6 days
Experience the spirit of Alaska, integrating storytelling, sports and science into the lesson plan. Gain a better understanding of Alaskan indigenous people, learning about their native culture groups and how they pass knowledge down to the next generation. Get an introduction to Alaska’s official state sport at Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters, an educational center that keeps this adventurous aspect of Alaskan heritage alive. Inspire innovation in science, technology, engineering and math in the classroom at the Challenger Learning Center of Alaska (CLCA) through a hands-on experiential learning workshop.
Engage in education from the natural world on explorations of Alaska’s environment and wildlife. While exploring Denali State Park by kayak, catch sight of trumpeter swans, loons, beavers, bears and eagles with a breathtaking view of American’s tallest mountain peak, Denali. Walk through 200 acres of enclosed animal habitats at Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, developed as a sanctuary for injured and orphaned wildlife, including brown bears, wood bison, lynx, caribou and more. Discover the glacial environment of Kenai Fjords National Park that is home to seabirds and marine mammals on a cruise on the protected waters of Resurrection Bay.
Travel to Alaska by plane and meet up with the Tour Director on arrival in Anchorage. Get familiar with the city on an orientation and sightseeing tour on the way to this evening’s accommodations.
While in Anchorage this morning, stop in the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the first Alaskans through singing, dancing and storytelling. From there, travel north to Denali State Park with box lunches provided. Explore the beauty of the park from Byers Lake, starting with a kayak lesson and then paddling out on the lake for breathtaking views. Stay overnight in the Talkeetna area.
After breakfast, take a scenic trip south to Kenai. Along the way, stop at Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters to learn about dog sledding, Alaska’s official state sport. Visit the animal sanctuary, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, before ending the day in Kenai.
Spend the day at the Challenger Learning Center of Alaska (CLCA) in a hands-on STEM workshop based on the grade level of the students. Stay overnight in Kenai again tonight.
Go on a scenic motorcoach trip from Kenai to Seward. Explore Kenai Fjords National Park on a six-hour cruise, viewing the largest glacier in the park, Bear Glacier. During the cruise, there are opportunities for up-close encounters with bird rookeries, sea lions, otters and whales. Stay overnight in Seward.
Travel back to Anchorage for an evening flight home from Alaska.
Note: *Alaska STEAM is a seasonal tour, available mid-May to mid-September. Return flights must be secured for a departure time no earlier than 4 p.m. due to the distance from Seward to Anchorage.
On this Alaska STEAM adventure, engage students in interactive learning activities in nature parks and learning centers. Gain a deeper understanding of Alaskan heritage from native indigenous groups and lessons with sled dogs. Experience the vast Alaskan environments to discover the tallest mountain peak in America and massive glaciers. Get up close to native wildlife, learning what animals call Alaska home and about the migratory patterns of both seabirds and marine mammals. With a curated curriculum for educators to apply with the program, students are empowered to put their learning into practice before, during and after the trip.
Quality, safe hotels with quad occupancy corresponding to the destination.
All transportation is provided throughout the program.
Airfare covers round-trip flights from major airports.
Meals provided as stated in itinerary, featuring local cuisine.
Interactive learning experiences designed to expand educational and career goals.
Scheduled activities, experiences and guided tours are all included.
Customized experiences developed by travel experts to promote learning and engagement.
Full-time Tour Directors are on site for the duration of the trip, for an all-inclusive experience.
Tips for bus drivers, guides, Tour Directors and meals.
Advanced student security software that integrates geofencing, logistics, communication and more optimized safety features.
Dedicated 24/7 staff availability, supporting students every step of the way.
