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15 Incredible & Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Alaska is the largest state in the USA, a vast landmass in the northwest of the country that’s separated from the rest of the states by Canada, and icy waterways. 

Alaska is remote, it’s isolated and it’s utterly stunning. While the cities, such as Anchorage and Juneau, have a lot to offer visitors, the best places to visit in Alaska are found in the wilderness. 

You can hike through spectacular national parks in summer, fly over epic mountain peaks such as Denali and land on dramatic glaciers.

You can learn about the indigenous people of Alaska, or get seriously remote with a trip to the Aleutian Islands. 

There’s so much to do, and to inspire your adventure, here are the best places to visit in Alaska! 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Alaska (Regional Guide)

15 Best Places to Visit in Alaska

Table of Contents

Juneau is the understated state capital, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

This might be the state capital but it’s really just a small town, and having no road connections, it’s also one of the most isolated places in the USA. 

But Juneau has a lot to offer, including some excellent museums and cultural centers delving into both the indigenous and the European history of Alaska.

Like anywhere in the state though, the best sights are found in the outdoors. Visit the beautiful Mendenhall Glacier on the edge of the city, take boat tours through the Fjords in search of wildlife, whales, and dolphins, and ride the Aerial Tramway to the summit of Mount Roberts for the beat vistas in Juneau. 

Whale watching and visiting the Mendenhall Glacier are two of the most popular activities around Juneau.

Check them both off your list on this half-day combo tour that includes flexible departure times and round-trip transportation from Mt. Roberts Tramway.

2. Anchorage

It might not be the capital, but Anchorage is easily Alaska’s best-known city.  Anchorage is the largest city in the state and it’s much better connected than Juneau, the capital.

You can explore the city’s best museums, restaurants, cafes, and bars in Downtown, but save plenty of time to travel into the wilderness. 

From Anchorage, you’re a short flightseeing trip away from epic mountains and glaciers, while along the coast you can enjoy hiking and cycling trails, or take a boat along the Fjords. 

Anchorage is where the city meets the wilds, and there are few other places in the USA where you’ll find moose and bears casually strolling through the streets! 

Get to know Anchorage on this 3-hour guided tour that takes you around the city’s top sites , including the port, Earthquake Park, Lake Hood, and Bootleggers Cove.

Gain further insight into Alaska’s indigenous cultures with an upgrade to visit the renowned Alaska Native Heritage Center.

3. Fairbanks 

Fairbanks is one of the most remote places in the USA. The small city is found in the wild interior of the state, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

Fairbanks is a long way from anywhere, but it’s the largest city away from the coast, and the second-largest city in Alaska after Anchorage. 

This is the hub for the region and if you’re looking to explore the real wilds of Alaska then Fairbanks makes the perfect base.

In winter, you can spot the Northern Lights from the city, or marvel at ice sculptures across the city.

In summer you can hike and search for wildlife, and all year round you can visit the excellent Fairbanks Museum of the North.

Get to know Alaska’s past and present on this 5.5-hour tour in Fairbanks led by an informative guide .

Enjoy the Museum of the North’s story of Alaska’s natural and cultural heritage, and admire the art installations at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center.

4. Denali National Park 

One of the best places to visit in Alaska is the legendary Denali National Park. 

Named for Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America , this is the most famous national Park in Alaska. 

While you might not be climbing the mountain, which rises to almost 7000 meters in height, you can enjoy hiking in summer and snow sports in winter. 

You can reach Denali in 5 hours by car from Anchorage, but the best way to travel here is to take the train or to join a flightseeing tour that flies over the park and around the mountain. You might even be able to land on a glacier. 

Let someone else take care of planning and driving on this Denali backcountry excursion .

A driver and guide take you sightseeing along the full 92.5 miles (150 kilometers) of the Denali National Park Road to the Backcountry Lodge.

After lunch there, choose between gold panning, a naturalist-guided hike, or a botany walk. For convenience, you’re picked up directly from major hotels near Denali.

5. Chugach State Park

Even closer to Anchorage, you can find one of the best places to visit in Alaska. Chugach State Park quite literally begins where the boundaries of the city end. 

This beautiful state park is home to a huge variety of wildlife, and you’ll quickly spot the likes of bears and moose, classic Alaskan animals, in their natural habitat. 

Get out of the city and deeper into the Alaskan wilderness than is typical, on this great sightseeing tour .

This small-group tour takes you to Chugach National Forest, Beluga Point, Portage Glacier, and more to spot brown bears, wolves, bison, and belugas.

6. Lake Clark National Park 

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Alaska is Lake Clark National Park . 

Located just 100 miles away from Anchorage it’s also incredibly accessible. Lake Clark is a huge, jaw-dropping lake that glistens in glorious shades of blue and turquoise in the sunshine. 

As well as lakes and rivers though, the national park is well known for its steaming volcanic peaks, and wildlife.

The waterways are home to huge populations of salmon, and the salmon attract plenty of bears in the spring and summer. 

7. Gates of the Arctic National Park  

Head to the far north of the state to explore one of the most remote, yet one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

This is the place to travel to if you want to see the Arctic Circle because this national park is found entirely within the Arctic Circle.

In fact, this is the most northerly national park in the United States, and even getting here will be a challenge in itself. 

Make the long journey to the Gates of the Arctic National Park, and you’ll be able to explore this icy realm and delve deep into the local communities that have adapted to thrive in this cold part of the world. 

Discover the Alaskan wilderness on this 3 or 4-day guided trip from Fairbanks that includes overnight accommodation . Soak up spectacular scenery at the Arctic National Park, perhaps spotting wildlife like grizzlies and sheep.

Enjoy plenty of hikes, including one on the high plateau of Finger Mountain, check out an Alaskan oil field, and learn about the region’s gold-mining history and more.

8. Coldfoot and Wiseman 

Coldfoot and Wiseman are two unique villages found in the Arctic. These are two famous pit stops on the road north, home to just a few residents and a couple of bed and breakfasts and camping areas. 

They primarily supply and rest stops, but they are much more than this too.

Spend the night on your way north in a truly authentic Arctic community that’s often cut off from the world for many of the long winter months. 

9. Chena Hot Springs 

The Chena Hot Springs is one of the best places to visit in Alaska, especially if you’re looking to escape the cold. 

Take a trip to the Chena Hot Springs, just a quick 50-mile detour from Fairbanks, and you’ll be able to soak up the natural mineral water, warm up in the arctic climate and enjoy some beautiful surroundings. 

You can stay at the Chena Hot Springs Resort if you’re looking for a slice of luxury in the wilderness. 

Discover Alaska’s natural hot springs and amazing ice sculptures on a full-day tour to Chena Hot Springs .

Enjoy a scenic 60-mile (95-km) drive from your hotel to Chena Hot Springs, where you can soak in the large outdoor pool of this legendary resort.

Tour how Chena Hot Springs makes use of geothermal energy to power the resort, and check out the sculptures in the Aurora Ice Museum.

10. Glacier Bay National Park 

Close to the city of Juneau, you can find one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

Glacier Bay National Park , as the name would suggest, is home to some of Alaska’s most impressive glacial landscapes.

Many of the glaciers drop straight into the bay itself, and the best way to see them is to take a boat ride or to kayak in the shadow of these icy behemoths. 

11. Kenai Fjords

Kenai Fjords are one of the best places to visit in Alaska. This beautiful, protected national park is located off the Kenai Peninsula where you can find the largest icefield in the USA. 

The best way to explore the waterways and glaciers, if of course by taking a boat cruise. 

Watch the Alaskan wilderness awaken on this 6-hour morning cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park from Seward . Cruise past alpine and tidewater glaciers among the fjords and take in a bounty of wildlife.

Enjoy a delicious lunch on board, and visit the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge for great views of seabird rookeries.

12. Katmai National Park

Alaska is home to a huge number of national parks, but one not to miss will always be the Katmai National Park. 

The huge national park is centered around an enormous volcano, and this is the best place in the country to see large numbers of brown bears in the wild. 

13. Skagway 

If you’re looking for a destination that’s not just about the landscapes and wildlife then take a trip to the town of Skagway. 

Located along the Inside Passage, Skagway was an important hub during the Klondike Gold Rush era and much of the town has been preserved into a historic relic from these boom days. 

You can visit Klondike inspired museums and heritage buildings and even ride the old gold rush era steam engines along the railroad. 

This is not a run-of-the-mill sled excursion, it packs in several fun activities and concludes with a treat that’s hard not to love.

Follow your guide on a short tour of downtown Skagway , hop on a Unimog for a ride up a mountain, and then take a sled ride with Alaskan huskies through Tongass National Park.

Afterward, get a chance to spend time with husky puppies.

14. Aleutian Islands

The Aleutian Islands are one of the best places to visit in Alaska, but getting there isn’t exactly easy. 

These distant islands spread from the mainland, west into the Bering Sea, and they are comprised of a large number of volcanic Islands and atolls, only a few of which are inhabited.

The islands have a unique history and were, in fact, the scene of a fierce battle between invading Japanese forces and defending Allied troops.

A few of the islands were occupied, making this the only part of the USA to be occupied during World War II by the Japanese. 

Today you can not only explore unknown battlefields, but you can marvel at the isolation and Remote beauty of the volcanoes and peaks on these dramatic Alaskan islands. 

15. Inside Passage 

The Inside Passage is one of the most spectacular travel routes in North America and one of the best places to visit in Alaska. 

The Inside Passage is the route that’s often taken by cruise ships , and a route that was taken by pioneering colonists and explorers on their way north in the 19th century. 

The sheltered and relatively calm Inside Passage takes ships along the Canadian coastline and into Alaska, reaching Juneau.

Along the way the views and the scenery are mesmerizing, and this really is the best way to arrive in the state! 

More on Alaska:

• Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown
• 13 UNREAL Things to Do in Juneau, Alaska
• 15 Cannot Miss Things to do in Anchorage
• 21 Alluring Things to do in Alaska
• 13 Epic Things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska (Besides Northern Lights)
• 5 Best Alaska Road Trip Routes (Ultimate Planning Guide!)
• Alaska National Parks: The Fabulous 8
• Is Spring the Best Time to Cruise Alaska?

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I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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Best places to visit in alaska.

Rugged beauty, fascinating wildlife and charming seaside towns are just a few of the things you can expect on a visit to Alaska. With many destinations only accessible by air or sea, this remote paradise is a treat for those willing to make the journey. You will be rewarded with magnificent glaciers, rich Native American culture and breathtaking views of the aurora borealis (best seen between August and April). To help you choose the right locale for your getaway to the Last Frontier, U.S. News considered factors like accessibility, natural beauty and can't-miss attractions to determine the best places to visit in Alaska. Weigh in below to have a say in next year's ranking.

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Kenai fjords national park, denali national park and preserve, wrangell-st. elias national park and preserve, katmai national park and preserve, lake clark national park and preserve.

A visit to Fairbanks is sure to take your breath away. Travel here in the summer to experience the legendary midnight sun, a phenomenon where the sun shines nearly all day, or visit in winter for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the northern lights. Must-see attractions here include the University of Alaska Museum of the North, the Georgeson Botanical Garden and the nearby Chena River State Recreation Area. While you're in town, don't forget to take advantage of Fairbanks' proximity to the Arctic Circle by scheduling a flightseeing tour .

Although getting here is a bit of a challenge (there is no road access in or out of the park), the sheer beauty of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve makes the journey more than worth it. Boasting more than 3 million acres of temperate rainforest, narrow fjords and impressive tidewater glaciers, this national park northwest of Juneau is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. While you'll likely traverse Glacier Bay on a cruise , consider getting even closer to nature on a sea kayaking tour before spending the evening under the stars in Bartlett Cove, Glacier Bay's free campground.

Home to more totem poles than anywhere else on the planet, this idyllic town on the southern tip of Alaska's Inside Passage is an excellent gateway into Alaskan indigenous culture. Plus, as the self-proclaimed "salmon capital of the world," Ketchikan offers ample opportunities for anglers to test their luck aboard a fishing charter. Stroll down historic Creek Street, Ketchikan's former red-light district that is now filled with restaurants and gift shops, then check out the Misty Fjords National Monument. Covered in dense rainforest, this dramatic slice of Alaskan wilderness is best experienced on the water via boat tour or from the sky on a floatplane.

Fed by nearly 40 glaciers flowing from the Harding Icefield, the Kenai Fjords National Park tops the list of many Alaskan itineraries . Opt for the full-day guided boat tour from Seward (anything less wouldn't do justice to the park's overwhelming beauty), and keep your eyes peeled for Steller sea lions, harbor seals and humpback whales. If you're feeling adventurous, head to the only part of the park that can be reached by car, Exit Glacier, and hike the mile-long Glacier View Loop Trail for unparalleled views of this natural wonder up close.

Located in the heart of the Alaska Range, this national park's claim to fame comes from its colossal Denali, North America's highest peak. While the challenge of climbing Denali may lure daring alpinists, most visitors find other ways to explore the park. One of the most convenient is by taking a narrated bus tour, where you'll learn about the history of the park from a trained naturalist and have the opportunity to spot "the big five" of Denali's wildlife – moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves.

Situated about 30 miles off the Alaskan coast, Kodiak Island (also known as the Emerald Isle) is the second-largest island in the country. Although Kodiak Island is best known for its premier bear viewing opportunities (the Kodiak bear is found exclusively on Kodiak Island and its surrounding isles), it also attracts visitors hoping to see gray whales, Steller sea lions and roaming bison. When you're not enjoying Kodiak's ample wildlife viewing opportunities, take a scenic drive along the Chiniak Highway for beautiful views of black sand beaches, salmon streams and untouched Alaskan wilderness.

Skagway is a town with a colorful past and it has embraced its identity as a gold rush icon. Here, visitors will find locals in period costumes, a historic district and approximately 100 original gold rush-era structures. Learn about the Klondike Gold Rush at the Skagway Museum & Archives, then ride the rails on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. If you find yourself in Skagway over the summer, consider participating in the Duff's Trail Challenge, a task which requires you to hike all 12 of the town's trails, totaling 85 miles, between early May and early October.

As the largest national park and preserve in the United States, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve encompasses more than 13 million acres of volcanoes, forests, watersheds, rivers and glaciers. Start off your visit with a trip to the Copper Center Visitor Center, then delve into the workings of a historic copper mine at the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark. When you're ready for some fresh air, hike the Root Glacier Trail or roll down the windows for a scenic drive along McCarthy Road and Nabesna Road.

