alaska trip in winter

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Winter Tours

Northern lights, dog sledding, skiing, iditarod, snowmobiling, snowshoeing.

Home » Tours » Natural Attractions » Winter Tours

Winter in Alaska is prime time for Alaskans, and the time of year we enjoy our favorite outdoor sports and activities. As Alaska’s natural surroundings become even more dramatic in the winter, new opportunities for viewing aurora borealis (the northern lights ), dog sledding , ice fishing, ice climbing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, skiing, and more open up new territory for all Alaska visitors.

Alaska’s most popular winter visitor experiences include northern lights viewing and dog mushing, but there is plenty more to see and do. The Interior and Far North regions sit below what is known as the “auroral oval,” a crown of charged particles that rings the earth’s northernmost latitudes and leads to intense northern light displays. Northern lights viewing tours combine viewing from backcountry cabins or other ideal locations with activities like soaking in hot springs, romantic dinners, dog mushing, skiing, snowmobiling, and more.

Alaska dog sledding or mushing tours can range from an hour to several days, giving guests hands-on experience as well as information about the care and feeding of sled dogs. Several dog mushing tours are oriented around the state’s biggest sporting event – the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race – including one that follows the 1,049-mile race from the start in Anchorage to the finish in Nome. Other winter activities include visiting museums and cultural facilities, snowmobiling, Alpine and Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and winter rail tours.

Alaska’s main winter cities are Anchorage and Fairbanks , with dozens of tours and activities for visitors. Girdwood and Alyeska Resort ski areas are located south of Anchorage along Turnagain Arm. From Fairbanks, winter tours are available to the Far North by air, by road on the Dalton Highway, or a combination of the two. The Alaska Railroad’s winter trains run from Anchorage to Fairbanks and back, with a stop in Talkeetna along the way. Many hotels offer guests a northern lights wake-up call so you don’t miss the magic, which often peaks after midnight.

Come experience the real Alaska on an Alaska winter vacation or tour with us!

Choose from 36 vacations in Alaska related to Winter Tours

Matanuska Glacier Hiking Out of Anchorage

Length: 9 hours

Starting at: $299 / pp

Depart Anchorage by van for an Alaska glacier adventure beginning with a narrated 100-mile drive north through the scenic Matanuska Susitna Valley on your way to Matanuska Glacier. Photo stops will be made along the way to capture... Browse itinerary

Borealis Basecamp and Northern Lights Tour

Duration: 5 days

Starting at: $1319 / pp

Just outside of Fairbanks, Borealis Basecamp offers a new and unique way to see the Northern Lights. The fiberglass domes at Borealis Basecamp have clear, curved windows that stretch 16 feet across each dome roof, allowing you to... Browse itinerary

Alaska Dreams Winter Tour

Duration: 7 days

Starting at: $2139 / pp

Start your adventure with a glacier trek from Anchorage, then continue your journey north to Fairbanks with the Alaska Railroad. Finally, conclude your trip with a stay at the exclusive Borealis Basecamp, where you can watch for the... Browse itinerary

Fairbanks Northern Lights Vacation Package

Duration: 4 days

Starting at: $869 / pp

Spend three nights in Fairbanks exploring the history and culture of this modern northern city, including the opportunity to view the spectacular northern lights, a sight the area is known for around the world. The day starts with... Browse itinerary

Chena Hot Springs Aurora Viewing Package from Fairbanks

Starting at: $919 / pp

Chena Hot Springs Resort offers an outdoor hot springs rock lake and an indoor pool, perfect for relaxing. Admission to the pools is included. The resort also offers guests a restaurant and is home to the Aurora Ice... Browse itinerary

Aurora Train Travel in Fall and Winter

Starting at: $1149 / pp

This Aurora Train travel experience on the Alaska Railroad features some of Alaska’s best fall and winter activities in Anchorage and Fairbanks.  Begin your fall or winter tour with a day trip from Anchorage on a guided tour... Browse itinerary

Alaska’s Glaciers, Hot Springs and Northern Lights

Starting at: $1749 / pp

Start your adventure with a glacier trek from Anchorage, then continue your journey north to Fairbanks with the Alaska Railroad. Finally, conclude your trip with a stay at Chena Hot Springs, where you can soak in hot springs... Browse itinerary

Alaska Winter Wonders Tour

Duration: 9 days

Starting at: $1929 / pp

Exploring Alaska in winter is easy and a great value. Start with a few nights at a luxurious hotel in the mountain village of Girdwood, then travel aboard the Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train from Anchorage to Fairbanks.... Browse itinerary

Ultimate Alaska Winter Wonderland and Iditarod

Duration: 8 days

Starting at: $2129 / pp

This comprehensive Alaska winter travel experience begins with sightseeing in Fairbanks, including a great chance to see the northern lights. Departing from Fairbanks, travel by motorcoach to the historic town of Healy on the outskirts of Denali National... Browse itinerary

Winter Wonderland and Iditarod

Starting at: $1209 / pp

All things Iditarod! Attend the Musher’s Banquet, visit a kennel, meet an Iditarod champion, and watch the ceremonial start and official start of the Last Great Race! Travel by van or coach from Anchorage: Tour Anchorage, the Anchorage... Browse itinerary

Iditarod Race Official Start Tour

Duration: 6 days

Starting at: $1479 / pp

Based in Anchorage for five nights, this Iditarod experience begins with the ceremonial start on snow-covered city streets, where you can have up-close viewing of this unique dog sledding event. The next day, travel to the community of... Browse itinerary

Glacier & Wildlife Flightseeing Tour

Length: 1.5 hours

Starting at: $386 / pp

Enjoy a day tour from Anchorage with flightseeing from Lake Hood over the majestic Chugach State Park! You will soar above the expansive Knik or Triumvirate Glacier on your flight, rimmed with spectacular hanging ice formations. With a... Browse itinerary

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Sample Winter Vacation Itinerary

Get your winter fun fix while exploring Alaska's unique landscape, culture and heritage with this sample winter vacation itinerary. Moderate temperatures and long spring daylight hours provide ideal conditions for winter play. Check out  Alaska Winter Activities  for more Alaska winter vacation ideas and top Alaska winter destinations.

Drive the Glenn Highway through Palmer to a scenic mountain lodge. Rent skis or snowshoes (many lodges provide complimentary gear), glide or trek through pristine snow for breathtaking views of the Chugach and Talkeetna Mountains. Relax and enjoy a gourmet dinner, outdoor sauna or curl up in your cozy lodge room.

Ice fish for land-locked salmon, fly over glaciers or Denali and visit a local museum. The day is yours, the list is endless.

Travel to Wasilla and visit the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters and then tour a genuine sled dog kennel. Meet Iditarod mushers, their future champion sled dog pups and learn how to mush a dog sled team. Overnight in Wasilla or Willow.

Ride deep into pristine Alaska backcountry by snowmobile and carve trail through some of the worlds most scenic and wilderness terrain. Snowmobile tours and rentals available throughout the Mat-Su Valley.

Fly out to a remote wilderness lodge and surround yourself in the serenity of Alaska wilderness as you feast on a gourmet meal and watch for the northern lights.

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Linda On The Run

Travel, Lifestyle, And Fitness For Those Over 60

• Destinations

9 Things to Know Before Traveling to Alaska in Winter

September 10, 2023 //  by  Linda On The Run //   Leave a Comment

There are many advantages to visiting Alaska in the winter, including cheaper prices, fewer crowds, and amazing outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing opportunities.

In winter, the Final Frontier becomes a beautiful, snowy wonderland and at night the northern lights dance across the sky.

You will not want to miss the chance to explore nature during an Alaska winter! Spot moose among snow-covered trees and ski down powdery slopes.

If you visit Alaska in December, you will love the Christmas lights and festivities too.

Keep reading to learn why winter might be the best time to go to Alaska!

It is a Great Time to See the Northern Lights

One of the top reasons people visit Alaska in winter is for the chance to see the northern lights or aurora borealis . This colorful natural phenomenon is on many bucket lists.

The northern lights are visible in Alaska from September through mid-April but you need the right conditions to spot them. It might take a few nights to see the lights well.

You need a clear sky far from any light pollution caused by big cities. Plan to be out from 10 pm to 2 am preferably on a night with no moon.

The best place to see the northern lights in Alaska is near Fairbanks. Since the town is located just under the auroral oval, it is in a prime location.

Fairbanks really is where to travel in winter for the northern lights! Other things to do in Fairbanks in winter include the Aurora Ice Museum and Chena Hot Springs.

For your best chance of seeing the northern lights in Alaska, consider booking a tour with an expert guide.

Book Here: From Fairbanks: Arctic Circle Northern Lights Full-Day Trip

Where to Stay in Fairbanks:

Affordable: Pike’s Waterfront Lodge . Check Rates: Booking.com

The Temperature and Weather Vary By Region

If you plan on traveling to Alaska in winter, you are in for a real treat!

When people think of an Alaska winter, they imagine snow, ice, and cold!

However, Alaska’s winter temperatures and weather vary depending on the region you visit. Some parts are not any colder than northern states in the lower 48.

Snowfall varies greatly even within each region. Across the state, the annual average snowfall ranges anywhere from 35 inches to about 650 inches. Valdez is the snowiest area.

No matter which area you plan on exploring, you will want to pack warm clothes with plenty of layers. Be ready for changing Alaska winter temperatures.

Southcentral Region

Southcentral Alaska, including Anchorage, Homer, and Seward, is one of the most popular parts of the state to visit in winter. There are many things to do in Anchorage !

The average high temp here is around 20 degrees Fahrenheit while the average low is about 10 F. It can dip down to 0 degrees F.

Southeast/Inside Passage Region

In the Southeast region, you will find Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park, and Ketchikan. It is warmer here and this coastal area sees the least snowfall.

The average high temps range from 30 to 40 F. The lows are around 20 to 30 F.

Southwest Region

In the Southwest, you can explore Kodiak Island and Lake Clark National Park. The weather here is influenced by the ocean and it can be windy.

The winter average high is around 30 F and the lows range from 5 F to the mid-20s F.

Interior Region

Of course, as you move farther north, it gets colder. The Interior region encompasses Fairbanks and Denali National Park. These are some of the best places to visit in Alaska !

In Fairbanks, expect the highs to decrease from about 10 F in November to hovering around 0 F in December and January. It then slowly increases to the low-20s F in April.

The lows range from -5 F to -20 F over the course of the season. Rarely, temps can drop to as low as -60 F.

It is a little warmer in Denali ranging from 9 F to 25 F as the average high. The lows range from around -10 F to 0 F. It can drop to -40 F.

Far North Region

Most likely, you will not be visiting the remote Far North section of Alaska during winter. This region mostly lies above the Arctic Circle and is freezing cold.

While it will reach just above 0 F at the bookends of the season, the majority of winter is anywhere from -5 to -30 F on average. It is stormy with high winds.

There is Not a Lot of Daylight

Like the temperature, daylight during winter in Alaska varies by region. There is less light the farther north you go. The shortest day of the year is the Winter Solstice on December 21.

On the solstice, Juneau has 6 hours and 22 minutes of light. Anchorage has 5 hours and 28 minutes of light. Up in Fairbanks, there is only 3 hours and 42 minutes of daylight.

North of the Arctic Circle, there is no daylight for days to months at a time.

After the solstice, the light gradually increases each day. If you want the most daylight during your trip, plan to visit at the beginning or end of the season.

Even though there is not a lot of daylight, there are plenty of things to do in Alaska after dark.

