10 Best Things to Do in Alaska

northern lights

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure through the vast wilderness of Alaska? Look no further, because here are the 10 best things for you to do in this majestic state.

  • Like a soaring eagle, explore the breathtaking Glacier Bay National Park and witness its awe-inspiring beauty.
  • In Fairbanks, gaze at the mesmerizing Northern Lights, a spectacle that will leave you in utter awe.
  • Take to the skies and enjoy a scenic flight over Denali National Park, marveling at the stunning landscapes below.
  • Cruise through the Inside Passage and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Alaskan coastline.
  • Hike the famous Chilkoot Trail and challenge yourself amidst nature’s wonders.
  • Get up close and personal with magnificent whales in Juneau during an unforgettable whale-watching experience.
  • Feel the rush as you race through snowy terrain on a dog sledding adventure in Anchorage.
  • Take a wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park and witness the incredible diversity of Alaskan wildlife.
  • And finally, enjoy a scenic drive along the Seward Highway, where stunning views will accompany you every step of the way.

Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in the great wilderness of Alaska!

Explore Glacier Bay National Park

mountain and blue body of water under cloudy sky

To fully experience Glacier Bay National Park, start by exploring its breathtaking glaciers and wildlife. The park offers numerous camping opportunities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Picture yourself setting up camp under the towering peaks, surrounded by the icy serenity of the glaciers. As you venture out from your cozy site, keep your eyes peeled for the incredible wildlife that calls this park home. From humpback whales breaching the surface of the water to brown bears foraging for food along the shoreline, the opportunities for wildlife spotting are endless.

Imagine the thrill of witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Glacier Bay National Park truly offers an unforgettable camping experience combined with unparalleled wildlife encounters.

Witness the Northern Lights in Fairbanks

river beside forest under bright sky

Continue your Alaskan adventure by witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Fairbanks’ vibrant night skies. Fairbanks is known for being one of the best places on Earth to witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a mesmerizing display of colorful lights dancing across the dark sky. The vibrant hues of green, purple, and pink create a surreal and magical atmosphere. It’s truly an experience like no other.

While witnessing the Northern Lights is a breathtaking experience in itself, it also provides a fantastic opportunity for nighttime photography. Capture the beauty of the lights as they illuminate the landscape and leave you in awe. The dark skies in Fairbanks provide the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning photographs of this natural wonder.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates witnessing natural phenomena, the Northern Lights in Fairbanks will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Make sure to bundle up and find a spot away from city lights for the best viewing experience.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary spectacle that nature has to offer.

Take a Scenic Flight Over Denali National Park

empty road

Hop on a scenic flight and soar over Denali National Park to witness the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s majestic wilderness. As you glide through the skies, get ready to capture stunning scenic photographs that will leave you in awe.

Denali National Park boasts some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world, with snow-covered mountains, sprawling glaciers, and lush green valleys. Keep your camera handy, as you never know when you might spot Alaska’s incredible wildlife from above. Keep an eye out for grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and even wolves as they roam freely in their natural habitat.

From the unique vantage point of a scenic flight, you’ll be able to appreciate the vastness and untouched beauty of Denali National Park in a way that few get to experience.

Cruise Through the Inside Passage

cruise ship

Soar through the picturesque landscapes of Alaska’s majestic wilderness by cruising through the Inside Passage. Embark on a cruise vacation like no other, as you navigate through this stunning waterway that stretches over 1,000 miles along the coast of Southeast Alaska.

As you sail, be prepared to be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes that surround you. Towering snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and sparkling blue waters will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings, as the Inside Passage is home to a diverse range of animals, including whales, seals, and bald eagles.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this serene journey, where every turn reveals a new postcard-worthy view. A cruise through the Inside Passage is an experience you’ll never forget.

Hike the Famous Chilkoot Trail

polar bear on snow covered ground during daytime

Embark on a thrilling adventure by hiking the famous Chilkoot Trail, a must-do experience in Alaska.

The Chilkoot Trail is renowned for its challenging terrain and stunning scenery, offering an unforgettable hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

As you navigate through the trail, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forests.

The trail provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of Alaska and engage in nature exploration like never before.

Along the way, you may encounter wildlife such as bears, eagles, and moose, adding to the excitement and wonder of the journey.

Visit the Charming Town of Sitka

green grass field near lake and mountain under blue sky during daytime

When you explore the best things to do in Alaska, make sure to include a visit to the charming town of Sitka.

Sitka is a hidden gem with its charming architecture and rich cultural heritage. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll be captivated by the town’s unique blend of Russian and Tlingit influences.

The charming architecture of the buildings, with their colorful facades and intricate details, adds to the town’s allure. Immerse yourself in Sitka’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the Sitka National Historical Park, where you can learn about the Tlingit people and their history.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Russian Bishop’s House, a fascinating historic site that showcases the town’s Russian past.

A visit to Sitka will leave you enchanted by its beauty and cultural significance.

Go Whale Watching in Juneau

black and white whale jumping on brown rocky mountain during daytime

Take a thrilling journey in Juneau by going on a whale watching adventure. Juneau, the capital of Alaska, offers some of the most breathtaking whale watching excursions in the world.

Imagine being surrounded by towering mountains and pristine waters as you witness majestic humpback whales breaching the surface. The best time to go whale watching in Juneau is during the summer months, from May to September, when the waters are teeming with these magnificent creatures.

You’ll have the opportunity to see these massive mammals up close, as they migrate to the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska to feed and mate. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the awe-inspiring moments as you embark on this unforgettable whale watching experience in Juneau.

Experience Dog Sledding in Anchorage

rocky hill with grass facing ocean

To experience the thrill of dog sledding in Anchorage, you can join a guided tour and be whisked away through the snowy wilderness by a team of energetic huskies. Dog sledding is a popular activity in Alaska, and Anchorage offers some of the best trails for this exhilarating adventure.

Before embarking on your dog sledding journey, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind. Firstly, dress warmly and wear layers to protect yourself from the cold. Secondly, make sure to bring proper dog sledding gear, including warm gloves, a hat, and goggles to shield your face from the wind.

Additionally, it’s essential to listen to your guide’s instructions and maintain a safe distance from the dogs while they’re running.

With the right preparation and a sense of adventure, dog sledding in Anchorage will be an unforgettable experience.

Take a Wildlife Cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park

a tiger walking on a dirt path

While experiencing the thrill of dog sledding in Anchorage, you can also continue your adventure by taking a wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park.

This stunning national park is located on the Kenai Peninsula and offers a unique opportunity to witness Alaska’s diverse marine wildlife up close. As you embark on your cruise, be sure to bring your camera as the park is a haven for wildlife photography enthusiasts.

From the comfort of your boat, you may spot majestic humpback whales breaching, playful sea otters floating among the kelp forests, and graceful seabirds soaring above the rugged cliffs.

The park is also committed to marine wildlife conservation, so you can feel good about supporting their efforts while enjoying this unforgettable experience.

Enjoy a Scenic Drive Along the Seward Highway

landscape photography of iceberg melting during daytime

If you’re looking for a breathtaking adventure in Alaska, hop in your car and take a scenic drive along the Seward Highway. This iconic highway stretches for 127 miles from Anchorage to Seward, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous scenic viewpoints where you can stop and marvel at the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife spotting opportunities as well, as the Seward Highway is known for its abundant wildlife population. You might catch a glimpse of majestic moose, soaring bald eagles, or even the occasional bear.

With every twist and turn of the road, you’ll be captivated by the rugged mountains, sparkling lakes, and pristine glaciers that make this drive truly unforgettable.