Discovering the Last Frontier: Leadership Kentucky's Alaskan Adventure

By Howard Holloman

There is a saying in Alaska: "The land shapes the people, not the other way around." For the 11 intrepid members of the Leadership Kentucky's Alaska Discovery group, this was a lesson quickly learned and deeply cherished during our 12-day adventure from June 19th to June 30th, 2024.

Day 1: Welcome to Fairbanks

The journey kicked off in Fairbanks, Alaska, where the midnight sun greeted our group with 24 hours of daylight. Staying at the Westmark Fairbanks, the excitement was evident. Katie Hart, our tour manager and destination expert from Collette, ensured every detail was covered, setting the tone for the exceptional service and camaraderie that would define the trip.

Day 2: From Sternwheelers to Denali

The next day, our group embarked on the Sternwheeler Discovery, a voyage through Alaska’s cultural tapestry. From Fairbanks, a scenic motor coach ride brought us to Denali National Park and a two-night stay at the McKinley Chalet Resort. This day concluded with a spirited dinner theatre performance recounting the tales of the first men to summit Denali, leaving everyone inspired.

Day 3: Deep into Denali

Denali National Park’s wilderness was breathtaking. During the 5-hour Tundra Wilderness Tour, our group marveled at the usually visually elusive Denali, in all its magnificent glory. Wildlife sightings were plentiful, including moose, caribou, Dall sheep dotting the rugged mountainous terrain, and a close encounter with a mama grizzly bear and her 2 cubs.

Day 4: Scenic Rails to Talkeetna

A luxury domed railcar whisked our group to Talkeetna, offering panoramic views of Alaska's untamed beauty. As we checked in and settled down at the iconic Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, perched with a perfect view of Denali, everyone reflected on the day’s serene yet exhilarating journey.

Day 5: Anchorage to Whittier

The day’s journey to the cruise ship included a stop in Anchorage, a scenic drive along the Chugach Mountains, and a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. This 200-acre sanctuary showcased Alaska's efforts in wildlife rehabilitation for orphaned or injured animals. By evening, our group boarded the Holland America cruise ship Nieuw Amsterdam in Whittier, ready for a seven-day maritime adventure.

Day 6: Hubbard Glacier

As the ship cruised past the massive Hubbard Glacier, cameras clicked away, capturing the pristine ice formations. The splendor of Alaska's natural wonders never ceased to amaze.

Day 7: Glacier Bay's Majesty

Glacier Bay National Park presented a wonderland of tidewater glaciers and marine life. The serene beauty of the area provided a stark contrast to the bustling world left behind, allowing for peaceful reflection.

Day 8: Gold Rush Days in Skagway

In Skagway, the echoes of the Gold Rush era came alive. Oue group spent the day sightseeing via motorcoach and exploring scenic and historic sites, including the legendary Gold Rush Cemetery, where tales of Soapy Smith and others transported us back to the Klondike days.

Day 9: Whales of Juneau

Juneau offered scenic mountains, historic buildings, and a jet boat whale watching tour. Seeing humpback whales breaching, sea lions cavorting, and bald eagles soaring in their natural habitat was a humbling experience that underscored Alaska's wild, untamed spirit.

Day 10: Totem Tales in Ketchikan

Ketchikan, with its rich totem pole heritage, provided a glimpse into the native culture. Dubbed the "Salmon Capital of the World," group members even spotted black bears making their way through the town, adding a dash of excitement to the day.

Day 11: The Inside Passage

The Inside Passage offered a day of breathtaking scenery as the ship navigated through this beautiful waterway. It was a perfect day for relaxation and reflection on this incredible journey.

Day 12: Vancouver's Vibrance

Our adventure concluded in Vancouver, B.C., with a six-hour motorcoach tour of the city provided by Collette. The vibrant Canadian city was a fitting end to an unforgettable trip, leaving the group with memories to last a lifetime.

Throughout the trip, Katie Hart's impeccable management and Collette's seamless coordination made every moment enjoyable. From Fairbanks to Vancouver, the Leadership Kentucky’s Alaska Discovery was more than a trip; it was a bonding experience where friendships were forged, and Alaska's indomitable spirit left an enduring mark on every traveler’s heart. As Bob Hutchison aptly put it, "Alaska isn't just a place you visit; it's a place that stays with you forever."