Spend time stargazing, searching for the northern lights, going night skiing, cozying up around a fire, or grabbing drinks at a bar.

Winter in Alaska is a Cheaper Time to Visit

If you are on a budget, it is good to know that winter in Alaska is one of the cheapest times to visit. Compared to summer, winter is the off-season with overall low prices.

Most hotels and car rentals are cheaper so you can save money. However, some major hotels and ski resorts can be just as expensive as summer.

Many activities and tours are also about the same price as high season but there are some deals.

Flight prices can vary so keep an eye out for lower fares and book in advance. Being flexible with your travel dates is important too.

It is Easy to Get Around

If you are worried about driving in Alaska during winter, there is nothing to fear! While the roads see their fair share of snow and ice, main highways and roads are quickly cleared and kept in good condition.

Renting a car is the best way to explore Alaska since it gives you more freedom. You can keep your own schedule and go wherever you want.

Rent an all-wheel or 4-wheel drive vehicle when you travel in winter. Check road conditions before you head out.

Rural and mountain roads are not as well kept up during winter and can be more difficult to traverse.

Even if you choose not to drive, there are plenty of easy ways to get around. Buses, ferries, airplanes, and taxis are available.

The Alaska Railroad offers train services that connect many cities such as Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Fairbanks. It also offers activity packages such as aurora viewing.

Another way to get around is by booking tours. Let a guide do the driving while you learn about and enjoy the sights.

To get to Alaska in the first place, flying is the best option any time of the year.

There Are No Cruises and Less Crowds During Winter In Alaska

Alaska’s cruise season is May through September so by winter there are no giant ships to be found at ports. No cruises mean the tourist crowds are dramatically reduced.

Mingle with the locals and walk city streets with fewer people. You’ll love the peace of popular nature spots without the noise and bustling of summer crowds.

Many attractions in Alaska are still open through winter as are numerous restaurants, bars, and shops.

Keep in mind that some winter events, such as the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, draw people in. Check local events before booking your trip.

Where to Stay in Anchorage: Mid-Range: Aloft Anchorage . Check Rates: Booking.com

Winter is a Good Time for Wildlife Viewing

Alaska is known for its amazing wildlife and winter provides ample chances to spot animals in snowy landscapes. With less vegetation, animals are easier to spot and footprints can be seen in the snow.

Moose move south in winter and commonly pop up in the city of Anchorage.

Some good places near Anchorage to see these massive animals include Chugach State Park and the Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge.

In November, the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles can be found on the shores of the Chilkat River near Haines. Over 3,000 eagles gather to eat salmon.

To get to Haines, you can fly or take a ferry from Juneau. You will not want to pass up on one of the best places to visit in Alaska for wildlife!

Other wildlife to keep an eye out for include Dall sheep, mountain goats, ravens, owls, harbor seals, wolves, and more!

Do not plan on seeing bears during winter in Alaska. They begin hibernating by late November and do not emerge until late March or early April.

Most whale species have migrated away from Alaska by November and they do not return until March. Orcas can be sighted year-round, especially in bays and inlets, but are rare.

Where to Stay in Juneau:

Luxury: Silverbow Inn & Suites . Check Rates: Booking.com

National Parks Can Be Limited During Winter in Alaska

Some of the best places in Alaska to visit in winter are the many national parks. Many of the parks are open during the winter months, but there is limited access and reduced services.

In Denali National Park, train and bus services are only open from mid-May through mid-September. You can drive private vehicles, but after snow falls, the road is only plowed until Mile 3.

Denali winter activities include stopping by the Murie Science and Learning Center, cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing, viewing the northern lights, and attending the Denali Winterfest in February.

In Kenai Fjords National Park, the visitor centers are closed in winter and the road to Exit Glacier is left unplowed. You can still reach the glacier by cross-country skis or snowmobile but it will be covered in snow.

A variety of Alaska winter tours of the park are offered by Adventure Sixty North. These include kayaking and snowmobiling. There is also a shuttle, which is great for family winter vacations in Alaska!

If you are looking for a true Alaska winter adventure, head to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. However the roads are not maintained, there are no services, and the visitor centers are closed.

You can go snowmobiling as well as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on trails. All equipment must be brought with you as there is nowhere to rent anything.

You have to visit national parks in Alaska during your trip!

Winter In Alaska Is An Amazing Time For Winter Sports

If you are a winter sports enthusiast, Alaska is one of the best winter vacations in the US!

For downhill skiing, plan on visiting the slopes at Alyeska Resort about an hour from Anchorage.

This top ski destination sits in the Chugach Mountains and has the “best view of any U.S. ski resort” according to Conde Nast Traveler .

There are 1,610 skiable acres with 76 runs and trails. Beginners can take a lesson while experts will want to test out the longest continuous double black diamond run in North America.

If you have ever wanted to try heli-skiing, you’ll have the chance too. Ride a helicopter to higher elevations to experience fresh, untouched snow.

The Alyeska Resort is also one of the best places to stay in Alaska. Amenities include a saltwater pool, a world-class Nordic spa, multiple restaurants, and incredible, cozy rooms.

Other places to visit in Alaska for skiing and snowboarding include Eaglecrest Ski Area, Skeetawk Ski Area, and Moose Mountain Ski Resort.

Ice skating is also a fun, family-friendly winter activity in Alaska. Imagine skating on a gorgeous, frozen lake surrounded by snowy mountains.

Check out Eklutna Lake Ice Skating, A.R.C. Lake Park, and Adventure Ice Skating at Potter Marsh.

Packing List When Visiting Alaska In Winter

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Alaska, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when vacationing during winter in Alaska.

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos during your London activities.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water when you want it.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc… No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

Alaska is sure to be one of the best winter vacations you’ll ever take! Fill your Alaska itinerary will skiing, wildlife viewing, northern lights, and riding trains.

Do you think winter is the best time to go to Alaska for your needs?

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15 Reasons to Visit Alaska in Winter Including Best Places to Visit

I may earn income from affiliate links or partnerships in this post. I spend time to curate tours or products that align with my values. Thanks for supporting my work, at no additional cost to you.

Last updated on June 29th, 2023 at 02:43 pm

Are you curious about the best time to visit Alaska? Most people visit Alaska in the summer, taking advantage of the easy cruise packages. I get it; navigating Alaska without the convenience of a cruise ship is a bit nerve-wracking, especially when you have to deal with snow and ice. However, visiting Alaska in winter can be one of the most rewarding trips you will ever take. Easily comparable to Finland or Norway, Alaska offers Northern Lights tours, snowy landscapes, world-class skiing, and your favorite winter activities. There are even some great local tour companies to help you plan and coordinate a trip, so you can sit back and relax while you enjoy Alaska like a true winter wonderland.  Visiting Alaska in winter is a great sustainable option that helps boost the local economy and diffuse mass tourism!

I went home to visit my family this winter (winter 2019), and my home state rewarded me with heavy snowfall followed by freezing temperatures which created this truly magical winter wonderland. I was reminded why I love Alaska in the winter so much. I’ll share some of my favorite reasons to visit Alaska in the winter, tour companies to help you plan a winter getaway, and the best places to visit in Alaska in winter, including a sample itinerary. While most local Alaskans live for those short summers, this Alaskan always had a soft spot for winter. *This post was recently updated in 2021. 

15 Reasons to Visit Alaska in Winter

1. see snowy landscapes.

One of the best things about visiting Alaska in winter is all the snowy landscapes that look straight out of a scene from Frozen. Alaskan winters are changing with global warming, but our winters are still snow-filled winter wonderlands for now. So, head north to Alaska and see endless mountains covered with snow, icy river banks with fluffy snow building up, and pine trees heavy laden with fat frost crystals.  

Our cities might not be as picturesque as a snowy European town, but the real beauty lies outside the city and in nature. Girdwood, the ski town, is tucked away among the mountains with amazing snow-filled trees and breathtaking inlet views from the ski slopes. Visiting Girdwood is one of my favorite things to do in Alaska in winter. The town is so cozy and especially comes alive during Christmas. 

The slow and mesmerizing ice flows of Turnagain Arm make a beautiful foreground for mountain photos. We locals enjoy visiting Pt. Woronzof near Anchorage to see the ice flow, contrasting with a snowy skyline of Anchorage, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot Denali Mountain from this location. 

With well below freezing temperatures, the trees in Fairbanks have thick hoarfrost crystals hanging from their branches, setting the scene for a winter wonderland. I don’t usually recommend driving to Fairbanks in the winter as the roads are pretty nasty, but you can take the Alaska Railroad or fly. 

The slow and mesmerizing ice flows of Turnagain Arm make a beautiful foreground for mountain photos. Fairbanks trees with hoarfrost set the scene for a winter wonderland. We, locals, like to go to Pt. Woronzof near Anchorage to see this ice flow with the snowy Anchorage skyline in the background. If you are lucky, you’ll see Denali from this location, covered in snow on a clear winter day.  You might even get the urge to see Denali National Park, something very few people experience in the winter. If you’re REALLY lucky, you’ll catch the Northern Lights dancing in the sky, offering once-in-a-lifetime views. 

These photos were taken not far from my family home in the Kink flats. There is a hidden byway that connects Kink and Palmer. I highly recommend it for a scenic drive if you visit historic Palmer and the Indigenous village of Kink. You’ll see Pioneer Peak, icy babbling brooks, and mountains kissing with afternoon alpenglow along the scenic road. The side roads are very icy and poorly maintained in the winter, so please drive cautiously. 

If you want to brave the weather and get some steps in, take a guided winter walking tour of my favorite place in the state, Chugach State Park, to see some amazing frozen waterfalls!

2. Gaze at the Aurora Borealis

It always surprises me how many people head to Norway, Finland, or Iceland to see the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights when Alaska is a bit more budget-friendly and has just as marvelous of a light show. There’s nothing quite like standing under the clear sky and watching the lights dance with mountains in the background and a peaceful calm washing over you. 

Finding the N. Lights can be like a scavenger hunt on level 99. Growing up, I would get so excited when my parents would wake me up in the middle of a cold February night. We would bundle up and drive out to Hatcher’s Pass to see the show. Fairbanks is one of the best places to view the Aurora as it is often dark and clear, but you can see them as far south as Anchorage any time in the winter. 

For the independent traveler, y ou can always check the Aurora forecast and plan your trip spontaneously based on the weather conditions.

The best way to see the lights is to book a guided tour with a local Alaskan company. A guided tour is your best bet to find the lights and learn some tips on photographing them. Since seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, most companies have a fun backup plan like dogsledding or an epic full-day trip to the Arctic Circle!  

3. Try Winter Sports

If you are an active person who loves the outdoors no matter the season – in fact, snow makes it better, then Alaska is for you. If Alaskans are known for something, it is enjoying the great outdoors to the fullest in the rain, snow, or shine. In winter, there are plenty of options for skiing, dog sleddin g, snowboarding, snow machining , tubing, cross country skiing, scuba diving – yeah, you heard me right – ice fishing , kayaking, fat biking, ice climbing, snowshoeing , and much much more. Some of the best places for snow sports are Alyeska, Kincaid for Fat Biking, and Eagle River for X-country ski trails.

If you’re an independent traveler with cold climate training, you can rent gear and head out on your own. However, Alaska is a vast wilderness full of dangers, and it is easy to find yourself unprepared for the situation either by getting lost or not having the proper gear. I highly suggest you book an adventure with experts, such as Ascending Path,  to maximize your time in Alaska.

