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Alaska Winter Wonders:
Iditarod & Auroras
March 3-11, 2027
Featuring The Iditarod Start & Aurora Borealis at Borealis Basecamp!
Highlights:
Musk Ox Farm Tour
Iditarod Headquarters
Musher's Banquet
Presentation from an Iditarod Musher
Ceremonial & Official Start of The Iditarod
World Ice Art Championships
Trail Breaker Kennels Presentation & Dog Sledding Ride
Experience the magic of winter in Alaska on this unforgettable 9-day adventure with Riley Tours and John Hall’s Alaska. Centered around the iconic Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and the northern lights, your journey begins in Anchorage with visits to the Musk Ox Farm, Iditarod Headquarters, and the lively Musher’s Banquet, where you’ll meet racers. Enjoy a flexible “Pick Your Adventure” day with options like glacier flightseeing or dog sledding, then witness both the ceremonial and official starts of The Iditarod in Anchorage and Willow. Travel north taking in stunning scenery, ice sculptures, and authentic experiences, including a visit to Trail Breakers Kennel. Your adventure concludes at Borealis Basecamp, where you’ll stay in a private climate-controlled igloo, enjoy winter activities, and have incredible opportunities to view the dazzling Aurora Borealis.
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Our adventure begins the moment we step aboard a motorcoach bound for the Minneapolis–St. Paul Airport, anticipation building as we prepare to journey north to the awe-inspiring winter wonderland of Alaska—our 49th state. Snow-covered landscapes, crisp Arctic air, and unforgettable experiences await as we travel with one of the very best in the region, John Hall’s Alaska Tours. For more than 40 years, this family-owned company has crafted exceptional guided journeys through Alaska, and we’re proud to partner with them for this extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Upon arrival to Anchorage, we’ll be warmly welcomed by a John Hall’s Alaska motorcoach and an expert guide, ready to lead us into the heart of Alaska’s breathtaking beauty and begin an adventure we’ll never forget.
Hotel: Hotel Captain Cook
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Begin the day with an immersive visit to the Palmer Musk Ox Farm, where you will have the opportunity to see these prehistoric animals up close and learn about their care, breeding, and wool production. Discover fascinating insights into how these resilient animals have thrived in Alaska’s harsh climate. In the afternoon, visit Alaska’s Iditarod Headquarters, where you can explore exhibits and learn about the history of the race. Later, attend the annual Musher’s Banquet, the official kickoff to The Iditarod, offering a unique opportunity to meet and interact with several mushers. Witness the excitement as participants draw their bib numbers for the upcoming race, marking the start of this legendary Alaskan adventure. (B, L, D)
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“Pick Your Adventure Day,” where you can customize your Alaskan experience based on your interests. Options include a glacier flightseeing tour, skiing or snowboarding, guided waterfall nature walk, fat-tire biking, or a spa treatment. This evening, enjoy an exclusive dinner and presentation with an Iditarod musher. Hear captivating stories from the trail and gain an insider’s perspective on the preparation, training, and challenges involved in competing in this legendary race. Learn about the bond between mushers and their sled dogs, the strategy behind the race, and the endurance required to participate in one of the world’s most iconic winter events. (B, D)
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Experience the thrill of the ceremonial start of the Iditarod in downtown Anchorage along bustling 4th Avenue. Watch as teams of highly trained sled dogs and their mushers prepare for the iconic race, capturing the energy, anticipation, and excitement that make this event a world-famous spectacle. Take in the festive atmosphere, complete with cheering crowds, colorful sleds, and the unmistakable spirit of Alaska’s winter culture. Following the ceremonial start, enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure to explore Anchorage on own. (B)
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Depart Anchorage this morning and journey to Willow to witness the thrilling official start of The Iditarod—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Feel the excitement as teams of sled dogs and mushers set off on this legendary race across Alaska’s rugged wilderness, surrounded by cheering crowds and the crisp winter air.
