alaska travel 2023

• United States
• New Zealand

The Best Alaska Vacations for 2023

By The Alaska By Design Team

Alaska is a breathtakingly beautiful state that offers a wide range of outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. From majestic glaciers and snow-capped mountains to abundant wildlife and pristine wilderness areas, Alaska is truly a traveler's paradise. With so much to explore, planning an Alaska vacation can be overwhelming. That's why we've compiled a list of our favorite Alaska vacations for 2023, designed to showcase the very best of what this incredible state has to offer.

How to Travel Around Alaska

It’s possible to drive for hours without passing another vehicle in Alaska and every turn offers a new, breathtaking vista. Perhaps you’ll have a chance to cross paths with bears and other wildlife or to spot whales and orca's from the rugged coastlines. Much of Alaska’s best scenery is only accessible by car, so a road trip opens the door to more options including some spectacular national parks. Having a car gives you the greatest freedom, total flexibility and independence to explore the USA’s least densely populated state at your leisure.

If you’re looking for a complete escape, Alaska offers some fantastic wilderness lodges many of which are only accessible by light aircraft. Here you can spend your time reading, walking, fishing, photographing the incredible scenery and wildlife or simply allowing yourself to unwind in secluded, idyllic surroundings with great accommodation and locally sourced food.

Alaska National Parks Self Drive Explorer

12 Days I View full itinerary details

This best selling 12 day Alaska road trip showcases three of Alaska's majestic National Parks. Cruise Kenai Fjords National Park, take your choice of tours at Denali National Park, witness Wrangell St. Elias National Park and take a glacier cruise into Prince William Sound. Don't forget to keep your eyes open for moose, bears, wolves, whales, sea otter and bald eagles as you adventure!

• DAY 1 Anchorage to Seward
• DAY 2 Seward | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 5 Excursions
• DAY 3 Seward to Talkeetna
• DAY 4 Talkeetna to Denali National Park Entrance
• DAY 5 Denali National Park | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions
• DAY 6 Denali National Park to Fairbanks | Sternwheeler Riverboat Cruise
• DAY 7 Fairbanks to Chitina | Chitina to McCarthy | Flight
• DAY 8 McCarthy | Kennicott | Root Glacier Hike
• DAY 9 McCarthy to Chitina | Flight | Chitina to Valdez
• DAY 10 Valdez | Prince William Sound Columbia Glacier Cruise with lunch
• DAY 11 Valdez to Sheep Mountain Lodge
• DAY 12 Sheep Mountain Lodge to Anchorage

Alaska Aurora Rail Adventure

7 Days I See full itinerary details

A visit to Alaska is not only restricted to the summer months, and one such way to make the most of the clear, crisp winter weather is to travel by train. This itinerary takes you from Anchorage past Denali National Park to the northern city of Fairbanks where a stay at remote Bettles Lodge offers excellent aurora viewing possibilities.

• DAY 1 Anchorage | Arrival
• DAY 2 Anchorage to Fairbanks | Alaska Railroad
• DAY 3 Fairbanks to Bettles Lodge | Flight
• DAY 4 - 5 Bettles Lodge
• DAYS 6 Bettles Lodge to Fairbanks | Flight
• DAY 7 Fairbanks | Departure

Stillpoint Lodge

4-5 Days I See full itinerary details

Easily accessible from Anchorage by helicopter or float plane, Stillpoint Lodge offers rustic charm amongst forested surroundings. Numerous activities help you to make the most of your time in the Alaskan wilderness, and you'll have access to both Katmai and Lake Clark National Parks - famous for some of the best grizzly bear viewing in Alaska!

• DAY 1 Stillpoint Lodge | Arrival
• DAY 2 - 3 - 4 Stillpoint Lodge | Freedom of Choice - Number of Excursions based on number of nights at lodge Option 1. Boat, Hike and Kayak: Glacier Lake Kayaking Option 2. Boat and Bike: Remote E-Biking Adventure Option 3. Boat and Hike: Grewingk Glacier Lake Option 4. Boat and Mountain Hike: Summit Alpine Ridge Option 5. Boat Cruise: Wildlife Photo-Safari Option 6. Alaska Culture Experience: Homer or Seldovia Tour
• DAY 4 - 5 Stillpoint Lodge | Departure

Sheldon Chalet Denali

4 Days I See full itinerary details

Sheldon Chalet is as unique as the surrounding Alaska Range is breathtaking. From the moment you step off the helicopter at the chalet to be welcomed with champagne and seafood, your world becomes the frozen expanse of the glacier and mountain peaks beyond. Head out onto the Ruth Glacier with a mountaineering guide and trek across the ice, then unwind in the sauna, sit down to a drink around the fire pit or search the skies for the aurora. On this 4-day trip, you'll have plenty of time to try various activities, soak up luxury at the lodge and make memories for a lifetime.

• DAY 1 Anchorage to Sheldon Chalet | Helicopter
• DAY 2 Denali | Sheldon Chalet
• DAY 3 Denali | Sheldon Chalet
• DAY 4 Sheldon Chalet to Anchorage | Helicopter

Tordrillo Mountain Lodge

5 days I See full itinerary details

Easily accessible via a 40-minute flight from Anchorage, Tordrillo Lodge is a true wilderness retreat. With activities such as heli hiking, glacier hiking and fishing on offer, this is a great base from which the more adventurous can explore Alaska’s great outdoors. If that doesn’t take your fancy, simply unwind on the deck or in the copper hot tub.

