Matanuska Glacier, located on the East side of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, is the largest road-accessible glacier in Alaska.  The glacier is easily seen from several locations along the Glen Highway which runs for 189 miles between Anchorage and Glenallen, Alaska.    The Glen Highway, a National Scenic Byway, is one of Alaska’s most beautiful highways and is well worth the time to experience for those who are touring Alaska by car on a self-drive itinerary and want to include such destinations as Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Valdez, Alaska.  The Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site is located at mile 101 and provides some interpretive signage along with a short nature walk on a ridge above the Matanuska River.  The recreation site is well worth the stop to stretch your legs as it’s near the half way mark between Anchorage and Glenallen.  (more…)

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Recently one Saturday afternoon we decided to visit one of our favorite hot spots the Alaska Live Steamers and the Transportation Museum of Alaska.  Both are located in Wasilla, about a 40 minute short drive from Anchorage.  Their location on the Parks highway at mile marker 47 makes it a convenient stop enroute to Talkeetna or Denali. 

If you’re a railroad fan then the Alaska Live Steamers is a must stop while visiting Wasilla.  The sound of train whistles and diesels engines will bring back memories for you and kids love them too.  Alaska Love Steamers is supported by a local group of railroad enthusiasts who build miniature scale replicas to scales.  When you first arrive you check in at the Alaska Central Railroad depot.  The ride is a modest $4.00 per person (2009 price).  Once you get your tokens you then board the train parked out front.  They can accommodate people with disabilities if called in advance.  (more…)

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The small town of Whittier, Alaska is the Gateway to Prince William Sound and home to South-central Alaska’s newest cruise ship terminal.  Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line currently use the Whittier Cruise Terminal as the northern hub or “turn” operation for their 7-day “Voyage of the Glacier” cruises.   Whittier is set on scenic Passage Canal and is surrounded by the Chugach National Forest.  The community is home to about 300 residents and several small boat harbors which serve as the home to the local fishing fleet as well as charter and day cruise operators that provide service into Prince William Sound. (more…)

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Staying in a remote Alaska lodge for multiple days for bear viewing would be ideal but may not be affordable for many visitors to Alaska this summer.  If you are looking for a great value, and an affordable day trip to see Alaska bears the Redoubt Bay Lodge Bear Viewing trip offered by Rust’s Flying Service while staying in Anchorage is a great alternative to an overnight at a remote lodge. Your adventure begins in Anchorage at Lake Hood with Rust’s Flying Service.  I have taken other trips with Rusts and I am always impressed with their quick check in process and friendly staff.  They also offer pick up services for anyone staying in an Anchorage hotel. (more…)

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When I have family come visit me in Alaska I try to take them to my favorite places in Alaska. A few summer’s ago my aunt came to visit, and I had the opportunity to do a tour I had never done before. My family traveled to Girdwood, Alaska for a day trip from Anchorage.  Girdwood is located about 30 minutes south of Anchorage via the Seward Highway.  The drive is beautiful because the highway follows the Turnagain Arm which is part of the Cook Inlet and is surrounded by the Chugach and Kenai Mountain Ranges.  Girdwood is home to the Alyeska Resort. Our first order of business was to take the Alyeska Tram to the top of Mt. Alyeska for some breathtaking views.  (more…)

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Because of its vicinity to Mt. McKinley, Denali State Park provides outstanding views of “the mountain” throughout much of its 325,000 acres.  Most visitors to Denali State Park access the park at Byer’s Lake which has a campground, day parking, and is the base for both lake kayaking and guided hiking operations. Both of which are provided by local guide services. Transportation is available from nearby McKinley Princess Lodge which is also located within the state park, about 16 miles south of Byer’s Lake. (more…)

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We have been helping folks plan their perfect Alaska vacation for well over a decade, and we started this blog during the summer of 2008 to share some of the insights and tips we have picked up along the way. Our staff of Alaska travel experts are busy creating ongoing posts on topics like places to stay, things to do, how to get around and where to eat. We will focus on many of Alaska’s most popular destinations like Anchorage, Seward and Denali National Park. We also hope to answer any questions you may have about our great state and hopefully entice you to come visit us in the near future.

Of course, Alaska Tour & Travel is here to help you plan your Alaska vacation of a lifetime. Whether you are looking for just a hotel or train trip, or a complete custom vacation package, we have you covered. Visit our main site at www.AlaskaTravel.com or email us at info@alaskatravel.com or give us a call today at 800-208-0200. We would love to hear from you and assist you with your Alaska vacation plans.

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