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Ever suddenly realize that the weekend is almost upon you and you have a few free days, but can't find someone with an open schedule to accompany you on that killer hike you've been wanting to do for months? Or have you tried to organize a trip through another backpacking meetup and found that it's a mess of coordinating schedules? Here's the place to post your idea, no matter how short the notice.
We are a collection of backpackers from absolute beginner up to hard-core mountaineering folks all looking to share some new adventures with new friends. We will have regular events hosted by our organizers but we also welcome the community to post their own trips to see who else might be interested in joining.
A couple of things about being part of our group:
- Safety! Know your abilities and your limits. If you find yourself over your skills, be vocal and let others know.
- Respect nature! Practice good stewardship and leave it cleaner than you found it.
- Respect Others! Be mindful of how your decisions can impact them, especially when it comes to safety!
- Be patient! If you like to grind out the miles be patient if your group isn't quite up to your level.
- Be generous! Some trips will be free, others will be paid, it is all dependent on what the organizer decides. Even if a trip is free, offer to help with gas for the car pool or bring a dessert to share on the trail.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- My Great Alaska Expedition, Part One: Glacier Bay National ParkArctic Club Hotel, Seattle, WA
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THIS TRIP IS NOT AVAILABLE.
Join me this summer on THE GREAT ALASKAN EXPEDITION to visit/backpack/kayak all eight Alaskan National Parks.
But first join me on this first of four epic tours*: an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime, three-part, seventeen-day journey to SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA, THE ENTIRE “INSIDE PASSAGE,” AND GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE.*
Also known as the Alaskan Panhandle or “Inside Passage,” this 1000-mile stretch of rugged coastline and islands is a land of breathtaking beauty and adventure home to majestic mountains, sheer fjords, and awe-inspiring tidewater glaciers.
From the stunning landscapes of Glacier Bay National Park to the vibrant towns of Juneau and Skagway, every moment of this journey promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Our journey will begin in Seattle and ride the Amtrak Cascades train to Bellingham, Washington. There we will board the Alaska Marine Highway’s ferry for four days through the exquisitely wild and wonderful “Inside Passage” taking us through the charming towns of Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, and Sitka, each with its own unique character and history.
We'll fully explore the gold rush boom towns of Juneau and Skagway and immerse ourselves into the pristine arctic wilderness of Glacier National Park and Preserve. We’ll complete our journey with a thrilling ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad to Whitehorse, Yukon.
As we explore this enchanting region, you'll have the opportunity to “whale watch” within the “Inside Passage,” “bear watch” within pristine Glacier Bay, catamaran up to the very face of massive tidewater glaciers, and helicopter ride to the top of magnificent Mendenhall or Herbert Glacier.
We’ll canoe/kayak across beautiful Lake Mendenhall to the base of Mendenhall Glacier and climb up majestic Mt. Roberts for a 1700’ tram ride back down to Juneau.
We’ll withdraw from the modern day-to-day frenzy to unwind on an unforgettable three-day, two-night kayaking and camping adventure through the breathtaking Beardslee Islands in Glacier Bay National Park. Led by experienced guides, we'll paddle through crystal-clear waters, immerse ourselves in untouched wilderness, and camp under the glistening stars surrounded by the majestic beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll relax and simply soak up the peaceful tranquility of this wild and untouched wilderness.
With a range of accommodations provided, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, we'll relax and de-stress in style after each day's adventures. And on many evenings, we’ll have the opportunity to savor authentic Alaskan cuisine drawn daily from the icy waters of the Last Frontier.
Whether you're a nature lover, a backcountry adventure seeker, or simply someone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, this journey to Southeast Alaska has something for everyone.
Join me on this 17-day adventure and discover the breathtaking beauty and magic of this incredible region.
…OUR TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
Begin Your Tour on a Beautiful Late-Spring Evening In Seattle and a Morning’s Journey on the World-Famous Amtrak Cascades Train to Bellingham, WA.
Visit historic and vibrant Pike’s Place Market or climb high into the Space Needle or see the westward expanse of Puget Sound at sunset from the top of the Seattle Great Wheel. Spend the night in luxury at the Arctic Club Hotel. Then, the next morning, take a leisurely Pacific Northwest excursion to Bellingham on the world-famous Amtrak Cascades and see why National Geographic touts this route as one of the top ten train trips in North America.
Then Experience an Unforgettable Four-day Ferry Excursion Through the Entire “Inside Passage:”
Embark on an unforgettable four-day, three-night, beautiful and life-expanding ferry excursion along Alaska’s extraordinary thousand-mile Marine Highway.
Witness stunning coastal scenery, four charming island towns, and unforgettable wildlife as you journey within the extraordinary Inside Passage from Bellingham to Juneau (with side-stops in quirky and fun Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, and, Sitka).
Rest comfortably within your onboard cabins each evening and dine each meal at the full-service restaurant or the cafeteria.
This is not a cruise line; this is the ultimate rugged and authentic Alaskan experience!Immerse Yourself In Spectacular Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve:
Experience the raw, unspoiled, and unforgettable beauty of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, a stunningly beautiful World Heritage site, on a five-day adventure!
The first of eight parks included in my Great Alaskan Expedition, explore towering blue glaciers by catamaran, deep and misty fjords by kayak, and abundant, untamed, and thrilling-to-behold wildlife this American and Alaskan jewel!
There is no place on the planet like Glacier Bay.
As the National Park Service writes of the sounds of its wildness,
“Among all of Alaska's national parks and other public lands, Glacier Bay may offer the greatest richness and variety of natural, wild voices. On a given day, park visitors might hear an astounding assortment of sounds: glacial ice exploding into a tidal inlet, wolves howling along a wave-washed shore, loon cries echoing between forested islands, humpback whales calling, hermit thrushes singing among high boughs, brown bears thrashing after salmon, raindrops making polyrhythms on a muskeg pond, shore crabs scuffling among tidal boulders, harbor seals growling on ice rafts, and moose grunting in wet meadows.”Join us in this truly life-changing immersion within the pure and true Alaskan wild!