• DAY 1 Anchorage to Tordrillo Mountain Lodge | Floatplane
• DAYS 2 – 4 Tordrillo Mountain Lodge | Choose 3 of 3 Heli-Adventures Option 1. Heli Fishing Option 2. Heli Hiking Option 3. Heli Rafting
• DAY 5 Tordrillo Mountain Lodge to Anchorage | Floatplane

Our Alaska Travel Designers have a wealth of other ideas to offer, so get in touch to discuss your dream trip. To request rates and check for early booking offers, contact us toll free at 1-855-465-1001 or email [email protected] and the team will gladly provide you with a free custom quote.

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• Winter Vacations
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Wildlife on Parade

Discover alaska’s wildlife, ecosystems & habitats, luminous lightshows, paint alaska's winter sky in vibrant colors, moments of majesty, delight in the spectacle of calving glaciers, choose from 200+ alaska vacations, most popular.

Alaska Visitors' Favorite Vacation Itineraries

Alaska by Rail Tour

Duration: 10 days

Starting at: $3449 / pp

Travel the entire Alaska Railroad in just nine days! Take the train from Anchorage to Seward, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks. Cruise to an active glacier, jet boat on the Talkeetna River, view wildlife in Denali National Park and... Browse itinerary

Glaciers and Wildlife Tour

Duration: 8 days

Starting at: $2289 / pp

Combining Anchorage, Seward, Talkeetna, and Denali, this tour provides wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic touring throughout. You travel by the Alaska Railroad to Seward and cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park, well known for glacier scenery and viewing... Browse itinerary

Denali & Glacier Experience

Duration: 6 days

Starting at: $1919 / pp

By train, travel along the scenic Seward and Portage Glacier Highways before entering the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the second-longest tunnel in North America. On arrival in Whittier, embark on the 26 Glacier Cruise with lunch. Enjoy viewing... Browse itinerary

Family Fun Vacation by Car

Duration: 9 days

Starting at: $2459 / pp

An excellent family itinerary designed to allow for a leisurely travel pace with plenty of time for family-oriented activities. Top destinations include Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks. Touring highlights include riding aboard a "whistle stop" train operated... Browse itinerary

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Unforgettable Glacier and Wildlife Viewing

Glacier and Wildlife Turnagain Arm Tour

Length: 8 hours

Starting at: $249 / pp

Enjoy the intimacy of a small group on an Anchorage day tour as you travel along the Turnagain Arm along the Seward Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the country. A professional Alaska tour guide will... Browse itinerary

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Anchorage

Length: 14-15 hours

Starting at: $369 / pp

On this day trip from Anchorage, travel to Seward, Alaska, early morning by motorcoach, then depart on a wildlife and glacier cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park. This seacoast area in Southcentral Alaska is famous for its rich... Browse itinerary

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

Length: 6 hours

Starting at: $219 / pp

On this exciting day cruise from Seward, hop on this unforgettable glacier and wildlife boat trip into Kenai Fjords National Park! This Alaska national park boasts abundant wildlife, alpine and tidewater glaciers, and breathtaking scenery. As you cruise... Browse itinerary

Northwestern Fjord Glacier and Wildlife Cruise

Starting at: $270 / pp

Travel from Seward on this day trip deep into the heart of Kenai Fjords National Park to the magnificent Northwestern Fjord on this full-day Alaska whale watching, wildlife, and glacier cruise. Watch for wildlife while cruising through Resurrection... Browse itinerary

Visit Barrow, Prudhoe Bay, Deadhorse & Coldfoot and Meet Caribou, Musk Oxen

Arctic Circle Fly & Drive Tour from Fairbanks

Length: 12-13 hours

Starting at: $479-499 / pp

This guided tour departs from Fairbanks in the afternoon with a local guide who will provide insights into Alaska's Arctic region. Travel by air, landing above the Arctic Circle and by land on the famed Dalton Highway "ice... Browse itinerary

Arctic Circle Flight Adventure in Summer

Length: 5 hours

Starting at: $569-669 / pp

Fly north from Fairbanks in a small bush plane and land across the Arctic Circle. The tour focuses on a 2.5-hour land tour of a local Alaskan community. Your return provides another opportunity to see the Yukon River,... Browse itinerary

An Alaskan Odyssey

Starting at: $3989 / pp

This unique itinerary takes you from the North Pacific waters of Prince William Sound to the Arctic coast near Prudhoe Bay. This itinerary is for independent travelers seeking a chance to see the incredible diversity of Alaska, from... Browse itinerary

Gates of the Arctic Air Adventure

Length: 4-5 hours

Starting at: $709 / pp

This flightseeing trip from Fairbanks in the evening takes you to the Gates of the Arctic National Park and the Arctic Region.  You will first fly from Fairbanks to Coldfoot, 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle.  During... Browse itinerary

A Bird's Eye View of Alaska Wilderness

Chinitna Bay Bear Viewing

Starting at: $1076 / pp

Depart from Anchorage by wheeled plane for a 90-minute scenic flight southwest over Cook Inlet toward the Chigmit Mountains. Enjoy spectacular views of the Alaska and Aleutian Mountain Ranges and two active volcanoes – Mt. Redoubt and Mt.... Browse itinerary