Seward is a must-visit on any Alaskan itinerary. Start your visit with a trip to the Alaska SeaLife Center, Alaska's only permanent rescue and rehabilitation facility for marine mammals, then take a stroll along Seward Waterfront Park. Meanwhile, visitors walking around downtown will be treated to more than 30 colorful murals that adorn various buildings. If you visit in July, be sure to check out the famed Mount Marathon Race, an annual event where runners from around the world attempt a grueling climb up Seward's iconic mountain, which is then followed by a daring downhill descent.

Quirky and carefree, this small town outside of Denali National Park and Preserve is a favorite among travelers who appreciate quaint coffee shops and charming local history. Take a walk down Main Street to enjoy Talkeetna's collection of art galleries, restaurants and artisan shops (Aurora Dora's Gallery features jaw-dropping images of the northern lights), then head to the Talkeetna Historical Society and Museum to learn more about this unique town. Flight tours over Denali are popular here, as are typical Alaskan activities like fishing, hiking and getting out on the water on a cruise or exhilarating jet boat tour.

After the 1912 eruption of the Novarupta volcano, President Woodrow Wilson established this national park to preserve the site of the largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century. Named the "Valley of 10,000 Smokes," this site extends for more than 40 square miles and is covered in thick blankets of ash and pumice. Popular activities in the park include rafting, hiking, camping and kayaking, although many visit to try to catch a glimpse of the thriving brown bear population. Brooks Camp, a visitor center and campground, offers multiple viewing platforms where you can see Katmai's wildlife up close.

Set at the entrance to a fjord in Prince William Sound, this coastal town is best known for its ample wintertime activities. With an annual snowfall of more than 300 inches, Valdez makes a wonderful destination for cross-country skiing, snowboarding and fat bike riding. When you're not exploring Valdez's nearby glaciers, which include the accessible Worthington Glacier, consider learning about the town's history at the Valdez Museum & Historical Archive. Visit in February to experience the Valdez Ice Climbing Festival, or arrive in August when the Gold Rush Days festival lights up the town with dancing, a wine walk and a parade.

Not to be confused with the geographic North Pole, the northernmost point of the world, the small Alaskan town of North Pole is one of the state's most unique travel destinations. Located roughly 15 miles southeast of Fairbanks, North Pole keeps the Christmas spirit alive year-round. Streets are festively named, with titles like Kris Kringle Drive and Mistletoe Lane, and the popular Santa Claus House offers Christmas-themed souvenirs, a sweet shop, a reindeer pen and a Letters from Santa program. While you're here, don't miss out on the nearby Chena Lake Recreation Area, which boasts sandy beaches, campgrounds, fishing opportunities, nature trails and more.

Wild and enchanting, Alaska's capital deserves a spot on everyone's bucket list. Whether you're spotting humpback whales in Mendenhall Lake, kayaking alongside the steep rock walls of Tracy Arm Fjord or taking a helicopter tour over Juneau's vast icefield, there's no shortage of activities to occupy your time in Juneau. Learn about Alaska's native history at the Alaska State Museum, then board the Goldbelt Tram for breathtaking views of the Gastineau Channel. Before saying goodbye to this picturesque mountain town, don't forget to lace up your boots for a vigorous hike along Mendenhall Glacier's East Glacier Loop.

Located about 100 miles southwest of Anchorage, Lake Clark National Park and Preserve can only be reached by plane or boat. And while it doesn't receive the same level of notoriety as Denali or Kenai Fjords, this remote paradise is ideal for those seeking a one-on-one experience with nature. Watch coastal brown bears search for food in Chinitna Bay, fish for salmon in Crescent Lake or spend the day rafting down Chilikadrotna River. For an unforgettable vacation, book your stay in one of the park's historic log cabins.

Sitting in the shadow of Mount Edgecumbe and steeped in both Russian heritage and native Tlingit culture, Sitka is a premier destination for people who enjoy fishing, nature and history. When you're not snapping photos of historic St. Michael's Cathedral or admiring totem poles at Sitka National Historical Park, see a snapshot of Sitka's wildlife by touring the Alaska Raptor Center or observing orphaned black and brown bears at Fortress of the Bear. If you're itching to explore the great outdoors, Sitka's location within the Tongass National Forest makes it an ideal destination for hiking and camping.

This small town on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula is known for its vibrant arts community, top-notch halibut fishing and world-renowned Homer Spit. Extending nearly 5 miles into Kachemak Bay, the Homer Spit boasts terrific birdwatching, plenty of restaurants and shops, miles of walkable coastline and postcard-worthy, snow-capped mountain vistas. While you'll likely spend the majority of your time here, you won't want to miss tide pooling at Bishop's Beach or exploring across the bay. Reachable by water taxi, Kachemak Bay State Park and remote boardwalk communities Seldovia and Halibut Cove make excellent daytrips.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Chugach State Park

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve

Kobuk Valley National Park

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All you need to know before visiting beautiful, quirky Anchorage

Feb 26, 2022 • 8 min read

Anchorage has felt more and more like a big city in recent years – but hasn’t lost its one-of-a-kind charm © Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

In recent years, a large influx of new arrivals has transformed Anchorage from a small town into a big city.

In fact, Anchorage – the largest city in Alaska – now accounts for 40 percent of the state’s total population. However, that doesn't mean that the city has lost its special charm. For locals, trips to the supermarket can take hours because it’s pretty much required that you stop and greet anyone you recognize – which will be almost everyone. 

Anchorage is a friendly and relatively safe place to visit, though its growing size means crime rates have also increased. While you’re unlikely to find yourself in trouble, you should treat Anchorage as a large city and stay vigilant. But don’t let that put you off: the eccentric quirks, friendly people and laid-back style here are worth enjoying to the fullest. 

Anchorage is a year-round vacation destination

There is never a bad time to visit Anchorage. (Well, you might try to avoid March, when all the snow melts into muddy puddles and the city is covered in a thick layer of dust.) In every season, visitors can find fun things to do . 

Anchorage enjoys almost 23 hours of uninterrupted sunlight in the summer, which means midnight hikes, fishing and other outdoor activities. The fall is marked by the Alaska State Fair and is the last big hurrah before the snow arrives. In the winter months, you can expect to see the northern lights and the 10-day Fur Rendezvous celebration. April and May are considered the shoulder season, so you can score some fantastic deals on excursions and hotel stays.

Really, Anchorage is a choose-your-own-adventure destination that is jam-packed with ways to explore any time of year.

Anchorage is close to some of Alaska’s best outdoor experiences

Almost uniquely among American cities, Anchorage is equal parts urban and untamed. Where else in the world can you fish for gigantic king salmon while surrounded by a bustling metropolis? How about seeing moose and bears stop traffic? In Anchorage, that’s just another ordinary day. 

Three blocks away from the heart of downtown is the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Despite heavy bike and foot traffic, it is not uncommon to see moose, bears, cranes and eagles along the pavement. And that’s before you consider easy day trips from Anchorage . Head 10 miles south of Downtown, and you’ll find yourself in the region’s playground, the Chugach Mountains. Or take a scenic 30-mile drive north of town to traverse the breathtaking Hatcher Pass. 

Try learning how to speak like an Alaskan

Between 1970 and 1980, Anchorage enjoyed a major economic boom that attracted oil and railroad workers from all over the world. In response, locals began devising new words that would easily identify what came to be known as “outsiders.” This language is still used today, and – you guessed it – locals still use insider vocabulary to suss out visitors. Learning some of the following terms can help if you’re hoping to blend in:

• Cheechako: a newcomer to Alaska
• Sourdough: a long-time Alaskan
• Outside/outsider: any place that is not Alaska and anyone who was not born in Alaska
• Lower 48: the contiguous United States
• Termination dust: the first snowfall that sticks to the top of the mountains each year
• Quyana: “thank you” in the Indigenous Yup’ik language
• Snowmachine: nothing will out you faster, or upset a local more, quite like saying “snowmobile”

Leave your designer clothing at home when visiting Anchorage

A cursory search through Tinder will confirm that Anchorage is not exactly a fashion capital. You will rarely see a woman wearing a pair of heels and a designer dress, even on New Year’s Eve, opting instead for Salmon Sisters Xtratufs and a pair of Levis. Men often follow suit and generally sport loose-fitting jeans or Carhartts, sneakers and some iteration of flannel. Even in the business realm, suits and even sport coats are mostly things of the past. So, unless your plans include fine dining at the Crow’s Nest or Seven Glaciers , you can leave your dress clothes at home.

The dos and don’ts of interacting with Anchorage’s wildlife

New York City has its rats; Alaska has mosquitos that will haunt your nightmares. Named the unofficial Alaska state bird, mosquitos here typically hunt in packs for any exposed flesh. The swarms are worst in the spring and early summer, and multiple bites can leave you with large, itchy rashes. To protect yourself, it’s always a good idea to carry heavy-duty DEET and several layers of clothing with you. Alaskans also condone the smooshing of as many mosquitos as you can get your hands (or fly swatter) on. 

Anchorage is home to larger wildlife, too. It is not uncommon to see a moose stop highway traffic or a bear rifling through a dumpster as eagles soar overhead. However, that does not mean that you should approach these animals, no matter how friendly they may seem. Especially when they have calves with them, moose are extremely dangerous and temperamental, and will charge you if they feel you are getting too close. A telling sign is twitching ears, which indicate that the moose is uncomfortable. The best thing to do in that situation is to back away slowly.

Similarly, bears are not to be trifled with – keep in mind that they can reach top speeds of 35mph and weigh up to 1500lbs. So to snag those envy-worthy wildlife photos, you'd be better off (and a whole lot safer) visiting either the Alaska Zoo or the Wildlife Conservation Center .

Staying safe in Anchorage and what to do in an emergency

Like any city, there are some places in Anchorage that visitors should probably steer clear of. Generally speaking, the Gambell Street intersection between E 12th Ave and E 16th Ave should be avoided if you are on foot. Additionally, 1st Ave and 3rd Ave should be skipped.

Should you find yourself in an unsavory situation, Anchorage’s Police Department is very responsive, as are the bouncers at most bars. You can report sketchy behavior and other non-emergencies by calling 311, which triggers a public safety team to investigate. If you are out enjoying one of the city’s many bars and feel unsafe for any reason, tell a bartender or a bouncer, and they will get help. As always, if you find yourself in an emergency, always call 911.

Earthquakes can happen; here’s what to do

On November 30, 2018, at 8:29am local time, Anchoragites were unpleasantly reminded of their proximity to the Pacific Plate as the city shook with a 7.0 earthquake. Though roads collapsed and buildings sustained significant damage, the city was back up and running within 48 hours. The reason? Earthquakes happen a lot in Alaska. After the 9.2-magnitude earthquake in 1964, many of Anchorage’s buildings were rebuilt on rollers to minimize structural damage from future temblors. While this ultimately increases safety, finding yourself in one of these buildings can make even mild earthquakes feel unnerving. When this happens, the best thing to do is stay calm and remain in place, as most small quakes come and go quickly without causing damage. 

In the unlucky event that there is a large earthquake while you’re visiting, remember the advice from the highest authorities: “ Drop. Cover. Hold on .” The city will communicate emergency plans over the radio on 750 AM KFQD and on KTUU-TV Channel 2. Here’s to do if you’re in Alaska during an earthquake:

• Drop to your knees and find the nearest sturdy table to crawl under.
• Cover your neck and head with one arm.
• Hold on to the table leg to make sure you stay covered and remain under the table until the shaking stops.

Navigating Anchorage’s hospitals

Accidents happen, especially in a place where outdoor activities are a way of life. In the unlucky instance that you need medical care, Anchorage has two public hospitals, Providence Medical Center and Alaska Regional Hospital . While you will receive excellent care at either hospital, there are some significant differences between the two.

Alaska Regional Hospital’s emergency department generally has very short wait times. (You can even check out your predicted wait time on the homepage of the institution’s website.) On the downside, there is a reason for their short wait times: most locals prefer Providence. As Alaska Regional is a for-profit hospital, they tend to charge more for basic services than Providence, and their debt forgiveness is minimal. If you anticipate needing a payment plan to pay your hospital bill, you might want to consider going to Providence. As a nonprofit, Providence offers debt forgiveness for qualifying patients.  

There’s a cannabis dispensary on every block

Since recreational cannabis became legal in Alaska in 2017, dispensaries have begun popping up on every corner. Currently, there are over 40 dispensaries in Anchorage, with more on the way. Although cannabis consumption is widely accepted in the city, there are some important laws to make sure you know before partaking. Here’s is what to know about cannabis dispensaries in Anchorage.

• You must be 21 or older and have a valid form of ID to enter a dispensary.
• The possession limit is 1 ounce (28 grams) per person.
• Cannabis may not be consumed in public or on any public land.
• You can have cannabis and cannabis paraphernalia in your vehicle, but you may not drive under the influence.
• Law enforcement may base DUI arrests on observed impairment.
• If arrested for a DUI, you will face prison time, a fine and points off of your license.
• It is illegal to transport cannabis purchased in Alaska across state lines.

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ALASKA , NORTH AMERICA , UNITED STATES · April 25, 2018 Last Updated on March 15, 2024

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO VISITING ALASKA

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Alaska, the 49th state, the Last Frontier. Wild, rugged, stark, mysterious and jaw-droppingly gorgeous. With no shortage of wild mountain landscapes, beautiful glaciers, and abundant wildlife Alaska will pull you in with its beauty and refuse to let you go from its icy grip.

In this complete guide we share absolutely everything that you need to know for your trip to Alaska.

QUICK TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT TO ALASKA

First let’s start with a few quick tips for your trip to Alaska, I will dive into each of these in more detail in the following sections.

• The best time of year to visit for most is in the summer months of June-August, although this is the most popular time. The shoulder season of May and September are great months to visit as well. 
• Rent a car! Distances in Alaska are vast; having your own wheels will make your trip much easier.
• If you want to see the Aurora (I know many of you do!) you need to visit between September and April, however these are the colder months.
• Pack layers! Alaska’s weather is as wild and unpredictable as its wildlife. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT ALASKA

Summer: june-august.

The most popular months to visit Alaska as it’s summertime. The weather tends to be warmer and most of the backcountry is easier to access in these months, but it’s also crowded and more expensive. 

FALL: SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER

Temperatures steadily decrease as fall descends into winter. It’s not uncommon for Alaska to be blanketed in snow by mid-October, and not unheard of to have an occasional snow shower in September. With that said, September is typically a delightful month for a visit. Most of the tourists have headed home, it’s possible to see the Aurora so long as a solar flare heads our way and we have clear nights, the fall colors are making their way down the valleys, and hiking is prime.