4. Avoid the Crowds

Alaska suffers from serious over-tourism during cruise ship landings in the summer. Cruise season means thousands of people arrive simultaneously in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. Sometimes the cruise ships carry more people than the population of our small towns. Tour excursions book up quickly, it is impossible to find seats at the best restaurants, and swarms of people can taint the stunning nature. 

To enjoy the best Alaska has to offer – avoid the crowds and take time to enjoy traveling at a slower pace with the freedom to book things on a whim and travel wherever your heart takes you. If you are an introvert like me, you’ll love the quiet serenity of visiting Alaska in winter. 

5. Get to Know the Locals

Because of the summer crowds, most locals avoid downtown areas. When they venture into the more popular areas, they are often working and a bit stressed by the overtourism or cranky because their parking space was taken. We love tourists, we really do, just sometimes having thousands of them in one place at one time is a bit much. All this makes connecting with locals genuinely more difficult – and, if I am to be honest, connecting with locals is one of the highlights of visiting Alaska. I always say the people here are authentic versions of themselves without conforming to society. So, visiting in the winter ensures you will have more genuine connections with the locals. Head to a bar like Darwins, start a conversation with the local characters and find out what life is like during the long dark winters. 

6. Support a Sustainable Economy 

Continuing my theme of diffusing mass over-tourism from the summer cruise ships, let’s talk about supporting a year-round sustainable economy in Alaska. Many businesses shut their doors in the winter, laying off hundreds, if not thousands of employees. Many of these businesses that close aren’t owned by year-long Alaskans, and many spend their winters down south. My sister’s restaurant drastically cuts back hours, making her budget much tighter in the winter, but during the summer, she works non-stop. This boom or bust cycle leads to burnout. The businesses that do say open to provide stable work for full-time employees, such as Denali Brewing + Spirits Company in Talkeetna, don’t make a profit in the winter. Still, they do it to keep the economy running.

Every penny you spend in Alaska during the winter ensures more businesses can stay open and more locals have the income to provide for themselves and their families. So, head downtown to my sister’s Ginger restaurant and ask for Cat! Or meander up to Talkeetna, visit the Denali Brewing taproom, and order a local spirit to stay warm and support the economy!

7. See Glaciers up Close

It’s no secret that glaciers melt in the summer. Summer glaciers are often covered in dirt and rocks as they melt away. While seeing glaciers at any time of the year can be a treat, they are more magnificent in winter. In winter, they are often a pristine white with cracks seeming to radiate that beautiful glacial blue. Full disclosure some glaciers, like Exit Glacier, are very hard to access in the winter, as the walking trails are snow-covered. Therefore, I always recommend you hire a knowledgeable local guide to take you to places like Matanuska Glacier in the winter so you can be outfitted with the proper gear to keep you safe. 

8. Embrace the Darkness

Growing up in Alaska, one of the main questions people always ask me is, “how did you survive the long dark winters?” The winters do come with their challenges. In fact, Alaska has one of the highest rates of depression in the United States. My recommendation for surviving the winter is to find personal ways to light up the darkness. There is something special about cozying up in a warm blanket with a hot cup of tea as you stare into the starry sky at 5 pm. Get ready to hunker down for the long night. I find the darkness oddly inspiring for writers or artists looking for inspiration or those seeking life’s greatest comforts. Some of my greatest inspiration comes from writing away at a local cafe like the Writer’s Block staring out the window and finding darkness. – I’m not emo, I swear!

9. Visit National Parks in the winter

Alaska has some of the world’s best National Parks and pristine ecosystems. Our parks are wild and magnificent even in the winter. Denali National Park offers excellent skiing, biking, snowshoeing, and educational opportunities in the winter. In Kenai Fjords National Park , you can ski, bike, snowshoe, or book a tour to Exit Glacier. In the town of Seward, you can book a backcountry boat tour into the National Park to see snow-filled beaches and glaciers feeding off the Harding Ice Field. Glacier Bay National Park is also open year-round with minimal services, but the wildlife sightings will be worth visiting. My friends and I always enjoy skiing out to a b ackcountry cabin, which is a great way to look at the true winter lifestyle in remote Alaska. 

10. Ride the Aurora Winter Train

The Alaska Railroad runs full steam ahead in the winter , offering access to some of Alaska’s best winter landscapes. Take the train to Fairbanks for an Aurora viewing trip , head down to Talkeetna for a pie-making class, or see the snow-filled view of Denali Mountain. The Alaska Railroad has seven winter packages offering a range of overnight trips to an 8-day Arctic Circle experience to see the best of winter in Alaska. You can also book tickets to Fairbanks or Talkeetna and plan your adventure before returning. Riding the Alaska Railroad is one of the top things to do in Alaska, no matter the season. Every trip home, I take full advantage of this amazing experience. 

11. Warm up With Spirits, Coffee, and Hearty Food

Alaskans know how to stay warm in the winter. It’s easy with such a booming spirits industry. Distilleries are popping up all over Alaska, and the three-five year whiskeys are finally emerging! Warm up with a nice bourbon from Port Chilkoot Distillery in Sitka. With the crazy drops in barometric pressure, this bourbon is unlike anything you’ve tasted. Sip on the wonderful coffee whiskey from Talkeetna’s Denali Spirits, a perfect blend of local Alaskan roasted coffee and small-batch whiskey. When you’re up in Fairbanks, warm up with vodka distilled in a historic city hall from Fairbanks Distilling Company. These Alaskan spirits will keep you warm and cozy despite the – 40 temperatures. I took the photo (below) on a day when it was -40, haha. Thanks to my parents for being my designated drivers and braving the cold to drive to Talkeetna so I could drink all the spirits.

In Alaska, we have a joke that you can navigate our entire road system based on coffee kiosk locations. Need to get to Seward? Take a left at Rush Coffee cart and drive straight on till morning. In fact, Alaska has more coffee shops per capita than any other state in the nation – Take that Starbucks-filled Washington! If you’re in Anchorage, don’t miss Uncle Leroys for a Chagga Chai (a fungus that grows on Alaskan trees). Make sure you grab your to-go cup and pull up at any of the coffee carts sprawling from Seward – Fairbanks. If you’re in Juneau, stop by Indigenous-owned Sacred Grounds. You won’t be disappointed.

Who doesn’t love a thick creamy soup in the middle of winter? Alaska has some of the best and freshest seafood chowder I’ve ever had. Here, the chowders have large chunks of salmon, crab, and seafood caught fresh and sustainably in Alaskan waters. So, order a bowl and warm up from the cold outside weather. Honestly, I’ve never had lousy chowder in Alaska, and as long as you stick to local places along the coast in Juneau, Anchorage, and Seward, you’ll be just fine. 

12. Ice and Snow Sculptures

Fairbanks has one of the world’s largest ice sculpture events, the World Ice Art Championships. This event usually takes place in March. Some of the sculptures are so large they tower over you. I remember the last time I went, a massive ice sperm whale fought with an equally giant Kraken – both frozen in time. It was mind-blowing! There are even interactive sculptures like ice slides and fake phone booths. Down in downtown Anchorage, during the Fur Rendezvous, you’ll see plenty of snow sculptures during their competition. 

13. Take a Dip in Hot Springs

View this post on Instagram Hot springs and a new hair style on the same trip 💙⠀ ⠀ Reposting @greta.kc⠀ ⠀ #unicornhair #chenahotsprings #fairbanksalaska #alaska #hotsprings #winter #outdooradventures #optoutside #outdoorwomen A post shared by Chena Hot Springs Resort (@chenahotsprings) on Feb 25, 2020 at 6:00pm PST

If you’re in Fairbanks, you must visit Chena Hot Springs to dip in the hot thermal waters. It can sometimes get to be -40 in Fairbanks, so as you swim in hot water, your eyelashes crystalize, and it is an experience unlike anywhere else. This isn’t for the faint of heart, but the waters are plenty warm to satisfy you. While you’re in the area, you can visit the Ice Hotel and Ice Bar. I’m not sure you want to be surrounded by ice when it’s already cold AF out, but hey, only the daring venture to Alaska in winter. Are you one of them?

Chena Hot Springs is a good distance outside Fairbanks. Unless you have access to a car and are comfortable driving in the winter, you can always book a guided tour to take a dip , learn about renewable energy, and see the ice museum.

14. See Winter Wildlife

I love walking after a fresh snowfall to see all the animal tracks while looking for the animals that made them. On a snowy trail, it is not uncommon to see white hares and ptarmigans – our state bird. These animals are not white in the summer and camouflage into the landscape perfectly. Eagles, moose, and Dall sheep are all common as well. If you head to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center or on a wildlife tour with Seward Ocean Excursions, you’ll be rewarded with plenty of wildlife sightings. 

15. Iditarod Ceremonial Start 

If you plan your trip around the end of February or the beginning of March, you’ll be able to see the ceremonial start of the Iditarod in downtown Anchorage. The Iditarod takes place the first Saturday in March, with the Fur Rondy fest leading up to the event. Book early and be prepared for crowds as this event brings together all of Alaska, from Indigenous villages to scattered cities throughout the state.

16. BONUS: An Excuse to Stay Inside

When you visit Alaska in winter, the cold, snowy, and dark weather can be a good reason to stay inside. Rather than hiding in your hotel, get out and visit the amazing museums, theaters, and shows. Grab the museum pass in Anchorage to visit the Anchorage Musume and the Alaskan Native Heritage Center – which includes a shuttle between the two. Buy tickets to the Performance Art Center and join the locals to see a lively and festive Christmas show. In Fairbanks, visit the Museum of the North!

Alaskan Tour Companies Operating in Winter

These tour companies and operators are open year-round to help you plan and ensure you have the best experience visiting Alaska in the winter.

• Alaska Private Touring : An all-inclusive local tour company that can plan a full winter holiday for you in Alaska, including all the highlights of winter.
• Salmon Berry Tours : An all-inclusive local tour company that can plan a full winter holiday for you in Alaska including all the highlights of winter
• Rust’s Flightseeing Tours: Rust’s offers winter flightseeing tours based out of Anchorage.
• Ascending Path: An outdoor adventure company offering snowshoeing and other winter activities.
• Seward Ocean Expedition:  A small family-owned boat company out of Seward offering wildlife viewing, photography tours, remote skiing or snowshoeing adventures, and even scuba activities in the winter. 
• Adventure 60 North:  An outdoor company based in Seward offering access to Kenai Fjords National Park via biking, skiing, or snowshoeing.
• Northern Alaska Tour Company:  A flightseeing and tour company based out of Fairbanks Alaska offering Denali and Arctic Circle excursions. 
• Trygg Air: See walrus and other wildlife out of Bristol Bay with wildlife flightseeing tours. 
• Alaska Railroad: Alaska’s railroad is connecting Fairbanks and Anchorage in the winter. 
• Alaska Wildlife Guide: A tour operator based in Fairbanks offering snowmachine tours, aurora tours, and more. 
• AK Finest: A native-owned tour company, is offering city tours of Anchorage and the surrounding area. 
• Anchorage Downtown Tour Group: A native-owned tour operator is planning custom and special tours for winter exploration. 
• Greatland Adventures: A tour company based in Anchorage offering everything from fat-biking, ice climbing, glacier viewings, and northern lights tours.
• Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center:  An ethical way to see Alaska’s wildlife playing in the snow!

Best Places to Visit in Alaska in Winter

Most places in the state are worth visiting in the winter—however, many areas close for the winter, such as certain roads or rail tracks. I recommend booking a multi-day winter vacation with Salmon Berry or Alaska Private Touring. For the independent travelers, here are my favorite places to visit in Alaska during the winter with a sample itinerary.