Juneau Icefield Helicopter Tour and Glacier Hike

Length: 3.25 hours

Starting at: $465 / pp

On this fun and low-stress Juneau day tour, find out why glacier hiking is the most enjoyable way to explore the scenic wonders of the glaciers flowing from the Juneau Icefield.  After a scenic 15-20 minute helicopter flight,... Browse itinerary

Juneau Helicopter Glacier Trek

Length: 4.25 hours

Starting at: $515 / pp

On this Juneau day trip, board a helicopter to go flightseeing while traveling to a remote glacier. Then enjoy a 2-hour guided glacier hiking trip and learn how to use the glacier trekking mountaineering gear properly. Learn to... Browse itinerary

Juneau Helicopter Tour, Glacier Trek & Climb

Length: 5.25 hours

Starting at: $615 / pp

This Juneau day trip by helicopter and glacier trek is the ultimate Alaskan adventure on ice! This Juneau getaway includes three hours of glacier hiking and climbing over the rugged glacier terrain of the Juneau Icefield. Upon landing... Browse itinerary

Why Travel with Alaska Tours?

Alaska Tours is proud to celebrate over 30 years as one of Alaska’s leading travel companies. Based in Anchorage, our experienced and knowledgeable Alaskan team of experts have helped hundreds of thousands of visitors plan memorable vacations, group trips, and cruise-based fun in America’s 49th state.

Vacations That Fit Your Style

Browse seasonal tours suggested by our team

Alaska Railroad Tours

City-based day tours, fully-guided bus tours.

We made reservations with Alaska Tours for a June glaciers and wildlife package back in January. Once the virus began to spread and travel mandates were established, our plans had to be altered. The wonderful team at Alaska Tours helped us modify and reschedule our trip so that we were able to... Read more  

Becky | Trip Advisor

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Alaska Tours & Vacations

Staggering peaks, glacier-fed fjords and epic valleys. In Alaska, the wild still rules. 

Every year a select group of adventurers answers the call of the wild. Our Alaska tours will have you exploring Denali National Park in search of caribou, grizzly bears and wolves. You can also kayak upriver to the far-flung Maclaren Glacier. Spot humpback whales in Resurrection Bay. Hike through the old-growth forest of Wrangell-St Elias National Park while wildflower-munching moose look on. In this vast and remote land, a small group tour allows you to immerse yourself without sacrificing safety. Go on, take a walk on the wild side. 

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Alaska at a glance

Capital city.

Juneau (population approximately 32,000)

Approximately 740,000

US dollars (USD)

English, Yupik, Inupiat and others

(GMT -09:00) Seaward, Anchorage, Denali NP

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Alaska

Culture and customs.

The culture of Alaska is indelibly shaped by the environment. The harsh winter, connection to the Arctic Sea and permafrost means life in Alaska is not for the fainthearted. The remote and wild environment fosters both a spirit of independence and a strong community. When there are so few people in such a vast state, it makes sense to share resources and keep your friends close.

Nature-based hobbies like hiking, fishing and snow sports are all popular. The main city of Anchorage has a small but passionate arts scene including the well-curated Anchorage Museum and a number of Native arts and crafts galleries.

Around 18 per cent of Alaska’s population is indigenous, of either Alaskan Native or American Indian descent. Alaska’s Native people consist of dozens of nations and tribes including Aleut, Inupiat and Yupik people. While many indigenous Alaskans live in small rural communities, a growing number now live in urban areas like Anchorage. Climate change has proved particularly devastating for Alaska’s indigenous people and their traditional way of life. As rising temperatures change the landscape and affect animal migratory patterns, hunting and fishing have become more difficult.

History and government

It’s believed that humans first arrived in the area between 12,000 and 15,000 years ago after traveling from what is now known as Russian Siberia. This theory assumes that  Russia  and  North America  were once connected by a land bridge until rising sea levels caused the land between them to submerge and become the Bering Strait.

Pre-colonial

A detailed history of Alaska has been relatively difficult to uncover due to both the destructive nature of colonialism and the challenges the environment poses to researchers. It’s generally understood that most of the land’s inhabitants were somewhat nomadic until about 5000 years ago when evidence suggests some groups began to build permanent settlements.  

Colonization

Russian colonization of Alaska began in the early 18th century in pursuit of natural resources and to spread the gospel of Orthodox Christianity. Fur was of particular interest to Russia, and Alaskan Native people were often enslaved and forced to collect otter pelts for Russian companies. Brutal treatment, murder and disease killed an estimated 50 per cent of the pre-Russian population, despite the fact that very few Russians actually settled in the area permanently. 

Russia ‘sold’ Alaska to the  United States  in 1867. Indigenous Alaskans objected to the sale on the grounds that they had never given up the land to Russia in the first place, a fact that would become important in 20th-century legal stoushes. As part of the greater missionary goals of the United States, the systematic eradication of indigenous languages, culture and arts was practiced in Alaska – now a US territory – from the 1860s until the early 20th century.

The late 19th century saw the discovery of gold in  Canada’s  nearby Yukon Territory, known as the Klondike Gold Rush, which brought a wave of prospectors to Alaska because of its transport links to the Yukon. Gold was later discovered in Alaska itself and new cities, such as Fairbanks, were built to support the rush.

Alaska officially became a US state in 1959. In the late 1960s, the discovery of valuable oil reserves became entangled with the Native title movement, as a proposed oil pipeline would run through land that belonged to First Nations Alaskans. Richard Nixon signed the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act as a result of this tension, which granted over 44 million acres of Alaskan land to indigenous people, plus almost one billion dollars to be divided among numerous communities and groups. To this day, Alaska continues to be at the center of a battle between the conservation and exploitation of natural resources.