WINTER: NOVEMBER-MARCH

If you love winter sports, this is your time to head to the Last Frontier! Most the state is covered with snow. This is a great time for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling (we call it snowmachining), and ice skating. With the long dark nights this is the best season to catch the Aurora if conditions are right. 

SPRING: APRIL-MAY

Days are getting longer and the snow’s melting! If you enjoy spring skiing you can usually catch some in the earlier part of April. May can be a great month to visit Alaska- temperatures are getting near summer temperatures, the tourists haven’t quite showed up in full force, and plants are green and coming to life!

WHAT TO DO IN ALASKA

Alaska is jam-packed with adventure at every twist and turn! There are so many activities to choose from, you will want to make sure to plan your itinerary to include your top picks. Here are just a few activities to enjoy :

• SKIING & SNOWBOARDING:  Winter sport lovers can rejoice! Alaska has no shortage of backcountry options and even a few ski resorts to hit up as well.
• CRUISING:  All you have to decide is between which kind- wildlife or glaciers? There are many day cruises daily in summer that will take you to see glaciers calve right before your eyes, or to watch whales as they make their way up to the cold Alaska waters. For those that enjoy cruising you can take an Inside Passage cruise that makes stops along Alaska’s Southeastern Panhandle between Anchorage and Seattle. 
• GLACIER TREKKING: Alaska has several easy to access and even some roadside glaciers. Ever dream of getting out on one, there are lots of tour options to choose from, including this  Mountain Voyager with Optional Glacier Landing .
• FISHING:  Alaska is world renowned for its top notch fishing. Whether you head out to a luxury fishing lodge, join the anglers on the Kenai casting for salmon, or take a halibut charter out on the open ocean, there’s a perfect adventure here for just about any fisherwoman (or fisherman!).
• WILDLIFE VIEWING:  Alaska’s wildlife is everywhere. Want to see bears, moose, bald eagle, whales, caribou and more? Some of the best places to view wildlife include Denali National Park, Brook’s Falls, and Kenai Fjords National Park. Not quite that adventurous? You can also visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: you can view wild Alaskan animals that have been rescued and brought here, and it’s conveniently located just south of Anchorage. There are lots of tours that you can take from Anchorage, including this Portage Glacier and Wildlife Full-Day Tour.
• KAYAKING & WHITEWATER RAFTING: From lazy trips into quiet coves to rollercoaster like rapids, Alaska has just about every level of water sports enthusiast covered. Book a Whitewater Rafting Experience on the Nenana River here . 
• ROAD TRIPPING:  Even though the road system in Alaska is extremely limited the road trip options are bountiful. Get in the car and just drive- sometimes this will lead you to some of the state’s most beautiful places.
• HIKING & MOUNTAINEERING:  Home to Denali, North America’s highest peak sitting among some of the continent’s more technical climbs in the Alaska Range. But don’t worry if you’re not a serious mountaineer- Alaska has a hike for just about every physical fitness level.
• CYCLING:  Like to spend most of your time on two wheels? Anchorage has a decent network of bike trails around the city that link to the beautiful Coastal Trail that hugs the Turnagain Arm south of Anchorage. For those more serious you can cycle the Haul Road- the Dalton Highway that ends in Prudhoe Bay.
• FLIGHTSEEING: Want a different perspective on Alaska? Get above it! Several companies run small planes and helicopters to some of Alaska’s most scenic of places such as Prince William Sound and Denali National Park. Also note that to visit some of Alaska’s more remote parks you do have to arrange an air taxi (small plane) to take you out there.

Tour Options: 

Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise From Anchorage: Portage Glacier and Wildlife Full-Day Tour Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: Admission Ticket Talkeetna: Mountain Voyager with Optional Glacier Landing Alaska: Whitewater Rafting Experience on the Nenana River

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ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN ALASKA

You have a few options in way of accommodation in Alaska including hotels, hostels, camping, RV, AirBnB, and Couchsurfing. Hostels are starting to spring up more and more, but expect to really only see them in larger cities like Anchorage , Fairbanks , Juneau , Homer , and Seward . Hotels can get quite expensive, especially in the high season, but if you shop around you can sometimes get a good deal. AirBnB can be great value especially if you’re traveling as a family or a group.

Another great option for families and groups is to rent an RV , that way transportation and accommodation is taken care of. For the more adventurous, pack a tent and head out to the great outdoors! There are plenty of amazing places to camp in Alaska. If you’re on a budget, or just looking to mingle with locals, sign up for Couchsurfing! 

ANCHORAGE 

Find the best price on hotels in Anchorage .

• Captain Cook  
• Hotel Alyeska 
• Arctic Adventure Hostel  
• Base Camp Anchorage Hostel

Find the best price on hotels in Fairbanks .

• Borealis Base Camp
• Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
• Sven’s Base Camp Hostel  
• Billie’s Backpacker Hostel  

JUNEAU 

Find the best price on hotels in Juneau

• Baranof Westmark Hotel
• Alaska’s Capital Inn B&B  
• Juneau International Hostel

CITIES TO EXPLORE IN ALASKA

South central alaska.

• ANCHORAGE:  Alaska’s busy and biggest city. Plenty of hotels, nightlife, restaurants, and shopping here.
• WASILLA & PALMER:  These cities sit side-by-side about a one hour drive north from Anchorage. Nearby attractions include Hatcher’s Pass Recreational Area and Matanuska Glacier.
• SEWARD:  Small fishing town on the Kenai Peninsula, south of Anchorage. 
• HOMER:  Small city just south of Kenai & Soldotna on the Kenai Peninsula. Great place to catch fishing charters out of and sits in the beautiful Kachemak Bay. Has a hippy-vibe to it and is home to Bear Creek Winery . 
• WHITTIER: A small city that sits in the western Prince William Sound. You have to drive through a tunnel from Anchorage to get here by road.
• VALDEZ: Small city at the the head of a fjord in the eastern Prince William Sound.

INTERIOR ALASKA

• FAIRBANKS & NORTH POLE:  The second largest city in Alaska nicknamed ‘The Golden Heart City’ as word of gold found in the creeks around Fairbanks sent the Goldrush stampeding. One of the best places in Alaska to base yourself for chasing the Northern Lights. A great hotel to check out, if within your budget, is the domes at Borealis Base Camp , where you can watch the aurora from inside your room! North Pole is located just north of Fairbanks and is home to the Santa Claus House. 
• TOK:  Small town that you will pass through if driving into Alaska from Canada or vice-versa. 
• CHICKEN:  Located 250 miles southeast of Fairbanks and located about 80 miles northeast of Tok on the Taylor Highway. A year round population of 7 lives here, but don’t worry there’s at least a saloon. The biggest draw to Chicken every year is the annual Chickenstock Music Festival  held in June. Chicken is a stop along the ‘Top of the World’ road trip that continues to Dawson City, Canada. 

SOUTHEAST ALASKA

• JUNEAU:  The capital city of Alaska and only accessible by boat and plane. Do not miss sights include Mendenhall Glacier, Auke Bay, and The Shrine of St Therese. Of course no trip to Juneau is complete without a stop in the Red Dog Saloon. 
• SITKA:  A beautiful seaside community that sits on the northern edge of Baranof Island. 
• KETCHIKAN:  Seaside city along the Inside Passage. Famous for its Totem Poles.
• SKAGWAY: Set along the Inside Passage with lots of Gold Rush era buildings. Unlike much of the rest of southeastern Alaska, Skagway is accessible by road via the Haines Junction. 

WESTERN ALASKA

• BETHEL:  Largest community in western Alaska. It is the main port on the Kuskokwim River and the major hub for all 56 villages in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. Flying in is the only realistic option for most travelers to reach Bethel.
• NOME :   Located in northwestern Alaska on the Seward Peninsula jutting out into the Bering Sea. Home to the world’s largest goldpan. Nome is most famous for being the finish line of the Iditarod- the sled dog race celebrating the 1925 delivery of the life-saving serum during a blizzard that was needed to combat the Diphtheria epidemic raging through the Alaska Native population.

NORTHERN ALASKA

• UTQIAGVIK (FORMERLY BARROW):  It’s not as difficult to pronounce as it looks- Ooot-kee-yah-vik. Utqiagvik is the northernmost city in the United States. A great time to visit is during Nalukataq- a celebration held the third week of June each year for a successful whale harvest.

NATIONAL PARKS

By area, Alaska is home to over half of the national park lands in the United States. There are no fees to the national parks in Alaska, with the exception of Denali National Park. 

• DENALI NATIONAL PARK & PRESERVE:  Home to North America’s highest peak, Denali (formerly Mt. McKinley). Abundant wildlife at every turn. Not open to private vehicles beyond the Savage River (except for during the Denali Road Lottery  in September). If you want to go further in the park, you must take one of the park buses. There is a $10 fee to enter the park for those aged 16 and older. 
• KENAI FJORDS NATIONAL PARK:  Where mountains, ice and ocean all meet. Highlights included taking a fjord or whale watching cruise, hiking along Exit Glacier & Harding Icefield, and kayaking in the fjords. 
• GATES OF THE ARCTIC NATIONAL PARK:  This is vast, off the beaten path wilderness. Located in northern Alaska in the Brook’s Range. There is no visitor center, no roads, no trails, and no facilities. Those wanting to explore it will need to completely arrange the trip on their own.
• WRANGELL ST. ELIAS NATIONAL PARK: Rugged, beautiful, wild, and roughly the size of Yosemite National Park and the entire country of Switzerland combined, making it by land size the largest national park in the United States! Most who visit Wrangell-St. Elias will do so by visiting McCarthy, Kennecott Mine, and Root Glacier (about 8 hours drive from Anchorage).
• GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK:  A highlight for many taking Inside Passage cruises to Alaska. Glacier Bay is located in southeastern Alaska near the community of Gustavus, just northwest of Juneau. You can arrange to take the ferry from Juneau to Gustavus and take a private boat tour of Glacier Bay if you are traveling independently. 
• KATMAI NATIONAL PARK & PRESERVE:  Home to the postcard picture of the grizzly catching the salmon out of the waterfall you think of when Alaska comes to mind. Katmai is also famous for all its volcanoes- Brook’s Falls and the Valley of the 10,000 Smokes are two of the biggest highlights here. 
• KOBUK VALLEY NATIONAL PARK:  Not only do half a million caribou migrate through this park every year, but Kobuk Valley is also home to Alaska’s famous sand dunes. 
• LAKE CLARK NATIONAL PARK & PRESERVE:  Similar in attractions to Katmai, many are drawn in by its grizzly bear viewing, fishing opportunities, turquoise lakes, jagged mountains, and a number of volcanoes. 

MOST POPULAR STATE PARKS IN ALASKA

Alaska has more state parks than you can shake a stick at and to many to list! Check out the DNR website to read more about each one. 

• CHUGACH STATE PARK:  A gigantic state park that basically stretches from Anchorage to Valdez. A number of popular hikes are located in the park. 
• HATCHER’S PASS STATE MANAGEMENT AREA:  One of South-central Alaska’s easiest to access parks with countless hiking trails to explore between jagged peaks and turquoise mountain lakes. 
• KACHEMAK BAY STATE PARK:  Located near Homer, Alaska’s first state park and only wilderness park. There is over 80 miles of hiking trails to explore and countless camping possibilities. 
• DENALI STATE PARK:  Sits adjacent to Denali National Park & Preserve. Home to the famous 30 mile K’sugi Ridge hike with sweeping views of North America’s tallest mountain. 

GETTING TO ALASKA

You can get to Alaska by land, by air or by sea. However, most people will arrive via flight at Anchorage International Airport.

• BY AIR:  Commercial flights to Anchorage are the most common way to enter Alaska, followed by flights to Fairbanks. Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Ketchikan all have international airports with connections to other US states as well as seasonal flights to/from Germany, Iceland, Canada, and Russia in the summer. US cities that have direct service to Anchorage are Chicago, Dallas, Honolulu, Kahului, Kona, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, and Seattle.
• BY LAND:  If you have the time to spare and are already planning to pass through Western Canada, driving into Alaska is an option via the Alcan (Alaska-Canada Highway). This is also part of the great Pan-American Highway: the road spanning from Ushuaia, Argentina to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska.
• BY WATER:  Between May and September you can take cruise up the Inside Passage from Seattle to Alaska. Alternatively you can utilize the Alaska Marine Highway System. The Marine Highway starts in Bellingham, Washington, makes an international stop in Prince Rupert, BC, and connects the following communities by ferry: Akutan, Angoon, Chenega Bay, Chignik, Cold Bay, Cordova, False Pass, Haines, Homer, Hoonah, Juneau, Kake, Ketchikan, King Cove, Kodiak, Metlakatla, Ouzinkie, Petersburg, Port Lions, Sand Point, Seldovia, Sitka, Skagway, Tatitlek, Tenakee Springs, Unalaska/Dutch Harbor, Valdez, Whittier, Wrangell, and Yakutat.

GETTING AROUND ALASKA

82% of Alaska’s communities are not on the road system, making most of Alaska pretty inaccessible. However you can take in a lot of the wild beauty of Alaska from places that aren’t too difficult to reach. Public transport is non-existent between cities, so self-driving is going to be your best option for seeing the state.

• RENTAL CAR:  Giving you the flexibility to go where you want when you want. This can be a cost-effective option if traveling in a group. 
• BUY A CAR:  This is a great option if you plan to travel Alaska for an extended period of time. Plus in the end you can likely sell off the car for close to what you paid for it. 
• TRAIN:  Alaska has a railroad system that connects Seward, Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks, has cars that cater to tourists and even has whistle stops from the more intrepid.
• HITCHHIKING:  If you’re in a very tight budget, more on the fearless side, and not afraid to spend some time outdoors waiting for a ride, hitchhiking can be a budget-friendly option. Just be mindful, use common sense, and don’t accept a ride if you at all feel uncomfortable about it. A good place to search for rides is on the Anchorage page on Couchsurfing. 
• CYCLING:  Although Alaskan drivers can be a bit careless and crazy at times, if you’re a serious cycler this can be a great way to enjoy Alaska. 
• MARINE HIGHWAY FERRIES:  This is the ferry system that connect Washington state to Alaska’s Southeast Panhandle, South-Central Alaska, and the Aleutian Islands. You can take cars on the ferry.
• FLIGHTS:  Depending on where you want to go in Alaska, flying there may be your only option. Many of Alaska’s communities have daily flights between them. For some of the more remote villages and communities an air taxi can get you there. 