Anchorage is our largest city and, therefore, one of the best places to visit in the winter. Most restaurants, stores, hotels, and cafes are open year-round, so you’ll have plenty to do, no matter the weather. Make sure to go ice skating at Westchester Lagoon, cross-country skiing at Kincaid Park, flight-seeing with Rust’s, fat biking or a Norther Lights tour with Greatland Adventures , and a city tour with AK Finest. I recommend flying into Anchorage. For more things to do in Anchorage – check out my mega list of 70 things we locals enjoy doing in Anchorage .  Recommended stay: two days.

Girdwood  is a great place to visit in Alaska during the winter because our largest ski resort is there, and the town comes alive in the winter. For confident drivers, rent a car and drive from Anchorage to Girdwood. Along the way, you’ll see Dall Sheep, ice flows, and frozen waterfalls. Once in Girdwood, stay at the Alyeska Hotel and Resort for luxury skiing, spa experiences, dining, and more. For larger groups, book a condo for an epic ski holiday. Dance the night away at the Sitzmark and head into downtown Girdwood for coffee. Recommended stay: 2 full days.

View this post on Instagram I see you … #canonphotography #canon80d #sewardalaska #alaska #nature #natgeo #mycanonstory #travel #igtravel #sea #iceberg #wildlife #wildlifephotography #natgeowild #natgeotravelpic #igtravel #wildlifeonearth #wildlifephotography #naturephotography📷 #wildlife_inspired #travelphotography #naturephotography #ignature A post shared by Sheshadri Iyer (@iyerpixel) on Feb 26, 2020 at 12:21am PST

Seward is one of my favorite places to visit in winter. Continue your winter road trip from Girdwood to Seward. The locals in Seward are incredibly friendly, and the lull of winter brings out the best in them. Many tour operators offer exclusive winter packages, and I recommend booking a sightseeing tour with Seward Ocean Excursions to see hidden parts of Kenai Fjords National Park. Make sure to visit the Sealife Center and wander downtown for cute boutique shops selling handmade gifts. Stay at Angels Rest Lodging for an intimate experience. Recommended stay: 2 full days

You can return to Anchorage and fly home, making this a shorter 7-day trip, or you can continue north to Fairbanks for a long winter holiday. Or you could start in Anchorage and head straight north to Talkeetna and onto Fairbanks. 

Talkeetna is the most charming towns in Alaska if I do say so myself. Ditch the car in Anchorage and head up to Talkeetna on the train. You can book one of their special packages for a pie-making excursion or take time on your own to chat with the friendly locals. Denali Brewing Company offers brewery tours, a taproom, and a pub house that remain open in the winter. Make sure you stay overnight or in the Talkeetna Lodge or Inn for the weekend with special winter rates. Book an Aurora photography workshop with Aurora Dora. Recommended stay: 2 full days. 

Fairbanks is Alaska’s second-largest city, and if anyone knows how to do winter right, it is the Fairbanks locals. Continue your journey on the Alaskan Railroad to Alaska’s frozen heart. With cold temperatures and some of the best Aurora viewing chances, Fairbanks should be high on your places to visit in Alaska in the winter. Make sure to visit Chena Hot springs and the Ice sculptures. Book an excursion with Norther Alaska Tours to visit the Arctic Circle. Stay at Pikes Waterfront Lodge, so stay near the frozen Chena. Recommended stay: 2-3 full days depending on excursions.

If you still have extra time and extra money to burn, book a flight to Juneau!

Juneau is quiet in the winter, but the locals know how to make the best of the cold season. Seeing Juneau without the summer crowds is a real treat. If you have time to spare, head over to Juneau, Alaska, to see the Mendenhall glacier caves in winter. Drink coffee at Sacred Grounds, and stay at Beachside Villa Suites. 

Get Inspired to Visit Alaska in Winter

Get inspired to visit Alaska this winter! Make sure to pin all these great reasons to visit Alaska in winter, including the best places to visit in Alaska in winter, to your winter wonderland board. Let me know in the comments why you want to visit Alaska this winter.

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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28 comments.

Your photos are amazing! Especially with frozen hair! I think I will add Alaska to my must-visit list in 2020-2021! Thank you!

I’ve been looking for an Alaska pioneer memoir ever since I found out that one of my great-great-granduncle was one of the people who moved to Alaska during the early 20th century. That fact also made me want to visit Alaska and experience their culture up close. I like that you said one of the reasons why people should visit the state is to experience the long dark winters. I’ve always been wanted to experience 24-hour dark days, so perhaps I should plan a trip soon. Thanks for this!

I moved to Anchorage at 15, now hitting 40. Even after all my gypsy travels I Have called it Home ever since. This is where It doesn’t matter where you’ve been; or the season that you arrive back in Anchorage. A sense of relief will flood over you, the cascading mountaintops speak to your soul through gravitational waves of visionary fulfillment. The airport is easily manageable and before you’ve been on the ground 30 minutes. You’re sitting at Simon and Seafort’s lobby bar having a half price appetizer and a brandy ice( off menu) check with your bartender. With the best view overlooking the inlet and sleeping lady in the background. Mt. Susitna. You might even get the great one, Denali in the same picture frame. That was most likely the best come visit Alaska article I have ever read and I just want to say thank you for doing our little slice of secluded Heaven a solid.

Thanks so much for your descriptive imagery of home! Alaska is such a beautiful place in the winter and year-round!

I don’t like heat and humidity and I especially don’t like black flies and mosquitos! I’ve been to Canada in July and it’s hell with the insects! I’d like to visit Alaska for Christmas/January! I like the cold and outdoor winter sports. Thinking of coming up this year!

I love the cold and winter sports too! You would definitely love spending time in Girdwood over the Christmas break!

Wow! Lucky you that you got to explore such a beautiful place. Northern light is a dream that I hope to fulfill as early as possible.

Lots more to do in Alaska than I thought! I have stopped in Anchorage for 2 hours as stopover on my way to London. Are there really ‘Men in Trees’?

I’ll be honest – I never imagined visiting AK in winter, but this post has really opened my eyes! The snowy landscapes and Aurora Borealis are simply stunning! Thank you for changing my mind.

The main reason I would go here in the winter would be to see the northern lights as I haven’t seen them before! It looks beautiful in the wintertime and well worth the trip to Alaska!

Ok I’m sold! Thank you for the inspiration and I will be sure to stop by your sister’s restaurant.

Lovely, I do hope you are able to see Alaska in winter!

What would you recommend as a 4 week itinerary in Feb

I’ve been trying to visit Alaska for a few years now but it will be a while now unfortunately. This post has really sparked my excitement to visit in the future!

Awww I hope you are able to visit Alaska soon – it’s great summer, autumn, or winter!

Thank you for all the great tips. We are heading up in early March. We were just in Juneau over the summer and contemplating going back or heading to Sitka for a few days. Any incite or recommendations would be great Thank you!

Snowshoeing and skiing are popular in Sitka in the winter in places like Herring Cove trail. The Totem Trail and Fortress of the bear are open in the winter. Russian Bishop’s house is by appointment only. I would also recommend reaching out to Sitka Tribal tours to see if they operate in winter to learn about Indigenous history in the area. Other than that, it is always nice to enjoy the cozy cafes or grab a craft beer at Harbor Brewing. I recommend reaching out to any of the tour guides in the post if you’re looking to have someone help plan you a detailed itinerary.

Great article and makes me feel less overwhelmed, thank you. I am a single mom of two boys (8 and 11). I want to do a last min trip from either Dallas > Seattle > Fairbanks (to add in the north pole activities) or straight from Dallas to Alaska week of Christmas Eve (arrive weekend of Dec 17th, depart Christmas Eve). Driving solo with the boys doesn’t sound ideal. Any recs of what to do when we land and stay for a few days is appreciated!

Hi Jacqueline, sounds like you will have a great time! I recommend reaching out to some of the travel companies based in Fairbanks that I recommend in my blog post to help you plan your dream trip. Without a car, having a tour guide, take you around is ideal. Visiting Chena Hot Springs is always fun, but without a car, it can be hard to access unless you arrange a shuttle with the hotel or book an excursion.

I’m planning to travel Alaska from late December. I checked Alaska railroad website, and it says all ticket are sold. Is it impossible to ride the railroad?

Hi, I recommend you contact the Alaska Railroad with the journey you are interested in doing to see if they can help you. They operate year-round and it is possible you may just have some incorrect settings or it is possible they are booked. But their customer service is very responsive. Best of luck.

What wonderful inspiration to visit Alaska in the winter. I have the possibility to housesit in Anchorage this December. I’ve always wanted to do a photography trip to the state (I’m not a photographer, but I would enjoy seeing the amazing wildlife). However, the trips are ridiculously expensive. I’m so glad I found your insight into visiting in winter, so I didn’t just dismiss this opportunity! Thank you!

I hope your house-sitting works out! If you are a hobbyist photographer, you can just take yourself around to explore some of the landscapes – it is a great place to practice your skills. One thing to keep in mind is while winter wildlife – moose, hare, birds, and sea life in Seward, other animals like bears are hibernating or less active in the winter. I will recommend a winter boat tour with Seward Ocean Excursions – I think it is relatively affordable, you can bring your camera on board, and you’ll see some amazing landscapes and hopefully some wildlife.

I am planning for a week. travel to Alaska mainly for Aurora and glacier and snow. please suggest me an itinerary for december

Hi Moumita, I don’t offer itinerary planning services, but with the help of my blog post, you should be able to plan a loose itinerary. For example, heading up to Fairbanks is always a great idea in the winter. If you still need some help, reach out to one of the tour companies I recommend in my post that operate year-round. You can book an exclusive winter holiday; they will take care of all the planning and help you have the best experience. Navigating Alaska in winter can be tough, and I suggest relying on experts to help you!

Thanks for these amazing pictures and information! I’m planning to spend Christmas in Alaska, 4 or 5 days, by myself. I don’t want to rent a car and it needs to be a low-budget trip. Where do you think would be the best place to go and enjoy as much as I can?

If you only have 4-5 days, I recommend sticking to the Anchorage area – if you can, secure a shuttle or other ride out to Girdwood, which is a lovely ski town perfect for enjoying the best of winter. Or you could book the Aurora train with the Alaska Railroad and head up to Fairbanks for an awesome winter experience.

our words paint a vivid picture of the pristine landscapes, the dancing Northern Lights, and the cozy winter activities that await adventurous souls. Your enthusiasm for dog sledding, ice fishing, and the natural beauty of Alaska is truly infectious. Your practical tips and personal insights make this a valuable resource for anyone considering a winter escape to this breathtaking destination. Thank you for sharing your magical journey and reminding us that Alaska’s icy embrace holds a world of unforgettable experiences. Your love for travel and exploration shines through, and I’m already dreaming of my own winter Alaskan adventure thanks to your inspiring article!

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Ultimate Alaska winter travel guide

Wild, rugged and jaw-droppingly beautiful landscape – Alaska, the 49th state of United States is situated in the northwest extremity of the country’s west coast.  It’s a bucket list destination for many travelers. Alaska has everything : Northern Lights, Hot Springs , Glaciers to name a few.  Alaska in winter is something we never thought we could possibly visit. The usual temperature in Fairbanks, AK stays below – 40 degree celsius. We never thought we could ever survive that kind of winters, but we did. Yayyii! With right gear and planning I am sure if we can do it you can do it as well. 

