7 Day Anchorage, Talkeetna & Denali For Families with Teenagers

Welcome to Anchorage! Start your Alaskan adventure with a visit to the Anchorage Museum. This interactive museum offers fascinating exhibits on Alaskan history, art, and science, perfect for engaging teenage minds. Afterward, head to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a scenic walk or bike ride. The 11-mile trail offers stunning views of the coastline and is a great way to stretch your legs after your journey. Or, get an overview of Anchorage on a Trolley Tour. In the evening, consider an Escape Room experience for some family bonding and mental challenges.

Photo: Downtown Anchorage

Begin your day with a 45-minute drive to Palmer, where you can visit the Musk Ox Farm. The 45-minute guided tour will introduce you to these unique creatures and their fascinating history. Or, visit the nearby Reindeer Farm for an hour-long tour where you can get up close and personal with reindeer and moose! After your farm visit, continue 1.5 hours to Talkeetna. Once you arrive, you could visit the Talkeetna Historical Society Museum to learn about the area's rich history or take a jetboat tour with Mahays.

Photo: Reindeer Farm

Start your day with an exhilarating Flightseeing Tour over Denali and the Alaska Range. The breathtaking views and potential glacier landing will be a highlight of your trip. In the afternoon, head out for some River Rafting on the Talkeetna or Susitna River. Whether you choose a gentle float or a more challenging whitewater experience, it's sure to be an adventure. If you have time, consider a short hike in Talkeetna Lakes Park to round out your day. There are also kayak tours and rentals available.

Photo: Talkeetna Parks

Depart Talkeetna and make the 2.5 hour drive to Denali National Park. Upon arrival, visit the Denali Visitor Center to get an overview of the park and its offerings. Spend the rest of the day exploring the park's trails. The Horseshoe Lake Trail and Savage River Loop are excellent options for a mix of scenery and wildlife viewing. If you're up for a challenge, the Healy Overlook offers rewarding views for older teens.

If you’d like to get the most out of a guided hike in the park, consider going with a guide. Guides go beyond showing you the way. They’ll explain the local history, flora, and fauna. Teens may especially enjoy tours that teach backcountry survival skills.

Photo: Horseshoe Lake Trail

Today is all about adventure in Denali. Start with a Denali Park Road Tour to see the stunning landscapes and wildlife. You can choose a guided tour or use the hop-on/hop-off park shuttle to explore at your own pace. In the afternoon, opt for a thrilling zipline tour or an ATV Tour for some high-adrenaline fun. If you prefer water activities, consider a rafting trip on the Nenana River, which offers both calm and white-water options.

Photo: Denali ATV Adventures

After breakfast, take a final hike or bike ride in Denali before driving 5 hrs to Anchorage. The Triple Lakes Trail is a great option for a last adventure in the park. Once back in Anchorage, unwind with a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about the diverse cultures of Alaska's indigenous peoples. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a great spot to stretch your legs on a walk, or by renting bicycles.

Photo: Alaska Native Heritage Center

On your final day, take a short drive to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see native Alaskan animals up close. It's a fantastic way to wrap up your trip with some memorable wildlife encounters. If you have time before your departure, visit the Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary for some bird watching and a peaceful walk along the boardwalk. End your Alaskan adventure with a family meal at one of Anchorage's local restaurants.

Photo: Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center