1. Haven’t been out to Exit Glacier.

2. Unless you’re going to Kenai to fish, I’d cut that out and spend some quality time in Seward. I’d highly recommend a day cruise on Kenai Fjords. You can hop off at Fox Island for some sea kayaking and then catch another ship back to Seward. Overcast days (vs. sunny) are best for wildlife viewing.

Glad you plan to rent a car as the train would be too slow in your small time window.

Since you like to hike and run, you might consider doing Denali on another visit to do it right, because you need special equipment and permits for backcountry hiking and time to get to Wonder Lake. I personally wouldn’t blow a day on a bus tour.

3. Conversely, you may want to consider just going up to Talkeenta (100 miles north of Anchorage) vs. 230 up to Denali. The view of the range is spectacular from Talkeetna, and you can also do anything from rafting to a flight over Denali. K2 Aviation does glacier landings, but my guess is that it’s too soft this time of year.

4. Check Talkeetna Lodge or the budget-friendly charming Roadhouse with long tables for everyone to share meals at. There are also lots of B & Bs you can search for online. Even if you don’t stay at the Talkeetna Lodge, stop and have a cup of coffee on their deck for a spectacular view.

5. In addition to Talkeetna, you might also want to check out the Iditarod headquarters in Wasilla on the way. Or I think there’s a dog team tour on Exit glacier.

6. Anchorage

Running/biking: Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (access from downtown) Flat Top (access from south side of Anchorage)

Restaurants probably not in tourist books:

Downtown Snow City Café – casual, great eggs benedict, make reservation – even for breakfast – no kidding. Meter parking $1/hr or free on weekends.

Anchorage Market (weekends only - you’d have to catch on Sunday). The back aisle has food venders. Located at 3rd and C. Free to enter.

By airport: Restaurant or bar at the Millennium Hotel has great view to watch planes from international and also float planes from Lake Hood. Note: This is the Iditarod Headquarters hotel in March. Salmon is stellar.

Midtown - Charlies Bakery at 2729 C St (in strip center with KFC at Northern Lights and C) - cheap Chinese. #24 shrimp dumplings are awesome for $5.50

I hope you enjoy Alaska!