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United States

Off the Map: Alaska — Custom School Trips

Groups of 8+ | Custom Dates | 0 Service Hours | Fully Supported | 4.9 on GoOverseas

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Welcome to Alaska, the largest yet most sparsely populated state in America. Get a glimpse of Denali, North America’s tallest peak. Drive along the Cook Inlet to the Kenai Peninsula, watching the landscapes pass you out the window. Set out on challenging hikes near Exit Glacier to see the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield. Experience the incredible Alaskan wilderness from mountains to sea life during this incredible adventure.

Custom School Trip

Contact us for a custom quote

Custom dates & duration. Groups of 8+.

Response within 1 business day

Anna Beckerman

Anna Beckerman

Head of School Group Travel

Dartmouth · 15 years at Rustic

321+ school partners since 2010

Not sure yet?

Email Rustic Pathways

Talk to a personal travel advisor: +1 (440) 975-9691

Schedule a call

View program itinerary

What Does a 7-Day Program Include?

A typical program. Daily activities are subject to change based on group logistics and weather.

1

Welcome to Alaska!

Arrive into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) and meet your Program Leaders who will be with you for the duration of the program. Head to the hotel and settle in, relaxing after your long flight. Join the group for an orientation discussion about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and an introduction to the local culture.
2

Discover Denali National Park

Start your journey towards the breathtaking Denali National Park, where if conditions align, you might catch a glimpse of North America’s tallest peak! En route, embark on one of the park's stunning hikes, immersing yourself in the pristine wilderness. Pause along the way to discover the rich tradition of dog sledding, once a vital form of transportation in Alaska and now a beloved local sport. As evening falls, set up camp amidst the tranquil surroundings, learning essential wildlife safety tips before gathering around the campfire to share stories and enjoy the serenity of the wilderness from the comfort of your tents. Overnight: Campsite near Denali National Park
3

Explore Inner Denali

Embark on an immersive journey into the heart of Denali National Park, boarding a bus that will transport you to the remote, off-limits regions closed to visitor vehicles. As you venture deeper into the rugged wilderness, prepare to be captivated by the sheer diversity of landscapes unfolding before your eyes. From towering, snow-capped peaks to sprawling tundra, the park's terrain shifts and transforms, each vista more awe-inspiring than the last. Keep a keen eye out for the incredible array of wildlife that calls this pristine ecosystem home - majestic bears foraging in the distance, mighty moose wading through alpine streams, and the graceful silhouettes of caribou roaming the open plains. The further you travel into the backcountry, the more you'll feel a profound connection to the untamed nature that surrounds you. Breathe in the crisp, untainted air, and let the tranquility of this untouched wilderness wash over you. This is Denali at its most primal and untamed, a humbling reminder of the raw power and beauty of the natural world. Overnight: Campsite near Denali National Park
4

Journey Southbound to Seward

Departing Denali, drive south to the Kenai Peninsula, captivated by the breathtaking vistas along the way. Gaze out upon the shimmering Cook Inlet, where the cerulean hues of glacial rivers mingle with the deep azure of the inlet. Arrive in the charming town of Seward after the 6.5-hour journey. As the day draws to a close, set up camp and take a moment to relax, letting the tranquility of your surroundings wash over you. Savor the serenity of this coastal oasis, knowing that tomorrow holds a wealth of new discoveries and experiences on the Kenai Peninsula. Overnight: Campsite near Seward, AK
5-6

Experience Wild Alaska

Spend the next two days immersed in the great outdoors, challenging yourself both physically and mentally. Begin with a wildlife boat tour on the open waters, offering a unique vantage point to observe the diverse array of marine life that inhabits the Kenai Peninsula. Catch glimpses of majestic whales breaching the surface, playful otters floating on their backs, and a myriad of other captivating creatures. Next, lace up your hiking boots and venture forth to the breathtaking Exit Glacier. Traverse the dense blue ice, marveling at the sheer scale and power of this natural wonder as you gaze up at the Harding Icefield that towers above. Conclude your outdoor explorations with a visit to the renowned SeaLife Center. Go behind the scenes to witness the vital rehabilitation efforts for native Alaskan animals, gaining newfound appreciation for the crucial conservation work taking place. Each of these activities promises to push your boundaries and expand your perspectives. Embrace the challenges, soak in the awe-inspiring natural beauty, and let these experiences leave an indelible mark on your journey through the Kenai. Overnight: Campsite near Seward, AK
7

Goodbye, Alaska!

