Set amidst the finest scenery on the planet, participants can expect exhilarating birding through the forests, tundra, and coasts of one of the world's truly elite destinations. Focus on all Alaskan specialty birds and mammals, with possibility of Siberian vagrants at Nome and St. Paul Island. Divided into two sections to allow participants greater scheduling flexibility. Part I visits Nome and the Pribilofs (St. Paul), while Part II covers Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula, and the Denali region.

Bluethroat— Photo: Kevin Zimmer

After overnighting in Anchorage, Part I of our longest Alaska trip heads straight to the gold-rush capital of Nome. Here we may find a Slaty-backed Gull from Siberia loafing on the town waterfront, or migrating Yellow-billed Loons flying right past our hotel. Regal pairs of Harlequin Ducks ride the rapids of the many rivers while Wandering Tattlers teeter along the gravel shores. Bar-tailed Godwits and other shorebirds gather in impressive numbers at the river's mouth, as elegant Long-tailed Jaegers patrol the adjacent tundra. The hills inland from Nome provide nest sites for lordly Gyrfalcons, as well as for their principal prey—Rock and Willow ptarmigans. Traveling still further inland, we may be treated to the exuberant flight songs of the dazzling male Bluethroat. Mammal viewing is typically excellent as well, with musk ox, moose, and grizzly among the frequently seen possibilities.

We will also visit the Pribilof Islands, which offer an incomparable seabird experience. Thousands of Least, Crested, and Parakeet auklets, murres, puffins, and fulmars nest along its towering cliffs and can be observed almost within touching distance, as can Red-faced Cormorants and Red-legged Kittiwakes. With luck, we may even turn up an unexpected Siberian vagrant or two.

Parts I and II of Grand Alaska may be taken separately or in combination. They are also designed to connect with both the Gambell/Nome tour and the Barrow Extension. Taken in concert, Gambell/Nome, Grand Alaska (Parts I and II), and the Barrow Extension comprise the most complete and exciting Alaska birding tour available.

Good to excellent accommodations; easy to moderate terrain; easy, short walks with one optional hike at Nome (Part I) involving difficult terrain; internal flights to Nome and the Pribilofs on Part I, with a full-day boat trip to Kenai Fjords on Part II; some long drives; full birding days with optional post-dinner birding at some locations; cold to mild climate.