Alaska

Daniel and I have made it to Alaska twice, and we most certainly will be going back. When I imagine escaping from my day-to-day routine, my mind always wanders to the Last Frontier and the incomparable landscapes there. Taking a flightseeing tour over Wrangell-St. Elias is still one of my favorite activities I’ve done on any of my travels–imagine expansive glaciers and caribou herds spanning as far as the eye can see.

Since it’s such a big state, you never run out of things to explore, which can be the main issue you run into when visiting. We put 1500 miles on our rental car and some days included over 7 hours on the road. Not to mention, the roads were rough and potholes were common, meaning it wasn’t easy getting from location to location.

In fact, Alaska is so wild that I was a bit nervous heading out on some of the backroads. If we had gotten a flat tire or the engine had broken down, it could be days before someone would find us–definitely don’t count on cell service!

This guide covers some tips to help you get around the state, as well as an overview of what you shouldn’t miss and a few tips so you feel confident taking on the Last Frontier on your trip there.

Quick tip: If you are driving, download all of your maps before you take off–cell service can be limited even on major highways!

Map of Alaska

Alaska basics

Date founded: January 3, 1959

Nickname: The Last Frontier

Fun fact: There are over 3 million lakes in Alaska and the state has the most coastline of the rest of the United States combined.

Can’t-miss: Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Katmai National Park, Glacier Bay National Park.

Top 5 things to do in Alaska

Here are some of the activities I wouldn’t miss when heading to Alaska.

1. Explore Alaska’s national parks

Visiting parks like Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, and Glacier Bay is the highlight of any trip to Alaska. Each park offers unique experiences, from glaciers to wildlife. Some of Alaska’s national parks are easier to get to than others, but all are worth the extra effort.

2. Experience a musher’s camp

Taking a sled dog ride was incredibly fun and a unique insight into Alaska’s dog sledding heritage. Plus, if you are a dog lover like me, you won’t get over how cute the puppies are!

3. Wildlife watching near Juneau

Hiking near Mendenhall Glacier and spotting black bears in Tongass National Forest was an exhilarating experience.

Quick tip: Hire a local taxi driver and ask them to take you to where the bears are–they almost always know where to go!

4. Cruise the Inside Passage

The journey through charming coastal towns like Ketchikan and Skagway, and the scenic views, was unforgettable. We were constantly on the look for wildlife in the water, and when most cruises run aligns with when you are likely to spot humpback whales.

5. Hiking

Alaska’s trails are unbeatable. Hiking in different parts of the state, especially in the national parks, was a fantastic way to connect with nature. My recommendation for avid hikers? The Savage Alpine Trail in Denali–there’s so much to love about this hike, including views of Denali mountain on a clear day.

Best time to visit Alaska

The best time to visit Alaska really depends on what you’re looking for. Summer, from June to August, offers long days and warmer weather, ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. However, it’s also the busiest time.

For fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors, late August to September, like when Daniel and I went, is great, though a bit rainy.

Winter, from November to March, is perfect for northern lights viewing, but it’s very cold.

Spring brings melting snow and budding landscapes but can be unpredictable weather-wise.

I recommend two weeks in Alaska

Spending two weeks in Alaska is just about right to immerse yourself in its vastness. That’s what Daniel and I did when we took our Alaska road trip, and it allowed us to explore a variety of landscapes and activities.

From cruising to Juneau and Ketchikan to road-tripping through Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks, the extended time lets you experience the state’s diverse beauty. Don’t forget towns like Valdez and Girdwood, each with its unique charm.

Quick tip: Did you know that there is open camping in Alaska? If you have a van or RV, you can park at certain points along the Old Denali Highway and camp for free!

Overland versus cruise

Choosing between an overland trip and a cruise in Alaska depends on what you’re after. On our overland trip, we had the freedom to explore on our own terms, like the road trip to Denali and Wrangell-St. Elias. It’s great for flexibility and in-depth exploration.

However, a cruise, like our journey to Juneau and Glacier Bay, offers a relaxed way to see Alaska’s coastal beauty and visit multiple locations without repacking. The downside? You’re on a set schedule with limited time at each stop.

In my opinion, it’s all about your adventure style. Want to experience beauty without having to drive hundreds of miles to your next destination? I recommend a cruise. For hikers and those looking for more adventure, overlanding is your best option.

Articles by city

Find articles related to the city you’re visiting.

Anchorage

Articles on Anchorage

Juneau

Articles on Juneau

Ketchikan

Articles on Ketchikan

Where to Eat in Ketchikan
Things to Do in Ketchikan

Seward

Articles on Seward

Skagway

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Valdez

Articles on Valdez

Where to Eat in Valdez
Things to Do in Valdez

Tips for visiting Alaska

Here are some tips I found helpful for when I headed up north to this beautiful state:

Pack for all weather: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in places like Denali. Layers and rain gear are essential.
Wildlife awareness: Like our moose sightings, wildlife encounters are common. Keep a safe distance and store food securely. Also consider carrying bear spray on the trail.
Road trip preparedness: Driving through Alaska, as we did, offers amazing sights, but be prepared for long distances and varying road conditions.
Experience local culture: Don’t miss out on unique experiences like a musher’s camp or local seafood in coastal towns. Also remember to be respectful of the Inuit cultures here while learning about them.
Respect the environment: Alaska’s beauty is pristine. Practice Leave No Trace principles to help keep it that way.