Alaska Wildland Adventures
Alaska Wildland Adventures
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Alaska Wildland Adventures (AWA) - AWA's style of travel offers guests a high quality, small-group, interactive experience without compromising - or over-emphasizing - comfort. With our focus on keeping things small, and maximizing experiences, you are sure to enjoy the guided hiking, rafting, kayaking, marine wildlife and glacier cruises, delicious meals and more.
Cooper Landing, Alaska
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Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
369 reviews
Excellent
352
Very good
7
Average
8
Poor
1
Terrible
1
225theah
2 contributions
Jun 2021
A wonderful trip. Excellent, experienced guide Leigh Lubin made a huge impact on the overall enjoyment of the itinerary.
We saw lots of animals and majestic scenery.
Highlights included the 6 mile sea kayak to the Aleiska glacier....winds were kicking up and the skies were spitting so the paddling was challenging before we got to the icebergs! I felt as though I was in a National Geographic film most of the time.
Kenai Peninsula Glacier Lodge is a gem, tucked away with each cabin having its own view of the lagoon, its island and the glacier that formed them.
What a treat to finally be able to see Denali our last night when we got to take a small plane flight from Denali Backcountry Lodge.
Alaska is a huge place and AWA constructed an efficient way for its guests to see many significant parts of it.
I highly recommend it!
We saw lots of animals and majestic scenery.
Highlights included the 6 mile sea kayak to the Aleiska glacier....winds were kicking up and the skies were spitting so the paddling was challenging before we got to the icebergs! I felt as though I was in a National Geographic film most of the time.
Kenai Peninsula Glacier Lodge is a gem, tucked away with each cabin having its own view of the lagoon, its island and the glacier that formed them.
What a treat to finally be able to see Denali our last night when we got to take a small plane flight from Denali Backcountry Lodge.
Alaska is a huge place and AWA constructed an efficient way for its guests to see many significant parts of it.
I highly recommend it!
Written July 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for selecting us for your Alaska adventure. It sounds like you made the most out of every moment!
Written July 26, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paul H
1 contribution
Jul 2021
Amazing, luxury adventure travel at its best. Just returned from the Ultimate Alaska trip with my family (kids 14 and 11). Our amazing guide, Meagan, was not only knowledgeable but made sure all of the details were taken care of, more than we could have expected. This company runs like a tight ship making sure you are always where you need to be, and adapting to any changes the weather could throw at you. Putting the wonderment of Alaska aside, this is the company to use. Highlights were:
- The Food! Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there was never a wasted meal. They were all fantastic. My kids now have a new bar for what a lunch looks like.
- The guides. From finding bog cranberries, to taking the less traveled trail, the guides were fun and informative.
- The views. There is no place like the Glacier Lodge. I wish I could have stayed a month.
- The Food! Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there was never a wasted meal. They were all fantastic. My kids now have a new bar for what a lunch looks like.
- The guides. From finding bog cranberries, to taking the less traveled trail, the guides were fun and informative.
- The views. There is no place like the Glacier Lodge. I wish I could have stayed a month.
Written July 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We wish you would've stayed a month, too! Please come back to visit us again.
Written July 26, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
tom p
2 contributions
Jun 2021
I highly recommend AWA for any one who wants a wilderness experience with superb service and quality amenities. such as food , guides and adventures including kayaking, canoeing and hiking. The staff was great , in particular, Nick, our guide. We visited three of their lodges and each provided a wonderful clean a well equipped cabin for our stay. The choices from very active to not so active was provided to all of us on the trip without anyone feeling that they were left out or left behind. The meals exceeded expectations and met all of the varied diet restrictions without any diminution in quality. Finally , the emphasis on the preservation of the wilderness was evident yet not limiting our enjoyment in any way.
Written June 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful feedback. We love what we do, and we hope it shows through all facets of our trips and lodge experiences.
