Alaska has been called America’s last great frontier. Double the size of Texas, Alaska is a mammoth of nature. The region’s original people, the Aleut and Eskimo are still vibrant cultures today. From the pristine rainforest of Southeast Alaska to the Arctic Circle, Alaska remains a land of mystery for those willing to explore the call of the wild.
A pilgrimage or missions trip to Alaska is one where you must be willing to dive into God’s stunning creation and listen to His voice through breathtaking mountains, magnificent shorelines and complete solitude. Based in Juneau, our Wonder Voyages to Alaska combine local service and native adventure. When available, our accommodations will be in a pristine monastic location. Imagine hiking mountains, visiting ancient glaciers, or watching humpback whales surface in front of you. The best aspect of this journey is the voyage into the heart of God through His creation. Come and experience a land where the sun does not set until 11:30 pm and rises by 3 am. Does the wild call to you?
Overview
- Enjoy the solitude of the Shrine of St. Therese.
- See the beauty of God revealed in breathtaking vistas every day.
- Hike to the rapidly receding Mendenhall Glacier.
- Do a sea kayaking tour and take a chance of seeing an orca up close.
- Take on an ecological project in the Tongass National Forest.
Itinerary
Every Wonder Voyage itinerary (mission trip and/or pilgrimage) is personalized to the desires, direction and personality of each group. This itinerary is only a description of the kind of journey we can create for your unique team.
- Day 1 – Foundations
Upon your arrival in Juneau, you will be thrust into the wilds of Alaska with a brief hike up the Mendenhall Glacier. Located about ten miles from downtown Juneau, this picturesque adventure set within a rainforest will be a fine introduction to the week. Our pilgrimage will be all about finding the wonder of God all around us. Weʼll see even more wonder as we travel to our accommodations: a monastic retreat full of quiet beauty. - Day 2 – The Shrine
Our home for the next few days affords us fantastic opportunities for solitude and reflection. Today weʼll be settling into our new home and hiking through the surrounding forest. Perhaps weʼll be able give back to our hosts through a work project. Or maybe we could contemplate and pray as we walk the labyrinth that overlooks the Gulf of Alaska. - Day 3 – Mountain Ways
After our restful day, weʼll head back into Juneau to hike up one of the best local trails the city has to offer. Our path will take us to the top of Mt. Roberts, a pristine alpine mountain thatʼs arms stretch into the downtown area. After we make it to the top, weʼll revel in our accomplishment and take the tram all the way back to our starting point. En route, weʼll get to survey fabulous vistas and pick up some souvenirs for our families back home. - Day 4 – Into History
Many times, pilgrimage can mean following in the footsteps of those adventurers who have walked the road before you. Our fourth day in Alaska will take us to a historic and sacred place that has been in use for over 100 years. Afterwards weʼll explore some more history in the city of Juneau. Our day will end with a cook-out at a magnificent park overlooking the Mendenhall Glacier. - Day 5: Open Waters
Alaska became the final frontier during the Klondike Gold Rush. Hopeful miners flocked to the Gastineau Channel to claim their part of the treasure. Some trails lead you past the gold mine ruins for a glimpse back in time to “the last grand adventure.” Then you set out on the water for a sea kayaking excursion. Wildlife such as seals and whales have been known to join us on this open water adventure. - Day 6 – The Island
After a morning of hiking around the island, weʼll return to Juneau. You will have some free time to shop, eat and take in the sights. After your free day, our team will get to partake in a traditional Alaskan dinner and hear tales from an Indian storyteller. Later in the evening, we will reflect over the week, listening to each otherʼs stories of pilgrimage and worship the God who brought us along the road. - Day 7 – Departure
At your convenience, you will pack up and say goodbye to a fantastic week of exploration, service and encounter. What will you take home with you? The voyage is now in fact just beginning, and we pray that you carry fresh perspective and energy with you as you travel.
Legacy Location
Legacy in Alaska
- *This is the base cost of the trip. Your cost may differ depending on housing, activities, etc.
