Denali Fat Trucks are all-terrain vehicles capable of traveling virtually anywhere… over land and lake... ice, snow, mud, rock… whatever terrain you throw at these trucks they tackle with ease, while giving their occupants a luxury ride.
Climate controlled and comfortable, regardless of what the weather is doing outside, you will always have a pleasant and enjoyable ride inside these Fat Trucks. Safe from the weather, the wildlife and the insects, you will be free to enjoy the Alaskan backcountry in comfort and style anytime of year.
Knowledgeable guides will take you to some of the best spots in the Healy area, just outside of Denali National Park, where you will have unsurpassed opportunities for enjoying Alaska’s incredible wildlife and scenic vistas and grand adventure! All guests will be outfitted with individual 2-way headsets and your guide will provide fun and insightful commentary all along the way!
Several tour options are available throughout the year, and shuttle service pick-up and drop off is included with your tour booking from many Healy and Denali entrance area hotels. (Note: The free shuttle service is only available from local hotels north of the National Park entrance from May through September.)
3 Hour SHERP Excursion Denali Fat Truck Tours:
Embark on a unique Alaskan wilderness adventure aboard amphibious vehicles capable of traversing virtually any terrain, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey in climate-controlled cabins shielded from the weather, wildlife, and insects. This exhilarating off-road expedition utilizes Search & Rescue Fat Trucks or Sherps to explore rugged landscapes, traveling seamlessly over both land and water. Throughout the tour, noise-canceling, two-way headsets provide engaging narration from knowledgeable guides, enhancing the experience of the amazing scenery and vistas at locations like Otto Lake and Dry Creek.
The 3-hour journey climbs steep mining trails to reach panoramic vista points near Denali National Park, offering insights into local history and geological formations within the adventurous SHERP Rescue Vehicle. The off-road adventure begins with convenient pickup at local hotels or arrival at the trailhead, followed by a vehicle familiarization and safety briefing with the guide. The tour progresses to various lookout points, including the Upper Lookout for photos and drone footage (weather permitting), and continues to the Dry Creek Riverbed to explore cliffs and learn about the area's geology.
A highlight of the tour is the ride to Otto Lake, offering an amphibious experience on the water or a visit to the ice-covered lake in winter (with ice cleats provided). The adventure concludes with a return to the trailhead, where guests can download drone videos (if applicable) and visit the gift shop before departing via shuttle or personal vehicle. Experience the real Alaska in the world's most capable and comfortable ATV, ensuring comfort and safety in any weather, guided by local experts with a lifetime of Alaskan experience for a private and exceptional exploration.
3 Hour Alaska Gold Panning Experience:
Experience a thrilling 3-hour Alaska gold panning adventure, beginning with a scenic 4x4 ride along historic mining roads. This unique tour offers convenient shuttle pickup and drop-off services at Denali hotels, ensuring a hassle-free experience. All necessary gold panning supplies and tools are provided, along with personal instruction and assistance to help you discover your own Alaskan treasure. Each participant will receive a small glass vial to proudly display their recovered gold.
The adventure includes a fascinating stop at Cripple Creek for a geology lesson focused on the Healy Creek watershed, the only permitted tour to explore these active and reclaimed mining areas. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you'll delve into the rich local history and the captivating tales of early gold prospectors who braved the wilderness. Imagine yourself stepping back in time, following in their footsteps as you learn about the geological formations and the very secrets of how gold was formed in this remarkable region.
The highlight of the tour is the hands-on gold panning experience at heated warm-water stations, utilizing pay dirt sourced from some of the Denali area's most productive gold mines, guaranteeing that every participant finds gold to take home. Be prepared for the excitement of seeing that first glimmer of gold in your pan – it might just spark a touch of the legendary gold fever! For those interested, there are options to have your gold set into a pendant, necklace, or earrings by on-site mini-miners for an extra cost.
3 Hour Alaska Gold Panning Experience:
Embark on a comprehensive full-day adventure, spanning 10-12 hours, from Fairbanks to Denali National Park and back, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey in the company of knowledgeable Alaskan guides. Convenient shuttle pickup and drop-off services are provided at Fairbanks hotels, local B&Bs, and the airport. This extraordinary experience offers breathtaking views of the Alaska Range (weather permitting) as you travel south towards Denali National Park. A highlight of the tour is an included captivating 3-hour SHERP Excursion, promising an unforgettable off-road exploration.
The itinerary features a visit to the Denali National Park Visitor's Center, where you can get your National Park Passport book stamped, capture photos at the iconic sign, and meet the Park Rangers (National Park entrance fee is included for those without a pass). Following this, a stop for lunch in Healy allows for a local dining experience. The return journey includes a visit to the historic Coghills Store/Trading Post in Nenana, offering a glimpse into Alaska's past.
Adding a unique dimension to this adventure is the opportunity for commercial drone footage, skillfully capturing wildlife sightings and the stunning landscapes, allowing you to share your extraordinary experience with friends and family (weather permitting). Plan for a return to Fairbanks hotels, the airport, or a preferred restaurant between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. For those with evening flights, please ensure departure times are scheduled no earlier than 9:00 PM.
