This 8-day natural science expedition travels through some of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes — from the dynamic icefields of the Knik Glacier to the historic heart of the Wrangell–St. Elias Mountains and the dramatic coastal environments of Valdez. For more than a week, these incredible settings become our classroom as students develop field science skills, deepen their understanding of natural systems, and earn high school science credit through hands-on, experiential learning.

The journey begins in Anchorage with a short drive north to the Knik Glacier, where we spend our first night. Here, students are introduced to glacier dynamics, local ecology, and the powerful forces shaping Southcentral Alaska. From there, we travel east into the McCarthy/Kennecott region for four days of exploration. Students will investigate the storied Kennecott Mines, hike along Root Glacier, and conduct field studies in one of the most geologically diverse areas in the state.

Our final days are spent in Valdez, where mountains meet the sea. Over three nights, students examine coastal and marine ecosystems, study fjord formation, and participate in field labs along the shores of Prince William Sound. Scenic hikes, rich wildlife, and unforgettable views round out this coastal portion of the trip.

This camp is all-inclusive. Students receive a personal packing list and the use of a sleeping bag and sleeping pad. All meals, transportation, and lodging are provided. Each participant will also receive their own natural science kit to use throughout the program and take home afterward. The trip cost includes all instruction, activities, and expedition equipment.

DAY 1: Knik Glacier Tour and camp
DAYS 2–5: McCarthy
DAYS 6–7: Valdez
DAY 8: Valdez: Return to Anchorage

Knik Glacier Trip Highlights:
• Glacier observation and ice-formation lessons
• Short hikes and field investigations around the glacier terminus
• Evening camp with views of the Chugach Mountains

McCarthy/Kennecott Trip Highlights:
• Guided exploration of the historic Kennecott Mill complex
• Root Glacier hike and glacial geology lessons
• Field studies on alpine ecology and glacial landscapes
• Time in the remote community of McCarthy

Valdez Trip Highlights:
• Coastal field labs and tide-zone exploration
• Lessons on fjord formation and marine geology
• Scenic hikes above the Sound with opportunities for wildlife observation

• All meals, lodging, and transportation during the camp
  

• Access to Google Classroom pre-trip lessons and resources
  

• A personal natural science field kit (yours to keep!)
  

• Individual packing list and gear support (sleeping bag and pad included)

This program is currently approved for credit through:

• Galena City School District
  

• IDEA Homeschool
  

• Anchorage School District
  

We can assist in arranging credit transfers to other in-state or out-of-state schools.

For homeschooling programs, please review our Welcome Letter for registration and curriculum details.

Total Cost: $3,100

A 50% deposit is required to reserve a space for your student. Final payment is due March 31, 2025.

📞 Contact us today to book or request additional information:
Phone: 907-885-8753
Email: northernsuntours@gmail.com

The Denali Highway is a true Alaskan gem — a vast wilderness of mountains, glaciers, rivers, and tundra stretching between the Alaska Range and endless northern skies. For seven days, this will be our classroom. Students will gain firsthand experience observing and understanding the natural world while developing outdoor leadership and field science skills.

The adventure begins with pick-up (TBA) at a central Anchorage location. From there, we travel north along the George Parks Highway, stopping at scenic viewpoints for short hikes and lessons. We’ll camp at established sites along the Denali Highway, with a full itinerary provided to families prior to departure.

An informational online meeting will be held approximately one month before the trip to review logistics, itinerary, and packing requirements. A Zoom link will be provided for remote participants.

Days 1–2: Brushkana Camp
Days 3–5: Maclaren Glacier Camp
Day 6: Tangle Lakes Camp
Day 7: Return to Anchorage via Glenn Highway

• All meals, lodging, and transportation during the camp


• Boat ride and canoe trip on the Maclaren River


• Access to Google Classroom pre-trip lessons and resources


• A personal natural science field kit (yours to keep!)


• Individual packing list and gear support (sleeping bag and pad included)

This program is currently approved for credit through:

• Galena City School District
  

• IDEA Homeschool
  

• Anchorage School District
  

We can assist in arranging credit transfers to other in-state or out-of-state schools.

For homeschooling programs, please review our Welcome Letter for registration and curriculum details.

Total Cost: $3,100

A 50% deposit is required to reserve a space for your student. Final payment is due March 31, 2025.

📞 Contact us today to book or request additional information:
Phone: 907-885-8753
Email: northernsuntours@gmail.com