Alaska, the largest state in the United States, is a land of untamed wilderness, majestic mountains, and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual traveler looking for your next getaway, Alaska offers a unique blend of natural wonders, rich culture, and thrilling experiences. In this guide, we’ll take you through the highlights of Alaska, sharing our personal experiences and tips to help you make the most of your Alaskan adventure.
Planning a trip to Alaska definitely takes a lot of preparation due to the extensive traveling and variety of activities available. With vast distances between destinations and countless adventures to choose from, having a well-thought-out itinerary is essential to make the most of your time in this incredible state.
I’ve included my 9-Day Alaskan itinerary at the end of this article.
The Feel of Alaska
Stepping into Alaska feels like entering a different world—a world where nature reigns supreme. The air is crisp and clean, the landscapes are vast and varied, and there’s a sense of tranquility that you won’t find anywhere else. From the rugged coastline to the towering peaks of the Alaska Range, every corner of this state invites exploration and awe.
My Experience: During my time in Alaska, I was constantly amazed by the sheer beauty of the landscapes. The serenity of the pristine lakes, the grandeur of the glaciers, and the endless horizons made every moment feel like a scene from a nature documentary. This trip was one of the most memorable of my life. The sense of thrill and adventure permeated every aspect of the journey, making it a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.
Areas To Visit
Alaska is brimming with incredible places to visit. Here are some of the must-see areas I personally visited:
- Anchorage: The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is a great starting point for your journey. It offers a mix of urban amenities and easy access to nature.
- Denali National Park: Home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali, this park is a haven for wildlife and adventure seekers.
- Juneau: The state capital, known for its stunning fjords and glaciers, is accessible only by boat or plane.
- Seward: A charming coastal town that serves as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.
- Fairbanks: Known for its midnight sun and Northern Lights, Fairbanks offers a unique Alaskan experience.
Adventures in Alaska
Here are some highly recommended fun things we did while in Alaska:
Biking: Rent a bike and ride through Chugach Park. Lots of moose sightings along the way! https://www.pablobicyclerentals.com
Hiking: Hike Exit Glacier, Portage Pass, and Denali, enjoying the stunning views and diverse landscapes.
Glacier Tours: The Matanuska Glacier tour offers an up-close look at this magnificent natural wonder. https://glacier-tours.com
Jet Skiing: Enjoy an exhilarating time jet skiing in Whittier. Get up close and personal with several glaciers. https://glacierjetskiadventures.com
Glacier Cruise: The Phillip’s 26 Glacier Cruise provides breathtaking views of calving glaciers and abundant wildlife. https://phillipscruises.com
Dog Sledding: The dog sled tour in Willow is a unique and thrilling experience. The huskies are more than excited to take you out on a ride! https://akhusky.dog
Denali Seaplane Tour: Ride a seaplane to get the best views of Denali from the air and land on a glacier. https://www.flyk2.com
ATV Tour: Explore Denali on an ATV for an adventurous and fun time. https://www.denaliatv.com
Other Things to Do in Alaska
Even if you don’t have time to do everything, there are plenty of other activities that come highly recommended:
- Kayaking: Paddle through serene waters surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
- Aurora Borealis Viewing: The Northern Lights are a magical sight that you can often see in winter.
- Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs, like those in Chena Hot Springs Resort.
- Cultural Tours: Learn about Alaska’s rich Indigenous heritage through guided tours and museums.
- Fishing: Alaska is famous for its salmon and halibut fishing opportunities.
Where to Stay in Alaska
From cozy cabins to luxurious lodges, Alaska has accommodations to suit every preference and budget:
- Anchorage: Options range from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
- Denali National Park: Choose from rustic lodges and campgrounds within or near the park.
- Juneau: A variety of hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts await.
- Seward: Quaint inns and seaside cabins provide a comfortable stay.
- Fairbanks: Hotels and unique stays, such as igloos or log cabins, are available.
My Experience: We stayed at multiple Airbnbs as we moved around during our trip, and a rustic lodge near Denali. Each place was comfortable and provided easy access to the surrounding attractions.
How to Get Around in Alaska
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Alaska, giving you the freedom to travel at your own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path locations. Here are the main options:
- Car Rental: Renting from companies like Turo provides flexibility and convenience.
- Ride Sharing: Available in major cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks, ride-sharing services are convenient for shorter trips within the city.
- Train: The Alaska Railroad offers scenic routes connecting major destinations.