Kayak into the Wild and Stunningly Picturesque Beardslee Islands:
Paddle among the bears and whales, puffins and sea lions, wolves and loons on a once-in-a-lifetime guided, three-day, two-night kayaking and tent-camping journey into Glacier Bay’s resplendent Beardslee Islands! Awaken each morning within a world of stunning beauty. Paddle each day through the pure and crystalline Arctic depths. Prepare your meals along the pristine icy-water’s shoreline and make camp each night below the unblemished, starry expanse of the extraordinary evening Alaskan sky.
Glacier Bay offers each of us a washing away of an unhealthy planet and a deep renewal of spirit.Witness the Majesty of Magnificent Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers by Catamaran:
Join an all-day catamaran excursion deep into Glacier Bay’s world-famous, wild and wonderful, West Arm where the 250-foot, blue-hued Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers tower above. Witness icy monoliths calving into turquoise waters as humpback whales, playful seal pups, and soaring seabirds thrive within this truly breathtaking wilderness.
Relax at Historic and Rustic Glacier Bay Lodge:
Unwind in rustic style with a four-night stay at historically and architecturally significant Glacier Bay Lodge. This landmark hotel offers rustic, yet modern, comforts amidst breathtaking scenery. Designed by famed Seattle architect, John Morse, in 1966, the Lodge is a fully exemplary model of the mid-century “Park Service Modern” architectural style. Dine at the in-house Fairweather Dining Room or outside on the deck where the Alaskan “cuisine is as spectacular as the scenery surrounding you.”
Discover Juneau’s Hidden and Unique Charm:
Explore Alaska’s vibrant capital city on a three-day adventure! Discover Juneau’s hidden gems from stunning natural beauty to rich history and culture.
Enjoy four nights’ stay in the heart of downtown Juneau! Savor distinctly Alaskan cuisine in award-winning restaurants and breakfast along the turn-of-the-twentieth-century waterfront. Surrounded by century-old historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, you’ll be immersed within the city’s distinct character.
Challenge yourself with a beautiful 1700’ hike up spectacular Mount Roberts for breathtaking views of Juneau! Enjoy shopping and lunch before an easier and even more scenic heart-stirring tram-ride back down to downtown Juneau.
Join us on several privately-guided museum and city tours of historic museums, landmarks, and hidden gems. Uncover and discover Juneau’s rich history and culture!
Thrill with a Mendenhall or Herbert Glacier Helicopter and Kayak Tour:
Take a heart-quickening helicopter ride to either the top of Juneau’s world-famous Mendenhall Glacier or atop the spectacular Herbert Glacier deep within the Juneau Icefield. Then, journey across ice-filled Mendenhall Lake by either kayak or canoe to the base of Mendenhall Glacier!
Get up close and personal with these distinctly Alaskan natural wonders!Explore Rustic and Historic Gold-Rush Era Skagway:
Visit charming Skagway, a vibrant reminder of our Klondike past, following another thrilling ferry excursion through the mystical Inside Passage. Explore the historic charm of this gilded Gold Rush town on a guided “Ghosts and ‘Goodtime Girls’ Walking Tour” of Skagway’s National Historical Buildings. Visit the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and its hands-on Visitor Center.
Then, relax within the truly turn-of-the-nineteenth century ambiance of your evening’s stay at the historic and delightful bed-and-breakfast, the Skagway Inn. Dine upon authentic and distinctly Alaskan cuisine – Bearing Sea crab, wild-caught and Alaska born salmon, halibut and shrimp, and responsibly-sourced wild game- at the inn’s heralded Olivia’s Bistro.
Ride the Historic Narrow-gauge White Pass and Yukon Route Railway.
Embark on a nail-bitingly thrilling gold rush-era, narrow-gauge train ride through the notoriously treacherous White Pass along the Klondike’s gold-infused mountainsides.Experience the excitement of this historic journey!
Then, continue by comfortable motorbus ride into Canada, arriving for your trip’s final evening’s dinner and stay in the quaint and quirky capital city of the Yukon Territory, Whitehorse.
…TRAVEL DATES: MAY 29TH, 2025 TO JUNE 13TH, 2025 (NOTICE: NOT 6/11)
HOWEVER, this trip will be composed of THREE “SECTIONS (please see the itinerary below for specific dates of each Section).”
The SECOND SECTION, “SECTION B,” is MANDATORY - meaning YOU MUST PARTICIPATE IN THIS PORTION OF THE ADVENTURE to PARTICIPATE AT ALL.
“SECTION B” includes our initial five days exploring Juneau (this including all hotels, transportation, and tours) and our final evening’s stay in Juneau; our transportation to (by ferry) and from (by airline) Glacier Bay National Park; our stays at Glacier Bay Lodge; our catamaran tour of Glacier Bay’s West Arm; our three-day kayak adventure into the Beardslee Islands; and our gentle exploration of the park itself.
The FIRST SECTION, “SECTION A,” which precedes Section B, is an available “add-on” for an additional fee.
SECTION A includes the full four-day, Inside Passage ferry journey from Bellingham to Juneau with evenings in our cabins onboard and stops in Ketchikan, Wrangell, Petersburg, and Sitka; the first evening’s stay in Seattle; and the Amtrak Cascades train from Seattle to Bellingham.
THE THIRD SECTION, “SECTION C,” which follows Section B, is also an available “add-on” for an additional fee.
SECTION C includes the Inside Passage ferry journey from Juneau to Skagway; the evening’s stay in Skagway; the White Pass & Yukon Route railroad northward with the connecting bus trip to Whitehorse; and the evening’s stay in Whitehorse.
…INCLUSIONS:
√ Every hotel - ten hotel nights in all.
