Best Time to Visit Alaska
Month-by-month weather, crowd levels, and prices for Alaska, United States. Updated for 2026.
Jun, Jul, Aug
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Jun, Jul, Aug
Month-by-Month Breakdown
Our Recommendation
For an all-around great experience, the best time to visit Alaska is Jun, Jul, Aug. Expect temperatures around 66°F (low 48°F) with about 64mm of rainfall.
Seasonal Highlights
Jan
January in Alaska is for the daring, with average highs of 3°F and lows of -8°F. It's a prime time for Northern Lights viewing, but be prepared for extreme cold.
- Northern Lights viewing
- Dog sledding
Feb
February sees a slight warming trend with highs around 10°F and lows of -5°F. The snow is deep, making it ideal for winter sports, and the Northern Lights continue to shine brightly.
- Northern Lights viewing
- Dog sledding
Mar
March brings the iconic Iditarod, and temperatures begin to rise to a more manageable 20°F high and 3°F low. Days are getting longer, offering more daylight for exploration, but snow is still abundant.
- Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race (early March)
- Northern Lights viewing
Apr
April is a transitional month with highs of 36°F and lows of 16°F. Snow begins to melt, and wildlife emerges, but many tours and facilities are still closed for the season.
- Spring skiing
- Wildlife viewing (bears emerging from hibernation)
May
May officially kicks off the shoulder season, with temperatures warming to a pleasant 54°F high and 36°F low. Glacier tours and many other seasonal activities begin, though some areas may still be inaccessible due to snow.
- Bird migration
- Glacier tours commence
- Fishing season begins
Jun
June welcomes the Midnight Sun and peak season. Expect highs of 66°F and lows of 48°F, along with increased crowds and higher prices. It's the best time for wildlife viewing and experiencing the endless daylight.
- Summer solstice festivities
- Peak wildlife viewing
- Fishing season
Jul
July is the warmest month, with highs of 66°F and lows of 51°F, but also the wettest with 80mm of rain. All areas are accessible, and it's a prime time for fishing and exploring the national parks, despite the rain and crowds.
- Peak fishing season
- National Parks accessibility
- Alaskan Native cultural festivals
Aug
August sees a continuation of warm weather with highs of 60°F and lows of 47°F, but rainfall significantly increases to 120mm. It's prime time for the salmon run and bear viewing, but be prepared for heavy downpours.
- Salmon run
- Blueberry picking
- Bear viewing
Sep
September brings stunning fall foliage and a retreat of the crowds. Temperatures cool to 48°F high and 36°F low, and the Northern Lights become visible again. Many seasonal businesses start to close down.
- Autumn foliage viewing
- Northern Lights viewing begins
- Hunting season
Oct
October is a quiet month with temperatures dropping to 32°F high and 23°F low. Most summer operations are closed, but it's a good time for Northern Lights viewing without the extreme cold of winter.
- Northern Lights viewing
- Winter sports preparation
Nov
November is cold and dark, with highs of 12°F and lows of 3°F. It's a tranquil time for those seeking solitude and the chance to witness the Northern Lights, but many activities are limited due to winter conditions.
- Northern Lights viewing
- Early season skiing
Dec
December plunges Alaska into deep winter, with average highs of 4°F and lows of -8°F. The days are short, but the long nights offer exceptional opportunities for Northern Lights viewing, accompanied by festive holiday cheer.
- Northern Lights viewing
- Holiday festivities