Written July 26, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sultana A
1 contribution
Jul 2021
Alaska Wildland Adventures truly embodies award-winning professionalism balanced with comfort for those seeking adventure and a profound appreciation for how big, bold and beautiful Alaska is. My family tour group consisted of a special needs autistic child, which can be challenging, and I must acknowledge our incredible Tour Guide Liam, who was professional, attentive and truly inspirational. Throughout every interaction, he exemplified how kindness, compassion and connecting with nature and your environment can be quite transformative. We were so happy with how welcoming and surreal the entire experience was. From the initial greeting and introduction, he ensured we were all well equipped and informed about equipment and safety gear. Our safety and comfort level were his main priority. Throughout our scenic rafting trip up the beautiful and peaceful Kenai River, he was very knowledgeable about the landscape, the historical context and we were able to see quite a bit of eagles, kingfishers, and even spotted a baby bear cub chewing happily. We were animated by his experiences and humbling reckoning with nature and his uplifting positive energy further enriched our trip. He has so many incredible stories and insights to share. His hospitality, friendly humor and passion for the outdoors accompanied by a broad spectrum of experiences with nature balances the humbling and expansive landscape of Alaska, where so much still remains to be explored in the last frontier. Having him as a Tour Guide, someone with so much inner peace, actually was the highlight of our entire trip and we are so incredibly grateful. This was a much-needed escape from the trials of everyday life in New York for us. Thank you Liam for hosting us and for spreading joy in the world. Wishing you continued joy and happiness in your future expeditions and journey. The world would be a much better place if there were more people like you leading the way. Cheers to exploring more beautiful horizons and savoring these magical moments with nature!
Sultana Ahmed + Family, New York
Sultana Ahmed + Family, New York
Written July 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much, Sultana, for your kind and generous feedback. We're so happy your family chose to experience the Kenai River with us this summer. Please come back to visit again!
Written July 26, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jon
149 contributions
Aug 2021
We had an excellent trip. Very friendly and knowledgeable guide. Beautiful sites. Comfortable lodges.
It didn't hurt that the weather was also generally great but on the days it wasn't they adjusted well.
We would recommend going early August when mosquitos are less of a problem.
It didn't hurt that the weather was also generally great but on the days it wasn't they adjusted well.
We would recommend going early August when mosquitos are less of a problem.
Written September 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marty O
14 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
My husband and I just wrapped up 2 nights at Kenai Riverside Lodge (including a full-day raft trip) followed by 2 nights/3 days at Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. The first was great, but the second was unbelievably amazing. Riverside lodge caters most to those who come to Alaska for a full-service fishing adventure. The Glacier Lodge is best for those who are physically fit and desire to learn more about nature and relish wild animal encounters. Both offer amazing food, knowledgeable and personable guides, and exceptional customer service. I only wish that we could have stayed longer at the Glacier Lodge. If you and your party are committed to experiencing the best of Alaska with the least amount of hassle, these Alaska Wildland packages are worth every dollar, and more!
Written September 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for choosing us for your Alaska vacation, and we're happy you got to experience a few of our properties this summer. We hope to see you again in the future!
Written September 21, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sonja C
1 contribution
Jun 2024 • Family
I brought my 12 year old son to Wildland for a couple days to spend some time adventuring and connecting, no phones or devices allowed. (They’ll work if you need them, we just went without!)
It could not have gone better! We live in Anchorage, so we do our share of adventuring as a family of 5, but spending time at Wildland just the two of us was really special. The river rafting trip was a highlight, our guides were excellent. We played UNO and ping pong on the gorgeous, huge, riverfront deck at every opportunity, grabbing cold drinks or snacks from the lodge when we took breaks. I leveraged my ping pong wins into time sweating together in the dry sauna, and when we got too hot we dunked in the glacial river. The food was delicious, and by the end of the trip, we didn’t want to come home! I know that guests at Wildland are primarily visitors from out of state, but I would recommend a stay to anyone local looking for a ready-made adventure!
It could not have gone better! We live in Anchorage, so we do our share of adventuring as a family of 5, but spending time at Wildland just the two of us was really special. The river rafting trip was a highlight, our guides were excellent. We played UNO and ping pong on the gorgeous, huge, riverfront deck at every opportunity, grabbing cold drinks or snacks from the lodge when we took breaks. I leveraged my ping pong wins into time sweating together in the dry sauna, and when we got too hot we dunked in the glacial river. The food was delicious, and by the end of the trip, we didn’t want to come home! I know that guests at Wildland are primarily visitors from out of state, but I would recommend a stay to anyone local looking for a ready-made adventure!