Geography and environment

Alaska is a massive state and its diverse and dramatic landscapes are a big draw for most tourists. It’s bordered by Canada to the south and a third of the state falls within the  Arctic  Circle.

There are rugged mountains throughout the state like the Brooks Range in the north, the highly volcanic Aleutian Range in the southwest, and the Alaska Range in the southcentral, which includes North America’s tallest peak in Denali (20,310 feet).

With over 6231 miles of coastline and a number of islands and inlets, plus a spiderweb of rivers that flow through the state, Alaska is as much a state of water as it is of mountains.

Eating and drinking

In keeping with a way of life that still revolves around hunting, fishing and nature, Alaskan cuisine is big on game, seafood and small amounts of locally grown produce. While traditional Alaskan fare tends to be simple, you’ll find a diverse selection of restaurants in larger towns. Fusion has been particularly popular of late, with plenty of chefs experimenting by marrying fresh Alaskan seafood with  Asian  spice and flavors. 

The food may not be the reason you’re holidaying in Alaska, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing worth sniffing out. Here’s our list of must-try dishes in Alaska:

Salmon Alaska’s wild salmon are iconic. An important part of indigenous diets pre-colonization, salmon today is both a vital part of the state’s economy and a source of pride and identity for locals. Of the five varieties – king, sockeye, coho, pink and keta – each person has their favorite and a preferred way of cooking it.

Reindeer hotdog These wieners aren’t just a novelty for tourists, they are plenty popular with locals too. Grab these strongly flavored sausages – actually a mix of lean caribou meat and pork or beef to bind it together – from food carts in bigger towns like Anchorage, or from supermarkets state-wide for a very Alaskan camp barbecue.

Berries Cold weather and a pristine environment make Alaska a haven for berry production. Late summer is best for blueberries and strawberries, while crowberries taste sweeter after they’ve been ‘burned’ with a little winter frost. While wild berry picking is a popular pastime in Alaska, remember that there are plenty of poisonous and lethal berries that grow in the state too, so be cautious.

Red king crab The king crab more than lives up to its name. It has a body the size of a dinner plate and the males weigh an average of three kilograms (6.6 pounds). You’ll see their spiky legs – which some say is the tastiest part – adorning menus throughout the state, often served with just a little lemon so the soft white meat can speak for itself.

Plant-based options

Vegetarians and vegans have no shortage of options in Anchorage, Alaska’s progressive hub. Vegetarians won’t have to look too hard for options in smaller towns like Homer and Seward either, though vegans may have to make do with fries and a salad. If you’re going truly wild and hitting the backcountry, it’s a good idea to stock up on food at the supermarket before you go. Many small lodges will have a small restaurant attached, but the offerings will likely be whatever the owners managed to bag on their most recent hunting or fishing trip.

Traveling with a local makes this all a lot easier. If you do travel with Intrepid, let your leader know your dietary requirements at the start of the trip and they can make sure you don’t go hungry.

Alaska is an outdoorsy state that’s big on experiences, so the best things to buy are activities. A glacier hike in Wrangell-St Elias or a marine safari on the  Kenai Peninsula  may not be cheap, but they’re sure worth saving for. If you do have some cash leftover, the best Alaskan gifts are still of the practical variety. Remember that it’s a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you can bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand have particularly strict quarantine laws.

Used by indigenous Alaskan women for thousands of years, this curved knife was perfect for tackling the many tasks associated with preparing freshly caught game and fish for dinner. Just remember to put it in your checked luggage.

Jams and preserves

Alaska’s famed berry harvest has led to a strong jam-making tradition. A jar of locally made preserve will travel well and makes a sweet gift in more ways than one.  

Qiviut items

Made from the underwool of musk oxen, qiviut is warmer and softer than wool and can be used to make everything from hats to sweaters. While some qiviut is produced on dedicated farms, it is possible to find collectives and cooperatives of indigenous craftspeople who still do things the old-fashioned way by picking the naturally shed wool from bushes in the spring and knitting it by hand.

Using weaving techniques perfected over thousands of years, craftspeople from the many different indigenous groups create baskets by hand. The Alutiiq people, for example, produce finely woven baskets (and all kinds of useful things) from the seagrass that grows in their ancestral homeland along the southcentral coast.

Festivals and events

The Alaskans may live, and thrive, in some pretty harsh conditions but that doesn't mean they don't know how to let their hair down.

Fur Rendezvous Festival

Affectionately called the ‘Rondy’, the Fur Rendezvous is a winter festival and celebration of all things Alaska. It takes place in Anchorage annually and the irreverent celebrations – which include dog sledding and a fur auction – began in 1935, when one local hero decided that surviving the winter would take one giant party. This 12-day festival is still one of the biggest events in Alaska, drawing folks from all over the state as well as the lower 48.

Alaskan wildlife

Part of the allure of an Alaskan adventure is the chance to see the diverse wildlife that roams the land and fills the waterways. With huge chunks of truly untamed wilderness, Alaska often has more in common with a safari than a walk through a nature reserve. You may just be lucky enough to see some of these:

A modern emblem of freedom in the US, the bald eagle has also traditionally been revered among numerous Native American groups. What’s so special about the bird? It’s a combination of size, speed and style. With females sporting a wingspan that can reach 240 centimeters (eight feet), a dive speed of up to 160 kilometers (99 miles) per hour and an iconic look, the baldie is bad to the bone.