After this exhilarating day, we continue to Talkeetna for the evening. Cap the night with an exclusive experience with a presentation with a professional aurora borealis photographer and a local Alaskan artist, who will share expert tips and techniques for capturing the mesmerizing northern lights on camera. (B, L, D)
Hotel: Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
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Depart Talkeetna and travel north along the stunning Parks Highway, where dramatic Alaskan landscapes unfold, including snow-dusted mountains, frozen rivers, and expansive wilderness. Upon arrival in Fairbanks, settle into our hotel before heading out for an evening of enchantment at the World Ice Art Championships. Stroll among more than 100 intricately carved ice sculptures, each illuminated with vibrant colors, and marvel at the artistry and creativity of some of the world’s most talented ice sculptors. This immersive experience captures the magic of Alaskan winter, offering both photo-worthy moments and a sense of wonder that brings the frozen masterpieces to life. (B, L)
Hotel: Sophie Station Suites
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Enjoy a leisurely morning to relax and take in the crisp Alaskan air before visiting the legendary Trail Breaker Kennel, founded by the late four-time Iditarod champion Susan Butcher. Experience an exclusive presentation about the world of mushing, then feel your adrenaline surge during an exhilarating dog sled ride across the snow-covered trails, guided by expert mushers and their spirited teams of sled dogs. Later, journey to Borealis Basecamp, a one-of-a-kind winter retreat where you will spend the next two evenings. This unique lodge offers an ideal setting to witness the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. Sleep in your private Alaska-style igloo, fully climate-controlled for comfort, and marvel at the dancing northern lights from the warmth of your own room—a truly unforgettable way to experience one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. (B, L, D)
Hotel: Borealis Basecamp Igloos
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“Pick Your Adventure Day!” Today is all about winter adventure. Activities may include snow machines, dog sledding, Sauna Experience and other winter activities. Spend one more evening in the tranquil wilderness while experiencing the magic of Alaska’s northern lights, colorful skies and incredible winter environment. (B, L, D)
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Today, we bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska. Reflect on the incredible experiences of our journey from thrilling dog sled rides and iconic Iditarod moments to the magical dance of the Aurora Borealis. Upon arrival at Fairbanks International Airport, we board our flight home, carrying unforgettable memories of Alaska’s winter wonders and the adventures that made this trip truly extraordinary. (B)
Trip Itinerary
TOUR DATES: March 3-11, 2027
PRICE PER PERSON
Double (2 people/room): $10,650
Single (1 person/room): $12,280
DEPOSIT REQUIRED: $500
IMPORTANT DATES
Final Payment Due: 7/27/26
Cancellation for Full Refund: 7/27/26
TRIP DOCUMENTS ARE MAILED 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
Valid REAL ID, EDL or Passport
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast (B): 8
Lunch (L): 5
Dinner (D): 5
INCLUDES
-All Airport Transfers with Riley Tours Motorcoach
-Roundtrip Airfare & 1 Checked Bag/Person
-Tour Guide & Motorcoach Transportation in Alaska with John Hall's Alaska
- Tour Representative from Riley's traveling with you throughout the entire tour
-Attractions, Meals and Accommodations Listed
-All Taxes & Gratuities
-Luggage Handling
-Sub-Zero Winter Jacket
Day 1-4: Anchorage, Alaska - Hotel Captain Cook
Tour Highlights: Palmer Musk Ox Farm (Palmer, AK), Iditarod Headquarters (Wasilla, AK), Musher's Banquet, Pick Your Adventure Day, Iditarod Musher Presentation & Iditarod Ceremonial Start.
About Anchorage: Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, home to about 290,000 people and serving as the state’s main economic and transportation hub (even though the capital is Juneau), located along Cook Inlet and surrounded by dramatic landscapes like the Chugach Mountains; it’s known as a gateway to Alaska’s wilderness with abundant outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, skiing, and frequent sightings of moose in town.
Pick Your Adventure Day: Glacier Flight Seeing, Skiing or snowboarding, Winter Waterfall Nature Walk, Fat Tire Biking or Spa Treatment.
Day 5: Talkeetna, Alaska - Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge
Tour Highlights: Official Start of The Iditarod (Willow, AK), Professional Photographer Presentation on Aurora Borealis
Day 6: Fairbanks, Alaska - Sophie Station Suites
Tour Highlights: World Ice Art Championships, Trail Breakers Kennel.