Written June 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so glad you had so much fun at Kenai Riverside, and we sure hope to see you again.
Written June 28, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Meg P
2 contributions
Jun 2021
I highly recommend taking a week (or longer) guided adventure with AWA. They look after you from start to finish. Every meal is taken care of, your luggage is handled, your lodging is coordinated. Our guide even gave us all of the secret insights to get the best experience, such as "Make sure you sit on the left side of the bus!" The experiences and excursions were so much fun. This is absolutely the best way to see Alaska, if you are looking for adventure mixed with comfort!
Written June 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We do our best to provide "insider's" experiences in wild Alaska. We're grateful you chose to travel with us.
Written July 26, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
santafekk
Santa Fe, NM30 contributions
Jun 2022 • Family
If you are looking for a fun, nature-filled, comfortable, and organized vacation where all of the stress of planning is removed, look no further! Like others have said, this experience exceeded all expectations. This was a family trip for 8 members (ages 11 to 80). We were a bit apprehensive before the trip that it would be too much activity for some, but everyone had the BEST time.
Highlights:
Wildlife: It can't be promised that you'll see all the animals you hope to see, but we saw several bears (with adorable cubs), moose, a humpback whale, Dall's porpoises, puffins, sea and river otters, a lynx, seals, sea lions, and several other types birds.
Locations of lodges: We stayed at all three lodges, and they are all surrounded with incredible beauty. The cabins are warm, clean, quiet, and cozy.
Staff: EVERYONE was genuinely happy to be there to help, teach, and share their knowledge.
Food: They served us deliciously prepared cuisine. They went out of their way at every meal to accommodate dietary needs. (Vegetarian and gluten free)
Overall, this is not an inexpensive vacation, but we feel it was an unforgettable experience for everyone and worth every penny.
Highlights:
Wildlife: It can't be promised that you'll see all the animals you hope to see, but we saw several bears (with adorable cubs), moose, a humpback whale, Dall's porpoises, puffins, sea and river otters, a lynx, seals, sea lions, and several other types birds.
Locations of lodges: We stayed at all three lodges, and they are all surrounded with incredible beauty. The cabins are warm, clean, quiet, and cozy.
Staff: EVERYONE was genuinely happy to be there to help, teach, and share their knowledge.
Food: They served us deliciously prepared cuisine. They went out of their way at every meal to accommodate dietary needs. (Vegetarian and gluten free)
Overall, this is not an inexpensive vacation, but we feel it was an unforgettable experience for everyone and worth every penny.
Written July 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're thrilled this trip met your expectations and that you were able to encounter some truly iconic Alaskan moments, such as seeing the bear with cubs and more. Thanks for choosing us!
Written July 19, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
trish a
eugene3 contributions
Aug 2022
AWA helped make "Wild" less intimidating and wholly enjoyable yet put is right in it. They have guided hikes not just for scenery but also for learning about wherever you are: the intertidal zone, wild berries, medicinal plants, glaciers, the tree growth, salmon... everything that is right there around you. Sea kayaking to Aialik Glacier (from Kenia Fjords Lodge) was awe-inspiring, especially hearing the thunderous calving of the glacier. Fellow kayakers captured glacier ice for future "Glacieritas." The accommodations are wonderful; food fabulous. And a great opportunity to be completely off the grid and in the company of others there for the same experience. We made some great friends. Do keep in mind: Alaska is wild, and that includes weather. Be prepared to be flexible. AWA will do everything they can to accommodate what Mother Nature does to upend your plans. Our departure from Riverside to Kenai Fjords lodge was delayed a day -- so they gave us a rafting trip on the Kenai River. Others went fishing. The Riverside Lodge also has a lovely deck overlooking the river with a covered fire pit sitting area, tables and chairs to kick back with a book just relax. We will never forget this trip and hope to return.
Written August 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your flexibility around Mother Nature's weather whims, ha ha! We appreciate you!
Written August 29, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Can they cater for someone with an onion allergy who also doesn’t like fish?
