We started our tour on land in Fairbanks. Met Annette our tour guide and given itinerary for the next day. First night in a sweet little single cabin with in walking distance to restaurant. Food was great.

Up and out early to begin our southward journey to meet up with the ship in 6 days. Boarded the River Discovery 2 and journeyed down river to the village mock up of how alaskans live off the land. You moved in groups between stations showing caribou, fishing wheel and small cabins. It did start raining and the workers passed out plastic coverups to all in need, free of charge. We did see a demonstration of a float plane taking off and landing.

Back on the bus to lunch in Fairbanks then onward to the Grande Denali Lodge which rests 2, 400 feet up a steep winding road. Funny sign posts greeted you and helped pass the 9 minute trek up. The views from the lodge's outside porch were breath taking! The restaurant was top knotch with wonderful decorations and interesting servers. They were mostly exchange students from the middle east. Read more