√ ALL transportation from the moment you join our adventure in either Bellingham, WA or Juneau, AK until the moment you leave us. This includes helicopters and catamarans, ferries and trains, airplanes and bus rides, shuttles and trams. (However, we do not cover your transportation to and from our scheduled itinerary nor any transportation you separately secure within our scheduled itinerary.)
√ All entry fees and private tour fees.
√ All meals as indicated within the itinerary. As of this posting, for the ENTIRE trip: seven breakfasts, one lunch, and three dinners (if ten or more participants). However, depending on the number of participants, up to three more breakfasts and three dinners may be added to the itinerary ** (All other meals and meal payments not on the itinerary shall be the participant’s responsibility.)
√ ALL activities and excursions described within the itinerary.
EXCLUSIONS:
√ We do not cover your transportation to and from our scheduled itinerary nor any transportation you separately secure within our scheduled itinerary.
√ All meals, snacks, and meal payments not on the itinerary shall be the participant’s responsibility**
√ NO backcountry food, water, snacks, or supplies are provided. Bring sufficient food, water, equipment, and supplies for all kayaking, hiking, and touring adventures. (Kayaking-specific supplies, however, shall be provided by the kayaking outfitter.)
√ NO “trip cancellation/interruption/travel insurance” or “emergency evacuation insurance” are provided. No health insurance is provided. You are strongly advised to purchase all insurances you deem necessary and appropriate.
√ No alcoholic beverages are provided.
√ No laundry service is provided.
√ No guide or other services gratuity is provided.
√ We do not provide nor pay for any and all activities and services not listed within the “inclusions.”
…TO BEGIN YOUR RESERVATION:
To secure every reservation, I will need to have a firm number by February 5th.
√ If you believe you may be interested in this FIRST trip, PLEASE CLICK THE “ATTEND” BUTTON below.
√ THEN, contact me as soon as possible at 602-292-0753 or mmozellca@icloud.com to discuss (please know that there is no commitment whatsoever at this time; this is simply me trying to know at the outset how many of you have an interest so I can secure those hard-to-secure reservations).
√ Pay a $600 deposit by February 10th.
√ Pay the balance due by March 1st.
√ Agree to read and sign the forthcoming “Terms and Conditions” Agreement.”
√ Attend all online group events.
…HERE IS OUR TENTATIVE (BUT DATE-SPECIFIC) ITINERARY**:
Section A, Day One, May 29, 2025: Arrive separately in Seattle, WA. Check into hotel. Explore Seattle. Evening at hotel (TBD). However, you may arrive in Bellingham on May 30th, if you choose, skipping both the hotel and the Amtrak train trip.
Section A, Day Two, May 30, 2025: Breakfast at the hotel. Uber to Seattle’s Amtrak King Street Station. Ride to Bellingham. Explore Bellingham. Arrive at ferry terminal by 3 pm. Board at 4 pm. Check into cabins. Leave port at 6 pm. Sail through the spectacular Inside Passage. Dinner together (paid separately) in restaurant on board. Evening in cabin. B
Section A, Day Three, May 31, 2025: Sail through the majestic Inside Passage. Watch for breeching humpback whales, playful seal pups, lumbering grizzly bears, and soaring seabirds amidst rain-forested islands and glacial fjords. Meals are separately purchased on board. Evening in cabin.
Section A, Day Four, June 1, 2025: Sail through the magical Inside Passage. Stop in fun and quirky Ketchikan. Breakfast separately. Explore town for two hours. Stops in Wrangell and Petersburg briefly (half hour each). Meals are separately purchased on board. Evening in cabin.
Section A, Day Five/Section B, Day One, June 2, 2025: (Section A Participants): Sail through the misty and mystical Inside Passage. Stop for possible breakfast and exploration of delightful Sitka. (Transportation to town is not included.) Meals are separately purchased on board. Arrive/disembark in Juneau at 6:30 pm. Shuttle to downtown hotel (TBD). Meet up with arriving Section B Participants. All participants check in. Group dinner (TBD). Evening at hotel. DSection B, Day Two, June 3, 2025 (ALL Participants): Breakfast at the hotel or in town. Meet at Mt. Roberts trailhead by 9 am. Climb 1700 magnificent feet up to shops/restaurants at the Sky Bridge/Mountain House Complex. Have lunch (paid separately). Ride the extraordinary Goldbelt Tram 1700 feet back down to town. Walk to the Juneau-Douglas City Museum for self-guided group tour at 2:45 pm. Explore downtown Juneau on the docent-guided “Historic Downtown Juneau Tour” from 4:00 to 5:30 pm. Return to the hotel to refresh and prepare for dinner. Dine at the fabulous In Boca al Lupe Restaurant (TBD). Return to the hotel for the evening. B, D
Section B, Day Three, June 4, 2025***: Breakfast at the hotel or in town** Meet at the Alaska State Museum at 9:00 am. Explore the museum until 10:45 am. Walk to the Tramway Building to be shuttled at 11:15/11:45 to the helicopter base to begin the 2.5 hour helicopter tour to the top of either the Mendenhall Glacier or the Juneau Icefield’s Herbert Glacier. Explore the magnificent glacier on foot. Return by helicopter and shuttle to the Tramway Building. Quickly eat a late lunch. Return to the Tramway Building to be shuttled to Lake Mendenhall for a 3.5 hour guided kayak or canoe adventure across the lake to the base of Mendenhall Glacier. Shuttle back to the Tramway Building by 7:15 pm. Return to the hotel to prepare for your separate dinner in town. Evening in the hotel. B
Section B, Day Four, June 5, 2025: Arise very early. Shuttle/walk to ferry by 6 am. Board and set sail by 7 am. Meals are separately purchased on board. Arrive Gustavus at 1:15 pm. Check into the historic Glacier Bay Lodge. Explore Glacier Bay National Park and the Visitor Center. Group dinner (TBD) at Glacier Bay Lodge Restaurant. Evening at the Lodge. B, D
Section B, Day Five, June 6, 2025: Arise very early. Breakfast (paid separately) at Lodge. Board at 6:50 am a high-speed catamaran for full-day excursion through Glacier Bay’s extraordinary West Arm to the base of the towering (250’) and calving Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers. The eight-hour tour is narrated by a National Park Ranger. A boxed lunch is provided. Return 3:30 pm. Ready for the three-day kayak tour with a kayak/camper orientation at 4:00 pm. Dine at Glacier Bay Lodge Restaurant or in Gustavus (dinner and transportation to Gustavus paid separately). Evening at the Lodge. L
Section B, Day Six, June 7, 2025: Breakfast (paid separately) at Lodge. Prepare for three-day, two-night guided (two guides) kayaking adventure into the wild Beardslee Islands. Leave at around 10:00 am. Explore the islands and wildlife. Set up tent camp onshore. Lunch en route. Prepare backcountry dinner on shore. Enjoy the evening below the vast Alaskan sky.
