The Northernmost of the United States Alaska is still in many ways the Last Frontier. It’s a truly pristine yet rugged territory that offers a unique travel experience like no other with its vast landscapes, incredible wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
From the towering peaks of Denali to the sparkling waters of the Kenai Fjords, Alaska is an absolute haven for those who love nature and adventure.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the very best things to do in Alaska and hopefully help you to plan an unforgettable trip to this stunning destination.
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Things To Do in Alaska’s National Parks
1. Denali National Park
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Denali National Park is home to North America’s highest peak, the aptly named Denali, standing at an impressive and dizzying 20,310 feet. Beyond the peak, the park offers a plethora of activities for nature lovers with wildlife viewing being a highlight here (opportunities to see grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and wolves in their natural habitats!)
Hiking is another popular activity in Denali with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging backcountry routes. For an unforgettable experience, take a bus tour through the park, offering breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding wilderness. For me, it was one of my most memorable experiences while backpacking in the USA.
2. Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park is a pristine paradise for anybody interested in great glaciers and marine wildlife. The park’s utterly dramatic landscape is dominated by the ‘Harding Icefield’ and numerous tidewater glaciers.
Boat tours are a great way to explore the fjords, where you can see seals, sea otters, puffins, and even whales. For the more adventurous among you, kayaking offers an up-close experience with the glaciers and the wildlife calling it. For those who want to experience the best of this state’s wildernest, this has to be one of the best National Parks in Alaska.
3. Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park is renowned for its stunning glaciers and pristine waters. This UNESCO World Heritage site is probably best explored by boat or kayak as they allow explorers to witness upclose the majestic tidewater glaciers calving icebergs into the sea.
Wildlife is abundant here too, with chances to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. Whether you choose a cruise or a guided kayak tour, the breathtaking beauty of Glacier Bay is something you’ll never forget.
Things To Do in Winter in Alaska
4. Northern Lights Viewing
The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights are one of nature’s most mesmerising displays. While most people associate them with Scandinavia, Alaska arguably offers better viewing.
The best time to view the lights is from late September to early April, with optimal locations including Fairbanks and the Arctic Circle. Many guest lodges and cabins in Alaska offer packages specifically for Northern Lights viewing.
5. Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is another quintessential Alaskan experience, offering a ride through snowy landscapes pulled by beautiful huskies. You can find dog sledding tours in several locations, including Anchorage, Fairbanks, and the Kenai Peninsula.
Whether you fancy a short tour or an extended mushing expedition, dog sledding provides a unique way to explore Alaska’s winter wonderland and some of the best national parks in The USA. And don’t worry, the dogs love it.
6. Snowmobiling
Alaska offers some pretty thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts with its ATC (All-Terrain Cycle) and snowmobile trips. Exploring the vast, rugged landscapes on an ATC allows for a unique ride through some dense forests, over rocky terrains, and across expansive tundra.
In winter, Alaska snowmobile tours become a highlight, enabling visitors to glide through pristine, snow-covered wilderness, navigate frozen rivers, and reach those otherwise inaccessible places. During the summer months, ATV tours take over in Alaska, allowing adventurers to explore rugged trails, lush forests, and breathtaking landscapes that are teeming with wildlife. Whether it’s the thrill of snowmobiling in winter or the excitement of ATV riding in the warmer months, Alaska offers unforgettable experiences year-round.
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7. Hiking and Trekking
Alaska offers some of the most scenic and diverse hiking trails in the world. The Chilkoot Trail, a historic route from the Klondike Gold Rush, takes you through some lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains.
For a less strenuous but equally rewarding hike, try the Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park. No matter where you go though, hiking in Alaska provides unparalleled access to its wild beauty as well as a good bit of exercise.
8. Fishing
Alaska is a fisherman’s paradise and is well known for its world-renowned fishing spots. Whether you’re after salmon, halibut, or trout, the state’s rivers, lakes, and coastal waters offer truly abundant fishing opportunities whether by rod or fly.
The Kenai River is particularly famous for its salmon runs, while the waters around Homer are best known for some fine halibut fishing. Guided fishing tours are widely available or you can go alone if you have the right permits. It’s got to be one of the most wonderful ways to experience the USA on a solo trip.
9. Camping
Camping out in Alaska allows you to fully immerse in its natural wonders. From established campgrounds to remote backcountry sites, there are Alaska camping options for every type of camper.
Denali National Park offers several campgrounds with stunning views, while the Tongass National Forest provides a more rugged, off-the-grid experience perfect for those who fancy a real challenge.
Just be sure to follow safety guidelines, especially regarding wildlife to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping trip. Weatherwise, Alaska is a great place in the US to camp in spring and summer.
