I am planning a 13 day trip in August and would like imput and suggestions on the following itinerary and questions:

day 1: arrive anchorage
Day 2: Drive to Denali
Day 3: Bus into Denali
Day 4: Hike in Denali
Day 5: Drive to Valdez
Day 6: Take Stan Stephens Wildlife and Glacier Tour in Valdez
Day 7: Ferry to Whittier--sightsee and stay in Seward
Day 8: Seward: NW Fjords Tour
Day 9: Drive to Homer
Day 10: Homer--fishing
Day 11: Homer
Day 12: Drive to Anchorage
Day 13: Fly home

Questions:
1. Will the Stan Stephens cruise be worthwhile since we are doing the NW Fjords Cruise and Ferry?

2. Have lodging reservation for Denali. How critical is it to have at other destinations?

3. Any other imput would be greatly appreciated...thanks

I highly recommend Stan Stephens - he and his family have been doing these tours for decades and really know their stuff. I would also recommend reservations for lodging in Seward. You would probably be ok in Valdez, Anchorage, and Homer as long as you have a vehicle and are flexible.

Thanks for the imput. Yes, i have a vehicle and am very flexible!

I would not consider a drive Denali Park- Valdez in one day. First off the end portion- Copper Center-Valdez is the most scenic and you won't enjoy it nor be inclined to stop after this all day drive. I suggest you consider an overnight stop on the way. Sheep Mt is a nice location. I would cut back one day in Homer, or head out 1/2 a day early from Denali Park, my opinion only. Stan Stephens is an excellent tour and very different then the Northwestern. The Columbia ice field alone is worth the trip. As you leave Valdez, scan the trees usually loaded with eagles and plenty of sea otters.

Absolutely critical for reservations unless you are going at the very end of August- even then will have very limited availability. Alaska isn't loaded with available lodging along the roads. Unless you are willing to spend big bucks, waste a lot of time looking, or sleep in your car- you are best to have confirmed reservations. It shouldn't be a big deal- you already have your locations planned.

"As you leave Valdez, scan the trees usually loaded with eagles and plenty of sea otters"

OK, BQ - I want to see these arboreal sea otters!

Yikes- that does sound bad. I better proof read better!!!!!!