I by no means got down to go to all 50 states, however because the years handed and the quantity grew—47, 48, then 49—the unstated problem started to stir inside me. One state remained, looming within the distance like a ultimate frontier, a spot each wild and elusive. Alaska, together with her rugged landscapes and untamed spirit, appeared to maintain her distance, slipping by way of my plans 12 months after 12 months. That was till the autumn of 2024, when the celebs aligned, and I discovered myself on the TBEX journey convention, able to embrace the Final Frontier and at last full the journey I hadn’t meant to take. [Note: I have provided helpful links for your travel planning throughout.]
Earlier than TBEX started, I had the prospect to whet my Alaska journey urge for food with a tour led by Revel Treks + Excursions, owned and run by Kierre Childers. Kierre, an achieved information and wilderness knowledgeable, introduced extra than simply her experience to the journey—her charming persona and deep information of the realm infused each second with intrigue. She identified edible vegetation alongside our paths and shared fascinating tales concerning the land, remodeling every path and vista right into a residing tapestry of historical past and nature.
The itinerary for our journey supplied a various style of Alaska’s rugged magnificence:
- Mountaineering within the Chugach Mountains at some point, surrounded by towering peaks and wild surroundings. The subsequent we discovered ourselves exploring the gorgeous Hatcher Cross and Independence Mine, now a historic park.
- Biking across the serene glacial waters of Eklutna Lake.
- Kayaking on the clear blue waters, the place we paddled amongst reflections of the mountains.
- A brewery tour within the historic city of Palmer, with a cease at a Fjord-to-Fork restaurant.
- House Base at BlueWater BaseCamp: A comfy and scenic retreat nestled within the coronary heart of nature, the place we relaxed after every day’s journey, surrounded by breathtaking views and the serenity of Alaska’s wilderness.
It was the proper introduction to Alaska’s wild aspect, and Kierre made certain each second felt like a real journey.
Arrival into Anchorage: A Great Alaskan Journey Welcome
Upon arriving in Anchorage, I used to be greeted by an exquisite day, the sort that instantly makes you’re feeling such as you’re in for one thing particular. My first cease was checking into the Historic Anchorage Lodge, an enthralling relic of the previous that has hosted vacationers for the reason that early twentieth century. The resort has retained its classic allure, with traditional structure and a comfy environment that transports you again in time whereas providing fashionable comforts. It was the proper place to start my Alaskan journey.
After settling in, I spent a few hours strolling by way of downtown Anchorage. The town’s streets, lined with native outlets and artwork galleries, supplied a glimpse into each its wealthy historical past and vibrant tradition. I soaked up the ambiance as I wandered, admiring murals, exploring small boutiques, and getting a really feel for this northern metropolis that blends wilderness and concrete life so effortlessly.
Because the night approached, I made my technique to F-Avenue Station, a well known native establishment well-known for its informal environment and unbelievable seafood. The restaurant is a favourite amongst locals and guests alike, and it didn’t disappoint. I loved a scrumptious meal, that includes a few of Alaska’s best recent catch, earlier than retreating to my resort, prepared for the adventures that awaited within the days to come back.
Day 2: Alaskan Journey Continues Mountaineering within the Chugach Mountains
We started our hike within the Chugach Mountains on a gentle day, the air crisp however comfy as we ascended the path. The incline was pretty steep, guiding us up towards a ridge that promised gorgeous views above the treeline. Nevertheless, as usually occurs in Alaska, the climate started to shift. Up right here, the panorama modifications within the blink of an eye fixed, and being ready for unpredictable circumstances is essential. As we climbed increased, we had been reminded of the wild and ever-changing nature of this place.
About midway up the path, we stopped to take pleasure in a incredible lunch, ready prematurely and completely fitted to an out of doors feast. We discovered a scenic spot to sit down and take within the huge magnificence surrounding us, the ridge nonetheless looming forward. After lunch, Kierre, our information, shared her information concerning the wild berries discovered at this elevation. Although it was late within the season, we eagerly foraged for a wide range of berries, together with blueberries, crowberries, and the extra elusive lingonberries. Whereas the berries weren’t at their prime, it was nonetheless enjoyable to pattern them and find out about their flavors and significance within the Alaskan ecosystem.
After our berry foraging, we continued onward, the path narrowing to a rocky ledge. That’s when the snow started to fall—huge, mild flakes that blanketed the panorama round us. Somewhat than dampening our spirits, the snowfall appeared to boost the expertise, including a magical contact to the journey. We pressed on, undeterred, soaking within the snowy wonderland round us.
As soon as the hike concluded, we made our method again down and drove to our lodging. [Click the following link for an article I wrote about this remarkable place called BlueWater BaseCamp]. After checking into our lodging and taking a while to clean up, we headed out to dinner in Eagle River to Corks and Hops, an area gem identified for its laid-back environment and scrumptious, regionally sourced fare. It was the proper technique to unwind after a day within the wild.
Later that evening, again at BlueWater, we gathered round a campfire, having fun with the heat and the gorgeous Alaskan evening sky. The celebrities had been shiny, and the crackle of the hearth made for a becoming finish to a day stuffed with journey.
