Northern Lights & Glacier Escape: Alaska Adventure

6-DAY ALASKA ADVENTURE ITINERARY (March 25–30)

All-In Adventure Package Includes:

  • Matanuska Glacier Guided Hike

  • Domestic Flight Anchorage → Fairbanks

  • Chena Hot Springs + Ice Museum

  • Kenai Fjords / Spire Cove Boat Cruise

  • All Transportation (4WD rentals)

  • Airbnb stays in Anchorage & Fairbanks

  • Trip Leader driving and photography support

Day 1 — March 25

Arrival in Anchorage

Fly into Anchorage
Pick up your 4WD rental car.

Lunch in Anchorage

Optional: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
(~1 hr south of Anchorage)
Cost: Included in All-In Adventure Package

Drive back to Anchorage

Check in to accommodation
Overnight in Anchorage.

Day 2 — March 26

Matanuska Glacier Adventure (INCLUDED)

— Breakfast in Anchorage

— Drive to Matanuska Glacier
(~2 hrs via Glenn Highway)

— Matanuska Glacier Guided Hike

  • Ice caves

  • Blue ice walls

  • Crevasses

  • Professional glacier guides
    ✓ Included in the All-In Adventure package

— Drive back to Anchorage (~2 hrs)

— Dinner
Overnight in Anchorage

Day 3 — March 27

Seward Ocean Excursions Boat Tour (INCLUDED All-In Adventure Package)

—Breakfast & depart Anchorage

— Drive to Seward (~2.5 hrs)

— Arrive at Seward Harbor Check in at 11 AM for the boat.

— Spire Cove Boat (INCLUDED)
You will explore:

  • Spire Cove (massive sea stacks + turquoise water)

  • Resurrection Bay

  • Waterfalls

  • Sea otters, seals, eagles

  • Chance of early-season whales

✓ Included in the All-In Adventure package

— Lunch in Seward

— Drive back to Anchorage (~2.5 hrs)

— Arrive in Anchorage, relax
Overnight in Anchorage

Day 4 — March 28

Fly to Fairbanks & Aurora Viewing

— Fly Anchorage → Fairbanks
✓ Included in All-In Adventure Package

— Pick up rental car

— Lunch in Fairbanks

— Check in to accommodation

— Aurora Viewing (Self-Guided)

  • Creamer's Field

  • Murphy Dome (best dark skies)

Overnight in Fairbanks

Day 5 — March 29

Chena Hot Springs + Ice Museum (INCLUDED in All-In Adventure Package)

— Breakfast

— Drive to Chena Hot Springs

— Chena Hot Springs & Aurora Ice Museum

  • Natural geothermal pools

  • Ice museum with ice sculptures tour at 1 PM
    ✓ Included in the All-In Adventure package

— Dinner

— Return to Fairbanks

Overnight in Fairbanks

Day 6 — March 30

Departure

Morning in Fairbanks or Anchorage
(depends on return flight airport)

Return rental car

Fly home

Things to Pack for Your Alaska Adventure

Clothing:

  • Insulated Jacket: Waterproof and windproof for cold weather.

  • Thermal Base Layers: Tops and leggings for warmth.

  • Fleece or Wool Mid-Layer: Keeps you warm under the jacket.

  • Waterproof Pants: For glacier hikes or snowy conditions.

  • Winter Hat and Scarf: Protects against the cold wind.

  • Gloves or Mittens: Insulated and waterproof.

  • Wool socks keep your feet warm and dry.

  • Sturdy Winter Boots: waterproof with good traction for icy conditions.

Gear:

  • Daypack: For carrying essentials on hikes and excursions.

  • Reusable Water Bottle/Thermos: Stay hydrated or enjoy hot drinks.

  • Snacks: high-energy options like granola bars or trail mix.

  • Microspikes or Crampons: Optional For walking on icy trails.

  • Trekking Poles: Optional for stability on uneven terrain.

  • Headlamp or Flashlight: Optional With extra batteries for dark evenings or aurora viewing.

  • Camera & Tripod: Optional To capture Northern Lights and scenic landscapes.

  • Portable Charger/Power Bank: Optional For keeping your devices charged during long tours.

Personal Items:

  • Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Protect against snowglare.

  • Chapstick: prevents dry, chapped lips in cold weather.

  • Moisturizer: For skin hydration in the dry, cold climate.

Tips for Your Alaska Adventure

Aurora Viewing:

  1. Best Times: Between 10 PM and 2 AM; check aurora forecasts (Aurora App).

  2. Dark Locations: Find areas far from city lights like Chena Hot Springs or Murphy Dome.

  3. Camera Setup: Use a tripod and long exposure settings for the best aurora photos.

Cold Weather Prep:

  • Dress in Layers: Adjust clothing to stay warm and avoid overheating during activities.

  • Stay Hydrated: Cold weather can be dehydrating, so drink water regularly.

  • Bring Hot Drinks: Use a thermos for coffee, tea, or hot chocolate during outdoor excursions.

Driving in Winter:

  1. Rental Car Check: Ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tires or tire chains.

  2. Drive Slowly: Roads can be icy; maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

  3. Keep Emergency Gear: Blanket, snacks, water, flashlight, and a small shovel in case of emergencies.

Safety on Glacier Hikes:

  • Always follow your guide’s instructions.

  • Wear appropriate footwear with microspikes or crampons.

  • Avoid stepping on unstable ice or snow bridges.

Weather Awareness:

  • Unpredictable Weather: Be prepared for sudden snow, wind, or clear sunny skies.

  • Check local weather forecasts daily.

Photography:

  • Use gloves with touchscreen tips for taking photos without freezing your hands.

  • Bring extra batteries; they drain quickly in cold temperatures.