Mountaineering

Alaska Mountaineering School. This outfitter leads backpacking trips in wilderness areas near Talkeetna and elsewhere in the state, including the Brooks Range, and glacier treks that can include overnighting on the ice. It also conducts mountaineering courses that run from 6 to 12 days, expeditions to Denali (figure on at least three weeks; prices from $8,900) and other peaks in the Alaska Range, and climbs for all levels of expertise. A novice course, which should be enough to get you comfortable in the mountains, runs about $2,000. AMS also offers multisport treks, one of which includes packrafting, for $3,900. While you're in Talkeetna, check out the AMS mountain and gear shop on F Street. 13765 3rd St., Talkeetna, Alaska, 99676. 907/733–1016; www.climbalaska.org.