Join us for an unforgettable overlanding adventure in Alaska! This group trip will take you through breathtaking landscapes, from majestic mountains to pristine wilderness. Experience the thrill of off-road driving while exploring iconic sites and hidden gems. Whether you’re a seasoned overlander or a newcomer, this trip offers the perfect mix of excitement and camaraderie. Get ready to connect with nature and make lasting memories in one of the most stunning regions in the world.
After spending two weeks exploring all over Southcentral Alaska, I am excited to share some of my discoveries as well as venture out into some new areas with a small group of people who are looking for something a little different than your typical Alaskan Fall. While this is not specifically a photo forward trip, I will certainly be guiding us to some of the most scenic areas I know of and am more than happy to help you get the perfect shot if that is your desire. I have put together the following itinerary that may be subject to minor changes, but for the most part should give you an idea of what to expect.
When: September 10th-19th
Getting there:
Airport: Anchorage (ANC)
Pick-up and Dropoff at Airport will be provided.
Locations: Anchorage, Denali, Paxson, Valdez, Palmer
Itinerary:
10th - Fly into Anchorage on in time for a group welcome dinner in downtown Anchorage at 6 PM.
11th - We will get set up with our rigs for the next week with Alaska Overlander in the morning and begin about a 4.5 hour drive up to Denali with a stop in Talkeetna. We will take an evening flight with Denali Air to explore the largest national park in the US from above and circle the tallest peak in North America, Denali.
12th - Day to explore the park on ground with option to take the Bus or explore up to Mile 15 with your rig. Note that you must have a national parks pass or buy a day pass to enter. The bus will take us out to mile 43 with options to go on social hikes throughout the park. These are not necessarily trails as the park has few of these, but general paths/routes to scenic views of the park.
13th - Drive Denali Highway and camp below some of the most incredible views of your life. This will be where we utilize the rigs the most with river crossings, dirt roads, and all kinds of fun.
14th - Canwell Glacier exploration - this will be something new for me from my prior trip, but one recommendation my friends at Alaska Overlander suggested we don’t miss. That evening we will look to find camping with views of the glacier.
15th - Drive to Valdez and kayak on Valdez Glacial lake. Camp on Thompson Pass with jaw-dropping views.
16th - Drive Glenn Highway end on Hatcher Pass - optional hike to April Bowl
17th - Options to hike Reed Lake (7 miles total), Mint Hut (16 miles) and/or drive Hatcher Pass (and find shorter hikes). Drive to Eklutna Lake in the late afternoon
18th - Spend morning hiking/hanging by lake. Return rigs in the afternoon in Anchorage. Optional evening flight. Farewell Dinner in Anchorage at 7 PM
19th - Departure / spend more time exploring Anchorage
Who is your Host:
Corey has been a travel photographer for over 7 years who has travelled to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations capturing the unique landscapes and cultures while bringing these stories to life through various forms of publicity. He has a love for the outdoors and a desire to share his experiences with others in hopes that they will find a similar connection to the natural wonders of this world.
Fitness Level and Off-roading experience:
There will be a moderate amount of hiking including one or two strenuous hikes. Please know your body and do not attempt hikes that you are not capable of. We will be in remote areas of Alaska with limited service. We will be driving a fair amount of dirt roads, with potential river and stream crossings and mud. Rescue gear will be included and assesments of difficult terrain will be addressed with a plan ahead of time. I am not responsible for any damage to vehicles.
Price - $3,100-$6,000 (Payment plans can be developed upon request, starting minimum deposits listed below)
Price Includes -
Rental Vehicle
Bedding – fitted sheet, down duvet and pillows
Camp table
Chairs (one per person)
Camp stove with 5lb propane tank
French press coffee maker
Pot and pan set
Set of 4 cups, bowls and plates (additional available on request)
Cooking and eating utensil set with cutting board and bottle opener
Collapsible sink with dish soap, sponge, scrub brush and dish towel
Paper towels, toilet paper and garbage bags
Cooking spray, salt and pepper set
Lighter
Lantern
Shovel, hatchet and brush saw
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Alaska Milepost guidebook
Scenic Denali Flight
Valdez Kayak Rental
Two nights stay in Anchorage
Airport Shuttle
What’s not included:
Flights to and from Anchorage
Meals not specifically mentioned (I suggest making an online grocery order ahead of time to stock your cooler)
Gas for Rental Truck (expect to spend between $250-300 total) (keep in mind this will be split for those opting for the 2 tent Tacoma)
Travel Insurance
Tips
Add-ons from Alaska Overlander
Additional Information:
The 2 tent Tacomas are intended to be a cost efficient option that is shared between two guests. There must be two guests to fill this option as the price is on a per guest basis. Please email corey@clynchphotography.com to be put on the waitlist. If you have a group of 3-5 that wants to get cozy please email me for this cost breakdown and I am happy to accommodate.
There will be a damage deposit of $1500 due prior to or at arrival.
All Drivers must be age 25 or older.
**The following are non-refundable deposits based on vehicle choice:
4 Runner - $655
Tacoma 2 tent - $705
Tacoma - $685
Tundra - $785
The final day to secure a spot on this trip is January 15th. After this day any unclaimed vehicles will be listed publicly through Alaska Overlander.
Packing Advise:
Pack warm! Temps will vary based on location, but this will be mid-late fall and snow is a possibility. Most of the tents are not heated and nights can be chilly. Additional items such as buddy heaters and heated blankets can be added onto package as requested.
Pack for rain! Make sure you have a raincoat, rainpants/water resistent pants, warm socks (preferrably Merino Wool), and a good set of hiking boots.
For the scenic flight, if you plan to bring a camera, a polarizer is highly recommended to cut glare from the window.