Day 7-9: Fairbanks, Alaska - Borealis Basecamp
About Borealis Basecamp: Tucked atop a remote ridgeline just 25 miles from Fairbanks, Borealis Basecamp offers an unparalleled vantage point for one of nature’s greatest shows: the Northern Lights. Free from light pollution, the sky here becomes a luminous canvas, where curtains of green, purple, and gold ripple overhead, turning every night into a spectacle. The accommodations elevate the experience further: modern fiberglass igloos with curved windows spanning 16 feet across the roof allow the aurora to unfold above you.
Pick Your Adventure Day: You may choose up to 3 activities during our stay. Enjoy activities such as dog sledding, snow machines, snowshoeing, Nordic Sauna and other winter activities offered at the Camp. There is also the option to add other optional activities such as flightseeing that may be an additional cost.
Photo Credit: Borealis Basecamp
Photo Credit: Borealis Basecamp
HOW TO BOOK A TOUR:
We require all travelers to fill out a reservation form and submit a deposit when signing up for a tour. If you want to pay by credit card, you should BOOK ONLINE. If you want to pay by check, you should BOOK BY MAIL. Please be sure to read our TERMS & CONDITIONS.
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Click on BOOK BY MAIL
A printable Reservation Form will pop-up - print this form
Fill out the Reservation Form - Please read the information page that comes with it before fill it out - there are also insurance information with it
Submit the deposit require for the tour you are signing up for - listed under the pricing information
We will MAIL you an invoice which confirms your reservation and shows your remaining balance and when it is due *Please note, we do not send final payment reminders or final payment receipts- this invoice is the only one you will receive from us
Tour documents are mailed to each travelers 3 weeks prior to departure - these documents will have your pick-up location/time, full itinerary of the tour along with luggage tags and other items pertaining to your tour
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Click on BOOK ONLINE
Select the number of people you are signing up (people icon) on the package you are choosing (Double, Triple, Quad or Single)
Follow onscreen instructions
You will need to pay the deposit (or full payment if the full payment deadline has passed) *Please note, there is a non-refundable fee for using your credit card - ACH payments are charged a non-refundable fee also but it is lower than a credit card
You will receive an email confirmation from Riley Tours/WeTravel - SAVE THIS EMAIL if you plan to make your final payment online, it is the only way to access your reservation
We will also MAIL you an invoice which confirms your reservation and shows your remaining balance and when it is due - you may choose to pay your remaining balance by mailing us a check if you prefer *Please note, we do not send final payment reminders or final payment receipts - this invoice is the only one you will receive from us
Tour documents are mailed to each travelers 3 weeks prior to departure - these documents will have your pick-up location/time, full itinerary of the tour along with luggage tags and other items pertaining to your tour
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DISCOUNTS & SAVINGS
Please not that these discounts and credits have no cash value and need to be applied prior to making your final payment. No refunds for a discount or credit will be made if final payment is made. In fairness to everyone, exceptions cannot be made for any reason.
PRE-TOUR LODGING
Upon request, lodging for the night before the tour will be provided at a cost of $50-$100 per room (depending on location) for travelers who live more than 50 miles from the nearest designated departure point. For travelers who live within 50 miles of the nearest designated departure point, we can help you arrange pre-tour lodging for the full cost of the room. We will send this information to you in your tour documents.
FORM OF PAYMENT
Personal Checks, Money Order, Credit Card and Cash are acceptable forms of payment. Please note, all credit card transactions are subject to a non-refundable 3.95% service fee. *Fees are subject to change*
CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS
Full refund will be made provided we receive notice 31 days prior to the tours departure for most tours. Each tour has a cancellation date listed on the brochure or catalog page. For tours which include air, a full refund will be made up to 61 days before departure or the date indicated on the brochure. For tours which include a cruise, a full refund will be made based upon the cruise line’s cancellation policy. Cancellations or changes made within 60 days of departure may be subject to charges assessed by the airlines and/or tour suppliers. Refunds are at the discretion of Riley Tours based on non-recoverable expenses and other factors. If you are sharing a room and your partner cancels or leaves the tour en route, you will be required to pay the difference between the double and single accommodation tour cost if you did not purchase trip insurance. Riley Tours reserves the right to modify it’s refund and cancellation policy when a sizable amount of cancellation or delay of travel that is related to or arising out of acts of God, pandemics, weather, government actions, mechanical breakdowns, acts of terrorism and war. In any one of these circumstances, Riley’s will issue the amount paid in the form of a travel voucher that does not expire.
