Explore Alaska

Alaska is the ultimate American destination for nature lovers. Leave the passport at home; just grab your backpack and go. It will be an adventure you’ll never forget.

How to Get Around

Alaska has it all. Whether you choose to go whale watching in Resurrection Bay, ice climbing on Matanuska Glacier or backpacking in Denali National Park, just go.

Like most remote places, getting around Alaska requires several methods of transportation. Well maintained roads are confined to a small portion of the state. Still, to me, renting a car is the best choice. There is plenty to see in the coastal and central areas that are driveable. For the purpose of this guide, I’m going to focus on those regions. Just be aware that some less visited areas will require other options. A bush pilot will be needed just to get to some of the states National Parks. Along the coast, a boat ride is a must.

How to Get Around

Where To Go

There is no shortage of fun in Alaska. With the summer’s extented daylight hours, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the natural wonders all around.

Kenail Fjords National Park

Flattop Mountain

Portage Glacier

Matanuska Glacier

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

Resurrection Bay

Anchorage

Virgin Falls

Denali National Park

Hatcher's Pass

ANCHORAGE AREA

Your trip will most likely begin in Anchorage. It may be the state’s largest city but you won’t have to go far to get into nature. Just minutes from downtown, hike to the top of Flattop and get an overview of the city and nearby landscapes. An hour North in Hatcher’s Pass visit old mines, hike a multitude of trails or search for local wildlife. Travel south to the Alyeska Ski Resort and visit the world’s northern-most rain forest.

KENAI PENINSULA

You’ll still find plenty of mountains here but the coastline gives the area a uniquely different feel. As you travel down Seward Highway, turn off in Portage and drive towards Whittier. Portage Lake and the surrounding glaciers are the highlights. They’re easily viewed from the car or better yet a short hike along Portage Pass Trail. Take Seward Highway all the way to the coast and visit Kenai Fjords National Park. But, don’t leave without touring Resurrection Bay by boat. You’ll be treated to some of the best wildlife viewing anywhere.

CENTRAL ALASKA

You’ll likely visit Central Alaska to catch a glimpse of Denali. Along Parks Highway, the Denali Viewpoint South will give you a great chance. Further north, you can enter Denali National Park. To fully experience the park, take the bus all the way to Wonder Lake. If it’s in the budget, rent a 4-wheeler or take a flight over the mountains.

WRANGELL-ST. ELIAS

Northeast of Anchorage, this region is much less visited than the previous ones mentioned. The first signs of civilization that you’ll come to are in Glacier View. Here you can walk or climb on Matanuska Glacier. Climb to the top of Lion’s Head Mountain for a breathtaking view. Continue to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park for remote backpacking.

Cost

Due to Alaska’s isolation, the cost of goods (food, gas, etc.) is higher than in the rest of the states. However, lodging and services are affordable.

LODGING

If you’re on a tight budget, camping is an excellent option in Alaska. State campsites are abundant (here are some) and well marked by signs along the main highways. The fees are around $15 and paid based on an honor system. Genereally, these sites offer a simple compost toilet. There is no reservation system so it’s best to claim a spot by midday. Privately owned campsites can be found as well. For these, the cost will be higher ($30-$35) but most have shower facilities.

There are plenty of lodging options in Alaska as well. Large hotel chains are confined to just a few of the larger cities. Outside of there, locally owned establishments are more common. These are usually in the form of a lodge or group of cabins. In most areas, prices for midtier offerings start around $100. Both of my trips to Alaska have been in the shoulder season. I never made any reservations but there was availability in each case. This is ideal as it allows for flexibility if you are planning a roadtrip.

FOOD

Start your Alaskan roadtrip with a stop at Walmart or a local grocery store upon arrival in Anchorage. There are few such offerings outside of the city. Stock up on snacks and quick lunches for day hikes. Just in case, grab some bear spray too. You’ll mostly rely on assorted local restuarants. Outside of the more popular areas, options will be quite limited so don’t be too picky. That said, expect to find a lot of delis and pizzerias.

TRANSPORTATION

Flights to Alaska are relatively cheap from anywhere in the United States. Flying into Anchorage will nearly always be the most affordable. Rental cars are slightly more expensive than in the rest of the states but still reasonable. There is a train that travels from Seward to Fairbanks as well (search) but it’s not as budget friendly. The trian tracks and highways mainly follow alongside each other. You’ll have incredible views regardless of which option you choose.

Why Alaska?

One of the best things about Alaska is its accessibility. Travel here is easy and drives take hours instead of days.

Whether you only have a few day or several weeks, Alaska is a great escape. I’ve been twice; once for over a week and again for just 3 days. Sunlight last 3/4 of the day in the summer so you’ll be able to make good use of all your time. If you only have a few days, focus on a single region. With a week or more, you’ll have time to visit the coast as well as the mountains inland. These two areas offer different experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the outdoors activities or relaxation, Alaska won’t disapoint.

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Ice Climbing in Alaska

Dec 21, 2016

Ice Climbing in Alaska 20 August, 2015 We had planned to be whale-watching and kayaking in Resurrection Bay but with high winds that was no longer an option. Plans change and we drove to Glacier View in hope of finding a new adventure. After seeing a sign for MICA...

The Best Little Hike in Alaska

Nov 20, 2016

UNITED STATES - ALASKA The Best Little Hike in Alaska Jeffrey Palmer August 20, 2015 There are too many incredible hikes in Alaska to list but most of them require a lot of work. It's rare to find a quick hike that delivers so much. For the ease of access and time...

Select Hikes

Alaska has an endless number of amazing hikes. It’s tough to pick just a few but here is an overview to get you started.

Lion's Head

This short hike offers some of the most incredible views anywhere in Alaska. The distance is short as you’ll scramble straight up the mountain. Upon reaching the top plan to stay awhile; you’re in for a treat. In one direction is the tongue of the Matanuska Glacier. On the other side, the fingers of the Matanuska river criss cross beneath you. If you’re interested in this hike, be sure to read my full article as the trail is difficult to find.

Harding Icefield

This is regarded as one of the best hikes in the US. However, don’t take it lightly. You should be in reasonably good shape before attempting this hike. I would recommend starting early and packing a lunch and plenty of water. You’ll hike up a steep ascent for 4.5 miles overlooking Exit Glacier to start. Midway up, there are great views of the valley below. At the end of the trail you’ll reach Harding Icefield. From there you’ll come back down on the same trail.

Skilak Lake

This trail is less demanding than the other two. The first half of the hike follows the Nothern edge of Skilak Lake. This stretch is mostly flat. The vegetation stays low to the ground because of a fire years ago and allows for views of the deep tourques lake. At the end, you’ll top a small hill and reach a viewpoint of the stunning landscapes in all directions. The hike is 5 miles roundtrip and takes just a few hours.

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