WHAT TO EAT IN ALASKA

Most people don’t think of Alaska as a culinary destination but there’s great food all around in the 49th state. Here are a few great things to try:

• Fresh Alaskan Salmon: You’ll be hard pressed to find better salmon on this planet. Make sure and try Copper River Red Salmon. 
• Reindeer: The only game meat in Alaska you’ll find in restaurants. For those wanting to try moose, you’ll need to buddy up with some local Alaskans who may have some in the freezer.
• Halibut: Lovely, delicious halibut. The best places to try it are in small fish restaurants in the coastal communities. 
• King Crab: Alaska is known the world over for its soft, sweet and delicious King Crab legs.
• Blueberries: If you’re visiting in late August and into September it’s possible to go out berry picking. However, Alaskan blueberries are a bit more tart.
• Beer: Breweries are popping up more and more in Alaska. There are tons of craft beers to sample in Alaska. 

BEST RESTAURANTS IN ALASKA

Anchorage area.

• Moose’s Tooth – Ranked one of the best independent pizza companies in the United States. 
• Double Musky – The French pepper steak is perfection. Most dishes have a Cajun flare. 
• Glacier Brewhouse – Serving up some of Alaska’s best seafood with a unique twist. If seafood isn’t your thing they also have delicious wood grilled meats. 
• Seven Glaciers – Take the tram at the Hotel Alyeska on top the mountain to have dinner with a view.
• Simon & Seafort’s – An Alaskan favorite serving up Alaskan seafood, steak, and more. 
• Crow’s Nest  – A world class menu with a 360º view of Anchorage. 

FAIRBANKS & DENALI

• Turtle Club – Located just outside Fairbanks in Fox. Great prime rib and seafood.
• Mile 229 Parks Highway – With a menu that changes daily as they only serve their daily harvests and seasonal offerings. It doesn’t get much fresher than Mile 229.
• 49th State (there’s one in Anchorage now, too!)- Craft beers and tasty twists on Alaskan favorite dishes. The brewery in Denali has a replica out front of the bus from Into the Wild. 
• Lavelle’s Bistro – A good selection of wines, serving up globally inspired dishes and American favorites. 

SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA

• The Channel Club – Serving up some of the best steak and seafood in all of Alaska, overlooking the water in Sitka. 
• Tracy’s King Crab Shack – A waterfront, walk-up shack serving some of the best fresh-caught king crab in Alaska.

GENERAL COSTS IN ALASKA 

To give you a rough idea of costs for planning a trip in Alaska, here are some examples:

• Gasoline: $2.88/gallon
• Hotel: $120-200/night
• Hostel: $40-80/night
• Campsite: $10 per night on average, $25 for ones with amenities
• Small car rental: $35/day in the winter and shoulder seasons, $100/day in the peak season
• Larger car/SUV rental: $50/day in the winter and shoulder seasons, $140/day in peak season
• Food: Preparing own meals: $1-5 per meal. Budget restaurant/cafe: $10-15 per plate. Midrange restaurant: $20-30 per plate. Higher end restaurants: $30+ per plate
• Entrance to museums and cultural centers: $10-15 per person
• Entrance to parks: Free to $10 per person. Most of Alaska’s state and national parks are free to enter. Denali charges $10 per person to enter. Many state parks with road access and a parking lot will charge a $5 parking fee.

TIPS TO HELP YOU SAVE MONEY

• Visit outside tourist season- June-August are the most expensive months to visit.
• Consider the shoulder season (May & September).
• Shop for airline sales- airlines have more competition between May and September as many more airlines fly to Alaska in the summer months. 
• Use mileage- Are you part of an airline rewards program? If you are check to see if your airline or a partner of theirs flies to Alaska. 
• Get outside- Most of Alaska’s natural attractions are free to visit aside from a parking fee at some sites. All national parks in Alaska have free entrance except for Denali National Park! 
• Go camping- Accommodation can get expensive in the high season. For those adventurous enough, pitching a tent is a great way to save money as many managed campgrounds in Alaska have inexpensive fees. 

We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Alaska. If you have any questions about the destination, please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Please visit our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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• First Timer’s Guide To Taking An Alaska Cruise
• Are You Too Young To Take Cruise? Glacier Cruise, Alaska
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• 4 Stunning National Parks In The Canadian Maritimes

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moviezombie says

April 25, 2018 at 8:58 pm

as a frequent traveler to AK this is great info. however….and this is a BIG HOWEVER….if chasing the aurora one needs to be ready for minus 30F temperatures! we also found that making trips that include “festivals” is fun and as good an excuse as any to make another trip: the Whale Fest held in Sitka in November and the Bald Eagle festival usually held about a week before that one are both worth the effort. dressing in layers is always recommended but those layers really need to be “cold weather” layers. go and take the chance you will become addicted to Alaska! I always say it is for me my therapy! :

Nicole says

April 27, 2018 at 5:56 am

A post on Alaskan festivals is a post all on its own

April 25, 2018 at 8:59 pm

oops, should have mentioned the Bald Eagle fest is in Haines…..

Rebecca says

May 2, 2018 at 3:49 am

Wow, Alaska looks so beautiful, I’d love to visit!

May 30, 2018 at 10:55 am

I hope you do!

Anusha says

May 21, 2018 at 11:02 am

How many days minimum should we keep for visit to Alaska?

May 30, 2018 at 10:59 am

It’s hard to say as it really depends on where you want to go and what you want to see. Alaska is massive, so I’d say it’d be best to stick to a region and explore things within reach if you don’t have tons of time to dedicate. A popular route many tourists do to cover a lot of different areas in roughly two weeks is to take a cruise through the Southeast up to Anchorage and then afterwards take a weeklong Roadtrip to Fairbanks hitting sites along the way, and then fly home from Fairbanks.

Hinson says

August 5, 2018 at 12:04 pm

I love you blog! I’m currently in Alaska and would love to check out the destination on the pictures that you’ve posted. Would you mind to share the name please and how to get there? Thanks!

August 14, 2018 at 7:01 pm

Simply Amazing!

March 13, 2019 at 9:17 am

Great blog post, guys! And your photos are amazing. A lot of those hikes look amazing, but I don’t think I see captions on the photos about where they are. Would it be possible to let us know where they are located/which hikes they are on? Thanks!

Julie Vasquez says

April 12, 2019 at 11:21 am

If you don’t mind me asking, where is the location of the picture inside of the glacier? That looks awesome.

Emily Ann says

March 30, 2020 at 8:30 am

If you’re interested in visiting Alaska, I highly recommend Sitka! Some cruises stop there and both Alaska Air & Delta fly in directly from Seattle. Extremely scenic & very quaint town. It’s like Switzerland but on the ocean and with lots of wildlife. Plenty of options for lodging and great restaurants. The stunning totem pole park, great hiking, kayaking and Sitka is also perhaps the best place in the World for whale watching and wildlife boat tours.

Kara R Maceross says

April 2, 2020 at 2:09 pm

What a comprehensive post! I had the amazing opportunity to travel with a few ladies to Alaska this past December and it was magical! We saw a lot of wildlife too, even though a lot of businesses were closed. I will definitely come back to your site before I plan a summer trip there (which WILL happen!). Thanks for all the great info!

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The Best Things to Do in Alaska: Awesome Tips From a Local

• March 25, 2023
• Last updated: March 25, 2023
• America , Destinations , Things to do , USA

Home » Travel Blog » The Best Things to Do in Alaska: Awesome Tips From a Local

Alaska, the last great American frontier, and one seriously epic travel destination. There is such a vast range of things to do in Alaska, that the potential for exploration and discovery can be overwhelming, as the state overall is massive, and travel times between destinations can be daunting.

Remember however, that exploring this state is always worth the travel time, and the landscapes you’ll see, and people you’ll meet are unlike anywhere else in the world. Before you visit Alaska it is best to choose a particular region you’d like to explore, or a certain experience you’d like to have, and then begin your plans from there.

Here is a list of the best things to do in Alaska to help you decide what you’d like to see and where you’d like to begin your journey.

The Best Things To Do In Alaska

Drive the alcan highway.

The sheer size and landmass of Alaska is best explored at your own pace, with your own wheels! The Alcan Highway runs from Dawson Creek, British Columbia (Canada) and ends in Delta Junction, Alaska.

It is about 1,387 total miles (2232 km) with campsites, fire-pits, and icy cold swimming holes along the way. If you have the time (up to two weeks) this is an incredible way to explore the untouched terrain between Alaska and Canada.

Be sure to double and triple check your vehicle, carry plenty of water, extra gasoline, and even a spare tire! There are many unique camping spots along the drive, as well as cozy hotels, and even new AirBnbs are popping up along the route. Remember to book in advance, especially during the height of the summer months, when the amount of travelers greatly increases.

This drive is an incredible way to experience the differences in terrain within the state of Alaska, as well as its Canadian neighbor. Enjoy sunny afternoons with sunshine late into the night hours. Best explored with a quality travel buddy, this journey is one of the best things to do in Alaska.

Join some of the local tours in Alaska: 

• Fairbanks – Denali National Park Shuttle Service
• Anchorage: Coastal Trail 3-Hour City Bike Tour
• Juneau: Mendenhall Lake Canoe Tour
• Denali: Guided Walking Tour in Denali National Park
• Talkeetna: Denali 1-Hour Flight Experience

Take a helicopter icefield tour

In the state of Alaska alone, there are over 100,000 glaciers, most of which don’t even have names. Unless you are a master mountaineer, with extensive experience and the appropriate gear, it might be difficult to truly see some of these monsters up close.

Taking a helicopter ride is one of the best primer Alaskan attractions, and truly brings you up close to the vast rivers of ice covering many of the mountain ranges in the state.

Certain companies offer an option to walk on the ice, (using appropriate footwear and with an experienced guide) and others will even let you try your hand at swinging an ice axe and climbing up a semi vertical glacial ice slope. If you’re not keen to actually spend time between the creaking ice cravasses, then just enjoy a scenic journey by helicopter as you peer into the bright blue glaciers winding through the wilderness.

Here are some of the best helicopter companies in Alaska that offer both flying and ice climbing options:

Southeast Alaska: Coastal Helicopters Temsco Helicopters

Anchorage: Alpine Air Alaska

Denali: Denali Experience Flightseeing Tour Denali Northface Expedition

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Go whale watching in Seward

Explore fjords, watch puffins deep dive, and take in the full breach of a humpback whale. A boat trip out of Seward is absolutely something you should prioritize when you visit Alaska, especially if you find yourself in the south-central region of the state.

(You can also take a train from Anchorage to Seward on the Alaska Railroad, which is a remarkably scenic way to enjoy your journey.) Check rates here today.

While aboard your trip, you will journey up close to calving glaciers, watch sheep scour ocean cliffs, and hopefully catch a pod of whales feeding or gliding through the water.

This trip is also best enjoyed with a thick jacket so you can spend time above deck, and I would also highly recommend a small dose of an anti-seasickness medicine, as the ride can be a bit rough, especially as your captain navigates the icebergs and twists and turns of the coastline.

If you decide to embark on this wonderful experience, I cannot recommend Kenai Fjords Tours enough! Not only do they offer excellent services, and experienced guides, but they have been a certified Whale SENSE member, meaning they only practice sustainable and responsible whale watching.

These tours ensure that boats always maintain safe distances from animals, never ever feed any marine animals, and also show passengers how to responsibly enjoy the wildlife.

Explore Denali National Park in an RV

For those who come to Alaska with the desire to adventure away from the crowds, but still have the need for comfort, a RV camper is a great option to independently explore, while also having some of your comforts of home.

Denali National Park offers a plethora of camping options (both tent and RV) but because of the high concentration of predatory animals, I felt personally much safer inside of a hard-sided vehicle at night.

Take your RV through the park during the day, and make sure not to miss the stunning views of the highest peak in North America, Denali. There is also a potential to see moose, bears, wolves, dall sheep, and even caribou.

At night, find your campside, set up a fire, and bask in the unending display of stars undisturbed by light pollution of any kind. There are various RV rental options in and around Anchorage, which is about a four hour drive from the park.

• Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise
• Arctic Circle Adventure – Full Day Tour
• Anchorage Museum General Admission Ticket
• Denali Park Zipline Adventure
• Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour

Experience the Aurora Borealis

If you have the time, energy, and ability to withstand frigid temperatures, one of best things to do in Alaska is to see the Aurora Borealis, or the northern lights in full force.

Unfortunately, most of Alaska does not experience enough darkness in during the summer months, so it’s best to plan your visit during the winter, (September-April) if you’re looking to gaze up this brilliant light display in the sky.

Some of the best northern lights can be seen from Fairbanks, Alaska, as they are most frequently seen at higher latitudes. Also keep in mind that the best time to see this magical display may be in the middle of the night, so be sure to check the Aurora forecast and plan your evenings accordingly.

Many companies run overnight lodges that specialize in Aurora viewing, or if you’re interested in other winter activities, (snowshoeing, dog sledding, ice skating) then you might consider extending your stay in the far north.

Check also this excellent guide on the Best Places To See The Northern Lights In Canada .

Click here  for more information on specific northern lights tours, lodges, and short trips.

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Head to the Alaska State Fair in Haines

The small coastal city of Haines has gained popularity in recent years for it’s charming seaside ambiance in the summer, and also as a primer heliskiing option during the winter. In addition to this, it also hosts a mini-version of the Alaska State Fair in late July that is absolutely worth the trip and an incredibly unique thing to do in Alaska.

The 2019 fair will run from July 25-28, and always includes a massive lineup of dance troupes, live music, artwork displays, and food creations from all over the state.

Bring your own tent and camp along the many beaches around town, or explore one of the charming inns along the main drag.

The festivities run from early morning into the late night, so take the fair at your own speed depending on if you’re more of a carnival ride goer, craft beer sipper, or someone who enjoys a constant stream of bluegrass drifting out of the many pubs around town and the fairgrounds.

It’s also not a bad idea to bring/rent a bike or a car, as certain accommodations can be a bit far from the actual center of town.

More information on the Alaska State Fair can be found here .

Hike the ice caves in Juneau

Just outside of the picturesque capital city of Alaska lies the Mendenhall glacier, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alaska.

It’s easy enough to get from downtown Juneau out to the Mendenhall (many busses run from the docks at the other end of town, or you can take the local bus and walk the last mile on your own).

Once you reach the glacier, explore the visitor’s center, ask a Forest Service ranger any questions you might have, and even touch some glacial ice. If you have time and the proper hiking gear, head to the West Glacier trailhead out to the terminus of the glacier to explore the ice caves.

The hike is about 3.3 miles (5.3km) each way not including any trekking you might want to do in and around the ice caves. When you reach the end of the dirt trail, follow the cairns towards the glacier and you might be able to spot the caves.

Word of advice: use extreme caution when walking on glacial ice and while hiking along the trail. Do no attempt to climb onto the glacier if you do not have proper footwear or prior experience hiking in similar conditions. Check trail conditions before you plan your trip.

