Alaska
8 days, 6 races, and countless adventures
This rotating event will not be held annually, so 2024 is your chance to run Alaska.
OVERVIEW
MAP & ITINERARY
WHAT TO EXPECT
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
BOOK YOUR TRIP
FAQ
Be rugged, wild, and free
Join us for a memorable adventure in a land heralded for its cool majesty and unrelenting terrain. Largely undeveloped, you'll experience Mother Nature's best features while you run Alaska.
With ample space for wildlife to thrive, species like bear, wolf, and caribou carve out their niche on the mainland. In the seas, humpback whales swim about and cheerful puffins hang around the coast.
Dip your toes in chilly Alaskan waters and get hooked on this remarkable region.
Quick Info:
- Daily afternoon activities with local guides
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included!
- Covid-19 vaccination not required
- Next Trip: July 27 - August 3, 2024
- Arrive/Depart: Anchorage, Alaska
- 8 days / 7 nights
- 6 trail runs and hikes (7-12K)
Trip Highlights:
Raft among the icebergs
Meet Iditarod huskies
Soar up to Denali
This activity depends on weather conditions.
"I feel I have come back to 'my world' better, stronger and braver because of this trip!"
- 2022 Global Adventurer
Meet Your Host State: Alaska
Alaska is often called "America's Last Frontier" because of its rugged landscape and distance from the contiguous United States. But few people know that its namesake comes from the Aluet word Alyeska which means "The Great Land."
Alaska boasts eight national parks and over 57 million acres of designated wilderness land. Further, it is home to 17 of the 20 tallest mountaintops in the United States. We'll fly over Denali on our visit to the area. Grab your binoculars and get ready to spot some wildlife because people travel from all over the world to see Alaska's Big 5: bear, moose, Dall sheep, wolf, and caribou.
With all it has to offer, "The Great Land" is the perfect moniker for this rich natural wonder.
CAPITAL
Juneau, Alaska
LANGUAGE
English
CURRENCY
US Dollar
WEATHER
62° / 45° during the Summer months
LANDSCAPE
Snowy peaks and glacial valleys
KNOWN FOR
the Iditarod and abundant wildlife
Denali: The Tallest Mountain in North America
Denali is the third highest mountain of the Seven Summits (the tallest mountains on each of the seven continents). Though it's often shrouded in clouds, even a brief glimpse of it is worth the trek to this northernmost state.
Weather permitting, we'll board planes to view this beauty from the air and then land among it's peaks for a serene mountain visit.
Taste The Freshest Catch
Alaska's vast wilderness and extensive shoreline bring us an abundance of fresh fish and meats to enjoy during any visit.
From sockeye salmon and oysters to local dishes like reindeer sausage and akutaq - an indigenous "ice cream" treat, fresh food is an integral part of the Alaskan experience.
A Cultural Meeting Point
Alaska has a diverse mix of cultural histories, including Russian, gold rush pioneers, and indigenous peoples like the Inuit, Tlingit, Athabaskan, and Aleut. Examples of these art, culture, and food traditions can be found throughout the state.
Have extra time in Anchorage? Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center or the Anchorage Museum to learn more.
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
Who Goes On A Global Adventure?
Solo Travelers
connect with your curiosity
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
Entertain novelty
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
embolden your heart
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
Alaska Itinerary
Below is an example itinerary. Future itineraries are subject to change.
Scroll to explore!
Adventure Overview
- Day 1: Welcome
- Day 2: Independence Mine State Historical Park
- Day 3: Denali State Park
- Day 4: Blue Ice
- Day 5: Caines Head
- Day 6: Mt. Marathon
- Day 7: Spencer Glacier
- Day 8: Departure
Saturday (Day 1): Welcome to Anchorage
You’ll arrive in Anchorage by Saturday afternoon and either take a taxi or airport shuttle to the hotel for our first night.
We’ll check you in that evening and get everyone oriented for what to expect throughout the week. This is also your first chance to meet your fellow adventurers! Dinner and drinks are included the first night as we kick off a grand week.
- Hotel TBD
- Arrive in Anchorage, Alaska
Sunday (Day 2): Independence Mine State Park | Denali Flight
We will wake up early and head to our run at the historic Independence Mine State Park. As we get out of the city and into the countryside, you will notice the greenery and the trees grow in both beauty and denseness as we climb in elevation. Once we reach the mine and ghost town, you’ll see why they knew there was gold in these hills. Here is where we'll start the week with an epic run. After our run, we’ll take a small tour of the buildings we just ran through.
