7 Night Northbound Alaska & Hubbard Glacier

Sitka truly offers the best of Alaska. Its small-town appeal stems from a unique blend of Russian, Tlingit and American history. Its snow-capped peaks and volcanic Mount Edgecumbe pose among the state’s most postcard-worthy scenes. And its rare wildlife astounds, from Saint Lazaria Island’s orange-beaked puffins to Alaska Maritime Refuge’s 40 million seabirds. This is off-the-path Alaska, where you can kayak Sitka Sound alongside swimming sea otters or fly-fish for the world’s biggest halibut. Whether it’s hiking Baranof Island trails or listening to tribal stories passed down for generations, in Sitka the midnight sun never sets on adventure.

You can’t get to Juneau easily without a sprint by air or by sea. But once you arrive you’ll find majestic views and rich culture in every corner. With its snowcapped mountains, misty rainforests, massive glaciers and bounty of wildlife, Alaska’s remote state capital is the perfect place to dive into nature. Framed by Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts, the city’s picturesque downtown area offers centuries-old bars, boutique shops and historic landmarks. For a taste of the local culture, visit the historic district and the Alaska State Museum. And for outdoor thrills, you can take your pick of activities ranging from whale watching in Auke Bay Harbor to tundra trekking over Mendenhall Glacier, and even try your hand at gold panning in Last Chance Basin.

Once the starting point for gold stampeders heading for the promised land of the Yukon, Skagway symbolizes the spirit of Alaska. And now — it’s your turn to hunt for bold. Embark on the trail of the fortune seekers on a vintage train ride with dramatic, sweeping views at every turn. Trek through the dense rainforest and windswept valleys of Chilkoot Trail and follow in the footsteps of Klondike pioneers. Or stroll the charming downtown streets studded with historical buildings. Whatever you get up to in Skagway, it’ll be a day you’ll never forget.