See them:  Look up for a chance to see them in Denali National Park, Resurrection Bay and Anchorage, year-round.

Easily distinguished by their orange beaks, puffins in Alaska come in two varieties – tufted and horned. The tufted kind is all black with yellow feathers on either side of their head, while the horned ones have white bellies.

See them: Around Valdez, Homer and the waterways of Kenai Fjord National Park in summer. 

Grizzly   bears

These creatures are located throughout Alaska though they do tend to spread out, so spotting them is a rare treat. That being said, their impressive size makes them easy to see, even from a distance. Females can weigh up to 360 kilograms (800 pounds), but males really take the salmon-cake with top weights of 770 kilograms (1700 pounds).

See them: It’s possible to see grizzlies from March to September, depending on the area, but the peak time for viewing is generally June to July. The best spots are Kenai Fjords National Park, Denali National Park and Wrangell-St Elias National Park.

Black bears

It’s the face shape and nail length, rather than coat color, that will help you tell black bears from brown bears (like grizzlies). While they can be any color from black to brown, their longer, straighter face (some have called it Romanesque) and short claws make it relatively easy to tell the difference.

See them: Black bears, like grizzlies, hibernate during winter. The best times for spotting them are the warmer months from March to September when they hunt for fish in Kenai Fjords National Park and live in the forests of Denali National Park and Wrangell-St Elias National Park.

It’s the males that have the antlers, which they grow a fresh set of every year, giving new meaning to the phrase ‘grow a pair’. Male moose begin shedding the velvet coating on their antlers around September in preparation for dropping them in the winter months, a very gnarly process that is a real treat, albeit a gross one, to see in real life.    

See them :  Pretty much everywhere throughout the year, though the best spots are in Denali NP, Wrangell-St Elias NP and Anchorage.

You may know caribou by their more whimsical name – reindeer. Santa’s hoofed helpers have natural snowshoes and gorgeous, multi-pronged antlers adorn both males and females.

See them: There’s a fairly large herd that lives inside Denali National Park, and your best chance for catching these active animals is during the summer months.

Dall   sheep

These white sheep sport a wise expression and curved horns, though the males undeniably have a more impressive set. They have the distinct honor of being the northernmost wild sheep in the world and they will eat almost anything to survive, from grass and moss to soil.

See them: As they tend to live in rocky, mountainous areas, your best bet is near rugged environments. Be particularly alert on some of the hiking trails in Denali NP, like the Savage River Loop and the trails around Igloo Mountain.

Sea   otters

With a face that looks adorably stunned at all times, these beautiful weasels are playful and dextrous. Their amazing coats meant they were hunted to the brink of extinction by the 20th century and while numbers are improving, they remain a threatened species in Alaska.

See them: In the waterways around Valdez, Homer and Seward. 

Humpback whales

Humpbacks are big enough to be spotted from land, but there’s nothing quite like seeing one from the water by boat or kayak. Even the runts grow to around 12-metres (40-feet) long and a 10,000-strong pod heads to Alaska every summer.

See them: Resurrection Bay is a reliably great spot for whale watching in the summer months. You can also spot them in Prince William Sound and off the coast of Homer.

The ‘killer whale’ is technically part of the dolphin family. With their glossy black back and striking white bellies, there is little chance of missing these mammals if they are close by, and luckily for you, they tend to travel to Alaska’s waters in large pods.

Health and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travelers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travelers check with their government or national travel advisory organization for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to  smarttraveller.gov.au

From Canada?

Go to  travel.gc.ca

From the UK?

Go to  fco.gov.uk

From New Zealand?

Go to  safetravel.govt.nz

From the USA?

Go to  travel.state.gov

From South Africa?

Go to  gov.za

From China?

Go to  12301.cn

The World Health Organization  also provides useful health information. Go to  who.int  for more details.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Alaska adventure, check out these books:

The Snow Child  – Eowyn Ivey

Ordinary Wolves  – Seth Kantner

Into the Wild  – Jon Krakauer

Ada Blackjack  – Jennifer Niven

Tao of Raven: An Alaskan Native Memoir  – Ernestine Hayes

Coming into the Country  – John McPhee

Two Old Women  – Velma Wallis

ALASKA: a novel  – James A Michener

Alaska travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Alaska?

Stuck in a chilly latitude between 50 and 70 degrees north of the equator, Alaska is dark for a lot of the year. Really dark. The exception is from May to late June when the sun shines all day and most of the night. Peak season for Alaska tours is from mid-June to mid-August, when the daytime temperatures are a relatively warm 60–80°F and there’s plenty of daylight for exploring.

Shoulder seasons (April, May and September) are a good time to travel if you prefer to share the wild with fewer people, and May comes with very little rain. It’s generally best to holiday in Alaska with an open mind about the weather: Alaskans have learned that if they don’t like it, they need only wait five minutes.

How do I get to Alaska?

Perhaps fitting with its end-of-the-earth aesthetic, Alaska does have a reputation for being difficult when it comes to finding flights. Anchorage is the state’s main gateway, with flights coming in from other   US   cities like Chicago, Denver, LA, Vegas and Portland year-round. You can also find direct flights in the summer from   Frankfurt ,   Reykjavik   (how’s that for an epic itinerary) or   Vancouver . You can, of course, visit Alaska from anywhere, it’s just a question of stopovers and stamina.

