Alaska National Parks Travel: Off the Beaten Path is rolling out a 2027 “Alaska National Park Grand Slam” small-group trip that hits all eight parks in one guided itinerary, using private air, scenic rail, and overland connections—built for travelers who don’t want to juggle multiple flights and bush-plane logistics (max eight travelers). Tongass Update: The USDA has shelved a planned Herbert Glacier public-use cabin in Tongass National Forest, instead approving a reroute of the Herbert Glacier Trail plus a new scenic overlook to keep access safer year-round. Anchorage Safety & Streets: Alaska DOT and the municipality’s Vision Zero team are holding a public hearing on possible speed-limit reductions along the Tudor-Muldoon corridor after crash data showed thousands of crashes and pedestrian/cyclist fatalities. Juneau Budget Watch: The Juneau Assembly approved next year’s budget, including cuts that reduce funding for the Juneau-Douglas City Museum and Travel Juneau, while keeping pools and some community services funded. Nome River Land Protection: A 1,700-acre stretch along the Nome River was transferred to Sitnasuak Native Corporation with a conservation easement plan to protect habitat. Cruise Shopping at Sea: Starboard launched Alaska-exclusive retail collections for Virgin Voyages’ Alaska season, leaning into destination-specific merchandise and local artisan brands. Hiking Ideas: New guides highlight Denali’s Mount Healy Overlook, Kenai Fjords’ Exit Glacier, Wrangell-St. Elias’ Root Glacier, and Anchorage’s Flattop Mountain as standout hikes.