In this travel blog, we will cover all the places around Fairbanks & Anchorage we visited during our trip to Alaska.  Here we are going to list down all the things we loved followed by brief itinerary and tips for winter travel.

📍 Fairbanks

Watch Aurora Borealis dancing over the sky

Northern light (also known as Aurora Borealis) was the main purpose of our visit in March. This is the top thing to do during Northern light season when in Fairbanks, AK. It is mostly visible between September to April peaking in March, though depends on lots of factors like weather, solar activity and long dark nights. According to Geophysical Insititute of Alaska, best time to see the Northern light is around mid-night (11am to 2 pm). However, it can appear anytime after the sunset.

How we planned?   After researching a lot, we decided to visit in March at the time of New Moon. We selected the places near Fairbanks, AK with the tours to increase our chances. The two reason we chose tours over do-it-yourself (1) We were there for limited time and expert helps to increase the chances of viewing and perfect location (2) We do not wanted to take a chance driving on snow/icy road at night. Everything is taken care by the tour and their guide. 

We kept 3 nights for aurora viewing to maximize our chances. We were lucky and watched the sky dance for 3 nights in a row.

What tours we signed up for?   (1)  Northern Alaska Tour Company  Arctic circle + Northern light tour  (2) Chena Hot Spring Tour + Northern light with  Chena Hot Springs Resort   (we loved this one the most) (3)  Only Northern light tour.

Note – If you want to maximize your chances, plan further north of Fairbanks AK to the villages of Coldfoot in the Yukon Territory, or to Prudhoe Bay and Utqiaġvik. Check with this  Tour company  which helps to plan for that. 

Take the journey to Arctic circle

We touched the Arctic circle and right now we are among very few people in the world who actually did it.  **Feeling Special**

To all those who have no idea what we are talking about, here are some interesting details about the Arctic Circle.  It is one of the two polar circles and the most northerly of the five major circles of latitude as shown on maps of Earth. From the Arctic, the Sun is above the horizon for 24 continuous hours at least once per year commonly known as Midnight Sun (i.e The Sun is visible at midnight) and below the horizon for 24 continuous hours at least once per year (i.e The Sun is not visible at any point of the day – 24 hours of darkness). 

These are the countries from where you can touch or cross the arctic circle – Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia, the United States (Alaska), Canada (Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut), Denmark (Greenland), and Iceland (where it passes through the small offshore island of Grímsey).

We took the tour with this  Tour Company  to visit Arctic Circle, which is 198 mile away from Fairbanks and take around 5-6 hours to reach by bus (12 hours round trip). You can also check out a similar tour operated by  Alaska Wildlife Guide . We would suggest taking a tour in winters instead driving on your own as the roads are not drive friendly. There is no network coverage along the Dalton Highway and only satellite messenger works . Also, the facilities along the road is minimal.  (as of 2021)

Soak in the natural hot springs

Chena Hot Springs is the best natural hot spring we have ever seen and experienced. It was 40C inside and -25C outside the pool. We were in our swimming dress, dipped inside the hot spring, and our hair turned white within 10 minutes – it is really hard to describe in words how cool and relaxing it was.

Discovered in 1905, Chena Hot Spring  is the most accessible & developed hot spring in interior Alaska. It an hour drive from Fairbanks Alaska. We booked a day package  – Northern light tour with Chena hot spring resort. If you are taking a package tour with the resort, our suggestion would be reaching early to enjoy the day in slow pace. The resort arranges for transportation (to & fro) based on the timing and place you choose.

Note – Don’t forget to carry $0.25 (quarter) for luggage storage at the pool.

You can find more options to visit Chena hot spring for activities  here .

Wander inside Ice Museum

D ay package (Northern light tour) with Chena hot spring resort includes a visit to Ice Museum. It is an interesting place to see all kind of Ice Sculptures with drinks served in Ice Glass (which make the place even more interesting!). The drink is called Appletini. It was fun!

Note : You can also checkout other Chena hot springs tours  here

Go mushing with Alaskan huskies

Dog mushing (also known as Dog Sledding) is one of the top things to do  in Alaska  during winters. This was our first time mushing and we loved it so much. We booked a 30 mins short ride with  Paw For Adventures . Do remember to wear warm layers, a beanie, and a winter jacket – its gonna be a chilly but thrilling ride.

You can also check out  Rod Alaskan Guide service  for dog Sledding.

Take the snow machine for a wild ride

Honestly, we were bit scared to ride as we did not have any prior experience. After riding for just a couple of minutes we got the hang of it and rest was an amazing ride through the white landscape. If you are in Alaska during winters – it is another top thing to do.

We did the 1 hour guided tour with  Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service  and we loved it. They provide all the clean gears needed to keep you warm for this wild ride. 

Visit Santa Claus in North Pole

North Pole is a 30 mins drive from Fairbanks and is popular for visiting Santa Claus House, a cute gift house where you can click pictures with Santa. Also, if you want to meet Reindeers – visit Antler’s Academy just next to the Santa Claus house. We loved the Hot Chocolate available inside the Santa house.

Explore the Downtown

Keep at-least half a day to explore Fairbanks’s downtown. Also, there are lot of restaurants in Fairbanks to try. We recommend ‘ The Crepery ‘ for some amazing crepes and hot chocolate.

Take the Aurora winter Train to Anchorage

We have driven on a lot of scenic roads, but this was our 1st time riding a winter scenic train. We booked the train from  Fairbanks to Anchorage . It is one of the best ways to enjoy the spectacular Alaskan landscape along with delicious meals. 

If you have extra time in Fairbanks..

– Hike 1.5  miles (roundtrip) unmarked trail to  Castner Glacier . The trailhead is about two and a half hours drive from Fairbanks and would recommend only for the non snowy days. We had a plan to drive but it snowed a lot that day so we had to cancel the plan. You can also  checkout tours from Fairbanks , in case you do want to drive.

– Checkout the world ice art championships if you visit in February – March.

– If you are looking to walk along with Reindeer, you should  check out this Farm .

📍 Anchorage

Visit a Glacier

Anchorage is surrounded by lots of Glaciers – some are accessible only in summer and some all year-round.  Matanuska Glacier  is reachable any season with tours. The glacier tour was the highlight of our trip. We loved walking and sliding on the glacier. It was an amazing day trip and would recommend, if you are in Anchorage. The drive was very scenic too.

If you are not comfortable driving on snow, there are tours which operate from Anchorage, you can check it out  here  

For more details checkout our blog on  Matanuska Glacier – What to expect in winters .

Drive the Seward Highway

It is a spectacular road to drive and enjoy the views along the road as well as the scenic spots of Chugach national forest. If you have time take a detour and visit  Wildlife conservation center  in Girwood

If you have extra time in Anchorage..

– Splurge on a  helicopter ride  over the Glacier. There are tons of options available near Anchorage. We had booked the tour, unfortunately due to bad whether it got cancelled. Bummer!

Brief Alaska Winter Itinerary

We visited Alaska for 7 days and explored  Fairbanks  &  Anchorage . Here is how we planned our days, however you can modify according to your convenience and tour availability.

We took 9 hour flight from Newark, NJ to Fairbanks, AK (via Seattle) with Alaska Airlines. (Tip: If you  credit card travel reward points , check the deals they are offering while booking the flights.)

We reached at mid-night and checked in our  Hotel  at Fairbanks. (Tip – Enquire with the Hotels for free Airport pick up and drop facility.)

Breakfast at Hotel -> Picked up a rental car from airport -> Roamed around Fairbanks downtown -> went for Snowmobiling -> Picked up dinner -> Dropped the car back to airport -> Back to our room in hotel shuttle (Our initial plan was to hike Castner Glacier. The trail head is 2.5 hours drive from Fairbanks, AK. Unfortunately, we had to change our plan due to snow )

 Tip : We found driving around via  rental car  cheaper than hiring a cab. However, if you are not comfortable driving in snow then we would highly recommend using the taxi services.

We did full day Arctic Circle + Northern light tour with  Northern Alaska tour Company  -> Back to hotel by 4.00 am

Tip – If you have extra time would recommend Aurora overnight tour to Coldfoot and increase the chances to see Northern Light to 80%. Check with  Northern Alaska tour Company  for details.

Woke up late -> Breakfast at hotel ->  Chena Hot Springs  + Northern light (check out the details  above ) -> Back to hotel by 4.00 am

Woke up late -> Breakfast at hotel ->  Picked up  a rental car  from airport  -> Dog Sledding -> Explore North Pole -> Ate at The Crepery at Fairbanks downtown -> Dropped the rental car at airport-> Back to hotel -> took a northern light tour

Note – We booked Northern light tours for 3 consecutive nights for better chances. If you have no issue driving in snow at night keep the rental car, skip the tour and drive by yourself to Murphy dome or Chena River State Recreation Area  for Northern lights.

Checked out from Hotel -> Took the 12 hours Scenic  Aurora Winter train to Anchorage.  (Other option would be  flying , which is a time saving option or driving, which would be a long drive and little challenging if it snows)

Picked up the  rental car  from airport -> Drove to Matanuska for Guided Glacier walking tour (2-3 hours tour) -> back to airport -> Took flight from Anchorage, AK to Newark, NJ (10 hours flight). 

Tip – If you don’t want to rent a car and drive, you can checkout  this tour  from Anchorage.

Where we stayed

We booked 5 nights stay with  Pike’s Waterfront Lodge  – Beautiful hotel with many facilities. The breakfast was included with our stay. They provided free shuttle services to airport, train depot and Northern Alaska tour company and so we saved a lot in commute. This hotel is a bit far from Fairbanks downtown but is closer to airport.

The other option we recommend would be   Borealis base camp . This place gets booked very fast and well in advance. We wanted to stay here but it was completely full.  For other options you can check –  Booking.com  &  Expedia.com .  

We stayed  with  Lakefront Anchorage  for 1 night. It is an amazing hotel with lake view.

Where we ate

We ate in Pike’s Landing since we were staying in the hotel there. There are many good options in downtown. Don’t forget to eat crepes from The Crepery in downtown area. Also, we loved the coffee at Alaska coffee roasting company.

Honestly we had limited time to try anything special in Anchorage. However, we would definitely recommend eating breakfast at  Flying Machine  if you are staying with  Lakefront Anchorage . 

Best time to Visit

We visited in March and couldn’t recommend it more. Its the best time for Northern Lights and you will have 12 hours of day light which is perfect for enjoying other activities in alaskan winters.

How to reach

You can reach Alaska in every possible way – by land, by Air and by water. The option is widely open, however in winters the best way to reach is by flying to  Major airport of Alaska  in our opinion.

We flew from  Newark, NJ to Fairbanks , AK and back from Anchorage to Newark, NJ.

Driving in winters

Honestly, driving in winters is not easy specially in snowy conditions and we would not recommend if you have no experience in snow driving. Instead, book a tour for far places or hire a cab for city limits.  In case you are planning to drive, this would be our suggestion based on the experience – 

1. Go slow! – even though people around you are driving in crazy speed (mostly they don’t). 

2. Find a place in the road where there is a trail of tires and follow that.

3. We drove both FWD and AWD – though AWD works better than FWD –  there is no difference in heavy snow conditions. Both the types skid at some point of time and you need to deal with that. If you are renting a car – check if the rental company offers snow tire for extra cost. It should perform better.

4. The brake works very slow while driving in snowy condition, so keep extra margin than usual from the car in front of you.