TRIP INSURANCE
Riley’s offers an Travel Protection Plan for every tour. This coverage can protect you from non-refundable charges and any additional expenses if a illness or an accident prevents you or your partner from going on a tour or leave a tour while it’s in progress. This plan is optional and at an additional cost. It is non-refundable.
PICK UP POINTS
Inside secure parking is offered at our office in Murdock, Minnesota. Other locations we pick up but do not offer inside secure parking in Minnesota include Hutchinson, Waconia, St. Joseph, Alexandria and St. Michael. We also pick up in Plymouth, Minnetonka, St. Paul, St. Cloud and Eden Prairie but there is not parking arrangements there. These departure points are scheduled based on the tour routing. We suggest you contact our office for the most convenient departure point that is available from your area. Courtesy transportation will be provided upon request for ten or more passengers departing from one location on most tours. If no pick-up point is determined on passenger's reservation form, the nearest one with parking will be selected by Riley Tours.
PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP
A Passport is required for all passengers traveling by air to and from Canada and Mexico along with on international tours. U.S. Customs suggests that your passport’s be valid atleast six months past your return date. If you are applying for a passport, we recommend applying for a passport as you register for a tour, as it can take up to eight weeks to process. For land crossings a passport or an enhanced drivers license is required. A REAL ID is required for tours flying within the United States unless you plan to use your passport. Please make sure you have the proper ID when making your reservation. Riley’s is not responsible for costs incurred due to a traveler not having the correct form of ID to travel. Travelers are responsible for checking with the government authorities for all countries visited to determine if the traveler is allowed to enter due to policies in place by that country. For Example: Criminal history such as DWI may not allow someone to travel into Canada.
TOURS THAT INCLUDE AIRFARE
For tours that include airfare, Riley Tours book these tickets as a group. Seats are assigned by the airlines and a seat next to your traveling companion is not a guarantee nor is a seat request such as aisle, window seats or upgrades. Riley Tours staff submits these request to the airline and will make every attempt to get travel companions close to each other on the plane but Riley's is not responsible if those requests are not followed by the airline. Any flight deviations or reservations after the final payment on tours that include airfare, are subject to additional costs/fees and payment for the airline ticket is due at the time of purchase. It is the responsibility of each Tour Guest to provide their name as written on their government-issued photo ID (or Passport if required) when registering for a tour. This is the ID you must bring and use at the airport. If the incorrect name is given, Riley Tours is not liable for additional expenses incurred or travel delays as a result of airline ticket name changes.
TOUR DOCUMENTS
Complete joining instructions with pick up times and locations, an itinerary, and hotel listing will be included with your luggage tag and medical form. This material is mailed to you approximately 21 days prior to the tours departure date.
CLOTHING RECOMMENDATIONS
We recommend for all of our tours that you wear comfortable shoes made for walking. Bring clothing that can be layered easily for changing weather conditions. Bringing a raincoat that can easily be folded and stored is always a good idea. If special events or activities require more dressy attire, it will be noted on your tour documents. We suggest you bring a bathing suit if you enjoy utilizing the hotel pools and Jacuzzis.
SINGLE TRAVELER
Riley Tours welcomes single travelers and will try to assist in arranging a roommate for any person wishing to share accommodations at the double rate. Travelers looking for partners are responsible for meeting one another and deciding if it is a good match. Riley’s shall not be held liable should the arrangement fail. If a shared arrangement not be available or does not work out, the single rate will apply. Single travelers that sign up for a tour are purchasing a single seat and may be required to share a seat with another single passenger if the bus is full.
TRIPLE & QUAD
These accommodations are usually in rooms with two double beds. A roll-away bed or cot is subject to availability on a request basis only and at an extra cost.
TOUR PARTICIPATION
Tour participation will be granted to all persons. Any person who requires special assistance needs to be accompanied by an able companion who will assist them throughout the trip. Riley Tours regrets that we are not able to provide individual assistance to guests with walking, wheel chairs, or other personal needs. Please note it is the responsibility of the traveler to pay for any expenses incurred for special arrangements required.