Following the run, we'll head north toward Talkeetna. As we drive, you will notice the high walls of impressive mountains filled with wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled, Denali makes cameos on our drive!
A trip to Alaska isn't complete without seeing Denali National Park from its most impressive view: the air! We will go in groups in airplanes where we will soar above glaciers and snow-capped mountain peaks. We will land on the glacier and spend a few minutes there before taking off and finishing the tour and exploring the east and south faces including Ruth Glacier, Sheldon Amphitheater, and the Great Gorge.
We spend the night in Talkeetna.
NOTE: This activity is subject to change due to weather conditions. Weather in the mountain passes changes quickly and we may not be able to provide this experience on every trip. When this happens, we will provide an alternative activity for the group.
- Denali flight or alternative activity
- Hotel TBD
- Talkeetna, Alaska
Monday (Day 3): Denali State Park | Curry Ridge
Today we will drive north a bit and run Curry Ridge — overlooking the valley and Chulitna River, with Denali peak looming toward the west.
After our run and a little lunch, the afternoon is yours to relax, explore, or do some souvenir shopping in Talkeetna.
- Curry Ridge hike, explore Talkeetna
- Hotel TBD
- Talkeetna, Alaska
Tuesday (Day 4): Blue Ice | Seward
We'll wake up before the sun! Just kidding, it's July in Alaska, the sun never quite sets at this time of year. We'll start the morning by heading south back to Kenai Peninsula. We'll grab lunch along the way and then hit our run at the Blue Ice Trail! This is a fast run along a beautiful river with hanging glaciers above. We will end at Portage Lagoon where the brave or crazy have the chance of going for a little swim.
From there we will continue our drive to Seward where we will be staying for the next 3 nights. After check in we will take short drive to begin our next adventure a 2 mile dog sled ride through the Seward Wilderness. Upon return to the kennel we can tour the kennel facilities and cuddle adorable Alaskan husky puppies.
We'll finish the day with a group dinner rest and recount the day's adventures.
- Sled ride, meet Alaskan huskies!
- Howard 360 Hotel
- Seward, Alaska
Wednesday (Day 5): Caines Head
We will start today's adventure at Miller’s Landing with a 4 mile water taxi ride out to Caines Head State Recreation Area. We will run through the old WW2 fort and learn a little about our country’s history on our run.
Afterwards, we’ll eat lunch on the beach, before catching a water taxi to Seward. Then, the afternoon is yours for souvenir shopping in Seward. Oh, and a chance to wash your clothes on-site at the hotel.
- Caines Head, explore Seward
- Harbor 360 Hotel
- Seward, Alaska
Thursday (Day 6): Mount Marathon
We'll wake up and run from our hotel on part of the incredible and infamous Mount Marathon course. We of course don’t want a trip to the hospital which is located at the base of the course near the finish line. For our run we'll get all the views without the stitches.
Once we come down the beautiful mountain we'll enjoy a late lunch overlooking the Seward waterfront. Relax and unwind in Seward this evening!
- Mount Marathon hike, Exit Glacier tour
- Harbor 360 Hotel
- Seward, Alaska
Friday (Day 7): Spencer Glacier
Our final full day has arrived! We'll have a slower morning today so you can soak up a few final hours in Seward. After breakfast, we're off to Kenai Fjords National Park where we'll visit Exit Glacier, the first of two glaciers we'll see today!
Then, we journey by bus to Portage where we'll board a train that to see the cool blue icebergs of Spencer Glacier! Our train journey takes us back to the frontier days as we head deep into the Alaskan wilderness. At Spencer Glacier we'll run towards our final finish line at a lagoon! Here you can raft among the icebergs before finally heading back to Anchorage.
Tonight we celebrate! We'll enjoy a final dinner and closing ceremonies before saying our good-byes on Saturday.
- Spencer Glacier & Exit Glacier tour, rafting
- Hotel TBD
- Anchorage, Alaska
Saturday (Day 8): Depart from Anchorage
It's time to say good-byes! We'll already be in Anchorage, so you may plan your departing flight for any point in the day.
