Things to Do in Alaska

Witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of North America's tallest peak, Denali, and its surrounding wilderness. This vast park offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, from grizzly bears to caribou, in their natural habitat. Don't miss the chance to experience the solitude and majesty of the Alaskan backcountry.

Explore this stunning 13-mile-long glacier located just outside Juneau. Offering incredible views from various vantage points, you can also hike trails leading to Nugget Falls, a powerful waterfall cascading near the glacier. For a truly unique experience, consider kayaking to the glacier's face.

Embark on a breathtaking train journey through some of Alaska's most pristine landscapes. With routes connecting major cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Seward, you'll witness glaciers, mountains, and wildlife from the comfort of your seat. The GoldStar Service offers dome cars for panoramic views.

Discover the dramatic beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park on a boat tour from Seward. You'll navigate through deep fjords, past tidewater glaciers, and encounter an abundance of marine wildlife, including whales, sea lions, and puffins. It's a truly unforgettable wilderness experience.

Explore the largest national park in the United States, a vast wilderness of towering peaks, immense glaciers, and diverse ecosystems. This park offers opportunities for backcountry hiking, glacier trekking, and flightseeing tours, providing an unadulterated Alaskan wilderness experience. The historic Kennecott Copper Mine is a fascinating peek into the park's past.

Paddle through the tranquil waters of Prince William Sound, renowned for its calm fjords, numerous glaciers, and abundant marine life. Kayak past calving glaciers, explore hidden coves, and spot sea otters, bald eagles, and even whales. Beginners can join guided multi-day tours.

Witness the incredible spectacle of brown bears fishing for salmon at Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park. This world-renowned bear viewing destination offers elevated platforms for safe and unforgettable encounters with these majestic creatures. Visiting during the salmon run (July-September) provides the best chances.

Immerse yourself in the lush temperate rainforest of the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S. Explore numerous trails offering diverse experiences, from easy coastal walks to challenging alpine ascents, all while surrounded by ancient trees and abundant wildlife. The scenic Perseverance Trail near Juneau is a local favorite.

Experience the thrill of dog sledding on an Alaskan glacier. Many tours offer helicopter rides to a glacier camp, where you'll meet a team of huskies and learn to mush across the snow and ice. It's a unique and iconic Alaskan adventure from a perspective few get to see.

Challenge yourself with an exhilarating white water rafting trip on the Nenana River near Denali National Park. With rapids ranging from Class I to Class IV, there are options for both beginners and experienced rafters. It's a fantastic way to see the Alaskan wilderness from a different perspective.

Embark on an unforgettable ice climbing adventure on the Matanuska Glacier, Alaska's largest accessible glacier by car. Guided tours cater to all skill levels, providing equipment and instruction. It's an incredible opportunity to explore the blue ice formations and crevasses up close.

Gain a breathtaking aerial perspective of Alaska's dramatic landscape on a flightseeing tour. Soar over towering peaks, vast glaciers, and pristine wilderness, often including views of Denali. Many tours offer window seats for optimal photography and narration from experienced pilots.

Spend a day exploring Homer, known as the 'Halibut Fishing Capital of the World'. Stroll along the famous Homer Spit, a long narrow landform jutting into Kachemak Bay, filled with charming shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. Consider a fishing charter or a water taxi to Halibut Cove.

Escape to Girdwood, a charming resort town nestled in the Chugach Mountains, just an hour's drive south of Anchorage. In summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or riding the Alyeska Resort aerial tram for panoramic views. In winter, it's a popular ski destination. The scenic drive alone is worth the trip.