving Le Conte Glacier we visit the community of Petersburg ‘Alaska’s Little Norway’.

Stikine River Wilderness Tour

Stikine means Great River in Tlingit and as the fastest free flowing river in North America it holds up to its reputation. The mouth of the river is located near Wrangell and is fed by over 100 glaciers as it stretches all the way to British Columbia.

Prince Rupert

Prince Rupert is located at the end of the Yellowhead Highway at the mouth of the Skeena River. A bustling port city, Prince Rupert is the cultural centre of the First Nations People. You will find totem poles scattered throughout parks in the city. The city’s heritage has been preserved at the Cow Bay waterfront area, built in 1905.

VIA Rail's Skeena

Depart on a two day excursion from Prince Rupert to Jasper with an overnight stay in Prince George. This superbly restored 1950’s ‘Skeena’ train also travels in the opposite direction. On this scenic journey you will travel through national and provincial parks, lumber camps and pass beautiful alpine streams and lakes.

Prince George

Prince George is a modern city surrounded by natural beauty.  It is the regional center for health, education and government services.  The town has over 120 parks and museums. Ask a local guide to point out any wild edible fruit in season like huckleberries or gooseberries.

Jasper

Jasper is situated deep in the Alberta Rockies, mountain peaks can be seen on the horizon in every direction.  Local attractions are Maligne Lake, the Jasper Tramway, Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Falls, Miette Hotsprings, golf at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and lovely alpine walks. Jasper has a lot to offer for both summer and winter travellers.

Columbia Icefield Glacier Experience

Largest of all icefields in the Canadian Rockies, the Columbia Icefield is guarded by 11 of the Rockies’ 22 highest peaks. We will also take an Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca glacier to see its raw beauty.

Banff

Banff is the perfect base for exploring the snow capped mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs and alpine meadows which can be found in Banff National Park.  Nearby attractions include: Bow Falls, Banff Gondola, Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Johnston Canyon and Sunshine Meadows. 

Lac Le Jeune

Lac Le Jeune is a lake and provincial park in British Columbia, Canada, located approximately 37 kilometers south of Kamloops. The lake is located within a 213-hectare provincial park run by the British Columbia Ministry of the Environment and is a popular fishing spot for "fighting" Rainbow Trout.

Whistler

Whistler began as a small skiing village and has now become a world class resort with year round activities. Set in alpine scenery, this village has something for everyone. Ride the gondola to the top of the mountain for spectacular scenery, go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding or make a trip to one of the many spas. Nightlife thrives in the village, with numerous gourmet restaurants and boutique breweries to choose from.

Victoria

Victoria is a delightful harbour side town. The nearby Butchart Gardens are the best known gardens in western Canada. Thousands of flowers are displayed in the Sunken, Rose, Japanese and Italian theme gardens.  Other attractions include: Inner Harbour, Royal British Columbia Museum, historic Empress Hotel, Maritime Museum and Market Square, a restored 19th-century courtyard surrounded by a jumble of shops, restaurants, and offices on three floors.

Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour

On the drive from downtown Victoria to the Butchart Gardens we pass by homes, gardens and points of historic interest. Stroll through gardens linked by spacious lawns, streams and lily ponds. Seasonal outdoor afternoon performances and the spectacular Sunken Garden highlight this tour.

Fri
18
May

Vancouver

Arrival into Vancouver. Sandman Signature Suites (1 night)
Sat
19
May

Vancouver to Anchorage

We continue our journey north today with a flight to Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city. Quality Suites (2 nights)
Sun
20
May

Anchorage - Prince William Sound Tour

Today we cruise through areas such as College and Harriman Fiords with a narrated presentation on the Sound’s abundant marine life. There are countless opportunities for photography.

Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Mon
21
May

Anchorage to Denali

This morning we board the Alaska Railroad for the trip up to Denali National Park. Grizzly Bear Resort (2 nights)

Meals included: Breakfast
Tue
22
May

Denali - Tundra Wilderness Tour

Today we join the Tundra Wilderness Tour taking us into the Denali National Park and Preserve.

Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Wed
23
May

Denali to Fairbanks

We reboard the Alaska Railroad this afternoon for the trip north to Fairbanks, in the heart of Alaska. Bridgewater Hotel (2 nights)

Meals included: Breakfast
Thu
24
May

Fairbanks - Riverboat Discovery Tour

In the morning we board the ‘Riverboat Discovery’ for a cruise down the lovely Chena River. The afternoon is free to explore the town.
Fri
25
May

Fairbanks to Dawson City

Today we board a luxury motor coach to drive along the spectacular Alaska and ’Top of the World’ Highways on the way to Dawson City. Along the way we pass through Chicken, Tok, and Rika’s Roadhouse. Eldorado Hotel (2 nights)
Sat
26
May

Dawson City - Gold Dredge #4

This morning we visit Gold Dredge #4 and the Discovery Claim, home to the richest placer gold strike in history. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town which has been declared a national historic site.
Sun
27
May

Dawson City to Whitehorse

We drive south along the Klondike Highway through ranchlands, vast lakes and the beautiful expanses of the Yukon River valley to Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon Territory. Best Western Gold Rush Inn (1 night)
Mon
28
May

Whitehorse to Haines

We travel the Alaska Highway today to Haines Junction, where we join the scenic Haines Hwy to Alaska and the town of Haines. Captain’s Choice Motel (3 nights)
Tue
29
May

Haines - White Pass & Yukon Railroad

We travel by water taxi to Skagway and explore this well preserved frontier town before boarding the famous White Pass & Yukon Railroad for the journey through to the White Pass Summit and back. We return to Haines by water taxi in the afternoon.
Wed
30
May

Haines

Day at leisure to enjoy Haines. Walk the un-crowded streets and explore the shops and quiet cafes.
Thu
31
May

Haines to Inside Passage

We board our Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry this morning for the overnight journey to Wrangell. On board cabin with private facilities (1 night)
Fri
1
Jun

Inside Passage to Wrangell

We disembark the ferry this morning, giving us time to explore this historic town. Stikine Inn (3 nights)
Sat
2
Jun

Wrangell - Le Conte Glacier and Petersburg Tour

Today we tour by boat to the southern most active glacier in the northern hemisphere. This glacier fills the bay with several miles of icebergs. Our tour also visits the community of Petersburg: ‘Alaska’s Little Norway’.

Meals included: Breakfast
Sun
3
Jun

Wrangell - Stikine River Wilderness Tour

This morning we take a boat ride, this time through the lower reaches of the Stikine River.

Meals included: Breakfast
Mon
4
Jun

Wrangell to Inside Passage

We have most of the day free in Wrangell before boarding the Alaska Marine Ferry this evening for our overnight trip to Prince Rupert. On board cabin with private facilities (1 night)

Meals included: Breakfast
Tue
5
Jun

Inside Passage to Prince Rupert

We arrive in Prince Rupert this morning, giving us half a day to wander Cow Bay, and visit the waterfront shops and cafés. Pacific Inn (1 night)
Wed
6
Jun

Prince Rupert to Prince George on VIA Rail

This morning we board VIA Rail’s Skeena service for the journey to the interior logging town of Prince George. We will be travelling in economy class, with meals available for purchase on board. There is also access to a lounge area and second floor dome. Ramada Inn (1 night)
Thu
7
Jun

Prince George to Jasper on VIA Rail

We re-board the train for the journey into the Canadian Rockies. If the day is clear, we may catch a glimpse of the highest peak in the Rockies, Mount Robson. Chateau Jasper(2 nights)
Fri
8
Jun

Jasper

Our day is free to explore this picturesque alpine town.
Sat
9
Jun

Jasper to Banff on Icefields Parkway

Today we tour the spectacular Icefields Parkway. We stop at several sights including Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield Centre where we take an Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier. Banff Park Lodge (2 nights)
Sun
10
Jun

Banff

Day at leisure to explore the attractions of Banff.
Mon
11
Jun

Banff to Lac Le Jeune

Today we board our motor coach for the full day trip to the interior of British Columbia. Our journey today takes us from the high alpine of the Alberta Rockies through the picturesque town of Revelstoke, and finally onto our lakeside lodge. Lac le Jeune Resort (1 night)

Meals included: Lunch Dinner
Tue
12
Jun

Lac Le Jeune to Whistler

We re-board the motor coach in the morning and travel along the high plateau before entering the Coast Mountains and the resort of Whistler. Delta Whistler Suites (2 nights)

Meals included: Breakfast Lunch
Wed
13
Jun

Whistler

Today we are at leisure in North America’s number one recreational resort.
Thu
14
Jun

Whistler to Victoria

We travel along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway today to Horseshoe Bay, where we board our ferry to Vancouver Island. Before arriving into Victoria, we briefly tour some of the towns along the coast. Executive House Hotel (2 nights)
Fri
15
Jun

Victoria - Butchart Gardens Tour

We travel today to Vancouver Island’s biggest attractions, Butchart Gardens. We’ll have time to relax and truly enjoy this floral display.
Sat
16
Jun

Victoria to Vancouver

In the morning we travel across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver. Renaissance Vancouver Harbourside Hotel (1 night)
Sun
17
Jun

Vancouver departure

We have almost a full day at leisure in Vancouver before boarding our outbound flights.
Mon
18
Jun

In flight
Tue
19
Jun

Arrive back in Australia
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Prices based on twin share accommodation, please contact us for single pricing.

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