Description
This is by far the best way to see Seward in a day, especially for those without transportation. First, take in the fascinating history and breathtaking beauty as your guide shows you the sights of Seward, known as “the Gateway to Alaska” and “Mile 0″ of the Iditarod Trail. See first-hand the effects of the 1964 Earthquake and stand in awe of the mountain that is home to the second oldest foot race in the United States.
Then, head out to Exit Glacier, in the Kenai Fjords National Park. A short walk along the nature trail takes you to the face of the glacial ice. Watch for mountain goats, moose or bear on the mountainside. During the salmon runs, see salmon swimming upstream to spawn. A hearty lunch will be served at nearby Resurrection Roadhouse before you travel to the Seavey homestead and experience IdidaRide’s 1.5 hour Wilderness Dog Sled Ride and Tour. At the end of this fun-filled day, your driver will return you to your hotel, cruise ship or the Alaska Railroad depot. Tour is fully guided by a long-time Alaskan, and all expenses are included.
Tour Runs Every Day Mid-May-Mid-September
Tour Lasts 6 Hours
The tour begins at 11:05 A.M. (or whenever the train arrives) at the Seward Train Depot and finishes at 5:15 P.M. Timing works perfectly for those embarking or disembarking a cruise ship in Seward with train transfer to/from Anchorage.
Roundtrip and one-way transportation to and from Anchorage is available via the Alaska Railroad. We’d be happy to book this portion of your trip for you.
Adult (12+): $139.00 • Child (2-11): $79.00
For reservations and information please call 907-224-8607.
Highlights
- Get picked up at the Seward Railroad Depot by our one of our long-time Alaskan Guides who will show you the thrills of Seward and will delight you with wonderful information about our town.
- Go on our incredible 1.5 Hour Wilderness Dog Sled Ride where you will go on a breath-taking 2 mile dog sled ride and meet our adorable husky puppies.
- Eat a fantastic Alaskan Meal at the Resurrection Roadhouse and ask your guide all about Seward, Alaska, and any other information that might be pertinent to your trip.
- Visit Kenai Fjords National Park and take a short hike to the scenic Exit Glacier. Along the way look for bears, moose, eagle and other local wildlife,
- See salmon spawning at the local Seward fish weir — a great opportunity for pictures and to see something truly amazing.
- Learn about the fascinating history of Seward — also known as “Mile 0″ and the “Gateway to Alaska” — on the historic town tour.
What to Expect
Meet our coach at the train station. It is blue and gray, and says “Seavey’s Iditarod Racing Team” and “Real Alaska Tour” on the side. You can leave luggage at the train station (no charge) for the evening train any time after 10am. There is room for carry-on size luggage on the coach, if you have more luggage, please contact our reservation staff.This tour involves some walking, and there is not a wheelchair lift on the coach. The hike to Exit Glacier is approx 3/4 mile over uneven terrain. Guests in wheelchairs may take the tour provided they can board the bus on their own, and wheelchair can be folded. Some guests choose to wait in the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center rather than make the hike.
It is usually between 55F and 65F in the summer. Tour goes regardless of weather. In the event of rain, we do provide rain gear. Dress in layers, and bring any rain gear you have. Most coastal towns in Alaska can be wet, and we recommend investing in a good pair of rain pants and jacket before your trip.
Be sure to bring your camera and video camera, spare batteries.
FAQ
Can you give me an overview of the Real Alaska Tour?The Real Alaska Tour starts at the Seward train station at 11:30am. It includes the Dog Sled Ride and Tour, then continues from there to lunch at the Resurrection Roadhouse, then you go out to Exit Glacier in the Kenai Fjords National Park where you go for a short walk right to the face of the glacier, then out to Bear Creek Weir to see the salmon spawning and jumping up a little waterfall, then head into Seward for a short town tour before returning to your hotel/train/ship. The whole tour is guided by a gentleman who’s lived here in Seward for 27 years, and he tells stories about living in Alaska, and life in Seward. That tour is $139 for adults, $79 for kids, and includes all the meals, transportation, entrance fees, etc.
What time does it start?
The train gets to town at 11:05, and we try to get everyone aboard and start by 11:30.
What time will it end?
The tour ends at 5:15-5:30 at the train station, or we’ll drop you off at any area hotel or the cruise ship terminal.
Will I make it to my train?
You will have plenty of time to make the train, most of the passengers on this tour will be on the same train, and we’ve never missed the train. Even if we we’re late, we’re one of the train’s official tours so they won’t leave without us.
What do I do with my luggage?
It depends on what you’re doing. If you are getting of the train and going onto a cruise ship we recommend checking it at the cruise ship. If you’re getting off the cruise ship and taking the train home, we recommend checking your luggage in at the train station. The train station allows passengers departing Seward that evening by train to check their luggage as early as 10:00a.m. Exit Glacier Guides, which is across the street from the train station, also has a luggage locker you can use.
I’m coming in on the cruise ship and leaving on the train, how do I get there and what do I do with my luggage?
The train station lets you check in starting at 10:00am, so we recommend taking a cab or shuttle there with your luggage in the morning, check your baggage, get your boarding pass, and meet our bus there. That way you won’t have to deal with your luggage throughout the day.
Where do I park?
If you’re driving you can come directly to our kennel on Exit Glacier Road, just be here by 11:30am. We have plenty of parking for motor homes, and a drive through parking lot so you won’t have to turn around.
Will you pick me up at my hotel?
We pick up at the Seward Windsong Lodge, between 11:20-11:40, but that’s it. All other hotel guests must meet at the railroad depot.
Does this tour spend more time with the dogs?
The dog sledding portion of the tours is the same, the Real Alaska tour continues on from there by coach.
What’s on the menu?
We have several options of hardy Alaskan fare available on our menu so you’ll be sure to find something that you’ll like.
How long of a walk is it to Exit Glacier?
The walk to Exit Glacier takes about an hour over moderate terrain. If, for any reason, you do not want to do the hike you may stay in the Kenai Fjords National Park Nature Center. You will still be afforded excellent views of Exit Glacier as you can view it on the drive in.
Do we get to walk on the glacier?
No. You will not be walking on the glacier. We will, however, be walking up to the glacier.
Do you see wildlife?
We often see wildlife such as bears and moose, especially while out at Exit Glacier. Wildlife, however, is wild. We cannot control when we will see it nor can we guarantee that it will be seen.
Can I drive myself to these places?
No. If you have your own vehicle we recommend parking it at IdidaRide Sled Dog Tours for the day.
How do I dress?
We recommend dressing in layers and a raincoat (if you bring it you won’t need it!) as it allows the most flexibility.