Section B, Day Seven, June 8, 2025: Prepare breakfast. Prepare for Day Two’s kayaking adventure. Explore the islands and wildlife. Set up tent camp onshore. Lunch en route. Prepare backcountry dinner on shore. Enjoy the evening below the beautiful Alaskan sky.
Section B, Day Eight, June 9, 2025: Prepare breakfast. Prepare for Day Three’s kayaking adventure and return to our Lodge. Explore the islands and wildlife. Separately explore Glacier Bay National Park and/or Gustavus, AK. Dinner at Glacier Bay Lodge Restaurant or in Gustavus (dinner and transportation to Gustavus paid separately). Evening at the Lodge.
Section B, Day Nine, June 10, 2025: Breakfast (paid separately) at Lodge. Prepare to shuttle to Alaskan Airlines in Gustavus. Separately explore Glacier Bay National Park and/or Gustavus. Shuttle to Gustavus Airport. Arrive at 4:15 pm. Depart at 5:35. Arrive Juneau 6:15 pm. Shuttle to airport-area (TBD). Group dinner (TBD). Evening in hotel. D
Section B, Day Ten, June 11, 2025: All participants not traveling as Group 3 may head home as they have pre-planned.
Section C, Day One, June 11, 2025: Group 3 (Section C Participants): Arise very early. Breakfast at hotel. Arrive at the ferry terminal at 6 am. Depart for Skagway at 7 am. Sail through the mystical Inside Passage. Arrive Skagway, AK at 2 pm. Shuttle to hotel. Check in. Visit Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park Visitor Center. Meet at the Red Onion Saloon at 3:30 pm for a guided, ninety minute “Ghosts and Goodtime Girls Walking Tour” of Skagway’s National Historical Buildings by. Dinner together (paid separately) at the Skagway Inn’s Olivia’s Bistro. Evening in hotel (TBD). B
Section C, Day Two, June 12, 2025: Breakfast at hotel. Explore quirky Skagway separately. Walk to the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway at noon. Depart at 12:55 pm for spectacular narrow-gauge Klondike-era ride through White Pass to Frasier, YK. From there, board a motor-coach to Whitehorse, YK. Shuttle to our airport-area hotel. Arrive 7:00 pm. Check in. Group dinner (TBD). Evening in hotel (TBD). B, D
Section C, Day Three, June 13, 2025: Breakfast at hotel. Full trip comes to an end. All trip participants may continue onward as they have pre-planned. B
B: Breakfast L: Lunch D: Dinner
COST**:
As of this posting, Section B costs $4250.
As of this posting, adding Section A to Section B costs $5150.
As of this posting, adding Section C to Section B costs $4995.
As of this posting, to participate in the entire journey, Sections A, B, and C, costs $5950.
For any trip cost which includes Section A, if you choose NOT to stay in Seattle/take the train to Bellingham, your cost shall be reduced by $200.
* Please read the "About Us" section within Meetup's "Backpackers of the American West" for a fuller description of my National Park visits.
** All prices and all components within the itinerary are subject to change.
*** PLEASE NOTE: The events scheduled for this day, June 4th, 2025, are tentative. These helicopter and kayak tour reservations are VERY time-sensitive and, therefore, very difficult to secure. However, there are many similar adventures that may be chosen.
…PLEASE KEEP IN MIND:
- THIS TRIP IS NOT AVAILABLE.
- IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE, PLEASE PRESS THE “ATTEND” BUTTON BY 2/5/25, THEN: CALL ME AT 602-292-0753 TO DISCUSS.
- You may call me at any time prior to 2/5/25 at 602 292-0753 to discuss the trip fully.
- Final cost to you is TBD. Price for each trip section listed above is an approximation and may change based on final reservations secured. As we progress, this will become known.
- To participate, you MUST press the “attend” button; have a direct phone conversation with Michelle Mozell; be approved to participate by Michelle Mozell; pay a $600 deposit by February 10th; pay the balance due by March 1st; agree to and sign the forthcoming “Terms and Conditions” Agreement”; and attend all online group events.
- A reservation without a deposit does not secure your spot on the trip.
- Rates for the hotels are based upon TWO PERSONS PER ROOM. If you wish to have a room of your own, this will increase your full payment.
- Upon selecting “Attend,” you will periodically receive additional trip notes that include: a kayak tour recommended gear and safety list; our fee and payment policy (including fee changes and deposits); our cancellation policy; our travel insurance and medical evacuation insurance policy recommendations; our revised rules and regulations; and any additional logistical information to enhance your safety and enjoyment of the trip.
- You are responsible for all transportation to and from our scheduled itinerary AND any transportation you separately secure within our scheduled itinerary.
- NO BACKCOUNTRY FOOD OR SUPPLIES ARE PROVIDED. BRING SUFFICIENT FOOD, EQUIPMENT, & SUPPLIES. Kayaking supplies, however, shall be provided.