If world-class mountain vistas are your thing you may prefer to drive. The Alaska Highway used to be a bumpy dirt road, but these days it’s a paved vein that pumps adventurers in through the border of   British Columbia . When you touch down and start your Alaska tour, we’ll handle all the internal transfers (in a private vehicle with heating).

Do I need a visa to travel to United States?

It depends on where you’re from. Many countries now operate under the United States Visa Waiver Program, meaning a visa isn’t required for stays of up to 90 days for travel purposes. There are 40 participating countries, including the United Kingdom , Australia , New Zealand, Germany and Spain.

If you're eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must obtain a letter of authorization before you travel to the States. This can be obtained by submitting an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ).

If you’re a national from a non-participating country of the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for a non-immigrant visa. Please see the Department of State website for more information.

If you have traveled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on or after 1 March 2011, you are ineligible and must apply for a non-immigrant visa instead.

People from a participating country who are also citizens of Cuba, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan must also apply for a non-immigrant visa.

Last updated: 6 March 2024 

Is tipping customary in the US?

Tipping is very much a part of the culture in the United States. Tips are expected at restaurants, cafes and diners, as well as by taxi drivers, valet attendants, porters and hotel maids.

People working in the service industry generally receive low wages and therefore rely upon tips as a major source of income.

In general, leave 15 to 20% of the bill at places serving food and a few dollars to bartenders and hotel staff who provide a personal service like carrying bags or cleaning your room.

What is the internet access like in Alaska?

Internet access in urban areas of Alaska is usually good but download speeds will be slower than you are used to.

Internet access may not be available in rural areas and national parks.

We suggest talking the chance to unplug and immerse yourself in the wilderness, but remember to give your friends and family realistic expectations of how often you will be able to communicate with them.   

Can I use my cell phone in Alaska?

Cell phone coverage in Alaska is improving but still patchy. Expect to be able to use your cell phone in towns like Anchorage, Valdez and even in some parts of Denali National Park. Much of the state – including large parts of Wrangell-St Elias and the Kenai Peninsula – still has little or no coverage.

Global roaming can also be activated when traveling through Alaska, but be sure to check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur when using this option, as it can sometimes be expensive.

What are the toilets like in Alaska?

Western-style, flushable toilets are the norm in Alaska, though in remote areas and national parks there may be drop toilets outside the main building.

What will it cost for a...?

• Pint of beer = USD 6–10
• Basic diner meal = USD 15
• Hotdog from a street cart = USD 5

Can I drink the water in Alaska?

Drinking water from taps in Alaska is considered safe unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

What is the weather like in Alaska?

Weather in Alaska is highly variable depending on the region, so check out the guide below for the area/s you’re planning to travel in. Keep in mind that no matter your location or the time of year, the diverse environment and geography of Alaska means the weather can change very quickly.

Southcentral (Anchorage, Seward, Homer, Valdez)

A subarctic climate makes Alaska’s southcentral region cool to cold throughout the year. Even in high June, when the sun is out almost 19 hours a day, expect temperatures to top out at around 65°F and drop to around 50°F in the evening. August and September are the rainiest months of the year with an average of 14 days rainfall in both. In the winter months of December, January and February, expect temperatures to drop below freezing.

Interior (Fairbanks, Denali National Park)

The mountainous interior of Alaska is known for wild variations in temperature, though summers tend to feature average highs of about 70°F and average lows of 1°F in winter. May, June and July all experience over 18 hours a day of sunlight in Alaska’s interior. Summer (June, July and August) is the rainy season, experiencing between two and three inches a month on average.    

What should I wear in Alaska?

Don’t let the word ‘summer’ fool you into filling your suitcase with crop tops and short shorts. While Alaskan weather can be clear and beautiful in the warmer months, the nights still tend to be chilly and cool changes are known to come hard and fast.

The best way to dress for unpredictable weather is in layers. If you’re heading out for a day hike in Denali National Park, for example, think comfortable pants (preferably waterproof), a t-shirt and a lightweight waterproof jacket that can be tied around your shoulders and pulled on if it starts to rain, plus a bag packed with gloves and a beanie. 

Comfortable shoes are essential in Alaska. Most of the activities on our tours involve some level of physical activity, so we recommend worn-in hiking or walking shoes.

Check the ‘Packing’ section of the Essential Trip Information for the tour you’re interested in for a comprehensive packing list.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Alaska?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day

2 Jan: New Year's Day Holiday

Third Monday of January Martin Luther King Jr Day

Last Monday in March Seward’s Day

Last Monday of May Memorial Day

4 Jul: Independence Day

First Monday in September Labor Day

18 Oct: Alaska Day

11 Nov: Veterans Day

Fourth Thursday of November Thanksgiving Day

25 Dec: Christmas Day         

Seward’s Day and Alaska Day are the only two Alaska-specific public holidays. Please note, Alaska public holidays may vary.

Is Alaska a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Overall, Alaska is generally a safe destination for LBGTQIA+ travelers.

Same-sex relationships are legal, as is same-sex marriage. However, Alaska has no laws protecting LGBTQIA+ individuals from discrimination based on their gender identity or sexual orientation. While discrimination of employment and housing won’t affect LGBTQIA+ travelers, lack of legal protection can be indicative of higher levels of social bigotry.  