Day 3: Exploring the Gorgeous Hatcher Cross and Independence Mine
The climate on our third day was nothing wanting spectacular. The early morning mist gave technique to the bluest sky you’ll be able to think about, completely framing the snow-capped peaks that surrounded us as we made our technique to Hatcher Cross. This space, nestled within the Talkeetna Mountains, is a favourite for adventurers and nature lovers alike, providing breathtaking vistas and wealthy historical past. The move itself is understood for its rugged magnificence, winding roads, and panoramic views of alpine landscapes.
We spent the morning exploring Independence Mine Historic Park, a remnant of Alaska’s gold mining previous. As soon as a bustling mining hub within the early twentieth century, the mine now stands as a preserved piece of historical past. Strolling by way of the previous buildings and studying concerning the miners’ lives gave us a glimpse into the hardships and hopes that fueled the gold rush period.
After our exploration, we paused for a fast snack earlier than heading again down the mountain. On our method, we stopped at a scenic overlook to absorb the sweetness the Little Susitna River, its clear waters speeding by way of the valley, including a peaceable soundtrack to the awe-inspiring panorama.
With two extra experiences lined up for the day, we needed to depart the mountain behind. Our subsequent cease was Bleeding Coronary heart Brewery, a unusual and beloved microbrewery nestled simply outdoors downtown Palmer. Recognized for its small-batch craft beers, the brewery presents a comfy and relaxed environment with a touch of native aptitude. We loved a tasting flight paired with appetizers, every beer reflecting the Alaskan spirit of independence and creativity.
Our day didn’t finish there. After exploring the city of Palmer, we capped off the night at Feather + Flour, a superb eating restaurant that focuses on recent, regionally sourced substances. The meal was nothing wanting distinctive, an ideal mix of refined flavors and Alaskan allure. I’ve written a devoted article about this unbelievable eating expertise, which you will discover right here.
It was the proper conclusion to a day stuffed with pure magnificence, historical past, and native taste.
Day 4: Kayaking, Biking, and Grilling by Eklutna Lake
The ultimate day of our Alaskan journey introduced us to the breathtaking Eklutna Lake, only a brief distance from BlueWater BaseCamp. Nestled on the base of the Chugach Mountains, this glacier-fed lake is just not solely gorgeous but in addition gives Anchorage with its ingesting water. Its crystal-clear blue waters stretch for miles, surrounded by towering peaks and dense forest, making a peaceable and majestic backdrop for our day of actions.
We started the day by kayaking on the calm, serene waters of the lake. Gliding throughout the lake’s floor, we had been handled to panoramic views of snow-capped mountains mirrored within the water under. The glacier-fed lake was chilly however inviting, and as we paddled additional, we felt really immersed within the uncooked great thing about Alaska.
Subsequent, we transitioned to mountain biking across the lake. The path was an ideal mixture of problem and pleasure, winding by way of lush greenery and providing occasional views of the lake and surrounding wilderness. The recent mountain air and the sound of our tires crunching on the path made for an exhilarating experience, one which felt like a celebration of the rugged panorama round us.
After the biking tour, we set out on a brief hike by way of the forest, with the lake sometimes peeking by way of the bushes. The path was mild however rewarding, permitting us to understand the tranquil great thing about the realm from a brand new perspective.
Following our out of doors adventures, we returned to LifeTime Adventures, the place a scrumptious grilled lunch awaited us. The meal was an ideal finish to the day’s actions, that includes juicy burgers, savory reindeer sausages, and a refreshing salad—all loved round a crackling campfire. The scent of grilling meals mingled with the crisp mountain air, making for a memorable Alaskan meal.
For dessert, we took half in a enjoyable, hands-on exercise—a blender bike. We hopped on these stationary bike to mix our personal espresso drinks, pedaling our technique to the proper post-adventure deal with. It was a lighthearted and distinctive technique to cap off our Alaskan journey, mixing a little bit of enjoyable with the proper gas for our ultimate moments at Eklutna Lake.
The day was an impressive mix of outside journey, scenic magnificence, and camaraderie, leaving us with lasting recollections of this unbelievable journey within the coronary heart of Alaska.
A Excellent Finish: Kierre, Revel Treks + Excursions, and the Journey to 50 States
Kierre and her group at Revel Treks + Excursions had been distinctive from begin to end, making certain each facet of our journey was seamless and unforgettable. Whether or not you’re searching for an identical journey by way of the wilds of Alaska or in search of one thing fully custom-made, Kierre can craft the proper expertise. Her partnerships with native lodging, eating, and journey outfitters permit her to supply a turn-key answer that makes exploring Alaska each straightforward and deeply private. For those who’re planning your individual Alaskan journey, I can’t suggest reaching out to Kierre and her group extremely sufficient—they’ll carry your wildest Alaskan goals to life.
As I replicate on my journey, there’s a deep sense of achievement in having lastly visited all 50 states. Alaska, the final to be checked off, was greater than only a vacation spot—it was a fruits of exploration, discovery, and awe. Alaska’s rugged magnificence, ever-changing landscapes, and untamed spirit stand as a testomony to the facility of nature and the joys of journey. It’s becoming that the “Final Frontier” ought to mark the top of my journey, a spot the place the horizon stretches infinitely, very like the need to discover. In the long run, Alaska wasn’t simply my fiftieth state—it was a reminder that the highway by no means really ends; it simply results in new beginnings.