For additional information on West Glacier Trail and the Mendenhall ice caves click here . Check other hiking spots in Alaska .

• Seward: Kenai Fjords Half Day Wildlife Cruise
• From Skagway: 3-Hour White Pass Summit Bus Tour
• The Best of Fairbanks: Half-Day City Highlights Tour
• From Fairbanks: Northern Lights and Arctic Circle Tour
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Plan a visit to Tenakee Springs

The gem of Tenakee Springs hides carefully amidst the many islands of southeast Alaska. It remains one of the best places to visit in Alaska, but because of its remote location, few make the trip.

The small town of Tenakee allows for no cars or trucks, but you can easily explore the three mile stretch of road on foot. Don’t miss a trip to the legendary bathhouse in the center of town; the waters are famous all over the state, and the log cabin enclosing the springs has been around since the early 1900s.

Also keep in mind that there are specific bathing hours for males and females, and all bathing is nude. Tenakee is also a wonderful place to head out in an ocean kayak, hike old logging trails, or see some brown bears in their natural habitat.

You can reach Tenakee Springs via seaplane with Alaska Seaplanes or via ferry with the Alaska Marine Highway.

Hike the Chilkoot Trail

Sometimes called “the meanest 33 miles of history” for its grueling terrain, steep slopes, and slippery ascent into the Canadian territories, the Chilkoot Trail is not for the faint of travelers, yet it is absolutely one of the most incredible things to do in Alaska .

Starting in the charming southeast town of Skagway (worth a day or two of its own) and ending in the Yukon territory, this trail is the same that many prospectors took in their pursuit of gold during the Klondike Gold Rush.

It is important to budget 3-5 days of hiking, and also prepare all of your supplies (including hiking permits) in advance.

You’ll be able to enjoy some of the most epic landscapes of Alaska: forests, mountain passes, boulder fields, while also enjoying the massively historical route. Along the way look for left items from previous explorers: from mundane shoes, to full ovens, pianos, and horse saddles that never made it over the crux of the pass.

If you’re interesting in hiking the Chilkoot Trail, be sure to prepare appropriately. Here is a link to the hiker preparation guide distributed in Skagway to help you arrange your journey.

There are truly thousands of epic adventures to be had in the great state of Alaska, but this list of the best things to do in Alaska should help you prepare and begin narrowing down your list before your next trip.

Remember that a journey to Alaska isn’t necessarily “once in a lifetime” and may be a place that you return to again to explore multiple times.

Enjoy the kind and hearty locals, the daunting mountain peaks, and the seemingly never ending skies.

If you have any suggestions on other Alaskan adventures, or have tried any of these suggestions yourself, leave a comment below!

Plan your next trip!

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• Published: March 25, 2023

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alaska

Written by Becca Blond and Brad Lane Updated Mar 18, 2024

It is hard to write about Alaska without sounding cliché. The state is simply that magnificent. A place where the landscapes and wildlife, climate, and seasonal shifts, are larger, and at times more extreme, than anywhere else in the U.S. A largely roadless, uninhabited and still very wild section of the planet, Alaska's nickname of The Last Frontier rings oh so true.

Where else can you find a state capital (Juneau) with no road access? Or a town, Barrow (its northernmost) where the sun won't rise for 67 days in winter, but during summer, doesn't set for more than 80 days? Even Alaska's largest city, Anchorage, exudes a small-town charm and is the kind of place where moose often wander downtown streets.

Alaska is home to North America's highest peak, 20,320-foot-high Denali, as well as the four largest national parks in the country. As such, it serves as a grandiose outdoor playground. Hiking, paddling, fishing, and whale spotting are a few of the many ways to enjoy these wilderness treasures. Other everyday adventures include bear watching, rainforest exploring, and taking a boat ride through the Inside Passage.

Cities and towns in Alaska offer unique cultural appeal. These basecamps for adventure have museums and other tourist attractions. And with places like the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, they also offer insight into the communities that have called Alaska home for thousands of years.

Discover the best places to visit in this ruggedly beautiful state with our list of the top attractions in Alaska.

1. Denali National Park

2. tracy arm fjord, 3. kenai fjords national park, 4. anchorage, 5. alaska highway, 6. talkeetna, 7. university of alaska museum of the north, 8. inside passage, 9. alaska railroad, 10. dalton highway, 11. alaska native heritage center, 12. mendenhall glacier, 13. wrangell-st. elias national park & preserve, 14. iditarod national historic trail, 15. brooks falls, katmai national park, 16. seward, alaska, 17. totem bight state historic park, 18. klondike gold rush national historical park, 19. alaska rainforest sanctuary, ketchikan, best time to visit alaska.

From big bears and moose to towering mountains and so much open space, Denali National Park is spectacularly beautiful and blissfully wild. If you enjoy leaving the beep of cell phone notifications behind and just getting lost in nature for a little while, this is the park to visit.

Drive to Savage River, where the 15 miles of pavement open to passenger vehicles in Denali National Park ends, and you'll really feel you are indeed in the Last Frontier. While most U.S. national parks are relatively developed, Denali, like much of Alaska itself, remains a roadless wilderness. Only one road runs through the entire park , and after Savage River, you'll need to hop into a park shuttle bus to go further on anything other than your own two feet.

The third largest national park in the U.S., located about halfway between Anchorage and Fairbanks, Denali is mostly a trail-less wilderness . Except for marked trails around the Denali Visitor Center at the entrance, hiking the park's six million acres means using a GPS device to head out in one direction and see what you encounter.

You'll need to be prepared for a backcountry experience and will want to check in at the visitor's center and leave your planned route and length of stay with a ranger then check in again when you return.

The park, which is easily accessible via the Alaska Railroad , is home North America's highest mountain , the 20,320-foot Denali. If you remember the peak by another name, it was officially referred to as Mount McKinley until 2015, when its traditional name replaced the one that modern explorers dubbed it.

The park is extremely photogenic, and the landscape here runs the gamut from wide river valleys to high alpine lakes, low-elevation taiga forest, and craggy, glacier-draped peaks.

Wild creatures abound in Denali, and it is not uncommon to see moose and even grizzly bears near the visitor center or on the side of the road. Always carry bear spray when hiking. Other animals that call this park home include wolves, reindeer, elk, and more than 167 species of bird. Another favorite among the park's many things to do is the Sled Dog Kennels , which offer demonstrations and are home to dozens of energetic huskies.

If you plan on driving here, have a read through my article Alaska Road Trip: Driving from Anchorage to Denali National Park .

Address: Milepost 240, George Parks Hwy, Denali National Park, Alaska

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/dena/index.htm

Tracy Arm is a fjord edged with glaciers, located south of Juneau. Waterfalls tumble down the sharp rock walls, and glaciers calve, creating small icebergs. It's a popular destination for cruise ships and boat tours.

The fjord lies within the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness of Tongass National Forest . At the head of the fjord sit the twin Sawyer Glaciers . Wildlife sightings are common on tours, whether it's a brown bear or moose on land, or the whales and seals that inhabit these waters.

Tracy Arm offers just a small slice of glacier viewing in Alaska. Other tourist favorites include Glacier Bay National Park, northwest of Juneau, and Prince William Sound, near Anchorage. Several guiding companies in Juneau, like Adventure Bound Alaska , offer affordable day trips and unobstructed views of the beauty.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Juneau

Protecting much of the fjord-riddled coastline of the Kenai Peninsula (south of Anchorage), this national park offers some of the best sightseeing in Alaska. Panoramic landscapes in the park take in the many glaciers of the 700-square-mile Harding Icefield and an uninhabited coastline. And the national park is home to monstrously large brown bears that feed on the fat-rich salmon.

Many tourist options converge in the surrounding areas, including the end of Highway 1 in Homer. A popular means for entry into the park is the Alaska Railroad and the Seward Highway, both ending in Seward, near the park's northern boundary. The only area in the park accessible by vehicle is Exit Glacier , where several trails offer closer views at the end of the icefield.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/kefj/index.htm

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage may be Alaska's biggest city, with a population of around 300,000 residents, but it feels a lot like a small town. The compact downtown is very walkable and feels like it hasn't changed much in the last 50 years.

It's a quirky little place, completely void of skyscrapers, that's still home to mom-and-pop shops and downhome restaurants. The kind of city where moose, and even bears, are known to wander down central streets. Anchorage summers are wonderful. Temperatures are mild and the sun doesn't set until close to midnight, and even then, it never really gets dark.

Most travelers arrive and depart Alaska via Anchorage International Airport, before heading on to other parts of the state. But the city makes a great base for day trip adventures. The outstanding Chugach State Park , encompassing nearly a half-million acres, is within easy reach of this city. For further adventures, a popular way to travel from Anchorage into the wild landscapes is via the 470-mile Alaska Railroad , which is headquartered in Anchorage.

And it's not even required to leave the city's core for adventure. A few popular city attractions include the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the Anchorage Museum. And for outdoor exploration without traveling far, head to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for a stunning 11-mile bike ride. Bicycle rentals are available throughout town.

Also known as the Alaska-Canada Highway, or Alcan Highway, The Alaska Highway runs from Dawson Creek in British Columbia (Canada) through the Yukon Territory to Delta Junction near Fairbanks . It was built for military purposes in 1942, during WWII, in the record time of only eight months.

Since the end of the war, the route has been the most important means of access by land to the Yukon Territory and southern Alaska. It's also a favorite with recreational vehicle travelers. The highway passes through Whitehorse, Canada before crossing the international border into Alaska and ending in Delta Junction.

Motels, shops, and gas stations lie at intervals of 30 to 50 miles. Traveling along the Alcan Highway is generally straightforward, though commuters need to pack accordingly, as much of the route traverses through remote landscapes.

With some of the best views of Mount Denali from vistas around it, Talkeetna is a charming, eccentric little town. It is well worth a visit if you are driving or taking the train between Anchorage and Denali National Park.

If you want to have a meeting with Talkeetna's mayor, you'll need to head to Nagley's General Store and ask for Aurora. She can be quite moody, although she's always open to food bribes. Just don't bring a dog along when you visit, she snarled and hissed and threw this writer's Chihuahua right out of her domain. If you are getting lost with the plot at this point, we'll fill you in: Aurora is a cat.

Talkeetna doesn't have a human mayor but is on its third feline leader. The town's original, and most famous, kitty mayor was Stubbs, who ruled with an iron paw from 1997 to 2017 when he passed away.

Rumor also has it that Talkeetna was the inspiration behind the 90s TV show, Northern Exposure , although the series itself was filmed in Washington. It is a mostly seasonal destination with most of the dozens of restaurants and shops lining its two-street downtown open only between mid-May and mid-September.

Talkeetna is also a popular place to book flight-seeing tours . These take place in small planes that fly you around or over the summit of Denali, depending on the weather. Some tours even land on a glacier. Check out K2 Aviation Talkeetna or Talkeetna Air Taxi, both in town, to arrange a trip.

Located in Fairbanks, the University of Alaska Museum of the North offers more than one million historical artifacts and natural history pieces. The permanent collection includes ethnological items made and used by indigenous groups and a fine arts collection that focuses mainly on Alaskan art .

The collection also features archaeological finds from prehistoric cultures, an assemblage of birds, and several paleontology specimens. The building that houses the museum is also noteworthy. It was designed by Joan Soranno, and the white structure has interesting lines and curves intended to resemble the Alaskan landscape.

The museum is free for students and faculty of the university, and the public is welcome with paid admission. Visitors are encouraged to explore the museum at their own pace, and larger groups can call ahead to book a customizable tour experience.

Address: 1962 Yukon Drive, Fairbanks, Alaska

Official site: http://www.uaf.edu/museum/

The Inside Passage is a collection of sheltered channels and straits in Southeast Alaska. The most popular way to visit is to cruise through the fjords on large ships, charter boats, and private yachts. Another option is to stop off the highway at Haines , Skagway , or Hyder .

Along the coastal passage, the Tongass National Forest covers 17 million acres and includes islands, mountains, glaciers, ice fields, fjords, and waterfalls. Included in the forest is Prince of Wales Island , one of the largest islands in the US. The area is also inhabited by the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.

Major towns along the route include Skagway , with its Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park ; the once-chief town of Russian America Sitka ; and Ketchikan , where stoic totems are on display at both Totem Bight State Historic Park and the Totem Heritage Center .

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/tongass/

Noted as the "Backbone of the Last Frontier," the Alaska Railroad is a prominent part of Alaska's history and still a vital transportation option. Extending from Seward to Fairbanks , this railroad helped develop Anchorage from a tent town into what it is today, and the line played an important shipping role in World War II.

Today, the Alaska Railroad is owned by the state and shuttles more than 500,000 passengers each year. Popular destinations along the route include the Chugach National Forest, Anchorage, and Denali National Park & Preserve . The Alaska Railroad offers a variety of routes, services, and special event rides including backcountry ski packages and a kids' Halloween Train.

Official site: https://www.alaskarailroad.com/

The Dalton Highway stretches over 400 miles into Alaska's Far North region, eventually reaching the outpost of Prudhoe Bay . It's accessible from Fairbanks and Anchorage and built adjacent and in conjunction with the Trans-Alaska Pipeline . The road is extremely remote, rugged, and not well-traveled outside of oil-field workers.

Well-prepared sightseers have an incentive to navigate the lonely highway, though, with both Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge lining the roadside.

At the northern end of the route, the Dalton Highway crosses into the Arctic Circle , where the summer solstice brings 24 hours of daylight and the winter means 24 hours of darkness. Driving a personal vehicle isn't the only choice to experience the Arctic Circle, and frequent bus and plane tours depart from Fairbanks and Anchorage.

A popular reason to visit this northern latitude is the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights , which appear on many nights from September to Mid-April. Joining an aurora tour can help keep sightseers warm in this frigid season.

Offering more than just a look into the lives and values of Alaska's 11 major cultural groups, the Alaska Native Heritage Center provides hands-on interaction with music, people, and art. Alongside interpretive information, the Heritage Center is a place to visit to connect with the community and participate in programs and events.

The Heritage Center is just outside Anchorage. It includes The Gathering Place for Alaska Native dancing and storytelling and the Hall of Cultures , filled with exhibits and local vendors displaying handmade crafts and works of art.

The scenic Lake Tiulana is also on the grounds, surrounded by traditional dwellings of Alaska Natives. Though this sightseeing attraction is located out of downtown, there is a summer-season shuttle from the modern Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center.

