Alaska is one of the most awe-inspiring places in North America, with its vast, untouched landscapes and an endless array of natural wonders. It’s a region that beckons travelers seeking authentic outdoor experiences—whether that’s gliding across snow-covered tundra on a dog sled, soaring over glaciers by floatplane, or walking through boreal forests with a naturalist guide. We especially love the Dog Sledding – Subarctic Wilderness Tour for its pure adventure and the chance to connect with an iconic Alaskan tradition, and the Small-Group Flight Denali National Park Tour with Guided Hike for its breathtaking views and wildlife encounters. Alaska’s variety of tours caters to different interests, fitness levels, and budgets, making it an excellent destination for those wanting to see the best of America’s largest state.
Quick Overview
On this list, you’ll find a range of excursions highlighting Alaska’s majestic parks. There are dog sledding adventures that put you right into the heart of the subarctic wilderness, nature walks led by naturalists, and scenic flights showcasing Denali’s towering peaks and glaciers. For a more immersive experience, the Stikine River Wilderness Tour offers a high-speed boat journey into untouched wilderness, while the 4 Hour Off-Trail Wilderness Wonders Tour provides a hands-on look at edible plants and local history. Each offers a unique way to explore Alaska’s wilderness, so read on to see which fits your travel style best.
1. Dog Sledding – Subarctic Wilderness Tour
Go dog mushing in the Alaskan wilderness with this guided experience that’s perfect for adventure lovers. You’ll hop on a 10-mile sled ride, travelling through quiet forests and across tundra—accessing areas that few get to see. The tour includes all gear, from gloves to coats, so you only need to bring your enthusiasm.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to learn about the art of dog mushing directly from experienced guides, and to interact with the racing sled dogs. Many participants rave about the warmth and friendliness of the staff, and the scenic, laughter-filled ride. You’ll be served coffee, tea, and snacks, making it more than just a quick thrill. With only eight participants maximum, it offers a personal, intimate experience.
The reviews emphasize the professionalism of the guides and the adventure’s authenticity. One reviewer called it “scenic and adventurous filled with laughter and joys,” while another appreciated how accommodating the staff were with gear and weather concerns.
Bottom line: If you want a quintessential Alaskan experience that combines scenery, tradition, and friendly expertise, this dog sledding tour is a fantastic choice—especially if you enjoy active outdoor fun.
2. Denali: Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park
For those who prefer a slower, more contemplative approach, the Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali offers a gentle exploration of the park’s flora, fauna, and geology. Led by an expert naturalist, you’ll walk along well-maintained trails through Denali’s boreal forest, gaining insights into how plants, animals, and fungi co-exist in this challenging environment.
This tour emphasizes education and appreciation of nature, with impressive views of glacial landforms and opportunities to spot wildlife like moose or Dall sheep. The guide shares detailed stories about the landscape’s formation and the living things that thrive here. It’s a great option for travelers interested in learning more about the natural forces that shape Alaska, all while enjoying a peaceful walk.
What makes this tour special is how it supports conservation—5% of profits go to helping preserve Denali. Many visitors find it a rewarding way to connect deeply with the environment, especially if they’re not looking for intense physical activity.
Reviews highlight the engaging guides and the stunning scenery. One participant said, “We saw the entire mountain and learned so much about the landscape.” It’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxed, educational experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle hikes and want to deepen their understanding of Denali’s natural beauty, this tour combines scenery and storytelling seamlessly.
3. Small-Group Flight Denali National Park Tour with Guided Hike
This tour offers a spectacular way to see Denali from both the sky and the ground. Starting with a scenic floatplane flight, you’ll soar over glaciers, forests, and tundra, getting a bird’s-eye view of the park’s vastness. This is a great chance to see Denali’s towering peak and wildlife like wolves, moose, and bears from a safe distance.
After the flight, you’ll land at a remote lodge for a guided hike, exploring the landscape up close. The group is limited to eight participants, which enhances the personal nature of this adventure. Your guide will share insights about the land, wildlife, and the geology of this iconic area.
The flight experience is described as breathtaking, with “breathtaking views of the mountain and surroundings,” according to past reviews. One traveler noted, “The plane took us around the mountain and shared knowledgeable information—it was the highlight of our trip.” Combining aerial and ground perspectives makes this tour ideal for those who want to maximize their Denali experience in a short time.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a comprehensive view of Denali that includes both flight and hike, and enjoy small-group settings, this tour offers a high-impact experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
4. Stikine River Wilderness Tour
For true wilderness immersion, the Stikine River Wilderness Tour takes you into one of North America’s last pristine river ecosystems. Starting in Wrangell, you’ll board a high-speed boat that cruises through braided channels, past glacial-fed lakes, and along steep canyon walls—an adventure designed for those who crave untouched landscapes.
The tour focuses on wildlife viewing—you might see moose, bears, eagles, and seals—while the landscape itself is a highlight. The itinerary includes Shakes Lake, a stunning glacial lake filled with floating icebergs, fed by the calving Shakes Glacier. The scenery here is dramatic, with rugged mountains framing the icy waters.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on raw, untouched wilderness and the chance to see glaciers up close. It’s an active, 4-hour adventure that’s perfect for travelers eager to experience Alaska’s natural power firsthand. Since the tour is highly rated but has only two reviews, it’s clear that it delivers a very specialized experience—one that appeals to serious outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom line: If you want a high-speed boat journey into remote Alaskan wilderness with plenty of wildlife and glacier sights, this tour is hard to beat.
5. 4 Hour Off-Trail Wilderness Wonders Tour in Denali
For a truly authentic and hands-on wilderness experience, the Off-Trail Wilderness Wonders Tour takes you off the beaten path. Led by an expert guide, you’ll explore areas away from the crowds, learning about native plants, berries, and the history of Denali.
This 4-hour adventure emphasizes learning about edible plants and how Indigenous peoples used them, adding a cultural dimension to your visit. You’ll sample some of the edible plants and berries you find along the way, making this an interactive experience. The tour also supports conservation efforts, with 5% of profits donated.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic wilderness skills and the chance to become a Denali expert by the end. Guests rave about the depth of knowledge and the authentic connection to the land.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want an off-trail adventure combined with education about native plants and local history, this tour offers a uniquely immersive experience.
$209 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the perfect Alaska tour, consider your budget, physical fitness, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you crave adventure and scenery, the Dog Sledding or Floatplane and Hike options are excellent. For those who prefer a more relaxed, educational approach, the Naturalist Walking Tour is ideal. Wilderness enthusiasts should look at the Stikine River or Off-Trail Wilderness Wonders for authentic, immersive experiences.
Think about the time you have—dog sledding and flight tours tend to be shorter, perfect for a day or half-day, while some wilderness tours require more time and preparation. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular experiences like flightseeing, which fill up quickly in peak season.
Final Thoughts
Alaska offers a broad palette of national park tours, from adrenaline-pumping dog sled rides to serene nature walks and awe-inspiring flights. For travelers wanting a traditional experience, the Dog Sledding – Subarctic Wilderness Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer to see Denali from above and below, the Small-Group Flight Tour provides a well-rounded adventure. For those craving true wilderness immersion, the Stikine River Wilderness Tour and Off-Trail Wilderness Wonders are outstanding options.
Whatever your interest or fitness level, Alaska has something to match your curiosity. Remember to book well in advance, particularly for smaller, guided tours. This is a place where genuine encounters with nature are waiting—so prepare to get outside and experience the wild beauty of Alaska firsthand.