5. If you are stuck in a winter storm – you should find a safer place to pull over and wait until the storm passes. 

6 If the car starts to skid, don’t apply the brakes in panic but try to control by keeping your car in the direction you want to go and if it seems going out of control apply the brakes very slowly and try to bring the speed to minimum (10-20 mph) and turn on your flashers so that the car behind you know that you are driving very slow until you gain the control and are back on track.

7. Similarly if you see a car in front of you going very slow or skidding keep an extra distance or change the lane slowly as required.

8. Prefer driving during daylight hours. 

9. Always keep your lights on. Usually the visibility during snow is very low, generally in yards. 

10. Use de-icer washer fluid for windshield. You will find it mostly in any gas stations or look for auto shops like auto zone.

I found  this  article while surfing online and found some good points on snow driving.

What to wear

We did complete research on how to survive winters in Alaska. haha! Since we have been living in Jersey city for quite sometime we know how below freezing temperature feels. However, we had no idea how the extreme cold of Alaska would feel like and we can tell you its not a piece of cake for sure. 

We wore 4 layers – base woolen layer; Mid fleece layer ; outer later (jacket) and Parka. We had our gloves + mittens on all the time along with woolen beanie and two pairs of woolen socks. We wore the winter boots as well. We did survived most part of the daytime however in nights we used hand and foot warmers for extra heat. 

We created separate blog on  What To Wear For Alaska Winter Trip – Ultimate Packing List . Checkout for more details on what to wear.

Other things to keep in mind

– Drink lots of water and stay hydrated.

– Drink Coffee in the morning, trust me it really helps and don’t skip your breakfast.

– Keep your beanie on all the time if you are out in cold to avoid headaches.

– Sleep whenever you find time and place as you will be up late for northern lights.

– Always carry snacks along to refuel yourself when needed.

– Journey to Arctic circle (tours) takes around 6 hours one way from Fairbanks with 3 stop in between. 

Winter in Alaska is something we would recommend to anyone who wants to experience the magic of white wonderland.  Pin it or bookmark this post for future reference.

Hope you find this post helpful to plan your next memorable winter trip to Alaska. Also, let us know in comments if have any questions. Happy to answer! or if you find our blog useful. Happy to know!

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What To Wear For Alaska Winter Trip – Ultimate Packing List

Matanuska glacier – What to expect in Winters

10 comments.

Hi Priyanka and Pranjal,

THank you for this Alskan travel blog. Me and my husband are planning a trip to alaska soon. We are using your web blog as a blue print for planning our trip. Thanks a lot for including minute details and recommendations for winter gear.

We noticed that you had planned a trip to castner glacier which you werent able to do due to the weather. We are planning to visit only Fairbanks in this trip and would also like to see at least one glacier. I believe Castner glacier would be a good option. Would you have any resource/tour details from your trip for castner glacier or any other glacier accessible from Fairbanks.

Thanks a bunch. Keep travelling and spreading joy.

Best, Kanchana

mrnmrstraveler

Hi Kanchana! We are glad to know that our blog helped to plan your trip to Alaska. Sorry for a late reply! Regarding your question about Castner glacier – It is a good option from Fairbanks, if you are looking to visit a glacier. We had a plan to rent a car from Fairbanks airport and drive up to Castner glacier trailhead. There are tours available, you can also checkout Tripadvisor.com for details. Also, if you are planning to drive there, do check the weather conditions beforehand. Hope you have an amazing time in Alaska. Enjoy your trip!

This is a nice detailed blog for anyone who is planning for winter Alaska. I do have a question for you on Matanuska Glacier hiking. What time of the day would be best for the glacier hike considering the sunlight and cold weather. many blogs says, morning would be too chilly/windy. What would you suggest.

Thank you Laxmi, glad you liked our blog. Regarding your query about the Matanuska Glacier hike ,it all depends on the weather on a particular day. We did the 2 pm tour as we had to drive from Anchorage. It was a bright and sunny day and we were able to enjoy the the hike. However the weather is really unpredictable in Alaska, so we would suggest to dress up in layers. Hope you plan your trip soon and have a wonderful time 🙂

ALEX THOMPSON

Great Post!!! I truly believe that there is much more to explore new places. The world has incredible beauty which makes us visit new places for sure.

Namratha Rao

Thank you so much for the additional details and links! I’ve finished booking our trip with most of the attractions/tours you suggested. The only thing left for me to do is buy winter wear. Your input has been invaluable! So thanks, once again!

I hope you get to travel all over, adding more content to your blog! Wishing you the most pleasant and inspiring travels in your future!!

P.S: You have a new subscriber on your youtube channel! 🙂

Aww… So sweet of you. Thank You so much! 🙂

Thank you for such a detailed blog! I truly appreciate all the pointers and tips that you’ve so thoughtfully mentioned in addition to the blow-by-blow account of your trip. It has made my planning so much easier! It has long been my dream to view the Northern lights and we are planning a trip in Feb 2022. (Hopefully, the Covid situation will be better by then!)

I have a request: I’m from California and own absolutely no apparel appropriate for cold winters, especially the sub-zero temperatures of Alaska. Do you have any recommendations on what to buy (I know you mentioned the different layers) and from where/ brand/store? Same with boots/gloves/beanies/what-have-you. I need to buy winter gear for myself and my husband. Due to covid, I haven’t set foot in a store for over a year, and I’m still being cautious of crowds/stores. Knowing exactly what to buy and from where will help tremendously!

Thanks, once again for the beautiful pictures and the entertaining and informative write-up!

Regards, Namratha

Hey Namratha,

We have no words to thank you for this appreciation. And we are so happy our blog helped you in planning your trip to Alaska. And thats right, we also had the same level of difficulty in searching for what to wear for Alaska winters.

Based on our research and from our own experience , we have curated this blog :-

https://mrnmrstraveler.com/what-to-wear-for-alaska-winter-trip-ultimate-packing-list/

Hopefully this will help you 🙂

Also, we have a youtube channel mrnmrstraveler , you can check our Alaska Experience here incase you need to get a visual of how it feels like to be in Alaska winters 🙂

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udsOobYCzyw

All the very best and we hope you have a wonderful journey to the winter wonderland of Alaska !

Lots of Love, Priyanka & Pranjal (MrnMrsTraveler)

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Alaska Winter Vacation Packages

Plan the perfect winter experience.

• Alaska Vacations
• Vacation Packages

Winter Travel

• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• Northern Lights Tours

Request a Quote

All of the winter tours , lodging , and transportation you see here can be pieced together into a seamless, memorable vacation package. It's what we do! Use our My Trip tool to plan and book directly online, or give us a call at 800-208-0200 to chat with one of our Anchorage-based reservation agents.

Fully Guided Winter Tour Packages

All the benefits of taking an escorted tour are especially helpful when it comes to winter travel. There's no need to worry about transportation or coordinating tours. Your dedicated tour director is there to handle all the logistics, going so far as to supply hand warmers when needed. "Wonderland" escorted tour packages showcase the very best of the Alaska winter season.

Northern Lights Winter Adventure - Tour 831

Winter wonders await on this seven-day itinerary from Fairbanks to Anchorage. Chase the aurora, go snowshoeing, and explore a glacier by helicopter. Learn More >

Alaska Winter Highlights - Tour 832

Active travelers with just a few days to spare will find big winter adventures on this four-day trip package based in Anchorage. Learn More >

Alaska Winter Wonder Favorites - Tour 833

Go from Anchorage to the Arctic Circle on this seven-day winter itinerary that includes a glacier trek and two chances to see the northern lights. Learn More >

Arctic Aurora Winter Explorer - Tour 834

A shorter winter package based in Fairbanks, this itinerary gives Alaska aurora seekers three nights to spot the northern lights. Learn More >

Spring Glacier & Wildlife Adventure - Tour 830

Discover what spring is like in Alaska on this six-day itinerary that starts and ends in Anchorage. Learn More >

Alaska Early Spring Explorer - Tour 838

Spend seven days exploring Alaska's coast, mountains, and rugged interior on this early spring/late winter package. Learn More >

Iditarod Winter Wonderland - Tour 960

Wintertime comes alive on this five-day guided group tour featuring festive events, serene landscapes, and the annual start of the last great race on earth. Learn More >

Ultimate Iditarod Winter Wonderland - Tour 980

Travel from Fairbanks to Anchorage on this eight-day group tour. Celebrate the start of the Iditarod, see Denali Park draped and snow, and maybe even glimpse the northern lights. Learn More >

Unforgettable Alaska Winter Adventures for Families

If you think summer's the only time to travel to Alaska, think again. There's much more to do here than just cruise the Inside Passage with the family.

Alaskans love winter, and you can follow their lead by bundling up and getting right outside with them to enjoy it while taking in the Northern Lights , mushing a team of huskies, riding the rails aboard the Aurora Winter Train or fat tire biking around Anchorage. Follow our lead for some of the unforgettable Alaska winter adventures for families.

To get to Alaska, if you have Alaska Airlines miles, consider cashing them in from the lower 48 for a fabulous family winter vacation for as little as 12,500 miles each way.

American Airlines will want a little bit more for award flights to Alaska than for awards within the contiguous United States. Award flights to Fairbanks and Anchorage will run you at least 30,000 American Airlines miles for a round-trip saver award, which isn't bad considering the distance traveled.

Mush Your Own Alaskan Husky Sled Dog Team

Fly into Anchorage for the chance to try your hand at Alaska's official state sport during all-day dog mushing excursions with Salmon Berry Tours . Transportation is included from Anchorage to Talkeetna, the gateway to Alaska's interior, with the possibility of spotting Mount Denali along the way.

Then you'll arrive at the homestead of four-time Iditarod champion, Dallas Seavey, where your family will meet the huskies and be indoctrinated into the skills needed to properly mush the dogs along the snowy trails. Once it's time to go, there are two guests per sled (one standing/mushing and one riding) for each team of Alaskan Huskies, and you'll get to alternate positions half-way through the tour. Cruising along a mushing route roughly 7 miles long is one very Alaskan experience you won't soon forget. Mommy Points visited the Seavey sled dogs in the summer a few years ago and had a blast.

You can also book dog sled adventures directly and there are no official age minimums, though some of the longer days do have a recommended age of 6+. When we called, we were told you could take a little one under 2 on a sled dog tour at no extra charge.

Ride the Aurora Winter Train With Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad operates year-round, but there are some special reasons to consider hopping aboard for the 12-hour trip between Anchorage and Fairbanks during the dark and snowy winter months. The Aurora Winter Train runs weekends from mid-September to mid-May, with select midweek service, too, from December through March. And while it takes the same route as summer's Denali Star Train, views blanketed with snow make the experience entirely different. Passengers can look forward to Denali views on clear days, and moose are often spotted close to the tracks, too. Winter packages from the railroad wrap excursions, such as dog sledding, chasing the Aurora and even taking in some winter flight-seeing, into your family's itinerary.

Depending on route, prices start at around $30 for kids and $60 for adults -- be sure to pay with a credit card that awards a bonus on travel .

Winter Glacier Walks

In Alaska, glacier-spotting is hardly reserved for cruise ship passengers and guests on flight-seeing tours. All year-round, you can head out with your family north of Anchorage with Salmon Berry Tours for a wintry walk like no other that takes you along part of a 27-mile-long frozen river of ice. Bundle up with the warm outerwear provided for you (including boots, gloves and snow pants) during two-hour walks that take you atop the Matanuska Glacier to marvel at the bright blue meltwater pools and other glacier features. Helmets, a trekking pole and spikes to help keep your boots from slipping are also provided to make the glacier outing as comfortable and safe as possible for the entire family.