Please note that this is an example of activities and quality stays you will enjoy with us. Changes may occur based on weather, logistics, and new opportunities. We will always search for comparable alternatives when a change is made.
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
Quick Planning Guide
- Keep an eye out for emails from us the month before your trip - we'll send packing info, weather updates, and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Alaska weather is wild and changing - pack layers and rain gear!
- Bring some US dollars for souvenirs and snacks.
- Avg. 40-50 people per trip
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure! After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, and more!
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you a welcome packet one month before your trip.
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices. For this trip, please fly into Anchorage Airport (ANC).
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once registered, you'll have a traveler profile with us. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
On most trips, we'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh outfit and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun like glacier treks, rock-climbing, and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Check out your Ireland Global Adventure itinerary for more details.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
run difficulty & training
A typical Global Adventures trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of these trail runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain and terrain will be varied. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 25-minute trail pace on these runs.
Alaska trail Runs
Exact trail runs may change based on permitting and weather.
Hatcher Pass (6.5K)
Out-and-back
Elevation Gain: 600 ft.
Moderate
Caines Head (12K)
Lollipop
Elevation Gain: 691 ft
Moderate
Seward Run (7K)
Point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 600 ft
Easy to Moderate
Mount Marathon (7K)
Loop
Elevation Gain: 2,300 ft
Challenging - we'll hike as needed!
Talkeetna Lake (8K)
Loop
Elevation Gain: 500 ft
Moderate
Curry Ridge (10K)
Out-and-back
Elevation Gain: 1,023 ft
Challenging - we'll hike as needed!
Plan Your Travel
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the gritty details of your adventure.
Travel Details
Arrival (Saturday):
- Please plan to arrive in Anchorage mid-afternoon on the first day of your trip
- Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
- Check in at Anchorage hotel (exact hotel TBD)
Depart (Saturday):
- You may depart anytime on the last day of the trip
- Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
- Check out of our hotel (exact hotel TBD)
Packing & Prep
Coverage: You may want to consider travel insurance for such an epic adventure! Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
Packing List: These are fast-paced events. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Training: Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Check out the Alaska trail runs for more info on what to expect!
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Upcoming Trip Dates
July 27 -
August 3, 2024
8 Days | 7 Nights
$4,900
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. Flights not included.
Join the waitlist and we'll contact you if a spot becomes available.
SOLD OUT - waitlist available!
Got Questions? We've Got Answers:
Included in all Global Adventures
- 6+ trail runs or hikes (7-12K)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
Payment & Policy Info
Pricing Breakdown
Trip Pricing:
$4,900 (double occupancy room)
$5,900 (single occupancy room)
Deposit:
$500 (Refundable until 5 months before the event!)
The full trip cost is refundable minus a fee until 3 months before the event. Please read the Registration Policy for more info.
Registration Policies
Click to Read Our Policies
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration & Trip Planning
Will I need a passport or visa?
This is an international running adventure. A valid passport is required for participation. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel.
We do not anticipate that you will need a visa. However, visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. If you are unsure, please reach out to us and we will help you determine whether you will need to apply for a visa at all, in advance, or on arrival.
How much does a Global Adventures trip cost?
All Global Adventures trips include the cost of daily hotels, included group activities and entrance fees, domestic transportation in the host country, and most food and drinks.
The cost of your flight to and from the host country is not included to allow participants to choose the travel options that are right for them.
Looking for the exact cost of this trip? Head to the Book Your Trip tab!
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Who goes on Global Adventures trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions for attending these running trips. As long as you are comfortable with the runs and activities, we'll be glad to have you whether you're 12 or 112 years old!
Some of our Global Adventures trips do involve alcohol-oriented events like whiskey tastings, so please keep this in mind. For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
What Covid-19 measures are being taken?
While much of these trips is spent in the great outdoors, there's still a level of risk with any travel. Here's what we can do to limit that risk:
First, While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
Second, we have a staff medic on each trip. Please let us know right away if you have any symptoms or just need a test for travel purposes. They will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
Lastly, staying healthy is a group effort. We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails. They can join us as a fast hiker (20 minutes per mile) if they choose!
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Not passport ready? Join the email list.
The Alaska Global Adventure is a non-annual event, so make sure you stay trail ready with emails sent straight to your inbox.