- YOU ARE STRONGLY ADVISED TO PURCHASE “TRIP CANCELLATION/TRAVEL INSURANCE,” “EMERGENCY EVACUATION INSURANCE,” and HEALTH INSURANCE before you go. Call me to discuss!
- All reservations are final confirmation dependent and may change at any time. THERE ARE NO GUARANTEES THAT ANY RESERVATION IS FULLY SECURE.
- BRING YOUR PASSPORT and all other necessary forms of necessary identification.
- The minimum of participants is EIGHT; the maximum is TEN.
- PARTICIPATION IN THIS MEETUP AFFIRMS THAT YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD THE INTERMEDIARY AND TEMPORARY LEGAL DISCLAIMER ON MEETUP’S BACKPACKERS OF THE AMERICAN WEST'S WEBSITE: (see: Meetup's Backpackers of the American West Rules and Regulations). PLEASE NOTE: THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT ARE SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS MANDATED BY THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE AND, THEREFORE, SHALL CHANGE PRIOR TO THE TRIP.
- MICHELLE MOZELL RESERVES THE SOLE/UNILATERAL RIGHT TO CANCEL, ALTER, OR MODIFY THE TRIP ITINERARY, WITH PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE PLANNED EVENTS OF JUNE 4th, AS SHE DEEMS NECESSARY AT ANY TIME FOR ANY REASON WHATSOEVER.
- Please know that for the first time, I will be establishing a tour company, a California LLC, complete with robust, tour-company insurance, group tour discounts/perks (provided we have ten or more participants), and fully compliant access to Glacier Bay National Park. (And, for the first time, this trip will be a for-profit enterprise.)
- Photo citation: "NPS Photo"
- Featured International Meetup Trips for 2024 & 2025Link visible for attendees
This group has some great local outdoorsy/adventure events.
As the main group leads for the group we do have some more involved adventures that take more planning than your average weekend hike or camping trip.
These are treks or adventure trips to epic places around the world.
Bucket List Experiences if you will.Here is what's ahead:
Aug 10-20, 2025 EPIC MACHU PICCHU! vis Short Inca Trail or Train!!
Aug 10-20, 2025 The Salkantay Trek EPIC MACHU PICCHU!
Oct 12-23, 2025 Jordan: Dana to Petra Trek with bonus of Wadi Rum
Jun 05-14, 2026 Costa Rica Eco Adventure
Jun 18-27, 2026 Mt Kilimanjaro Trek! One of the 7 Summits
Jul 05-14, 2026 Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
Mar 06-16, 2027 Galapagos Islands Expedition
Apr 25-May 11, 2027 Everest Base Camp Yoga TrekWe have other overseas events, which are not that adventurous, but more refined and cultural.
How to learn more about the itinerary and prices?
What to do next?
How to attend?
What to pack?
What's included and not included?
Or any question you might have!!!You can send a direct meetup message:
https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881In your message say which one and we can get the ball rolling from there and get you info.
The other easy way is to fill out our form. You can check-box several events that way.
https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8ALSO . . .
We have a monthly Q & A video conference call to answer it all!
Rsvp on this event and join us on the listed date at 6pm Pacific time.
Here is the link to join https://meet.google.com/irp-rnyi-fgbRSVP here and we will send you a reminder too!!
What's that? You want to see what the events look like?
pix Pix PIX . . . everybody lives pix!! Here are some galleries of past Treks
Everest Base Camp Trek Photo Album
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jtHi3tTjVhYGjtc19
Machu Picchu Salkantay Trek Photo Album
https://photos.app.goo.gl/1cveVTS54VkziKba6
Kilimanjaro Trek Photo Album
https://photos.app.goo.gl/xxemRMegDqTHHi4UA
Galapagos https://photos.app.goo.gl/chQ3swWt4jGiAabx5Take a look at the pix. Send us a note. Fill out the event form. RSVP here . . . whatever!! Get the ball rolling on your next adventure. Come and join us!!
The posted date and time of this event is a zoom call.
Here is the video call link to join https://meet.google.com/irp-rnyi-fgb - Our Extraordinary, Life-Changing, 17-Day Trip to FIVE Alaska National Parks!Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Anchorage, AK
RIGHT OFF THE BAT, PLEASE KNOW: THIS TRIP ENDS ON AUGUST 6TH, not August 3rd (Meetup's website does not have the ability to extend a trip longer than 14 days).
Therefore, THIS TRIP BEGINS ON JULY 21st AND ENDS ON AUGUST 6th.
ALSO: It is not necessary to participate in the entire trip. It is possible to participate in selected segments of the trip. However, this possibility must be discussed in full with the trip participants and agreed to by Michelle Mozell who has the sole/unilateral right to make this decision.
***
As many of you are aware, eight years ago, I began a renewed journey to backpack again.
I began with Yosemite, then, every California National Park.
Then, the entire West.
This quickly morphed into my desire to backpack/kayak all sixty-three National Parks in the United States.
And, now, as of this writing, I have backpacked/kayaked/boat-camped/car-camped/visited all fifty-one US National Parks in the “Lower 48,” plus the National Parks of Hawai’i and the Virgin Islands*.
To do so, I designed and led twenty-four carefully-planned trips, most of which appeared right here on Meetup.
But, now, what's next?
The EIGHT ALASKA NATIONAL PARKS, of course.
To get this accomplished, I’ve planned THREE trips to backpack or kayak all eight parks.
Our FIRST trip is an extraordinary adventure to the first of Alaska's eight National Parks, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. On this fifteen-day expedition, we cruise via ferry for four days through the breathtaking Inside Passage, arriving in charming and quirky Juneau for a three-day exploration. Then, we'll venture into Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, where we'll spend five days immersed in its raw, unspoiled, and unforgettable beauty. Included is an all-day catamaran tour to the base of the 250-foot, blue-hued Margerie and Grand Pacific Glaciers to witness icy monoliths calving into deep turquoise waters below. The highlight of the voyage is a guided three-day, two-night kayaking and tent-camping journey into Glacier Bay’s resplendent Beardslee Islands.