Address: 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage

Official site: http://www.alaskanative.net/

Twelve miles northwest of the state capital and accessible by road, the Mendenhall Glacier snakes down from the 1,500-square-mile Juneau Icefield to touch the shores of a small lake. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center looks out over both the glacier and the iceberg-dotted waters, while trails venture along the shore to roaring Nugget Falls , as well as the impressive ice mass.

Rafting and kayaking trips allow visitors to float among the bergs. Wildlife such as black bears, porcupines, and beavers are commonly spotted while exploring this dazzling blue landscape. Arguably the best season to visit is between May and October, where sunshine is more likely to be on the forecast. However, the glacier is also fun to visit on rainy days, as the ice takes on a different hue of blue.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve is the largest and most magnificent of Alaska's sprawling national parks -- it is also the largest national park in the U.S. This grandiose mountain region has nine of the 16 highest peaks in the United States. Other defining features of this park bordering Canada include glaciers, lakes, mountain streams, and a rich variety of wildlife.

Wrangell-St. Elias is a superb country for climbers, walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. And the park's Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark gives insight into the one-time mill town with barely preserved heritage buildings and abandoned mines.

Other points of interest include a selection of 14 backcountry cabins, many of which are only accessible by flying into remote airstrips.

Address: Mile 106.8 Old Richardson Highway, Copper Center, Alaska

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/wrst/index.htm

The Iditarod National Historic Trail is Alaska's only National Scenic Trail. It consists of a network of trails totaling more than 2,300 miles between Nome, on the Bering Strait, and Seward, near Anchorage. Originally used by ancient hunters and later by gold prospectors, the trail is now used, and best known, for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race .

Extensive landscapes surround the entire route, offering beautiful views of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. Although it is primarily a winter trail, hikers do use sections during the summer months including the popular Crow Pass Trail within Chugach State Park.

Official site: https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/national-scenic-and-historic-trails/iditarod

Brooks Falls, in Katmai National Park, is synonymous with brown bears. That's because starting in June and peaking in July, spawning salmon travel the Brooks River and attract the park's largest mammals in droves. Today, elevated platforms around the falls enable some of the best wildlife viewings in the country.

Brooks Falls and Katmai National Park are on the Alaskan Peninsula, which extends from the southwest mainland. The only two feasible ways to reach the park are by plane or by boat. Often, visitors book an all-in-one vacation package to experience the falls, but it's not required. Several aviation companies also offer simple shuttle services to the park.

The journey to Seward is equally as alluring as the small town itself. To reach the community from Anchorage, visitors travel by way of the Seward Highway . This All-American Road spans 127 miles through pristine Alaska landscapes. The first 50 miles from Anchorage traverse along Turnagain Arm and the southern boundary of Chugach State Park . Here, roadside views include mountains, glaciers, and the occasional beluga whale surfacing.

Tourists can also take the scenic Alaska Railroad, which follows the same route from Anchorage to Seward. The Alaska Railroad also continues much farther north than Anchorage, ending its line in Fairbanks.

Besides a beautiful commute, Seward also has several appealing cultural attractions like the Alaska Sealife Center . The city is also a home base for exploring the Kenai Peninsula, including nearby landscapes like Exit Glacier . Departing from Kenai Peninsula, avid wildlife watchers head to the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge , established to protect the Kodiak bear and other rare animals.

Official site: http://www.seward.com/

In 1938, the US Forest Services began a project to salvage, reconstruct, and create totem poles - a tradition that was dying out. Funds were used to hire carvers from among the older generations and abandoned totem poles were restored or recreated by these craftsmen. In the process of this work, they were able to pass on their skills to younger community members.

Fifteen poles were erected in Ketchikan's Totem Bight State Historic Park, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places . Also on the site is a recreated clan house from the early 19th century. There are more heritage totem poles and local details available at the town's Totem Heritage Center .

Address: Ketchikan Ranger Station, 9883 North Tongass Hwy, Ketchikan, Alaska

Official site: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/totembgh.htm

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park maintains lovely, restored buildings in the Skagway historic district to commemorate the 1897-98 Gold Rush. Visitors can attempt to hike the 33-mile-long Chilkoot Trail , which begins at Taiya River Bridge and pays homage to the path and struggles of past gold seekers. Visitors can also spend time exploring the on-site museum and visitor center.

The White Pass & Yukon Route Railway leaves from Skagway, climbing up to White Pass at a 2,865-foot elevation. The depot, one of Alaska's oldest, houses the visitor center.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/klgo/index.htm

Ketchikan is a wild city bordering Tongass National Forest and facing the famous Inside Passage. The city is perhaps best known for its many Native American totem poles throughout the town and at places like Totem Bight State Historical Park . But it's also a city surrounded by dense, unaltered Alaska landscapes.

A lush temperate rainforest defines much of the natural landscape around Ketchikan. This includes rushing waterways, miles of verdant mountainsides, and an array of weather conditions that often require boots. One of the easiest ways to experience this dense environment is with a guided tour at the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary.

Kawanti Adventures oversees the 40 acres of this forest sanctuary just outside of town and offers guided tours. These approximately three-hour tours go beyond the usual hiking experience and include a narrative guide with interesting tidbits about the local history and culture. These tours also include stops at interpretive exhibits, like a historic sawmill and totem park.

From the snowy winter months to the more temperate summer months, each one of Alaska's unique seasons has its own particular draw. But the best time to visit Alaska is between mid-June and mid-August . If you wanted to push it a bit on either end of that span, most tourist resorts, tours, and cruises begin operations mid-May and end mid-September, so you'll find some good weather then as well - it just won't be as reliable.

The high tourist season, which runs from June to August , is when most attractions and parks open up to the public. If you have an Alaskan bucket list - such as wildlife viewing in Denali National Park or witnessing the salmon runs - this is the best time to visit Alaska.

Tip: Even if you visit during the summer months, weather systems can blow in on a moment's notice, so be prepared to dress in layers and have a raincoat handy. With that said, summer temperatures can also reach highs of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so be sure to pack hot-weather clothing as well.

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TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Arctic Region

Inside passage region, interior region, southcentral region, southwest region.

Across the Bering Strait sits “The Last Frontier”, a vast land so wild that bald eagles, humpback whales, moose, wolves, and grizzly bears call it home. Adventurous souls venture to the largest state in America to see Denali, the highest peak in North America; more than 3,000 rivers and over three million lakes; 100,000 glaciers; thousands of miles of rugged coastline; eight National Parks; and a rich and diverse culture made up of Alaskan Native and American Indian populations, living in villages dotted across the state.

Cruises—large and small—are best for exploring the coastal regions, while land tours, which utilize small planes, trains, or busses, are optimal for seeing the massive interior. Jet service is available from the lower 48 to Alaska’s major airports in Fairbanks and Anchorage and these airports partner with chartered carriers to get to the smaller communities and far-flung areas across the state. To help you navigate such a large territory, made up of five distinctive regions, here’s our guide to visiting Alaska by land or cruise, and everything in between.

Alaska’s arctic region, made up of three subregions—Arctic Coast, Brooks Range, and Western Arctic, is where to travel for the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis, or northern lights. This Arctic Coast is where the largest Eskimo community in America,   the Inupiat of Utqiagvik (Barrow), has settled. Caribou have an annual great migration across the Brooks Range, traveling through Kobuk Valley National Park , Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve , and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge . The Western Arctic is remote and well-known for copious amounts of wildlife that live in the coastal plains, high mountain ranges, and wetland habitats.

How to Get There

Recommended by Travel Alaska , Knightly Tours offers single day and multi-day packages that make it easy to experience the Arctic Region by way of Fairbanks. For a day visit, you will travel by air, across the Arctic Circle, and then journey by road along Dalton Highway. Or, you can experience an Arctic Ocean Adventure , a multi-day land and air tour that includes a visit to the Yukon River, Brooks Range, North Slope, and Arctic Ocean.

Alaska’s Inside Passage, shaped by glaciers millions of years ago, might be the most popular way to experience Alaska for first-time visitors. Embarking on a cruise is a good way to go to experience the region’s diverse wildlife and culture. Stopping for special excursions along the way, you’ll enjoy adventures in Glacier Bay National Park , Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, and Skagway. 

Most multi-tiered large cruises begin and end in either Seattle or Vancouver. Norwegian Cruise Line , Carnival Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean Cruises , Princess Cruises , and Celebrity Cruises all offer sailing dates between seven and 14 nights in duration. These large cruise ships take care of everything—food, activities, entertainment, and trip planning. Ideal for multi-generational family travel, large cruise ships have the ability to cater to a wide-range of interests, abilities, and comfort levels. Dining is available around the clock; you can shop on board or visit the casino, gym, night club, pool, theater, or kid’s club; and the concierge can arrange for anything your heart desires.

Alternatively, you could opt for a smaller cruise ship, with far less passengers on board, which will allow you to tailor your interests for a more intimate experience. UnCruise Adventures , for example, offers more active itineraries. Lindblad Expeditions is perfect for nature enthusiasts that want to delve deeper into wildlife experiences—the ships are equipped with a hydrophone to listen to whales as well as an undersea HD video camera to delight and educate guests on board.

The interior of Alaska is wild and rugged, home to Denali National Park and the highest peak—Denali—in North America. Photographers, hikers, and wildlife devotees will relish a trip here where you can spot the big five: moose, caribou, Dall sheep, wolves, and grizzly bears.

With a history dating back to 1903, the Alaska Railroad is one of the best modes of transportation for seeing the interior of this grand state. Travel from Anchorage, the largest city at 300,000, to the intrepid town of Talkeetna, where a cat served as mayor   for more than 18 years.

Only one road travels in and out of Denali National Park , and to get from one end to the other on all 92 miles, you’ll have to enlist the services of the park system’s bus (private vehicles are only allowed on the first 15 miles). With a guided tour of the park, you’ll see Igloo Canyon, Drunken Forests, Polychrome and Sable Passes, kettle ponds, grassy flats, glaciers, and braids of river dotted with moose. 

Make the most of your time in Alaska through the trip planners at Pursuit . The Denali Backcountry Adventure includes an adventurous stay at the Denali Backcountry Lodge in Kantishna, located at the very end of the road. Here you can go on guided hikes, botany walks, mountain bike rides, and pan for gold. Pursuit can also arrange for visits to Jeff King’s Husky Homestead as well as air taxi service ( Kantishna Air Taxi ) between Kantishna to the Denali National Park entrance.

The Southcentral region includes the Anchorage area, Copper River Valley, Kenai Peninsula, Mat-Su Valley, and Prince William Sound. Over half of Alaska’s population calls this region home   . From cultural historic tours to dog sledding to flight tours to rafting and kayaking to panning for gold, there’s much to do in this area.

In this region, glacier and wildlife cruising is wildly popular and there are a number of lines that can make all of your Alaska dreams come true: Stan Stephens Glacier and Wildlife Cruises , Kenai Fjords Tours via Pursuit’s Alaska Collection , Major Marine Tours , and Portage Glacier Cruises .

For active and exciting land adventures, enlist the services of a guiding outfit that can create a custom trip. Kennicott Wilderness Guides offers water adventures, ice climbing, and hiking trips. St. Elias Alpine Guides offers multi-sport adventures like glacier hikes, ice cave exploration, rafting, flightseeing, kayaking, and skiing.

The landscapes in this region, which include Katmai National Park , Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, Bristol Bay, Alaska Peninsula, Aleutian Islands, Kodiak Archipelago, and the Pribilof Islands, is incredibly multi-faceted. The national parks and preserves in the Alaska Peninsula also includes Lake Clark National Park , where you’ll see a salmon run, volcanoes, craggy mountains, and immense lakes.

The Alaska Bear and Wildlife Cruise, through Adventure Kodiak , is a six day and six night all-inclusive cruise, which includes an intimate photography-lovers experience. See salmon eating brown bears, foxes, wolves, sea otters and lions, bald eagles, humpback whales, and puffins. The 58-foot boat is small enough in size that you’ll get an up-close view of Alaska’s wildlife and landscapes.

Travel Alaska, "Arctic Coast" . 2020

Smithsonian Magazine, "Small Alaska Town Mourns Loss of Stubbs the Cat, Beloved Honorary Mayor" . July, 2017

State of Alaska , 2020

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A Month-By-Month Guide to Anchorage

In Anchorage, every month offers something special to experience — from seasonal natural wonders to holiday celebrations and unique Alaska activities. Whether you’re searching for a sun-soaked summer adventure or a cozy winter getaway under the glow of the northern lights, Alaska’s largest city is the place to start.

Alaska in Every Season

Ring in the New Year with northern lights, skiing, skating, dog sledding, and cozy days spent exploring Anchorage’s vibrant arts scene and cultural institutions. The popular Anchorage Folk Festival keeps the city humming, while Alaska Beer Week generates a buzz around Anchorage’s favorite craft brews. Ride the Alaska Railroad to Hurricane Turn for snow-capped Denali Views, or hop aboard a helicopter for an aerial sightseeing tour of Chugach State Park and its stunning glaciers.

Average January temperatures linger in the low 20s, and days see fewer than six hours of sunlight — which makes for crisp, long nights perfect for soaking up the city’s sparkling aurora views.

February belongs to Fur Rondy — Anchorage’s iconic seasonal celebration dating back to the community’s early days, when Alaska miners and fur trappers would rendezvous in the city after a winter’s worth of work. These days, the two-week festival includes the World Championship Sled Dog Races, the famous Running of the Reindeer, a parade, a fireworks show, a carnival, and numerous other only-in-Alaska events.

Snowshoeing, dog sledding, skiing, aurora hunting, and other favorite Alaska outdoor activities fill the rest of the month.

While average February temperatures hover in the mid-20s, the days are growing longer, with an average of nearly 8 hours of light per day — ideal for long weekends on the slopes at Alyeska Resort, Hilltop Ski Area, or Arctic Valley.

The end of Fur Rondy corresponds with the start of the Iditarod , and March is a month for cheering some of the world’s best canine athletes as they make their way north to Nome. The ceremonial start of the Last Great Race takes place on Fourth Avenue in downtown Anchorage, and the city fills with mushing merriment. Once the teams take off, March visitors to Anchorage enjoy spring skiing, arts and cultural attractions, and the return of gray whales migrating north from Baja (make sure to book a day trip cruise through Resurrection Bay).

Average March temperatures reach into the 30s, and with nearly 12 hours of average daily sunlight, conditions are perfect for enjoying both the northern lights and favorite daytime activities.

April in Anchorage means spring is in full swing, and Alyeska Resort’s annual Slush Cup makes the most of any snow left on the mountains, with costumed skiers leaping over an icy pond to the cheers of the gathered crowd. Meanwhile, new baby animals begin to make their first appearances at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and around town, and at the end of the month, some of the state’s best athletes converge in Anchorage to compete in the NYO Games — a fun-filled celebration of traditional Alaska Native sports and games.