- Bus: Several bus services operate between cities and tourist spots.
- Plane: For remote areas, small planes are often the best mode of transportation.
My Experience: Driving through Alaska was an adventure in itself. The roads are well-maintained, and the scenic drives offered breathtaking views around every turn. Renting from Turo was convenient and allowed us to explore some of the more remote and beautiful parts of the state.
Best Time of Year to Visit
Alaska is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests:
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying long daylight hours. During this period, the sun barely sets, with up to 22 hours of daylight, allowing for extensive exploration and activities.
- Fall (September to October): Great for autumn foliage and fewer crowds. Days start to shorten, with sunrise around 8 AM and sunset around 6 PM by late September.
- Winter (November to March): Perfect for Northern Lights, dog sledding, and winter sports. Expect very short days with only a few hours of daylight, especially in December when the sun rises around 10 AM and sets around 3 PM.
- Spring (April to May): A quieter time with budding landscapes and wildlife emerging. Days lengthen rapidly, with sunrise as early as 5 AM and sunset after 10 PM by May.
My Experience: I visited in the summer, which was perfect for outdoor adventures and enjoying the midnight sun. The weather was pleasant, and the long days allowed me to pack in plenty of activities.
What to Pack
Packing for Alaska requires some planning, as the weather can be unpredictable. Here are some essentials:
- Layers: Bring both warm and lightweight clothing to adjust to changing temperatures.
- Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket and pants are a must.
- Hiking Boots: Sturdy and comfortable for exploring trails.
- Binoculars: Great for wildlife viewing.
- Camera: To capture the stunning landscapes.
- Insect Repellent: Useful in summer months.
- Day Pack: Perfect for carrying essentials on day trips and hikes.
My Experience: I found layering to be key in staying comfortable throughout the trip. My waterproof gear came in handy more than once, and having good hiking boots made all the difference on rugged trails. My day pack was incredibly useful for carrying snacks, water, and extra layers during day trips.
My 9-Day Itinerary
Here’s a detailed look into my 9-day Alaskan adventure:
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Anchorage
- Morning: Arrive in Anchorage, check into Airbnb.
- Mid-morning: Bike riding on the Tony Knowles Costal Trail.
- Afternoon: Hike at Chugach Park.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in downtown Anchorage.
Day 2: Matanuska Glacier
- Morning: Drive 2.5 hours to Matanuska Glacier.
- Afternoon: Guided 2-hour glacier tour with Glacier Tours on the Matanuska.
- Evening: Return to Anchorage, relax at Airbnb.
Day 3: Journey to Seward and Girdwood
- Morning: Costal Classic train ride to Seward.
- Afternoon: Hike Exit Glacier.
- Evening: Drive to Girdwood (2 hours), check into Airbnb.
Day 4: Jet Skiing and Hiking
- Morning: 4-hour jet skiing tour in Whittier with Glacier Jet Ski Adventures.
- Afternoon: Hike Portage Pass Trail.
- Evening: Return to Girdwood (45-minute drive), dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 5: Glacier Cruise
- Morning: Drive 45 minutes to Whittier.
- Afternoon: 6 hour (150 miles) Phillip’s 26 Glacier Cruise with Phillip’s Cruises.
- Evening: Return to Girdwood.
Day 6: Dog Sledding and Denali
- Morning: Drive 2 hours to Willow for 2-hour dog sled tour with AK Husky.
- Afternoon: Drive 2 hours to Talkeetna for 2-hour Denali Plane Tour with glacier landing.
- Evening: Drive 2.5 hours to Denali, check into Denali Hostel & Cabins.
Day 7: Exploring Denali
- Morning: Hike in Denali National Park.
- Afternoon: 2.5 hour Denali Wilderness Adventure ATV tour with Denali ATV.
- Evening: 4 hour drive back to Anchorage, check into Airbnb.
Day 8: Wildlife Conservation Center
- Morning: Visit Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
- Afternoon: Moose encounter, free time to explore or relax.
- Evening: Dinner in Anchorage.
Day 9: Departure
- Morning: Pack and check out.
- Afternoon: Explore Anchorage one last time.
- Evening: Return rental car, take rideshare to airport.
Alaska is a destination like no other, offering unparalleled natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re drawn to its majestic mountains, abundant wildlife, or rich cultural heritage, Alaska has something for everyone. I hope this guide inspires you to embark on your own Alaskan adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need more detailed recommendations. Safe travels and enjoy your journey to the Last Frontier!
