The VFMS Spark | Page 95

are often around 4-6 hours long, and have meals included. They offer an opportunity to view Alaska by sea, and to get glimpses of otherwise elusive animals. In the spring, gray, humpback, and orca whales migrate north to the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska’s Bering Sea. On the ship, people can get a close-up view of these animals, as well as sea lions, otters, mountain goats, and porpoises. Some cruises bring groups to the Kenai National Park, where there are towering ancient tidewater glaciers and coastal forests. The cruises usually are a fully narrated tour, and can range from $50-$200, depending on the length and activities included. This will be an experience that won’t ever be forgotten.

Finally, the last must-see destination is Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. This vast national park rises from the ocean all the way up to 18,008 feet Mt. St. Elias. At 13.2 million acres, it’s the same size as Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Switzerland combined! It is a rugged, beautiful land with nine of the 16 highest peaks in the United States, and contains numerous glaciers, lakes, and mountain streams and is home to a rich variety of wildlife. One of the best trails is the Caribou Creek Trail, which had spectacular scenery of the tundra and fields of wildflowers, yet only moderate trail hiking. The round trip is about six miles and takes approximately three hours, depending on how much exploring is done. There is also great boating, with the rivers offering adventure and solitude. However, a river trip in Wrangell-St. Elias is a remote, backcountry experience. There are hazards in these waters that are rarely encountered outside of Alaska. Therefore, it is best to be with a guiding company and to do thorough planning. The reward is worth the effort, though.

Alaska is truly a beautiful place. Denali offers many wonderful trails, a sweeping scenery, and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. A day cruise from Seward can give passengers a close-up view of sea animals like whales and sea lions, while Wrangell-St. Elias National Park give people great hiking and boating options. Without visiting these three places, an Alaskan trip would truly be incomplete.