Average April temperatures hover in the low 40s, and days average nearly 15 hours of light throughout the month, marking the unofficial end of aurora season.

Anchorage blossoms in May: The city’s recognizable red Anchorage Trolley Tours and other sightseeing tours begin their daily departures from downtown, glacier cruises begin sailing Portage Lake and Prince William Sound, and the king salmon start running at Ship Creek.

With average temperatures reaching the low 50s, and days averaging more than 16 hours of sunlight, May in Anchorage is a bright, balmy precursor to the coming Alaska summer.

The flowers are blooming in Town Square Park, the annual Slam’n Salmon Festival lures anglers to Ship Creek, and Alaskans are preparing to celebrate Summer Solstice with baseball, a carnival, live music, barbecues, and other festivities. Hikers head for the mountain peaks and rolling valleys of Chugach State Park, and Anchorage’s city lakes become prime places for paddling (try a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or canoe).

Average June temperatures reach into the 60s, and Anchorage basks in more than 19 hours of daily light.

July — traditionally featuring some of Alaska’s favorite summer festivals — spells fun for the whole family. Make plans to experience Anchorage’s Fourth of July celebration, the annual Bear Paw Festival, and the Girdwood Forest Fair, then unwind with some hiking, biking, fishing, or flightseeing. July is the month to do it all.

Temperatures linger in the 60s but can reach the high 70s, and with an average of about 18 hours of light per day, conditions are ripe for outdoor adventures.

August marks the beginning of berry season in Anchorage, and the blueberry patches grow thick along the Chugach State Park mountainsides. Alyeska Resort’s annual Blueberry Festival is a fun-filled way to enjoy the juicy harvest, and the city’s hiking trails and urban greenspaces fill with berry pickers hauling buckets and baskets.

Temperatures hover in the 60s, and days average around 16 hours of light. With nights beginning to lengthen, the end of August can bring the first few aurora sightings of the season.

Fall colors begin to creep across the landscape in September, and the Anchorage Bowl shifts from shades of green to gold, crimson, and bronze. The area’s large moose population enters the rutting season and begin congregating in the city for the coming winter – creating ideal conditions for wildlife watchers and photographers (just be sure to keep a safe distance). Meanwhile, city hiking and biking trails remain popular destinations for those looking to enjoy the fall foliage and still snow-free ground.

Average daily temperatures hover in the high 50s, while 13 average daily hours of light keeps the city bright for outdoor recreation.

The aurora season heats up in October, when clear nights draw photographers and admirers to the many scenic viewpoints around Anchorage. The days stay lively with Oktoberfest activities, fall sightseeing and wildlife watching, and abundant rainbow trout fishing opportunities. Visitors can find unique only-in-Alaska experiences around the clock.

Average temperatures are in the 40s, and with around 10 hours of average daily light, October brings an ideal blend of crisp fall days and brilliant northern nights.

Snow begins to blanket the city in November, paving the way for iconic Alaska activities like skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog sledding , and more. Explore Anchorage’s world-class cross-country trails , head to Alyeska Resort or Arctic Valley to hit downhill ski slopes with stunning Chugach State Park views, and stay cozy sampling locally grown foods and craft beers at Anchorage’s favorite restaurants and breweries.

Average temperatures range in the upper 20s, and days see an average of 7 hours of daily light.

Anchorage’s holiday season is an inviting mix of sparkling city nights, luminous northern lights, snow-packed winter sports, and heartwarming community gatherings. Lace up a pair of ice skates (rentals are available) to take a spin across the hot-mopped surface of Westchester Lagoon , watch the popular tree-lighting ceremony in Town Square Park, sing carols with the crowd at Anchorage’s annual Tuba Christmas concert, or admire the New Year’s Eve fireworks over Ship Creek.

Average daily temperatures hover in the 20s, with around 6 hours of average daily light.

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Home » Blog » Epic 6 Day Southeast Alaska Itinerary

Epic 6 Day Southeast Alaska Itinerary

Southeast Alaska should be on everyone’s bucket list! I have traveled to this beautiful region three times now, and each visit has blown me away. Whether you’re into hiking, cultural sights, national parks, food, or wildlife, there really is something for any type of visitor to enjoy. Ready to start planning your trip? I’ve got you covered! In this article, I am sharing an EPIC 6 day Southeast Alaska Itinerary , plus planning tips and more!

Disclaimer : This blog post is in collaboration with Visit Southeast Alaska . Some parts of the article also feature affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). It’s one of the ways I can keep producing free guides and resources for my readers. Learn more about my affiliate policy  here . Thank you for the support!

I’ve explored Southeast Alaska a few different ways in the past. My first visit was on a week-long Inside Passage cruise traveling to and from Seattle (summer 2012). The cruise visited Vancouver Island, Ketichan, Juneau, Glacier Bay, and Skagway.

My second visit to Southeast Alaska was during my 2017 national parks road trip and I enjoyed exploring Glacier Bay National Park on foot as well as by smaller boat.

Now to my third and most recent visit to Southeast Alaska – a 6 day itinerary exploring Sitka, Prince of Wales Island, Juneau, and Haines. I traveled with my husband and we opted to travel during the week of August 16 – 21, 2021. It turned out to be an incredible trip!

You might be wondering which trip was my favorite? They all had numerous pros and cons but I do think this most recent trip was my favorite due to a few reasons. The first being that I much preferred land and plane travel in comparison to being on a massive cruise ship.

I know some people love cruising, but I personally prefer to travel more on my own schedule these days. It was also nice to be able to support local people by booking accommodation and tours with smaller businesses.

Before we jump into this Southeast Alaska itinerary, I first want to acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands we visited. During this trip, we were exploring the ancestral lands of the Tlingit people .

Aani , the region of Southeast Alaska, is also home to Haida people (from Haida Gwaii , an archipelago just off the coast of British Columbia), but we only visited Tlingit lands during this trip.

Day 1 – Sitka

Day 1 began with a morning flight out of Seattle that flew direct to Sitka, taking approximately 2 hours. It was a beautiful flight into Sitka, so make sure to snag a window seat! We picked up a rental car at Sitka Airport, but you could definitely get around the city via taxi if you don’t plan to venture far.

Stop 1 – lunch at Mean Queen

We stopped by Mean Queen for some delicious pizza. My husband and I split the Imperial Pie and had zero regrets. Ask for a table by the window for beautiful water views.

Mean Queen location : 205 Harbor Dr, Sitka, AK 99835. Get directions on Google Maps

Stop 2 – Sitka National Historical Park

Next up we explored Sitka National Historical Park , which is on Crescent Bay and a few minutes southeast of downtown Sitka. We enjoyed walking around the Totem Trail and learned a lot about Tlingit culture in the process.

During our walk, we also saw numerous watching bald eagles and plenty of spawning fish. We took a self-guided walk but there are also ranger-led walks available.

Sitka National Historical Park location : 103 Monastery St, Sitka, AK 99835. Get directions on Google Maps

Tours that might interest you in the Sitka area :

• Sitka Day Excursion to Fortress of the Bear, Raptor Center, and Sitka National Historical Park
• Sitka Shore Excursion: Whale-Watching and Marine Life Tour
• Half-Day Sitka Sound Paddle & Cruise

Stop 3 – Harbor Mountain Trail

We opted to hike one of Sitka’s most beautiful trails for sunset, the Harbor Mountain Trail . You could do this during the day instead of for sunset, or you could also opt to visit the Harbor Mountain picnic area and watch the sunset, rather than hiking.

I recommend bringing bear spray if possible (we bought ours in town at Russell’s ) as there are black bears in the Sitka area. Read my hiking bear safety guide for tips on staying safe in bear country .

Keep in mind that the Harbor Mountain Trail is accessible from a couple of different spots and is also often called the Gavin Hill Harbor Mountain Trail. We opted to hike the trail from the trailhead on forest service road NF-7576 (also known as Harbor Mountain Road) and traveled out and back across Harbor Mountain Ridge to the Gavan Hill Hut . In total, the hike was just under 5 miles roundtrip and about 1000 feet of elevation gain. Check out this guide for information on hiking the entire trail.

Guided tour option : Debi, a Sitka local, offers guided hiking tours in the area. Click here for more information .

Harbor Mountain Trailhead location : The trailhead/parking lot is at the end of forest service road NF-7576 (also known as Harbor Mountain Road), north of downtown Sitka. This is a gravel road but does not require 4×4 or high clearance. Get directions on Google Maps

Sitka Accomodation

We stayed the night at the Totem Square Hotel & Marina . It wasn’t super fancy but it was clean, comfortable, and centrally located. Click here to book the Totem Square Hotel & Marina

Totem Square Hotel location : 201 Katlian St, Sitka, AK 99835. Get directions on Google Maps

More Sitka accommodation options:

• Longliner Lodge and Suites
• Sitka Hotel
• Eagle Bay Inn
• Sitka Lighthouse

Day 2 – Prince of Wales Island

Day 2 of our Southeast Alaska itinerary saw us start in Sitka and end on beautiful Prince of Wales Island . Sitka is a relatively small town (population of 8,640) but our next destinations, Klawock and Craig, are even smaller! Klawock has just 831 residents and Craig has 1,189.

We really loved the small-town vibes but I would recommend downloading offline maps before you get there as we didn’t have any phone service with our Verizon plans.

Stop 1 – Fish Eye Coffee

We started our day bright and early with some delicious drinks from Fish Eye Coffee . I highly recommend the Island latte and my husband loved his Lavender Caramel latte. This is a drive-up coffee shop but you can also walk up and order.

Fish Eye Coffee location : 607 Halibut Point Rd, Sitka, AK 99835. Get directions n Google Maps .

Stop 2 – Fly to Klawock

Next up we took an early morning flight to Klawock , located on Prince of Wales Island. We flew with Alaska Seaplanes and the journey took about 1 hour. Sadly it was cloudy so we didn’t get many views, but I hear this flight can be breathtaking!

Stop 3 – Explore some Local Businesses

We picked up a rental car upon arrival at Klawock Airport. The company we used was DJ’s Hollis Adventure Rental and the car was there waiting for us when we landed. Next up we stopped by some local businesses on our way through to the town of Craig.

First up we met Kathy of Taat’s Arts & Design . She graciously sang us some traditional Tlingit songs and shared the stories behind her beautiful artwork and designs. Afterward, we stopped by Wildfish Cannery to meet the team and learn about how they create their products. and of course, we had to buy some to take home!

Stop 4 – Lunch at Annie Betty’s Bakery Cafe

We drove about 15 minutes south to the town of Craig and were ready to grab something to eat. There isn’t a huge selection of restaurants/cafes to choose from in Craig but we did find a cute cafe that had great food – Annie Betty’s Bakery Cafe . I recommend the veggie panini, cookies, and the lavender caramel latte.

Annie Betty’s Bakery Cafe location : 302 Thompson Rd, Craig, AK 9992. Get directions on Google Maps .

Stop 5 – Boat Tour and Waterfall Hike

Next up was the highlight of our day – an amazing boat tour with Emerald Island Adventures ! We met the owner Stephanie at North Cove Harbor and boarded the Luna Sea, her 21′ aluminum landing craft.

She took us out for the afternoon and catered the tour to what we wanted to see (I think it was technically the Whales and Waterfall tour ). We saw black bears, eagles, sea otters, seals, sea lions, humpback whales, and spawning salmon.

The best part of the tour was landing at Canoe Point and taking a short hike to the Canoe Point Waterfall . The 130-foot waterfall was surrounded by lush forest and dramatic basalt columns. It blew us away and definitely exceeded any expectations we had for our afternoon adventure!

Emerald Island Adventures location : 33 North Cove Harbor, Craig, AK 99921. Get directions on Google Maps .

Prince of Wales Accomodation

We stayed in Craig in one of Aimee’s Cabin Rentals , specifically the ‘Blue Cabin’. It was really cozy and even had its own kitchen. The only downside is that there wasn’t any WiFi, which is probably not an issue for most visitors.

Aimee’s Cabin Rentals location : 501 Main St, Craig, AK 99921. Get directions on Google Maps .

Day 3 – Juneau

Day 3 of our Southeast Alaska trip involved traveling from Prince of Wales Island to Juneau. We started our day with breakfast back at Annie Betty’s Bakery Cafe before making our way to the airport.

Stop 1 – Travel to Juneau

We took an early flight out of Klawock with Alaska Seaplanes and the journey to Juneau took about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon landing in Juneau we picked up a rental car from the airport, checked into our hotel, and set off to explore! Click here to search for a rental car in Juneau .

Stop 2 – Lunch aT Deckhand Dave’s Fish Tacos

Our stomachs were rumbling and lunch was well and truly in order when we arrived in Juneau! We had heard amazing things about Deckhand Dave’s Fish Tacos and needed to try it for ourselves. We ordered the fish and chips and a fish taco trio – it was all so fresh and delicious!

Deckhand Dave’s location : 139 S Franklin St, Juneau, AK 99801. Get directions on Google Maps.

Stop 3 – Explore Mendenhall Glacier

Next up it was time to explore the beautiful Mendenhall Glacier ! We were experiencing a very rainy day and visibility was poor, but luckily we had seen the glacier in all its glory on a previous visit to Juneau. If you don’t have a rental car then you can use this shuttle service .

This visit was still enjoyable despite the rain! We spent some time exploring the Visitor Center , walking to Nugget Falls , and watching salmon spawning along Steep Creek (just near the parking lot). You can often view bears at Steep Creek but we didn’t see any during our visit.

Note that there is a $5 per person entrance fee to visit Mendenhall Glacier, payable at ticket machines on arrival (they take card).

Mendenhall Glacier location : 6000 Glacier Spur Rd, Juneau, AK 99801. Get directions on Google Maps .

Tour options for exploring Mendenhall Glacier :

• Group Mendenhall Glacier Trek ( Private Tour option )
• Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle and Trek
• Mendenhall Glacier Float Trip
• Whale Watch and Mendenhall Glacier Combo
• Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier

Stop 4 – Eagle Beach State Recreation Area

After exploring the Mendenhall Glacier we opted to drive about 30 minutes to Eagle Beach State Recreation Area . This area is known for wildlife viewing and beautiful views of the Eagle River, Lynn Canal, Chilkat Mountains, and the Juneau Mountains.

You can park in a few different pullovers and parking lots and I recommend checking out both Eagle Beach itself and also the parking lot just before that. From there you can walk to a small bridge where bears are often spotted fishing for salmon (we saw two black bears!) The GPS coordinates are 58.5260845, -134.8148374.