While Alaskans are known for being politically conservative, the majority of people follow a ‘live and let live’ philosophy with a heavy emphasis on freedom. Public attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ people are mixed.

If you identify as LGBTQIA+ and have any concerns about traveling in Alaska, we recommend contacting the   Alaska Pride Foundation , which is run by locals and provides support and information to LGBTQIA+ folks throughout the state.

In Anchorage you’ll find a handful of gay bars, including The Raven, which calls itself the northernmost gay bar in the USA. Outside of Alaska’s progressive capital, the queer scene isn’t particularly visible. Of course, in a vast state of disparate communities and low-population density, that’s not exactly surprising.     

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex  or the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association’s most recent   report on state sponsored homophobia  before you travel.

Does my trip to the United States support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to the United States directly support our foundation partners, Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA) and the Grand Canyon Conservancy.

Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA)

Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance (CHEA) create inclusive, equitable opportunities for small Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) tourism businesses in the USA. Donations help CHEA provide access to industry-specific technical assistance, capacity building, and industry networks for small BIPOC travel and tourism businesses through their Diversity Tourism Academy (DTA). Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Find out more or make a donation

The Grand Canyon Conservancy

The Grand Canyon Conservancy is on a mission to protect the Grand Canyon National Park for future generations. With almost 6 million visitors to the park annually, the Grand Canyon Conservancy runs educational programs and immersive experiences that teach people about the park's cultural and environmental significance. Donations support trail restoration and maintenance, conservation and preservation of native vegetation and wildlife, and educational programs. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

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An Expert's Guide to Booking the Perfect Alaska Cruise in 2023

By Scott Laird

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Alaska has been a popular cruise destination for decades, and the industry has continued a trajectory of growth. Each summer season there seems to be another cruise line sailing Alaskan waters, while the longtime incumbents are relentless in their addition of new itineraries, amenities, and excursions. 

What looks like an endless buffet of choice can lead to analysis paralysis for many first-time Alaska visitors—even if they’re veteran cruisers who have already figured out big questions like their preferred cruise line or favorite ship class. 

Here are five questions to consider in order to find the best Alaska cruise for you.

When is The Best Time to Book?

Alaska is a popular destination for multi-generational groups . Any large group booking multiple cabins or needing more than a pair of spots on shore excursions should start thinking about booking Alaska cruises about a year in advance to secure the best availability for their group size. So too should travelers who have specific non-negotiables on things like stateroom category, ship, or itinerary. 

However, that doesn’t mean that last-minute bookers are out of luck. While popular itineraries and cabin categories have a tendency to sell out early (balcony accommodations are particularly sought after for scenic Inside Passage cruising), there’s still often enough inventory left for cruise lines to offer enticing deals for the summer during the “wave” booking season from January through March. They’ll even offer last-minute specials right up until the time of sailing, but selection will be limited and the most popular shore excursions will have long wait lists. 

Cruise lines offer enticing deals for the summer during “wave" season from January through March. 

Is it better to cruise one-way or roundtrip? 

Like almost any choice one makes when booking a cruise, it all comes down to personal taste. Roundtrip cruises offer the convenience of embarking and disembarking at the same port (typically Seattle, Vancouver, or San Francisco), but itineraries are generally limited to Southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage. 

Visitors wanting to see Alaska’s Interior, Fairbanks, and Denali National Park , should book a one-way cruise to or from Anchorage (which is served by the cruise ports at Whittier and Seward) for land-based touring either before or after their Inside Passage cruise. Many cruise lines, including Holland America Line , Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity offer fully packaged “Cruisetours” that combine a one-way Inside Passage cruise with a rail or motor coach itinerary mainly focused on Denali, but also offering journeys to other parts of Southcentral Alaska.

Is Seward or Whittier a better port for Anchorage? 

Each cruise line has their preferred port—Holland America Line and Princess Cruises berth at Whittier. Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas—currently berthing at Seward—will move operations to Whittier upon completion of berths currently under construction. Most other one-way cruises berth in Seward.

Whittier is closer to Anchorage, and some itineraries even take disembarking passengers directly to Denali or Talkeetna the same day. Whittier is also a convenient port for cruising College Fjord, which most northbound sailings do on the final day before arriving in Whittier. Whittier is, however, a tiny community that is little more than a deep-water port, while Seward is a larger community and regional base for a more diverse collection of tours and activities.

Seward is farther from Anchorage, but the train or coach ride is roughly an extra hour of travel through a spectacular mountain pass on the Kenai Peninsula, then the lines merge near Whittier and the last hour of the journey is the same, hugging the Chugach Mountains alongside Turnagain Arm south of Anchorage. 

It’s worth noting that shoreside transportation outside of cruise line-operated transfers can be more limited in Whittier, so passengers embarking there may wish to ensure they include transfers from Anchorage in their cruise package. From Seward, travelers wanting to spend a few days exploring Kenai Fjords National Park or one of the wilderness lodges can book Alaska Railroad transfers on their regular scheduled service.

I've been to Alaska before—how can I cruise differently? 

Cruisers who are veterans at Inside Passage itineraries on the big ships have really only seen a preview of the nooks and crannies of the region. Indigenous-owned Alaskan Dream Cruises operates small-ship sailings from Sitka, getting into the straits and narrows that the big ships won’t fit, and oftentimes determining itineraries by reports of sea life migrations and weather conditions.

Return visitors who still want that big ship experience might try a different category of cruise line. The major operators—Princess, Holland America, Celebrity, are all premium-tier cruise lines, but the luxury cruise lines have also deployed ships to Alaskan waters. 

