From the moment my plane touched down in Anchorage, I knew I was in for something magical. Alaska, the “Last Frontier,” greeted me with its crisp air, snow-kissed landscapes, and a serene beauty that seemed to stretch endlessly. As a beauty queen who’s traveled far and wide, I’ve been to places that sparkle, but Alaska? Alaska shines with a different kind of brilliance—one that captured my heart from the very first day.
Day 1 to Day 2: Arrival in Anchorage
The journey began with a warm welcome in Anchorage, a city that balances modern charm with rugged wilderness. My stay at the Wingate Hotel was a blend of comfort and luxury, providing the perfect launchpad for my Alaskan adventure. I spent the afternoon strolling through downtown, where the blend of urban life and natural beauty created a unique charm. The evening was a culinary delight, sampling local delicacies that introduced me to the flavors of the north.
Waking up before dawn on Day 2, I boarded a train that took me through some of the most breathtaking scenery I’ve ever witnessed. As the train rolled towards Seward, I was treated to views of majestic mountains, pristine rivers, and dense forests—each moment more picturesque than the last.
Seward, with its charming small-town feel, was the perfect place to explore at my own pace. The Alaska SeaLife Center was a highlight, where I marveled at the marine life that thrives in these cold waters. By nightfall, the Seward Windsong Lodge became my cozy retreat, with the wilderness right at my doorstep.
Day 3: Kenai Fjords Cruise
The next day, I embarked on a cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park, an experience that left me in awe of nature’s grandeur. Glaciers towered over the water, their icy blue hues captivating my senses, while playful sea otters and majestic whales added to the spectacle.
There was a moment, standing on the deck with the icy wind in my hair, that I realized Alaska wasn’t just a destination—it was an experience. Returning to the Seward Windsong Lodge, I felt a deep sense of connection to the wild beauty around me.
Day 4: Journey to Talkeetna
Leaving Seward, I embarked on a scenic bus journey to Talkeetna, with a midday stop in Anchorage to refuel. Talkeetna, a quaint town with a vibrant character, welcomed me with open arms.
My stay at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge was nothing short of spectacular, offering sweeping views of Mt. Denali in the distance. As the sun set, I felt the pull of adventure in my soul, eager for what was to come.
Day 5 to Day 6: Exploring Denali National Park
The morning in Talkeetna was leisurely, a chance to soak in the town’s charm before heading to Denali. The bus ride was filled with anticipation as I journeyed closer to one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Arriving at the Denali park entrance, I settled into my accommodation, where the excitement for the next day’s exploration buzzed in the air.
On Day 6, I realized that Denali National Park was everything I had dreamed of and more. The narrated bus tour took me deep into the park, where the raw, untamed beauty of Alaska was on full display. I spotted grizzly bears, moose, and caribou, their presence a reminder of the wild spirit of this land.
And then, there it was—Mt. Denali, standing tall and proud, a symbol of the enduring beauty of Alaska. The experience was humbling, a reminder of how small we are in the face of such grandeur.
Day 7 to Day 8: Return to Anchorage
The journey back to Anchorage was a bittersweet one. The train ride, though long, offered one last chance to drink in the stunning landscapes that had defined this trip.
As the train pulled into the station, I felt a pang of sadness that my Alaskan adventure was coming to an end. The Wingate Hotel provided a comforting embrace for my final night, a place to reflect on the incredible journey I had just experienced.
Leaving Alaska was like leaving behind a piece of my heart. The “white place,” as I fondly dubbed it, had not only crowned my head with memories but also left an indelible mark on my soul. As I boarded my flight home, I knew that this wasn’t a goodbye—it was simply a “see you later” to a land that I had fallen deeply in love with.
Final Word
In Alaska, I found a beauty that was pure and untouched, a place where nature reigns supreme, and every moment feels like a gift. For anyone seeking adventure, serenity, and a love affair with the wild, Alaska is waiting to crown your heart, just as it did mine.
Check out Bamba Travel’s free itinerary to Alaska below:
Guest post written by Mary Jean Jones
From the serene beaches of Bali to the vibrant streets of Barcelona, Mary Jean’s adventures fuel her love for diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes.