Eagle Beach location : Tongass National Forest, 28955 Glacier Hwy, Juneau, AK 99801. Get directions on Google Maps .

Other Juneau wildlife tour options :

• Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching
• Juneau Shore Excursion: Pack Creek Bear Viewing
• Premier Juneau Whale Watching Expedition
• Juneau Whale Watching and Salmon Bake
• Sunset Whale Watching and Nature Adventure in Juneau

Stop 5 – Dinner at Hangar On The Wharf

We enjoyed a relaxed dinner at The Hangar On The Wharf . The views here would be spectacular during the day and I hear you can often spot whales!

Hangar On The Wharf location : 2 Marine Way Ste 106, Juneau, AK 99801. Get directions on Google Maps .

Juneau Accomodation

We opted to stay at the Silverbow Inn Hotel and Suites , located in downtown Juneau. It was in an amazing location, the staff were all super friendly, and our bed was the comfiest of the trip. I would definitely stay here again! Click here to book your stay at the Silverbow Inn .

Silverbow Inn location : 120 2nd St, Juneau, AK 99801. Get directions on Google Maps .

Day 4 – Haines

Day 4 of our Southeast Alaska itinerary began in beautiful Juneau and ended in the small town of Haines . Haines was the final destination on our Southeast Alaska trip and where we opted to spend the most time.

Stop 1 – The Rookery cafe

Our first stop of the day was breakfast at The Rookery Cafe . We really enjoyed the food here and love the aesthetic vibes inside. Matt ordered the french toast and I had the avocado toast – both were delicious!

Rookery Cafe location : 120 2nd St, Juneau, AK 99801. Get directions on Google Maps .

Stop 2 – Fly to Haines

Then it was time to fly to our next Southeast Alaska destination, Haines ! We departed from Juneau International Airport (JNU) and flew with Alaska Seaplanes direct to Haines. The flight was only about 35-40 minutes from memory and the views were spectacular! Glaciers galore.

Our rental car was waiting at the airport on our arrival in Haines. It was booked through Lynn View Lodge Car Rentals .

Stop 3 – Lunch at Sarah J’s Espresso Shoppe

We were ready for lunch by this point and decided to check out a highly rated cafe in downtown Haines, Sarah J’s Espresso Shoppe . We ordered some delicious coffee and veggie burritos. They even offered us free ice cream!

Sarah J’s location : 132 2nd Ave, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps .

Stop 4 – Haines Sheldon Museum

Next up we visited the Haines Sheldon Museum to get acquainted with the Chilkat Valley’s history . There were various displays to look at and we learned a lot about not only Haines but also the surrounded areas, Tlingit culture, and local artists.

Haines Sheldon Museum location : 11 Main St, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps .

Looking for a guided tour to learn more about the Chilkat Valley? Check out this Cultural Heritage Half-Day Tour .

Stop 5 – Port Chilkoot Distillery

My husband and I both enjoy a good cocktail , particularly anything with whiskey in it. So of course we had to check out Port Chilkoot Distillery !

The Port Chilkoot Distillery team craft their spirits in small batches onsite in Haines. They craft gin, bourbon, rye whiskey, vodka, and absinthe. We really enjoyed their cocktails and will definitely be ordering some of their bourbon and rye whiskey for home!

We ended up getting takeout for dinner from a cool food truck parked next to the distillery. It’s called Camino and was probably one of our favorite meals of the trip! Both the fish and chips and the falafel wrap were incredible.

Port Chilkoot Distillery location : 34 Blacksmith St, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps .

Stop 6 – Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve

To end the day, we decided to drive up the Haines Highway to watch the sunset and also do some wildlife spotting. The Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is situated between miles 8 through 31 on the Haines Highway and there are four main viewing pullouts between miles 18 and 21.

This area and is home to the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles and the Preserve in total consists of 48,000 acres of protected lands. You can simply drive along the Haines Highway looking out for eagles, or you can stop at various viewpoints. We also opted to walk along the river for a little while to watch the sunset.

Be sure to stay within the designated areas to prevent stressful conditions for the eagles. They need their space to roost and feed.

Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve location : Haines Hwy, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps .

Bald eagle viewing tour options from Haines :

• Rafting to Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve from Haines
• Half-Day Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve Float Tour
• Eagle Preserve Float Trip in Haines
• Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari from Haines

Haines Accomodation

We stayed in the cutest accommodation during our visit to Haines! Only 8 minutes out from downtown Haines is Chilkat Inlet Retreat and they have numerous yurts that visitors can rent for one or multiple nights. Our yurt was a short walk from the stunning Chilkat Inlet and we also got to sleep to the sound of a running creek every night.

At Chilkat Inlet Retreat, guests have access to their own heated yurt, as well as a shared lodge building that has a full kitchen, a large seating area, and wifi. Visitors also have access to the property’s beach which boasts endless mountain and ocean views.

Book your stay : Chilkat Inlet Retreat Yurts , from $100/night for 2 people

Chilkat Inlet Retreat location : 4 mile, Mud Bay Rd, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps .

Day 5 – Haines

Day 5 was our last full day in Southeast Alaska so we did our best to make the most of it! We ended up hiking a mountain summit, watched brown bears fish for spawning salmon, foraged for mushrooms, and ate some delicious food.

Stop 1 – Rusty Compass Coffeehouse

We started our day with a yummy breakfast from Rusty Compass Coffeehouse . I highly recommend their Creme Brule Latte!

Rusty Compass location : 116 Main St, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps .

Stop 2 – Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area

Next up we headed to Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area . This was a 16-minute drive from Haines and the views were incredible! Definitely take advantage of any pullouts along the way and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. We saw countless bald eagles on our drive.

Be sure to stop by the park weir to see if any bears are out fishing ( GPS coordinates ). We saw two different brown bears fishing, one female and one male. Remember to keep your distance, carry bear spray, and only park your car in designated areas.

Next, we headed down to Chilkoot Lake and spent some time walking around the lakeshore and river. We foraged for mushrooms with some nice locals we met and overall we were blown away by the area’s spectacular views.

Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Area Location : 10 Mile, Lutak Rd, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps .

Bear viewing and photography tours from Haines :

• Chilkoot Wilderness and Wildlife Viewing Tour
• Focus on Haines Private Nature and Photography Tour
• Private Wildlife Photography Tour from Haines

Stop 3 – Hike Mount Riley

We decided to spend the rest of our day hiking Mount Riley , one of Haines’ most loved trails. The Mount Riley Trail traverses through lush forest and eventually brings you up a summit with 360-degree views.

The hike totals 5 miles roundtrip and around 1700 feet of elevation gain, so make sure to pack some snacks and plenty of water. Click here to check out my hiking guides , including what to wear, the best hiking shoes, and more.

Remember to be bear aware when hiking in Alaska. Read my guide on hiking bear safety precautions . I also recommend downloading an offline trail map for this hike to ensure you don’t get lost. My preferred method is via the Gaia GPS App and you can click here to get 20% off a premium membership .

Guided tour option : Full-day Mount Riley Hike from Haines

Mount Riley Trailhead Location : 59°11’45.3″N 135°25’13.3″W, Mud Bay Road, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps

Want to do more hiking in the Haines area? Check out this nearby Full-Day Chilkat Inlet Coastal Hike from Haines

Stop 4 – Dinner At Alpenglow Pizza

We were HUNGRY after hiking haha, so pizza for dinner was in order! Alpenglow had come recommended to us and it did not disappoint. We loved the “Fun-Gi” pizza!

Alpenglow Location : 214 Main St, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps

Day 6 – Haines and return home

Our final day exploring Southeast Alaska! Luckily we had an afternoon flight so could make the most of our morning before heading back to Seattle.

Stop 1 – Chilkoot Lake Kayaking Tour

The highlight of our last day (and maybe of the whole trip!) was kayaking on Chilkoot Lake . We took a guided tour with Rainbow Glacier Adventures and saw incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountain peaks. We also got to paddle close by some salmon spawning streams and spotted multiple bald eagles along the shore.

Suggested tour : Guided Chilkoot Lake Kayaking with Rainbow Glacier Adventures

Chilkoot Lake Location : Chilkoot Lake State Recreation Site – 10 Mile, Lutak Rd, Haines, AK 99827. Get directions on Google Maps

Water-based tour options in Haines :

• Chilkoot Lake Kayak Tour with Rainbow Glacier Adventures
• Jet Boat Adventure and Raptor Expedition
• Inside Passage Sea Kayaking in Haines

Stop 2 – Fly to Juneau and Then Home

Then it was sadly time to leave! We flew from Haines to Juneau with Alaska Seaplanes and then caught an Alaska Air flight back to Seattle.

Southeast Alaska Itinerary Map

To make following this Southeast Alaska itinerary a little easier, below you will find a map with pins of all of the above locations and stops.

Best Time to Visit Southeast Alaska

The best time of year to complete this Southeast Alaska itinerary would be during summer . Alaska’s summer is said to run from May 10 to September 15 but peak summer season is June to August . This is because the weather is usually optimal during those months, with warmer and dryer conditions.

It is still possible to visit during the shoulder months of May and September, but expect cooler temperatures. September is also rainier than the months of May through August. One bonus of visiting during shoulder season is discounts on some hotels and tours.

Insiders tip : when speaking to various locals they recommended June 15 – July 15 for the best weather possible.

Summer Weather in Alaska

Summer in Alaska is definitely colder than many people expect. Daytime highs range 60°F – 80°F and nighttime lows can be quite cool, dropping into the 40’s – 50’s. In the shoulder months of May and September you can expect temperatures to be even cooler (5 °F – 10 °F lower).

What about rain? May is typically the driest month in Alaska (25% chance of rain on any given day) and it gets rainier as the summer months go on. By September there is a 50% chance of rain on any given day.

Traveling To Southeast Alaska During The Covid-19 Pandemic

As of September 2021 when I am writing this guide, Southeast Alaska is currently open to tourists and there are no special entry or travel testing requirements in place.

According to https://covid19.alaska.gov/travelers : “The State of Alaska has no special entry or travel testing requirements. Beginning  June 1, 2021 , all travelers to Alaska will be eligible to receive a free COVID-19 vaccine in Alaska, including at participating airports.”

In saying that, you cannot enter Alaska if you are currently positive with COVID-19 and must be released from isolation by a medical provider or public health agency before traveling. Testing is not recommended for individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 within 90 days.

It is also recommended by the State of Alaska that you follow the below precautions to keep local communities, yourself, and other tourists safe:

• Some communities in Alaska have COVID-19 travel rules. Find out if your destination has travel restrictions .
• Come to Alaska fully vaccinated and wait two weeks after the receipt of one dose of a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine, or the second dose in a two-dose series.
• Test for COVID-19 before traveling, especially for non-vaccinated travelers.
• Travelers who are not fully vaccinated should get tested when arriving. Fully-vaccinated travelers may choose to get tested as well. Testing is FREE at many airports in Alaska.
• If you are not fully-vaccinated, practice social distancing until you receive test results. A second test, taken 5-7 days after arrival, is also recommended.
• Non-vaccinated travelers can vaccinate for FREE upon arrival at a participating airport or any community vaccine clinic.
• Get tested and self-isolate if you get sick or develop COVID-19 symptoms.
• Wash your hands frequently and wipe down high touch surfaces.
• Wear a face covering while indoors and whenever social distancing is challenging. 

How To Get to Southeast Alaska

The easiest way to get to Southeast Alaska is by flying into one of the area’s major airports, such as Juneau or Sitka . You can also fly to Anchorage and then get a connecting flight down to the Southeast region. Once you arrive in Southeast Alaska it’s easy to get around by ferry, driving, or with Alaska Seaplanes .

We opted to take a direct flight from Seattle to Sitka and then when traveling home we flew on a direct flight from Juneau to Seattle. Click here to research flights for your Southeast Alaska trip .

What To Pack for a Southeast Alaska Trip

Packing for this summer Southeast Alaska itinerary was more akin to packing for a fall trip. The reason being is that summer temperatures in Alaska are definitely on the cooler side and you have to be prepared for sudden changes in weather . We experienced some rainy days on our trip and were thankful we packed adequate clothing!

Clothing and Shoes to bring to Southeast Alaska

• Rain jacket . Suggested > Arc’teryx Zeta SL Jacket ( budget friendly option )
• Rain pants . Suggested > Arc’teryx Beta SL Pant ( budget friendly option )
• Insulated jacket . Suggested > Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hooded Down Jacket ( budget friendly option )
• Fleece sweater . Suggested > Patagonia Better Sweater 1/4-Zip Fleece
• Long sleeve top . Suggested > Icebreaker Sphere LS Low Crewe Shirt
• Short sleeve top . Suggested > Icebreaker Sphere SS Low Crewe Shirt
• Leggings / hiking pants . Suggested > Sweaty Betty Power Sculpt 7/8 Workout Legging
• Casual pants . Suggested > prAna Kayla Jean
• Beanie . Suggested > The North Face Logo Beanie
• Sun hat . Suggested > Patagonia P-6 Label Trad Cap
• Gloves . Suggested > Smartwool Liner Glove
• Waterproof boots . Suggested > Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boot
• Casual boots . Suggested > Blundstone Classic 550 Chelsea Boot
• Wool socks . Suggested > Smartwool Classic Hike Light Cushion Crew Sock
• Underwear + bras

Arc’teryx Zeta SL Jacket

Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boots

The North Face Logo beanie

Other items to bring to Southeast Alaska

• Day backpack . Suggested > Osprey Packs Tempest 24L Backpack
• Sunglasses . Suggested > Smith Cheetah Polarized Sunglasses
• Binoculars . Suggested > Nocs Provisions 8×25 Waterproof Binoculars
• Hand Sanitizer
• Camera euipment
• Phone + charger
• Cash + cards
• Identification

Osprey Tempest 24L Backpack

Nocs Provisions Waterproof Bicoculars

Blundstone Classic 550 Chelsea Boots

More Adventure Trip Inspiration

I hope you found this 6 day Southeast Alaska itinerary to be helpful! Below you will find some more trip inspiration:

• Guide to Exploring Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
• Ultimate Yellowstone to Grand Teton Road Trip Itinerary
• Incredible 7 Day Oregon Road Trip Itinerary
• The Ultimate New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Utah National Parks Road Trip: Explore the Mighty 5
• Incredible Iceland Road Trip Itinerary and Planning Guide

PIN for Later Planning

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One comment on “ Epic 6 Day Southeast Alaska Itinerary ”

Researching for a possible trip this August 2022, this was super helpful thanks! Anything you would change about this itinerary?

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