Note that these tours are recommend for those who have kids at least 8 years of age and up and run about $299 per person.

Soak in Hot Springs While Watching the Northern Nights

When it comes to seeing the Northern Lights , nothing is guaranteed — the phenomenon is notoriously elusive, but if you're lucky enough to catch it, you'll remember it for life.

And while there are many ways to head out looking for the Northern Lights, we love the idea of soaking with the family in the balmy waters at Chena Hot Springs Resort while waiting for the sky to work its Aurora Borealis magic. The resort also offers snow coach tours to bring you out deeper into the night looking for the lights, as well as dog sledding and snowmobile tours into the surrounding wilderness.

While kids are welcome to use the indoor pool and the hot tubs, note that children under age 18 are not allowed in the natural Rock Lake due to naturally occurring bacteria that may impact them more than adults.

Family Fat-Tire Biking in Anchorage

You know what they say about the family that fat bikes together -- they have a ton of laughs. You can rent the wide-wheeled rides at a downtown Anchorage shop starting at $25 and head out on the snowy trails around downtown or further afield. While the shop doesn't offer guided rides, the owner can point you on your way along a route that matches your family's fitness level and there are even trailers for rent if your children are too young to pedal.

Plan a Family Ski Vacation in Southcentral Alaska  

Less than an hour southeast of Anchorage, in the town of Girdwood, Alyeska Resort is the go-to spot for families looking for an all-levels ski vacation in Alaska. From your beginners who are just getting a foothold on the sport with ski lessons to your confident teenage shredders and those family members keen to try heli-skiing, it's on the menu at this comprehensive mountain resort. True beginners pay just $5 for magic carpet access and all lift tickets are under $100 per day , with kids costing significantly less than that.

Where to Stay in Alaska on Points

Your points hotel options in Alaska are limited once you get out of the main towns, but there are options in the state's largest cities.

In Anchorage, you can pick from a variety of points hotels including, Embassy Suites by Hilton Anchorage (between 36k and 70k Hilton Honors points), Hilton Garden Inn Anchorage (from 23k to 60k points), Hampton Inn Anchorage (23k to 50k Hilton Honors points), Hyatt House Anchorage (from 8k World of Hyatt points), Anchorage Marriott Downtown (Category 5, from 35k Marriott points), Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa (Category 4, 25k Marriott points), Residence Inn Anchorage Midtown (Category 4, 25k Marriott points) or Crown Plaza Anchorage-Midtown (from 35k IHG Rewards Club points).

In Fairbanks, look to the Best Western Plus Pioneer Park Inn or Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge (both 16k points per night), Hampton Inn & Suites Fairbanks (25k–50k points), SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks (Category 4, 25k Marriott points) or Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Fairbanks (from 25k IHG Rewards Club points).

Bottom Line

While most families head to Alaska in the summertime, don't discount the opportunities available in winter. If your crew loves the outdoors and activities to get the heart pumping, you can't do better than a cold-weather trip to the snowy north.

Has your family been to Alaska in the winter? What did you think?

17 Incredible Winter Activities in Anchorage, Alaska

Looking for things to do around Anchorage in the cold winter months? I have you covered!

I grew up in a town outside of Anchorage and live here now, so I know nearly everything about this area! A visit to Alaska in the winter is a completely different experience than in the summer months.

Visiting in the winter allows you to experience the state like the locals do. There aren’t many people who brave the snow and ice, but for winter lovers, it’s paradise.

If you’re planning a winter trip, I outlined a 7-day winter itinerary along with a longer 10-day winter itinerary . I recommend taking a look at both for even more winter travel ideas.

Let’s get right to it. Here are the best things to do in the Anchorage area in the winter months.

1. Walk on a Glacier

Let’s kick off this list with one of the coolest (no pun intended) things you can do in Alaska; walk on a glacier!

About two hours north of Anchorage is Matanuska Glacier. It’s 24 miles long and 4 miles wide. This is considered a valley glacier, meaning that the glacier sits on the valley floor (instead of up in the mountains).

There are many day tour options that do pick up/drop off in Anchorage. Most tours are about 8 hours long, and I recommend this Matanuska Glacier Tour with Greatland Adventures. They’re a local company with loads of experience and helpful tour operators.

Awesome day! Crawling through the crevasse was an added bonus. Guides were awesome and full of knowledge. Worth every penny. – Robert_M ( read more reviews )

Read next: 7 Glaciers you Can Drive to From Anchorage

2. Go Dog Sledding

Did you know Alaska’s official sport is dog sledding? Also called dog mushing, this sport is hugely popular in Alaska. And in my experience, all of the dogs are well loved and cared for. They’re also crazy with energy and seem genuinely excited to get out and start moving.

Many local mushers open up their kennels for day tours. And with a tour, you get to see the pups and actually go dog mushing!

The kennels aren’t located directly in Anchorage. Instead, they’re about an hour or so north in the areas of Wasilla and Willow.

The one I always recommend is this tour in Willow with Alaskan Husky Adventures. They were voted Best of Alaska in 2023 and you get up to an hour of ride time. It’s an awesome experience and I highly recommend it!

3. Watch the Northern Lights Dance in the Sky

The north is where you go to watch the Aurora dance across the sky, and Alaska is no exception. And while Fairbanks is the most popular location (it’s in the Aurora Oval), you can still spot the northern lights from the Anchorage area.

I created a separate list with viewing tips and top locations around the city to see the lights ( you can find it here ). But in general, the best way to see the lights is away from light pollution (aka city lights).

There are also many fantastic tour operators that will drive you to the best locations to witness the northern lights. I recommend doing this tour with Alaska Photo Treks . If the weather will prevent you from seeing the aurora (like a blizzard), they’ll cancel the tour and provide a refund.

It was a wonderful experience! Ben, our guide, was so helpful and he had such a great energy and gave us a lot of information about the town and the lights. We weren’t expecting to see much, but we were able to see the lights and they danced around and it was amazing! I highly recommend this!! Bopha_p ( see more reviews )

The northern lights are considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world and is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lives.

4. Go Inner Tubing at Arctic Valley

Arctic Valley is a small ski area a few miles north of Anchorage. It’s a volunteer run organization and is mostly no frills with a few lifts.

They have a fun tube park where you can rent inner tubes and ride down one of the three tubing hills. There’s a rope similar to a t-bar that takes you up too so you don’t need to hike up the hill.

There’s a fee per person and you go in 90 minute slots. This is a fun activity for kids but also adults too. Visit their website for all the up-to-date information!

5. Try Fat Tire Biking

In Alaska, cycling doesn’t stop just because there’s snow on the ground. Okay, you can’t exactly cycle, but instead can try fat tire biking. There are a few places to rent bikes, and my favorite is Pablo’s Bicycle Rentals . Located in downtown Anchorage, they have a mix of fat tire bikes and even electric fat tire bikes too.

They’re close to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail which takes you to Westchester Lagoon and Kincaid Park. A little further along you can also explore Earthquake Park. They’re happy to help you get oriented for a self-guided trip, and daily rental rates are really reasonable.

But if you prefer a guided tour, Pablo’s has a tour option that takes you through the downtown area and nearby trails.

6. Visit a Winter Carnival

There’s something incredibly unique about experiencing a carnival in the winter. Fur Fondezvous, also called Fur Rondy, is Alaska’s larges winter carnival leading up to the kickoff of the Iditarod. In fact, the Iditarod’s ceremonial start begins in downtown Anchorage and marks the final day of Fur Rondy.

This isn’t just any carnival. This is a festival that is completely Alaskan. Popular events include a large snow sculpture contest, the famous outhouse races , a Miners and Trappers Ball, and Running with the Reindeer.

There are plenty more events to keep you busy, though, so be sure to check out all the events at their official website .

The carnival has many typical fair rides and treats, and I highly recommend going if you are visiting the week leading up to the Iditarod.

7. Watch the Largest Sled Dog Race in the World

At the end of Fur Rondy, you can watch Alaska’s state sport come to life. The Iditarod kicks off, with brave mushers traveling across 1,049 miles from Anchorage to Nome. It’s known as the “last great race” and it’s fun to be a part of the largest event in Alaska.

8. Try Ice Skating on a Frozen Lagoon

There are many ice skating opportunities around Anchorage and the surrounding areas. All the lakes freeze over in the winter and many add lights and clear an area for ice skating. The most popular spot in Anchorage is located at Westchester Lagoon, a few minutes’ drive from downtown Anchorage.

Here you can put on your skates and enjoy a large cleared area. There are also lights added so you can easily skate at night.

On Saturdays in January and February, there’s family skating from 1-3pm. They have warming barrels, hot cocoa, music, and plastic skate assist seals too. Use this link for up-to-date information.

Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental has ice skates available for rent.

9. Ride the Alaska Winter Train

In the winter months, most bigger tourist activities close up shop. Luckily there are still some great options available. The Alaska Railroad, which is the only railroad operator in the state, runs a winter train from Anchorage to Fairbanks.

Just the fact that this train line is maintained all winter is an incredible feat, as many areas get hundreds of inches of snow.

The train leaves from either the Anchorage train depot or Fairbanks and embarks on a 12-hour journey. Passengers get to experience Alaska in a blanket of snow. The route passes by Denali National Park, through mountains, next to rivers, and also stops at Talkeetna.

The railroad only runs specific days in the winter, so be sure to plan your trip around it to ensure a smooth experience. I recommend only doing the train one way as it’s such a long trip. With that in mind, you’ll be flying into Anchorage and out of Fairbanks (or vice versa). Here’s a full itinerary that includes the winter train .

10. Go Nordic Skiing on Miles of Trails

Anchorage is a cross-country skiers paradise. In town, there’s an impressive network of trails at Kincaid Park.

This is where many athletes train for competitions and there are even some Olympic athletes training here. But don’t let that intimidate you, there are plenty of trail options to choose from.

Another popular spot north of Anchorage is at Beach Lake, next to Chugiak High School.

There are many places to rent skis in Anchorage including Play it Again Sports and Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental .

11. Watch Wildlife Play in the Snow

The bears may hibernate in the winter, but there are plenty of other Alaskan animals that roam all winter. Moose prefer the trails and roads to deep snow, so you can often spot them around town. Other wildlife you can see are hares and maybe even lynx (if you’re lucky).

To ensure you see all the Alaska animals, you can either visit the Alaska Zoo or the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

And while neither can compare to larger zoos you’ll find around the world, I think that both provide a good range of animals in a great setting. The Alaska Zoo is in Anchorage along the hillside area. The zoo is set in the woods with trails weaving throughout it. We typically spend about 90 minutes walking around, checking out the animals.

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center has only Alaskan animals. They rehabilitate animals from all over the state. While it’s not large, I like that you can choose to drive if the weather isn’t ideal. It’s also in a beautiful setting along Turnagain Arm. Note that in the winter the drive can be dangerous due to ice and snow on the roads.

12. Go on a Winter Hike

Anchorage is full of active people who love hiking year round. Many trails are maintained in the winter months, or packed down enough due to traffic.

In Anchorage, Flattop is a popular year round hike. Please note that if it’s a particularly snowy year, there can be avalanche risk. Kincaid Park has a good network of hiking trails, just be sure to avoid the nordic ski trails.

The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a 20-mile trail that runs along the Cook Inlet. It starts downtown and has many other entry points including Westchester Lagoon, Kincaid Park, and Earthquake Park. This means you can start your trail on the trail from many points in the city. It’s mostly flat with a few small hills and makes for a nice stroll. Note that with the inlet right next to you, it can get really cold in the winter months.