This is a fully awesome exploration of extraordinary Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve - a stunningly beautiful, wild and wonderful World Heritage site - that commences on May 29th and continues through June 12th.
Our THIRD trip, a trip to beautiful Lake Clark and bear-full Katmai National Parks in September, is designed and ready to post. Keep an eye out for this trip!
Our SECOND trip of the three is THIS one, "Our Extraordinary, Life-Changing, 17-Day Trip to FIVE Alaska National Parks," wherein I immerse you within the five breathtaking "central" Alaska National Parks:
Denali National Park & Preserve
Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kobuk Valley National Park
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & PreserveTherefore, today, I'm excited to invite you to join us in this SECOND of three extraordinary adventures to Alaska, our nation's magnificent "Last Frontier."
HERE IS OUR ITINERARY:
DAY ONE, July 21, 2025: Fly into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Arrive in Anchorage. Shuttle to our hotel (TBD). Check in. Meet up with trip participants. Dinner together. Evening at our hotel.
DAY TWO, July 22, 2025: Awaken very early. Breakfast together in our hotel. Shuttle to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Fly Alaska Airlines to Kotzebue. Arrive mid-morning at the Ralph Wien Memorial Airport. Check our luggage into our hotel (TBD) in Kotzebue. Explore Kotzebue. Visit the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center. Check into our hotel. Have dinner together in town. Evening at our hotel.
DAY THREE, July 23, 2025: Awaken early. Breakfast at the hotel. Uber/walk/shuttle to the Ralph Wien Memorial Airport. Board our Bering Air flight to the tiny Kowagniut Iñupiat Eskimo town of Ambler 45 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Shuttle to the Kobuk River Lodge along the banks of Alaska’s Kobuk River. Check in our luggage at the Lodge and prepare our backpacking/hiking gear. Board our boat for a guided trip into Kobuk Valley National Park and Preserve to our campsite at Paatitaaq-Onion Portage and the historic J. Louis Giddings Cabin. Set up camp (with our electric fence**). Explore the nearby Onion Portage Archeological District National Historic Landmark and the surrounding wilderness of vast tundra and rolling hills. Await in anticipation a potential witnessing of the great Caribou migration that passes through yearly. Settle down for dinner, then for an evening, under the extraordinary, billion-star Arctic skies.
DAY FOUR, July 24, 2025: Awaken early. Have breakfast deep in the Arctic wilderness. Explore the wild Arctic outback and the shores of the wild and chilly Kobuk River. Board our guided boat for our return trip back to our evening’s stay at the Kobuk River Lodge. Explore the area. Prepare dinner in our Lodge. Evening comfortably within our remote Arctic Lodge nestled warmly within the Alaskan outback.
DAY FIVE, July 25, 2025: Awaken early. Have breakfast deep in the Arctic wilderness. Explore more the wonders of the Kobuk River Valley. Have meals in our Lodge. Shuttle back to our airstrip in Ambler. Board our late afternoon Bering Air flight to Kotzebue hopscotching into the tiny, remote Iñupiat towns of Shungnak and Kobuk before reaching Ralph Wien Memorial Airport in Kotzebue. Board our plane back to Anchorage’s Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport via Alaska Airlines. Arrive Anchorage. Drive to our hotel (TBD). Dinner together at the hotel or in town. Evening at our hotel.
DAY SIX, July 26, 2025: Awaken early. Have breakfast at our hotel. Pick up our rental vehicle. Drive along the western coastline of the Kenai Peninsula having lunch along the way. Continue onward southwest to the quaint, yet funky, charmingly cutting-edge town of Homer. Check into our hotel (TBD). Explore town and find our dinner on a warm July Saturday evening. Make our way back to our hotel. Settle in for the night.
DAY SEVEN, July 27, 2025: Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Kenai Fjords National Park’s Exit Glacier. Seek to secure an evening at Exit Glacier Campground. If not, we will find shelter in Seward. Explore the Exit Glacier Nature Center. Hike the Exit Glacier Trail to Exit Glacier. Have dinner together at Exit Glacier Campground or in Seward. Enjoy our evening in beautiful southern Alaska.
DAY EIGHT, July 28, 2025: Awaken and have breakfast. Shower. If at the campground, shower in Seward. Purchase cabin food and supplies in town. Pick up our marine radio and our satellite phone at our kayak rental store***. Drive to the south boat launch in Seward to board our chartered boat service to take us to our night’s stay at Holgate Cabin deep within the Holgate Arm of Aialik Bay (across from the magnificent Holgate Glacier). Along the way, our guide will treat us to a full three-hour tour of the stunning Kenai Fjords coastline in search of whales and sea lions and puffins. After setting up within our cabin, kayak*** along the shoreline of Holgate Arm to a small island at the base of the massive Holgate Glacier. Watch for whales and bears and puffins steering clear of calving ice sheets. Return to our cabin to walk the coastline listening for the sounds of untamed wildlife and the roar of glacial calving. Cook our dinner (inside our cabin) and enjoy our meal on our cabin’s deck. Then, enjoy our evening’s rest nestled warmly inside our cabin within the wild Alaskan coast.
DAY NINE, July 29, 2025: Awaken when we wish. Prepare and enjoy our breakfast on the deck of our cabin. Kayak*** along the shoreline searching for berries and bears. Board our chartered boat for out 2.5-hour trip to Seward. Shower in Seward. Drive northward via the beautiful Seward Highway back through Anchorage. Rent/buy crampons in Anchorage. Continue north along the famous Dalton Highway to our campground or our hotel (TBD) in Denali National Park. LOOK to see if Denali is visible through the clouds. (Here’s nearly everything you need to know about Denali National Park.) Have dinner in or near the park entrance or at our campsite. Stay the evening in our campground or our hotel within an eagle’s flight to the tallest mountain in North America.