Written February 25, 2020
Amy L
Girdwood, Alaska
Yes, our talented chefs and kitchen team are skilled in working with travelers with all different types of food allergies and dietary restrictions. When you sign up for a trip with us, we'll ask you to complete a short questionnaire where you can advise us about dietary needs, and we'll make sure we have ample hearty, healthy and delicious alternatives ready for you. We hope to see you soon!
Written February 26, 2020
Is it better to do the traditional 3-Lodge package or the guided Alaska Wildland Collection? Is the guide really needed for the guided one?
Written January 9, 2018
Amy L
Girdwood, Alaska
Hi Jackie,
On the more independent 3-Lodge Combination program, you'll be able to enjoy the benefits of daily guided activities led by resident guides based at our lodges. An advantage of the Alaska Wildland Collection is that you'll have one devoted Trip Leader with you as you travel in between lodges, who assists with all the finer details and checks in with the group in a more structured way. On the Wildland Collection, we still carve out plenty of down-time where you can have "me time" and relax on your own, as you wish, and as Terri pointed out, there's great opportunities for camaraderie with like-minded travelers.
It's a matter of personal preference on which travel style is the best fit for you (all-inclusive vs. the more customizable 3-Lodge Combination), and our team can assist you with dates, availability and tailored pricing. We're here to help! 800.334.8730
Written January 10, 2018
rgaitaneris17
Adelaide, Australia
Does your company generate financial benefits for both local people and private industry?
How does it recognise the rights and spiritual beliefs of the Indigenous People and work in partnership with them to create empowerment?
Written October 27, 2016
Amy L
Girdwood, Alaska
Greetings!
We work very closely with the Alaska Native group which owns the land at our Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge, and they are financial beneficiaries in our partnership.
If you would like to learn more, you are welcome to contact our home office and speak with our President, Kirk Hoessle, who provides leadership in our partnerships with local businesses and Native groups. 800.334.8730
Written October 27, 2016
Lilhenry2015
Weaverville, North Carolina
Does this tour include a quest to see wildlife, could we be accommodated within our time scheme? Might there be a group rate for five adults?
Written July 4, 2015
Amy L
Girdwood, Alaska
Hi Henry,
I may have answered this question in response to your last post, but I wanted to clarify that our Kenai Scenic Float trip is offered at specific times each day: 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. We do not offer custom departure timing due to existing reservations we already have in place during the July 26 and 27 time frame.
Although it's feasible to see an array of wildlife both in the river and on the riverbanks during our Kenai River floats, bear sightings are more rare and not something we can guarantee (we cannot guarantee any specific wildlife viewing).
Our Scenic Floats are limited to 12 guests or less per trip; we do not offer discounted rates for groups of 5, but we do offer youth rates and discounts for kids 5 - 11 years old.
Our local staff at 800-478-4100 will be happy to help answer more questions about our specific availability and options for July 27. Thanks!
Written July 5, 2015
Lilhenry2015
Weaverville, North Carolina
We will doing a land tour and southbound cruise. Will be in Sumner to board Norwegian Sun.Fullest day there is boarding day. We need a relatively short tour(maybe four or five hours so we can travel from Sumner to Cooper Landing and back in time to board at about 6:00p.m.) Like everyone we hope to sight bears--a tall order. Could Alaska Wildland Adventures accomodate our needs? Group will be me, my two grown children and their spouses. Thank you.
Henry Goldbaum
Written July 4, 2015
Amy L
Girdwood, Alaska
Hi Henry,
We offer a 2-3 hourKenai River Scenic Raft trip daily, starting at 9:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. The main concern, however, is the driving time and ground transportation in between Seward and Cooper Landing. We regrettably do not offer shuttle service in between our Cooper Landing starting location and Seward.
We encourage you to call our Cooper Landing office toll-free at 800-478-4100 to talk with our expert staff about possible raft trip options on July 27, if you're open to renting a car.
If you're not interested in renting a car, Exit Glacier Guides ((907) 224-5569) offers a variety of short day trips, featuring hiking, glaicer treks and even paddle boarding, and they can set up trips starting in Seward. They may be a great option for you!
Kind regards,
Alaska Wildland Adventures
Written July 5, 2015
What month would be best for wildlife viewing? When would you have the least amount of rain? What type go clothing are recommended? Shoes are so heavy...what would be two or three dedicate must have.