Savor one final breakfast, reflecting on the incredible experiences shared - breathtaking landscapes, meaningful connections, personal growth. With lasting memories, bid farewell to Alaska as your Program Leaders accompany you to the airport. Look out the airplane window, filled with wonder and gratitude. The lessons and friendships will continue enriching your life. Carry the spirit of adventure and commitment to positive impact forward, for this is merely the beginning.

Total: 7 calendar days / 6 nights. International flights are not included.

How Does Rustic Pathways Handle Safety?

24/7 Support

In-person staff + US emergency line

Trained Program Leaders

Background-checked, first-aid certified, deep local knowledge

Licensed & Insured Transport

Risk management plans for every program

Customizable Itinerary

Custom dates and duration

Learn more about Rustic Pathways safety protocols.

United States

What Do School Organizers Ask?

Flights & Cost

How do flights work?

School groups can arrange their own flights, or Rustic Pathways can arrange them as an optional add-on. In either case, teachers fly with students, and Rustic Pathways coordinates airport pickup and handles all in-country logistics.

What's included in the price?

Included: Lodging, all meals, in-country transport, all activities, 24/7 staff.
Not included: International airfare, travel insurance, personal spending ($150–200).

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is not included in the program fee. Rustic Pathways recommends that families purchase travel insurance. Get a quote from our recommended provider →

Supervision & Safety

Who supervises the students?

Rustic Pathways Program Leaders complete a four-month vetting process, and programs maintain a 7:1 student-to-staff ratio. All Program Leaders are first-aid certified, and most have led multiple Rustic Pathways programs. Leaders range from 25 to 35 years old.

Are rooms gender-separated?

Yes. Students room with same-gender peers. Staff stay in adjacent rooms.

What about medical emergencies?

All Program Leaders are first-aid certified. Nearest hospitals are mapped out in all locations. Our health & safety team reviews all medical forms before departure and works with families to plan medications, allergies, and dietary needs.

Communication

Can students contact home?

Yes. Rustic Pathways’ policy is that students can call, text, or WhatsApp anytime. Rustic Pathways is happy to defer to established school policies instead.

How do families stay informed?

Rustic Pathways sends daily photo updates throughout the program.

Group & Logistics

How big is the group?

Group size varies based on the school’s needs. Contact Rustic Pathways for a custom quote.

Can friends room together?

Yes. Rustic Pathways provides a room list prior to travel. Schools can assign rooming allocations or allow students to choose their roommates.

Program Details

Will students have unsupervised time?

Structured independence with staff nearby. No unsupervised time in public areas.

Can Rustic Pathways accommodate food allergies? 

Yes. Dietary needs are collected during enrollment and shared with all meal providers.

How much spending money should students have?

$150–200 recommended. Tipping is included, no extra cash needed.

Support

What if a student gets homesick?

Homesickness can be common during the first few days; Rustic Pathways is well-prepared. See how staff support students through homesickness

Does Rustic Pathways support neurodiverse students?

Rustic Pathways welcomes all students. Read how Rustic Pathways supports neurodiverse students.

What Should Teachers Know?

Which students thrive on this program?
Students who are curious, adaptable, and open to new experiences. No prior travel experience is required.
What will students do each day?
Each day includes a mix of structured activities, cultural experiences, and group time. See the itinerary above for a day-by-day overview.
United States offers a unique combination of cultural richness, safety, and meaningful engagement opportunities for student groups. Rustic Pathways has operated programs here for years and maintains strong local partnerships.
How Do Flights Work?
School groups can arrange their own flights, or Rustic Pathways can arrange them as an optional add-on. In either case, teachers fly with students, and Rustic Pathways program leaders meet the group at the arrival airport and manage all in-country logistics from there.
What Meals Are Included?
All meals included. Dietary needs accommodated.
Included:
  • All lodging
  • All meals
  • In-country transport
  • All activities and excursions
  • 24/7 staff support
Not Included:
  • International airfare
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending money

What Other Program Types Are Available?

United States Americas Adventure
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