Eklutna Lake has a 13 mile trail that’s maintained throughout the winter. It’s a flat trail that’s great for walking. When the lake freezes over, it’s popular for walking, cross-country skiing, and snow machining. There’s no cell service here, so be prepared to be on your own.

Just outside of Anchorage, about 26 miles north, is the Eagle River Nature Center. Located at the end of the road, this privately owned nature center has a network of trails for winter walking and hiking. The road is well maintained, just be sure to take it slow on the big hills as you’re heading there.

It’s hard to beat the views from the boardwalks and lookout points at the nature center, and I highly recommend a visit if you have a rental car.

13. Go on a Brewery Tour

Alaska has an incredible craft brewery and cider scene. In Anchorage, there are about 20 breweries and cideries, with more popping up every year.

For a more personal experience, I recommend skipping a DIY tour and instead letting someone else drive you around.

Big Swig Tours offers the most popular brewery tour in town. For the tour, you meet downtown and are taken to 3 of the best breweries. The tour guide, known as the ‘hoperator’, explains the history of Alaska’s beer scene and what makes it unique. The tour takes approximately 4 hours and has over 100 5-star reviews !

Truly a wonderful experience! Bryan was an awesome tour guide and provided 3 great breweries to tour. Each place had different but unique beers to try. All of the brewers working at the sites were so knowledgeable and certainly kept it lively. You definitely will not be thirsty on this beer tour! 10/10 recommend. Samantha_S ( read more reviews )

14. Ski the Longest Continuous Double Black Run in North America

The town of Girdwood, located about 45 minutes south of Anchorage, has the largest ski resort in the state. Alyeska is a fun mountain with incredible views. There are only 4 ski lifts and a tram from the hotel, but the mountain is large enough that there are plenty of runs to keep you busy.

One unique aspect of Alyeska is the North Face, a side of the mountain with North America’s longest continuous double black run (try saying that three times!).

If you don’t want to attempt North Face, there are many other runs to enjoy that aren’t quite so steep.

15. Dine With Mountain and Inlet Views

For great views and an equally great meal (especially in the winter), head to Crow’s Nest at the top of the Hotel Captain Cook.

The bar area looks reminiscent of an old wooden ship and you have great views no matter where you sit.

16. Explore the Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon. It’s a beautiful building with a lot to offer. Kids love the Imaginarium. There’s all sorts of science experiments, sea life (the snapping turtle is a highlight), and things to do. There’s even a toddler area with toys and toddler sized furniture.

The museum is two story’s with many rooms and themes. There are some permanent exhibits such as Art of the North and an exhibition highlighting Alaska’s indigenous people, the first people of Alaska. Then there are rotating exhibits throughout the year.

The museum is located right in the heart of downtown and can be easily combined with other activities.

17. Warm Up at The Nordic Spa

The Alyeska Nordic Spa is a newer facility that opened in 2022. It’s the first of it’s kind in Alaska and possibly one of my favorite things to do up here.

There are multiple hot and cold pools with varying temperatures, and there are saunas all around the facility. It’s completely secluded and surrounded by a large sitka spruce forest. They even have a forest walk with barrel tubs and circular wooden saunas. There’s an added steam room and exfoliation room, and a restaurant and bar area on site.

Photography is not allowed inside, but you can check out their Instagram to get a better idea of what to expect.

So if you want a touch of luxury on your vacation, I highly recommending booking a day at the Nordic Spa. And to hear all about my experience, you can read that here .

Final Thoughts

A visit to Alaska in the winter provides an incredibly unique experience. Once you add in some of these adventures, you have the experience of a lifetime. Here are more articles you might find helpful on visiting Alaska in the winter months.

• The Perfect Alaska Winter Travel Guide – This guide is more of a deep dive into visiting Alaska in the winter months.
• An Epic 7 Day Alaska Winter Itinerary – this article is packed with all the top things to do in Alaska in just 7 days. For a longer itinerary, here is a 10 day itinerary .
• 7 Glaciers You Can Drive to From Anchorage – This is a full list of glaciers to explore near Anchorage.
• How to See the Northern Lights from Anchorage, Alaska – To chase the northern lights on your own, use this guide to find the best spots around Anchorage.

I'm Brea, an Alaskan with a serious case of wanderlust. Join me as I share insider information and firsthand accounts to help with your travels. Find destination guides, itineraries, general travel tips, learn how to take better photos, and more! Follow me on Instagram for all my up-to-date travels @travelingigloo

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Lonely Plan-it: A fishing trip to Alaska

Apr 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Bird Creek in the shadow of the Chugach Mountains is lined with fisherman hoping to catch silver salmon © Karen Timmons / Getty Images

For many Alaska visitors, the chance to drop a line in the briny depths of the ocean, or cast a fly rod upon a rushing river, is the reason they’ve traveled north – and for good reason. There is nothing quite like fresh fish – caught amid the stunning scenery of Alaska – consumed over a dinner table filled with tales of the day itself.

Alaska’s commercial fishing industry is its second-largest economic generator, with a wide variety of species found across the state. From mid-April to August, saltwater fishing vessels of varying sizes and shapes take to the sea and net or line-catch salmon, halibut, cod and other species for markets around the world. Sport fishing is also a huge business in Alaska, including the Arctic and Northwest regions, where species like Arctic char are considered a fly-fisher’s dream for their fight on a line. 

For these reasons, you’ll need to consider the seasons, types of fishing and the most accessible locations for your fishing holiday. In a state with 3,000 rivers, three million lakes, and over 6,000 miles of coastline, the toughest part is deciding where to go. 

What are the regulations for fishing in Alaska?

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is the state’s overseeing agency for all things sport fishing, and it tightly controls where, when, and what species you can catch. Dividing the state into three regions (Southcentral, Interior, and Southeastern) the agency provides up-to-date listings of open and closed areas, and forecasts for salmon runs each spring, when many anglers are making  plans for fishing trips. 

All nonresidents aged 16 and older must purchase and carry a current fishing license , available either online or at retail outlets in just about every city. Additionally, those wanting to fish for king salmon must secure a stamp indicating this intention, which is added to your license. It must be noted here that the ADF&G does not take fishing without a license lightly: officers are constantly patrolling shorelines and salt waterways – and fines for non-licensed fishers are hefty.

Know your halibut from chinook

It behooves the fishing visitor to have an idea of what type of fish they’d like to catch while in Alaska. Those looking for salmon have the choice to fish in either saltwater near Whittier, Seward, Valdez or Homer and nearby environs; or in the rivers and streams flowing near these communities, but also in Anchorage and along the Southwest regional areas like Dillingham and Katmai National Park. 

Know that the farther away from the road system one goes, the more expensive fishing will get, especially if you need a float plane to reach a river. Alaska's waters house five species of salmon: chum, sockeye, pink, chinook and coho. Each spawn at different times of year, beginning with chinook (also known as king salmon) in late spring.

Other freshwater fish include Arctic char, grayling and trout – the latter usually fished in September and October. 

Saltwater species are abundant and accessible in any harbor community, but halibut are predominant in the community of Homer at the tip of the Kenai Peninsula . In fact it is known as the “halibut capital of the world” with fish hauled in here reaching 200 pounds in weight. 

Best destinations for a DIY fishing trip

• Cast a line into the river for world-class salmon fishing on the Kenai River near Cooper Landing .
• Head out to deeper waters of Cook Inlet from Homer to fish for halibut. 
• Show up to Ship Creek in Anchorage and rent the entire kit to fish like a local. 
• Fly-fish the sparkling waters of the Little Tok River near the community of Tok, in the Yukon-Charley Rivers Preserve.
• Try the family-friendly Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour in Ketchikan for a look at the dangerous deep-sea crab industry.  

Top tips for fishing in Juneau

Located along Alaska’s Inside Passage, Juneau is a great landing spot for Southeast fishers wanting to haul in a halibut or salmon. Charters depart from both downtown docks and Auke Bay about 15 miles from the city center. 

Where to stay: Spend the night downtown at the Silverbow Inn and take in the charm of Alaska’s capital city. 

Where to eat: For fresh seafood and local atmosphere, dine at the Hangar on the Wharf and watch floatplanes and ships come in and out. 

What to expect in Seward 

A popular destination for both cruise ship and independent travelers, Seward is also a hotspot for Anchorage residents looking for a weekend getaway. The calm waters of Resurrection Bay glean salmon, halibut, rockfish and cod and are great places for youngsters to learn the art of saltwater fishing. 

Where to stay: Harbor 360 hotel sits right at the small boat harbor and offers a complimentary breakfast and access to downtown Seward activities, including fishing charters.

Where to eat: The Cookery in downtown Seward is small but its menu of fresh seafood and produce packs a delicious punch. 

Visiting Valdez

This scenic Prince William Sound community lives hard by the sea, with daily salmon, halibut, and rockfish charters departing from its small boat harbor. Visit during the pink salmon run in early July and see the commercial purse seiners hauling up enormous nets of delicious fish.

Where to stay: Totem Hotel and Suites is a good option and a short distance from the downtown docks. 

Where to eat: Try The Fat Mermaid for locally-sourced seafood right along the main street of Valdez and within walking distance to activities.

Remote fishing experiences in Alaska

If a remote fishing experience is on your bucket list and within budget, these lodges provide a truly immersive once-in-a-lifetime Alaska fishing trip. 

Waterfall Resort

Located on scenic Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska, this homey lodge is reached via a 45-minute floatplane ride from Ketchikan and offers pristine scenery while fishing for salmon in the calm waterways around the island. This former salmon cannery-turned fishing lodge is a wonderful choice for groups and families. 

Alaska Sportsman’s Lodge

A luxury resort located near one of the most productive sockeye salmon waterways in Alaska, the Kvichak River, this lodge is for serious fishers, with daily guided forays into the wilderness to cast a line. Want to fly fish for trout? This is the place for that as well, with large fish regularly caught and released. 

Tordrillo Lodge

Want to throw in some other adventures while still finding time to fish? This hidden lodge deep in the Tordrillo Mountains just an hour floatplane ride from Anchorage is pretty much perfect, with salmon and trout fishing intermingled with heli-skiing, hiking, and rafting. 

Be bear aware

Alaska’s bears frequent the same fishing rivers and streams as humans, and they always have the right of way. If you are fishing without a guide, review the Alaska Department of Fish and Game rules and guidelines for fishers , and always keep an eye out for bears, especially if fishing in the long, dusky Alaska evening hours. 

What to pack for your fishing trip to Alaska

If taking a charter vessel, dress for inclement weather and a near-constant day of wetness and fish scales. Wear rubber boots, or non-slip, close-toed shoes – and bring rain gear, a warm hat and gloves. 

For those heading out into the open waters of Prince William Sound or the Gulf of Alaska, consider pre-dosing with an anti-seasickness medication or wearing a behind-the-ear patch to prevent nausea during the trip. Even the most ardent sailors sometimes feel the rolling ocean swells to be too much to manage without medicine. 

For river fishers, waders are a must, and non-felt wading shoes. 

Don’t have gear? There’s no need to worry: most guiding outfits provide everything you need for a comfortable experience. 

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Alaska:

The best time to go to Alaska? Save this guide on when to visit .  Get around in Alaska with these  transport tips .  Be sure to add these top experiences to your Alaska itinerary. And make time for some epic road trips  to the highlights in Alaska.

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