Wildlife Experiences in Alaska
10. Whale Watching
Alaska is one of the best places in the whole world for whale watching. The peak season runs from May to September, with humpback whales, orcas, and grey whales frequently spotted.
Some popular whale-watching spots include Juneau, where you can take boat tours into the Inside Passage, and Seward, known for its rich marine life. Whale-watching tours are reasonably priced and provide an unforgettable opportunity to see these most magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
11. Bear Viewing
Seeing bears in the wild is a properly quintessential Alaskan experience. Katmai National Park, home to the famous Brooks Falls, offers prime bear-viewing opportunities during the salmon run.
Another excellent location is Lake Clark National Park, where guided tours take you to see brown bears fishing and playing in the rivers.
Bears can be very dangerous so always follow guidelines for safe viewing to ensure safety and do try to suppress the urge to either wrestle or hug the bears, even if they do look pretty darn cute!
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Hide Yo’ Money!Practical Tips for Travelling in Alaska
Best Time to Visit Alaska
The best time to visit Alaska depends on your interests. Summer (June to August) offers long daylight hours and is ideal for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Winter (December to March) is perfect for Northern Lights viewing, dog sledding, and skiing but it IS cold.
Spring and fall are quieter, offering fewer crowds and unique seasonal activities.
Bear in mind if you’re taking a road trip across Alaska in winter then you should be sure to set up your car acordingly, such as getting winter tires.
What To Pack For Alaska
Packing for a trip to Alaska requires consideration of the state’s unique and often unpredictable climate. Of course, your packing list will largely depend on what time of year you are visiting and what you intend to do there.
Still here are some Alaska packing essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit:
- Layered Clothing: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, add insulating layers such as fleece or down, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This approach will allow you to adjust your clothing according to the changing weather conditions.
- Waterproof Gear: With frequent rain (especially in coastal areas) packing a high-quality rain jacket and waterproof pants is crucial for Alaska. Waterproof boots are also a must to keep your feet dry during hikes and other outdoor activities.
- Warm Accessories: Even in the summer, temperatures can drop significantly and without warning. Bring a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf to stay comfortable during chilly mornings and evenings.
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses: The sun can be surprisingly intense in Alaska, especially with the long daylight hours in summer. Protect your skin and eyes with sunscreen and UV-protective sunglasses.
- Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes can be quite bothersome in certain areas, particularly in the summer months. Pack an effective insect repellent to keep them at bay.
- Binoculars and Camera: With Alaska’s incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes, having binoculars and a good camera will enhance your experience and help you capture memorable moments. It will also help you to keep your distance from those not-so-cuddly bears.
Staying Safe in Alaska
Safety should be a top priority when visiting Alaska, given its vast wilderness, extreme weather cycles and diverse wildlife. Here are a few key Alaska safety tips:
- Wildlife Awareness: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and use binoculars or a zoom lens for closer views. When out hiking, make noise to avoid surprising animals, and carry bear spray as a precaution. Follow local guidelines on food storage to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.
- Weather Preparedness: Alaska’s weather can change rapidly. Check the forecast regularly and be prepared for sudden, drastic changes. Layering your clothing and carrying essential gear, such as a rain jacket and extra warm layers, will help you stay comfortable and safe.
- Navigation Tools: In remote areas, GPS and cell service can be unreliable. Carry physical maps and a good old-fashioned compass, and ensure you know how to use them! Inform someone about your travel plans and expected return times.
- First Aid Kit: Pack a good, packable first aid kit, including bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal medications. Be prepared to handle minor injuries yourself and know where the nearest medical facilities are located.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Always carry enough water and high-energy snacks, especially if you plan to hike or engage in other strenuous activities. Staying hydrated and well-nourished is vital for maintaining energy levels and overall health. Consider packing a water bottle with a built-in filter.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Alaska
Traveling in the US can get expensive if you happen to need medical care and in the wilderness of Alaska, things can get even more hair-raising should you need to be evacuated. Be sure to get some good quality US travel insurance before your trip to make sure you’re covered for any and every eventuality.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts
As you can see, Alaska boasts an absolute wealth of things to do, sites to see and experiences to, erm, experience. Whether you fancy sipping beers in Anchorage, whale watching or snowmobiling through the tundra, Alaska offers up an adventure that you will never forget.
See you next time!
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking USA.
- There are heaps of totally epic places to visit in USA.
- Have a look at our guide to where to stay in Anchorage to choose the perfect area!
- You’ll need a hostel in USA – it’s a great way to start your trip!
- Sort your international sim card for USA out to avoid unnecessary hassle.
- Get yourself covered with travel insurance for USA before you leave.
- Our in-depth backpacking packing list has all the info you’ll need for your trip.
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