DAY TEN, July 30, 2025: Arise early. Breakfast in our campground or at the hotel. Drive to the Backcountry Information Center in Denali National Park to secure our evening’s backcountry permit. Attend our mandatory Backcountry Orientation (or, better yet, watch all of the backcountry orientation videos before we leave for Alaska). Explore the Denali Visitor Center and the Murie Science and Learning Center. Hop onto a “Free Bus” at the Denali Bus Depot Parking area. Enjoy a leisurely bus ride to our Backcountry Unit drop-off. Backpack into the extraordinary Denali backcountry stopping where we find a perfect evening’s campsite. LOOK to see if Denali is visible through the clouds. Set up camp (within our electric fence**). Have dinner at our site. Spend the evening beneath the broad and beautiful endless Denali sky.
DAY ELEVEN, July 31, 2025: Awaken at any time. Have breakfast together. LOOK to see if Denali is visible through the clouds. Hike out to our trailhead at the park road. Take any bus back to our vehicle. Drive north on the Dalton Highway to our hotel (TBD) in Fairbanks. Check in. Explore Fairbanks. Have dinner together. Evening at our hotel.
***
NOTE: Our next adventure is a little difficult, though we have the full permission and confidence of the area’s federal rangers to do so. You may choose, therefore, to stay in Fairbanks and explore/relax until we return OR return home from here.
***
DAY TWELVE, August 1, 2025: Awaken early. Breakfast in the hotel. Pack our backpacks and drive north on the Dalton Highway to our entry point for Gates of the Arctic National Park. Park our vehicle safely. Backpack into the park and settle camp (within our electric fence**). Dinner near our campsite. Spend our evening in the near-Arctic wilderness far, far from civilization and from home.
DAY THIRTEEN, August 2, 2025: Awaken early. Breakfast near camp. Hike out to our vehicle. Drive south on the Dalton Highway to our hotel (TBD) in Fairbanks. Check in. Explore Fairbanks. Have dinner together. Evening at our hotel.
DAY FOURTEEN, August 3, 2025: Breakfast at hotel. Drive southeast along the Alaska Highway and Alaska Route 4 toward Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (WSE). Explore the WSE Visitor Center in Copper Center. Visit, if open, the Ahtna Cultural Center. Drive toward the old mining towns of Kennicott and McCarthy along the McCarthy Road. Check into our hotel/hostel (TBD, but this must be done soon!). Explore the area. Have dinner together. Evening at our hotel.
DAY FIFTEEN, August 4, 2025: Awaken early. Breakfast. Ready for backpacking. If in McCarthy, take the five-mile shuttle to Kennecott. Visit the Kennecott Visitor Center (the hub for the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark). When done, backpack up the Root Glacier/Erie Mine Trail to the end of the Root Glacier Trail storing our excess at the Jumbo Creek Bear Storage. Turn northwest onto the Root Glacier (with crampons affixed). Hike onto the glacier and set up camp for the night (within our electric fence, if safe to do so**). Have dinner together well before the sun sets. Watch the extraordinarily dark and beautiful Alaska night sky open above us.
DAY SIXTEEN, August 5, 2025: Awaken early and have breakfast. Hike back to Kennecott. Take the shuttle back to our vehicle. Drive the McCarthy Road and Alaska Routes 10/4/1 back to Anchorage. Return our crampons (if rented). Drive to hotel (TBD). Check in. Dinner together in town. Evening at our hotel.
DAY SEVENTEEN, August 6, 2025: Awaken early. Breakfast at the hotel. Drive to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Return our vehicle. Board your flight home remembering fondly a life-changing trip to the extraordinary Alaskan Arctic!
* Please read the "About Us" section on our "Backpackers of the American West" Meetup page for a fuller description of my National Park visits.
** We are considering the purchase of a portable electric fence to install each backcountry evening to deter bears.
*** Kayak rentals are expensive. We may decide NOT to rent kayaks.
PLEASE KEEP IN MIND:
- IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE, PLEASE PRESS THE “ATTEND” BUTTON BY 6/14/25, THEN: CALL ME AT 602-292-0753 TO DISCUSS.
- Of course, you may call me at any time prior to pressing the "Attend" button and before 6/14/25 at 602 292-0753 to discuss the trip fully.
- Please know that PRESSING THE "ATTEND" BUTTON DOES NOT GUARANTEE PARTICIPATION. ONLY A CONFIRMATION OF PARTICIPATION BY MICHELLE MOZELL. Therefore, for possible participation, you must first discuss this trip with Michelle Mozell at 602-292-0753.
- It is not necessary to participate in the entire trip. It is possible to participate in selected segments of the trip. However, this possibility must be discussed in full with the trip participants and agreed to by Michelle Mozell who has the sole/unilateral right to make this decision.
- The minimum of participants is FOUR; the maximum is SIX.
- You are responsible for all individual transportation to, from, and within our scheduled itinerary AND any individual transportation you separately secure within our scheduled itinerary. NO individual transportation is provided. We will discuss this THOROUGHLY.
- THIS WILL BE A VERY PRICEY TRIP. TOTAL COST TO YOU IS TBD. Many costs will be shared by participants equally. Many costs will be borne by each participant singly. As we progress, these costs will become known. Periodic payments/deposits based upon this progression will be required.
- IMPORTANT: Due to this trip’s difficulty in securing certain essential reservations, as a confirmed participant on this trip, we each shall agree that, from time to time, some payments/deposits shall be required that are, by their very nature, non-refundable. These deposits shall be fully discussed in detail before each deposit is due.
- For most evenings that do not include backpacking or camping, overnight accommodations have been pre-booked, but not yet paid for, including hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. For some evenings, multiple bookings have been made to provide options. For a few evenings, as of this posting, accommodation choices are yet to be made. Pricing for these accommodations varies widely. Therefore, it is our desire to include all participants in the final booking process before confirming. It is also our desire to share, as equitably as possible, the cost of the confirmed overnight accommodations among our trip's participants.
