Kesugi Ridge Backpacking Tour (5-day / 4-Nights)
Offered by Go Hike Alaska In Anchorage, Alaska
: $
About us
Our experienced guides are certified in wilderness first aid, CPR, and EPI-pen use. We are also trained in avalanche safety and large animal encounter. Your well-being and safety is our #1 priority.
What we'll do
Are you seeking an experience that captures the imagination, leaves instant memories, provides challenge, and bestows you with a feeling of, “I don’t ever want to leave”? Look no further, you are where you need to be. Join us on a 5 day and 4 night world-class backpacking trip along the K'esugi ridge line, a 29.2 mile traverse featuring lush boreal forests, unique geology, exciting topography, and an alpine paradise that lasts for miles.
The ridge parallels both the Chit'ina River and Alaska range where North America’s highest peak, Mt. Denali, stands at a massive 20,146 feet. Many others in our state agree it is one of the best locations for witnessing the breathtaking pinnacle. It goes without saying, there is plenty of opportunity for stunning photography, wildlife viewing, and boundless exploration.
To view the general route, please use the below link to the map.
https://www.gohikealaska.com/kesugi-ridge-map
As part of your experience, you receive:
- Permitted, insured and renowned tour operation in South-Central, Alaska
- National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) Outdoor Education Trained Guide
- Wilderness First Response, CPR, and EPI-pen Certified Guide
- In-depth education on how to prepare and execute a multi-day backpacking trip
- Education on how to handle large animal encounters
- Rations supplied! A detailed meal plan will be sent to you before your tour. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, please indicate on the below questionnaire.
- How to cook in the back-country the “traditional” way (i.e. no freeze-dried food!)
- Shuttling to and from the trailheads
- Assistance with outfitting your gear for the tour.
Solo travelers are welcomed! You can book at the normal price per person, however, if no other guests sign up by the morning of your tour, you will need to either purchase a private tour for 1 or opt for a full refund.
Alternatively, you may elect to purchase a private tour for 1, and not have to worry about an additional guest signing up. Plus you get the whole tour just for you!
5 days of exploring Denali State Park one-on-one with a world-class guide. How cool is that?
What to expect / what's provided
Items such as backpacks, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads are available to rent. Clothing such as base layers are available to purchase. Shelters, group gear, and other items will be provided, but some will be your responsibility.
We provide a list of mandatory and optional individual gear, as well as the group gear. Lists also show items available for rent and purchase.
IMPORTANT: If you are planning on renting or purchasing any gear please indicate your need when completing the below questionnaire in the proceeding section. Afterwards, we will reach out to you and discuss your needs by email or phone.
Gear Lists: https://www.gohikealaska.com/kesugi-ridge-gear
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Conditioning Requirements
Kesugi Ridge is not an easy hike! However, this tour can be completed by someone who has never before backpacked. You will need to train, and condition before setting out on the trail with us. Here is what you should know in advance.
- We will be traveling 29.2 miles from Little Coal trailhead to Byer’s Lake with additional mileage for securing campsites and any extra day trips we pursue.
- There is considerable elevation gain over the duration of the hike, estimated at anywhere between 8,000 to 9,000 feet depending on the activities we pursue (think about climbing more than 800 flights of stairs over the duration of the hike)
- Possible scrambling and limited exposure hazards
- Poor trail conditions
- Harsh weather
- In general, you should be able to balance well and travel about 2 mph with a 35 lb. pack. for an extended period of time. On average we will travel anywhere between 5-8 hours per day.
- The below "Questionnaire" will help you, and us, identify whether or not this is a good trip for you to attempt. Please complete the survey when you are ready. All members of your party must complete a survey, please and thank you!
Kesugi Ridge Questionnaire: https://us4.list-manage.com/survey?u=82950f6fdba4d27019a621285&id=a5c575040e
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After reviewing the item lists, completing the survey, and discussing any questions you have with us regarding gear, route, planning, or anything else, you are ready to book.
Again, we welcome your questions and can help you plan your trip! After booking, you will be sent both the meal plan and a detailed itinerary of the 5-day / 4-night plan.
Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions.
So, what are you waiting for? Book now, and start preparing for your next adventure of a lifetime!
Cancellation Policy
All cancellations must be received in writing at [email protected]
If you cancel any time before 2 weeks prior to your scheduled hike, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 48 hours to 2 weeks prior to your scheduled hike, you will receive 75% of your total service fee.
No refunds will be given for cancellations between 0 and 48 hours prior your hiking start time, or for any no shows.
Map