Traveling to Alaska is an experience unlike any other. The natural landscape is beautiful, the wildlife is unique, and the food and culture are a joy to explore. As a former resident of Alaska, I found my passion as a travel agent helping families, groups, and solo travelers explore all that Alaska has to offer. If you’re planning a trip or considering an Alaskan adventure, these five experiences are a great place to start!
1. See landscapes and wildlife at Denali National Park
Bears, Dall Sheep, moose, wolves, lynx oh my! What animal do you want to see most?
Denali National Park and Preserve spans a truly unique landscape. Its lowest elevation areas are home to wildlife and stunning greenery, and Denali is the highest peak in North America. The park road is open to cars to Mile 15, but to really experience all that Denali National Park has to offer, book a park tour or jump on a transit bus. Just remember to bring your binoculars!
2. Land on a glacier and experience Alaska from above
Glacier flight landing is a once in a lifetime experience! You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you touch down onto a glacier in Denali and take in its beauty from the very best viewpoint.
If you’re looking for the absolute best photo-worthy location in Alaska, a glacier landing is the one to beat.
3. Seek adventure at the Kenai Peninsula
The Kenai Peninsula is just a few hours via car from Anchorage, and is worth the scenic drive every time.
There’s an endless list of adventurous activities in Kenai from rafting on the Kenai River to hiking Exit glacier or taking a boat tour. Kenai is home to another national park, Kenai Fjords National Park, known as the park “Where Mountains, Ice, and Ocean Meet.”
4. See the Northern Lights
Everyone should see the Northern Lights once in their lives, and Alaska is a magical place to do so.
You will need to get the timing just right for this one, considering the sun doesn’t set for most of the summer in Alaska. The best time to visit Alaska for a chance to see the Northern Lights is between August and April when the skies are the darkest.
If you’re planning a trip soon, keep an eye on the Aurora Borealis forecast and set your alarm. Your hotel might even have a wake-up call to make sure you don’t miss it!
5. Embrace the local cuisine
Alaska’s cuisine is best known for it’s fish, caught fresh in the beautiful waters surrounding the local towns. Alaskan salmon while you’re in Alaska? Yes, please! Halibut, crab, and over 40 other fish species are also on the menu.
If you’re not a seafood fan, try another local favorite – reindeer sausage! Alaskan Reindeer is surprisingly tasty, and it will be quite the story to tell friends and family when you arrive home.
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Alaska?
I'm Holly! I'm a travel advisor and I love to plan Alaskan Adventures
