Okay - I have my first draft of an ininerary and have chosen the following excursions. I found that we couldn't take in all that we wanted to do (even IF we could afford it) because of the timing.
Excursion/Activity
Riverboat Discovery Cruise
Rail-Fairbanks to Denali
Denali Wilderness Safari
Morning Natural History Tour
Susitna Float Trip
Chilcot Trail Hike and Float
White Pass Scenic Railway
Guide's Choice Adventure Hike
Mendenhal Glacier and Salmon Hatchery
Clover Pass Bike Ride (Lee); Totum/Town Tour (Barb)
Do you have any recommendations (positive or negative)? I know that preferences are subjective. We’re looking more for natural experiences (e.g., scenery and wildlife) than touristy ones (e.g., plane rides and dinners). I'm thinking about Captain Larry's whale watching out of Juneau, but I'd have to give up my only hike and/or the Mendenhal Glacier and Salmon Hatchery. Still, I've heard some really great things about the Cap't Larry experience.
Also, I'm wondereing about things to do while at the Princess Denali/Mt. McKinley lodges. I've been to practically all of the large National parks and they usually have trails close by that can be accessed by foot and sometimes park transportation (e.g., at Yosemite). Are there trails within walking distance of the lodges? Are there transportation options to get you to the trailhead (e.g., bike rentals, trams, shuttles)?
