March 2-8, 2009

See Alaska as it was meant to be seen, in the Winter! Join us for this exclusive winter tour program featuring the world famous Iditarod Sled Dog Race! Come to Alaska and experience the excitement of the dogs bursting through the Iditarod start line in Anchorage. Meet an Expert at the Western Hemisphere's only cold-water research facility, the Alaska Sealife Center. Meet Martin Buser, four-time Iditarod champion at his Happy Trails Kennel. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center and learn about incredible native culture. Spend time at leisure at the world famous Hotel Alyeska where skis, skates, snowboards and snowshoes are available for rental to make your Alaska winter dreams a reality or choose to partake in a spa treatment! Meet an expert at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and learn about some of Alaska’s amazing large critters like grizzly, moose and musk ox. This tour is guaranteed to go and escorted by an Alaskan who lives in the north year-round! Hear tales from real legends and see first-hand how the Alaska winter season comes alive.

Day 1: Arrival
Air arrival into Anchorage. On own transfer to hotel. Overnight accommodations at the Hilton Anchorage.

Day 2: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Tram Overview, Girdwood
Breakfast included. Today, travel south along the spectacular Turnagain Arm. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for a behind the scenes tour to see grizzly, moose or musk ox up close. Afternoon at leisure for relaxation in the spa facility, dog sledding, downhill skiing or snow shoeing (costs are additional) Enjoy an included tram ride offering spectacular views of the valley. Overnight at the Hotel Alyeska, Alaska's only four-diamond property in Girdwood.

Day 3: Alaska Sealife Center
Breakfast included. Today, climb aboard your motorcoach for a journey to the port community of Seward. Visit the Alaska Sealife Center for an in-depth look above and below the ocean floor. Return to Girdwood for overnight accommodations at the Hotel Alyeska. Guests may opt to remain in Girdwood for a full-day of activities on their own.

Day 4: Anchorage City Tour, Alaska Zoo
Breakfast included this morning. Morning departure from Alyeska north to Alaskas largest city, Anchorage. Enjoy an Anchorage City Tour through the historic downtown district, Lake Hood/Lake Spenard and visit the Alaska Zoo for a behind the scenes tour. Tonight, enjoy the Iditarod festivities at the Musher's Banquet (only available to guests who reserve prior to December 1, 2007)! Mingle with the mushing community from near and far and bring the camera for a photo op with your favorite musher! Overnight Anchorage.

Day 5: Happy Trails Kennels, Iditarod Headquarters
Breakfast included this morning. Visit the Happy Trails Kennels, home of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser. Hear first-hand, personal stories while viewing a glimpse of the grandeur Alaska has to offer along the Iditarod trail. Returning to Anchorage visit the Iditarod Headquarters and see first hand a replica Iditarod Trail station. Overnight Anchorage.

Day 6: Iditarod Start, Alaska Native Heritage Center
Breakfast included this morning. This morning, head down to 4th Avenue to get a great spot at the start of the Iditarod. Spend time cheering on mushers from all over the world. Watch each of them depart for Nome or take off early and enjoy other Iditarod festivities in Anchorage. This afternoon, enjoy the cultural opportunities available at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Tonight, reminisce over your Alaska winter adventure at a farewell dinner. Overnight Anchorage.

Day 7: Homeward
On own transfer to Anchorage airport for flight home.

copyright (Pilgrim Tours) 2001