MOBILITY DEVICES
Foldable wheelchairs and walkers are welcome. They are not permitted onboard the motorcoach and will be stored in the baggage compartment. If you intend to bring a wheelchair or walker, please notify us when making your reservation. We can accommodate motorized wheelchairs of a specific size and weight.
ADA ACT ON INTERNATIONAL TOURS
Be aware that the ADA Act is only applicable in the U.S., so traveling outside the U.S. with a disability may be more difficult.
LUGGAGE
Each person is allowed ONE LARGE SUITCASE which will be handled for you throughout the tour. In addition, a small overnight case or tote bag may be carried aboard. Carry-on articles are the responsibility of each person. A purse or small bag can be in addition to your carry-on as well as a C-Pap breathing machine as it is considered a medical device and doesn’t count as a carry-on. Though every effort will be made to safeguard your luggage, Riley Tours accepts no liability for loss or damage. Each person is required to handle their own luggage at airport check-in.
SMOKING POLICY
For the comfort of everyone, smoking aboard the coach and at included group functions is not permitted. Frequent stops enable those who wish to smoke to do so.
SEAT ROTATIONS
To enable everyone to enjoy the view from all areas of the motor coach, seating will be changed on a daily basis on tours with 20 people or more, your tour director will explain this procedure.
INCLUDED MEALS & ATTRACTIONS
You will be advised of those meals that are included as part of your tour. We regret that food substitutions are not always possible for pre-arranged or set menus. Please let us know when signing up if you have special dietary requests so we may try to accommodate them. Refunds cannot be given, should you choose not to join the tour group for an included meal, or sightseeing that has been prepaid or arranged on a group basis.
TOUR DIRECTORS
Every Riley Tour is accompanied by a professional Tour Director who handles all the details of your tour. Cruise tours may not have a Tour Director onboard.
RESERVATION FORMS
When filling out a reservation form, please write your full legal name (as written on your ID). If you have a nickname you would like on the name tag that you will wear throughout the tour, you may request that under the “Names on Tag” section of the form. If the form is filled incorrectly, Riley Tours is not responsible for fees to make changes.
SPECIAL REQUESTS
Please let us know in the special requests line of your reservation form if you need any of the following: handicapped accessible room or other special room requests, walking restrictions, wheelchair, special dietary needs, if you plan bringing any medical items necessary for your trip, etc. Riley’s must have notice that you need a wheel chair prior to your tours departure in order for the wheel chair to be reserved for a passenger. Please note: handicapped accessible rooms with 2 queen beds is not always available at hotels so please specify what you need exactly so we can make sure your request is accommodated correctly. For example: walk in shower, raised toilet, etc.
GRATUITIES
Tips for all included features of your tour (luggage handling, included meals, etc.) will be taken care of by your tour director. Tips for meals on your own or other services are at the discretion of each tour participant. Customary tips for the tour director and driver of your tour should be on a voluntary basis and given individually at the end of the tour. If tips are not included, it is noted on the tour brochure. We suggest $5-10 per traveler per day.
LIABILITY & RELATION WITH AIRFARE
We assume no liability for any actions of the airlines, such as flight delays, flight cancellation and equipment failure. The obligations and liabilities of an airline to you, and your rights against the airline, are subject to the terms and conditions of the airlines’ tickets and tariffs. It is important to understand that portions of a trip missed due to a flight delay are lost and no refund will be issued by Riley Tours.
RESPONSIBILITY
These tours are operated by Riley Tours of Murdock, MN. Riley Tours and their agents act only as an agent for such other parties, firms, or corporations providing services herein. No liability shall be incurred by Riley Tours, their agents, presenters, or cosponsors because of injury, loss, delay, or other complication experienced by tour participants. Riley Tours reserves the right to correct printing errors, to make any changes or alterations in the printed itineraries, dates, routes, hotels, or included features prior to or during the tour, as may be necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the tour. The names of the hotels used may be changed without notice. Riley Tours also reserves the right to accept, decline, or retain any person as a participant of these tours at anytime.