Written February 14, 2015
Amy L
Girdwood, Alaska
Alaska Wildland Adventures operates a short, 100 day season each year during Alaska's peak touring months (June through early September); because we focus on such a specific window of dates, any time period within our open season is fantastic for viewing wildlife. If you're more interested in seeing wildlife with their young, then early June is ideal to spot; in early September, the grizzlies are sometimes easier to glance as they forage for food before winter, and their coats turn more blond and contrast against the darkening fall foliage.
Alaska's weather is unpredictable, but our travelers are able to enjoy all our adventures, rain or shine, by wearing proper gear. There isn't a specific rainy season, but short showers are common, especially in the northernmost rainforest areas of the state. High quality rain gear is a great investment.
We recommend guests wear comfortable, supportive and water-resistant footwear. Some guests choose more traditional leather hiking boots; others will opt for more light-weight trail shoes or even running shoes. Sports sandals are also popular, as they pack easily and offer a nice reprieve from hiking boots at the end of a day of activity.
When travelers make a reservation with Alaska Wildland Adventures, we send each traveler a comprehensive trip planning booklet with detailed packing lists, recommended reading lists and more.
Written February 16, 2015
Which trip did you actually take. We are thinking of the 9 or 11 day grand journey. When do you think is the best time weather wise. Anything special needed for clothing. Any hidden costs? Do you recommend adding on a day before or after trip. Do they arrange your airfare.
Any negatives. Thanks
Written February 10, 2015
Amy L
Girdwood, Alaska
Hello from Alaska Wildland Adventures! You may have been asking our other travelers to respond to this query, but in the meantime, we'd like to comment on a few of your questions.
We operate a short 100 day season from early June through early September annually, to take advantage of what we feel is the best time to explore Alaska in the summertime. Weather is always variable in Alaska, so the best way to make the most of sun or rain is to prepare with comfortable layers of clothing. We highly recommend a pair of high quality, waterproof rain pants and a windbreaker; these pack easily and can be taken on/off easily to keep you comfortable.
We send all enrolled travelers a comprehensive packing list with other details on what to pack and what to expect.
Alaska Wildland Adventures does not handle airfare reservations, but we recommend our travelers to try to use mileage plans with their favorite airline carrier. Most carriers fly in and out of Anchorage routinely. If you are interested in adding any extra days to your trip, our reservations staff will be happy to help with ideas on extended your adventure. Some guests opt to add an extra day of fishing or bearviewing, and AWA can help with both.
We hope to share our favorite places in Alaska with you!
Written February 25, 2015
My husband and I are both 72 and will be celebrating our 50th anniversary with a trip to Alaska. We both love nature, wildlife, and kayaking. How strenuous would you consider your trips. We don't have any major health issues and both try to stay active. When you talk of hiking, how many miles do you do and how is the terrain? It sounds so much more interesting than going on a cruise with throngs of people.
Are we missing much by not going to the inside passage Glacier By? I really want to see a whale and moose - on my bucket list.
Written February 9, 2015
Amy L
Girdwood, Alaska
Our past guests have done an amazing job explaining our approach to guided activities on our trips: we offer multiple levels of activity - from very casual (1-3 miles) to moderate (4-6 miles) to challenging (6+ miles) - for the guided hikes. For guided kayaking adventures, we use a combination of distance traveled and sea conditions to help match you best with the right activity.
We have hosted travelers from 9 months old to 90+ years young, and with our team of excellent guides, we're able to offer several different options each day so that all of our visitors are able to enjoy their top-choice activity - without feeling too rushed or, conversely, slowed down by other travelers with different activity goals.
The only prerequisite to traveling with Alaska Wildland Adventures is a spirit of adventure and the goal of connecting with nature in a personalized, small group way!
p.s. Including a visit to our Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge will provide two opportunities to enjoy small ship day cruising, with the chance to see whales, sea lions, puffins and more. Instead of overnighting on a boat, you spend the evening in a private, spacious guest cabin overlooking Pedersen Lagoon and Wildlife Sanctuary (a great place to view bears!). You may want to consider our Alaska Coast to Denali Journey or one of our Alaska Grand Journeys (9 or 11 Day options). We hope to see you in Alaska!
Written February 9, 2015
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