- NO meals are provided, except: meals at the Kobuk River Lodge and breakfast, if offered by the hotels. The hotels are, as of this posting, TBD. THEREFORE, YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL OTHER MEALS FOR THE ENTIRETY OF THE TRIP.
- NO BACKCOUNTRY FOOD, WATER, SNACKS, OR SUPPLIES ARE PROVIDED. THEREFORE, BRING SUFFICIENT FOOD, WATER, EQUIPMENT, AND SUPPLIES FOR ALL BACKPACKING, HIKING, AND TOURING ADVENTURES.
- There is NO INTERNET CONNECTION in most of Alaska, especially in the backcountry of the National Parks. Be prepared to be out of COMMUNICATION FOR MUCH OF THE TRIP. BRING A SATELLITE PHONE AND/OR A PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACON(PLB)/SATELLITE MESSENGER (such as a Garmin InReach or a SPOT).
- NO “trip cancellation/interruption/travel insurance” or “emergency evacuation insurance” are provided. No health insurance is provided. YOU ARE STRONGLY ADVISED TO PURCHASE ALL INSURANCES, ESPECIALLY "EMERGENCY EVACUATION INSURANCE," THAT YOU DEEM NECESSARY AND APPROPRIATE BEFORE YOU GO. Call me to discuss!
- All reservations are final confirmation dependent and may change at any time. THERE ARE NO GUARANTEES THAT ANY RESERVATION IS FULLY SECURE.
- Bring your National Park Pass to enter the parks.
- BRING YOUR PASSPORT and/or all other necessary forms of identification.
- PARTICIPATION IN THIS MEETUP AFFIRMS THAT YOU HAVE READ, UNDERSTOOD, AND AGREED TO THE FULL LEGAL DISCLAIMER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY on Meetup’s Backpackers of the American West's website: (see: Meetup's Backpackers of the American West Rules and Regulations).
- MICHELLE MOZELL RESERVES THE SOLE/UNILATERAL RIGHT TO CANCEL, ALTER, OR MODIFY THE TRIP ITINERARY AS SHE DEEMS NECESSARY AT ANY TIME FOR ANY REASON WHATSOEVER.
- Photo citation: "NPS Photo."
- MACHU PICCHU via The Salkantay Trek. Experience Epic Peru!SFO airport, San Francisco, CA
Discover the awe-inspiring journey to Machu Picchu with our three distinct options, each offering its own charm and adventure. As a Meetup, we travel as a group and still are able to tailor your Machu Picchu adventure according to your preferences and interests.
This event is for the hikers and trekkers, interested in The Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu. This is a 4-Day hike on the ancient and remote footpath located in the same region as the Inca Trail where massive snow-capped mountains collide with lush tropical rainforests. It is less travelled than the Inca Trail, with breathtaking vistas! Considered by many the better alternate to get to Machu Picchu. It is also not that heavily regulated with government taxes and fees. Hence, the good price!
The Inca Trail is the "tourist" route. We are doing the 1-day hike, which is the second half of the classic Inca Trek and a full day at Machu Picchu. It is shorter and less difficult than the Salkantay. The views are stunning - mostly rainforest canopy and ancient historic sights. Those who are interested in this way to reach Machu Picchu, CLICK HERE to find the event.
The Train is just as it sounds. No long hike. Travel by rail and with less effort. This is intended for people with less mobility or those who wish to glamp it a bit. They will be traveling with the Inca Trail group, but instead of hiking for one full day, can opt for the convenience of the train ride. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO
Peru is an amazing place with many unbelievable surprises. We are sampling a little bit of everything - from the tall peaks of the Andes, to the majestic Inca ruins, to the Peruvian Jungle and not to forget...the famous Peruvian food and the pisco sour!!! This is a trip of a lifetime indeed!
Come enjoy this beautiful country the way you want. Visit Lima, the capital and sample some of the most famous fusion cuisine. Visit Cusco, the religious and administrative capital of the Inca Empire. Learn about the history of the Inca people and their amazing accomplishments. Then enjoy a stunning 4-day hike on the Salkantay Trail, culminating with a full day spent at Machu Picchu!
Machu Picchu via Salkantay Trail
Price per person for the land portion $2495, Double occupancy (Share)
Single Supplement (Hotels only, share during trek) $370
Secure Deposit Link for Salkantay Trail $251
***Airfare not included***RSVP to receive detailed Day-by-Day itinerary. If you wish to attend, deposit is the only way to secure your spot. Upon paying the deposit, please fill out this Participant's Form.
The deposit is refundable up to 90 day before departure.INCLUDED:
- Hotels in Lima, Cusco, Aguas Calientes.
- Emergency Insurance during Salkantay Trek portions
- Guided Sightseeing Tours in Lima and Cusco
- Breakfast Daily
- Welcome Dinner in Cusco
- Farewell dinner in Aguas Calientes after the trek
- All Meals during the Trek
- Hotel/Airport Transfers
- Porters and Professional Guides during the trek
Not Included
- International and domestic airfare
- Any other meals not stated
- Gratuities and personal expenses.
- Travel Insurance when not on the Trek portion (we can give you a quote for that)
This event is posted to several groups. The number of RSVP does not reflect the actual number of participants. CLICK HERE for the main/central post.
If you need information on this or any of our other international events**FILL OUT OUR GOOGLE FORM **
Got Questions?
Specifics about Salkantay Trek . . . Message to Marc
(Marc-screen name Oddie) https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=273063881
All things flights and sign ups message to Anna
https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=131297062OR . . . .
We do a monthly Travel Q&A Zoom. CLICK HERE to RSVP for our monthly A & A Zoom
Come to the zoom, ask questions, meet others attending, be social.CLICK HERE to join in and see all our other events
SOT 2000318-10