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth is operating roundtrip Vancouver sailings, bringing onboard topflight lecturers ranging from adventure traveler Bear Grylls to undersea archaeologist Mensun Bound on select voyages. On every voyage, guests will find guides from Alaska Native Voices, sharing the cultural history and lore of the local Huna people to  Sit’ Eeti Gheeyi  (Glacier Bay National Park), and guest speakers from the Royal Canadian Geographical Society.

Jessica Puckett

Alex Erdekian

Silversea has “Door-to-Door” pricing on many of its Alaska cruises , meaning the cruise fare includes airfare, hotels, and all transfers—including transfers from home to the departure airport. Onboard the all-suite ships, there’s butler service in every suite, fine dining, and select shore excursions included. The largest Silversea ship sailing to Alaska also carries just under 600 guests, allowing for port calls at lesser-visited stops like Wrangell, Haines, and Valdez.

Are there less-crowded alternatives?

Hurtigruten, the Norwegian expedition cruise line, offers sailings between Vancouver and Nome , hitting not only the lesser-visited spots on the Inside Passage, but also the virtually untouristed and volcano-dotted Alaska Peninsula, where guests can spot Brown Bears in Katmai National Park, go bird-watching in St. Paul Island and uninhabited St. Matthew Island in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and explore the eerie ghost town of Unga.

Closer afield, but no less secluded is the Prince William Sound Explorer from Uncruise, where guests will depart Whittier and wake up among the glaciers of little-visited Icy Bay on the Kenai Peninsula. Much of the itinerary is “Captain’s choice” based on conditions and sealife movements, but the massive Columbia and Meares glaciers and the Sound communities of Cordova and Valdez—also off the big ship routes—hold prized spots on the itinerary. 

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Adventure to the Heart of

Over 25 years of small-group adventure tours

Featured Expeditions

Grand discovery (10 days).

Departures: May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Our premium deluxe adventure, this tour gives you the very best of our Alaska land tours along with a few extra days to spend at your leisure.

Best of Alaska (8 Days)

This tour ventures deep into Alaska’s scenic backcountry, bringing you close to awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife.

Travel with Us

Join us for an authentic, life-changing Alaskan encounter.

Alaska Adventure Unlimited provides guided Alaska land tours to individuals and groups of all ages and ability levels. Our 6-14 day activity-driven scenic journeys offer all-inclusive small group adventures. Families, couples, and groups experience Alaska like a local, guided by longtime Alaskan guides. Benefit from our decades of local expertise and our passion for this wildly beautiful state. Our thoughtfully designed multi-day land tours invite you to discover the essence of Alaska by traveling through its untamed wilderness and learning about its rich culture. You’ll make unforgettable memories to last a lifetime!

No Lines, No Crowds—Just Adventure

Signature experiences, denali flightseeing.

Approach Denali’s summit by air as you soar over the Alaska Range and miles of breathtaking wilderness.

River Rafting

Voyage down a scenic river at a relaxed pace or opt for the exhilarating adventure of white-water rapids.

National Parks

Every tour visits at least one and up to five stunning national parks.

Scenic Alaska Railroad

Hop aboard the train for one of the most spectacular rail trips in North America.

Cultural Tours

Explore the rich history and heritage of Alaska’s Native people.

Glacier Trekking

Get close—real close—to Alaska’s majestic glaciers as you walk along this otherworldly terrain.

Wildlife Viewing

On land and in the sea, observe incredible wildlife: whales, sea lions, moose, caribou, eagles, bears, wolves, Dall sheep, and more.

Dog Sledding

Meet an experienced musher and tour the kennels of Iditarod champions, then go for your own dog sled ride through the Alaskan wilderness.

Guided Fishing

Enjoy an unforgettable experience as you fish for halibut or salmon with a professional Alaskan guide.

Sea Kayaking

Look for salmon, otters, and eagles as you navigate Alaska’s rugged coastline. 

“Much better tour package than a cruise/tour I took a few years ago!!! Accommodations and excursions were excellent, food options great, and the benefits of a small group vs big cruise ship are priceless.”

“we had the best time on our adventure. everything was taken care of for us including all activities. we had a blast we had the best guide. by the time the trip was done, we felt like family.”, “aau created the most amazing trip for our family – accommodating our group of 26 our guides were friendly and highly knowledgeable. the schedule was jam packed with tours and adventures, we could have never organized such a trip. thanks again for the vacation of a lifetime”, —michael m., “we had an awesome time on our alaskan adventure excursion. traveling by large van was the way to go. we were able to see so much more of the backcountry of alaska than we would have on a cruise.”, “our first visit to alaska was a huge success. we did so much in 10 days and the memories created will last forever. the natural beauty of alaska is reason enough to visit but experiences like white-water rafting, ziplining, flightseeing, and glacier walks made this trip extra special.”, “we just finished a week-long tour through alaska with aau. it was our best vacation ever we appreciated the variety of activities and excursions that were arranged. taken together, they gave us an overall feel for the history, culture, and abundant natural beauty of the state.”, —carlton h., read more 5-star reviews, get the latest news & updates, book a relaxing alaskan retreat, please confirm you are a person..

The Meandering Traveler

A Travel Blog with Travel Tips and Interesting Facts

What’s New in Alaska for 2023? Hiking, Zip Lining, Culinary Tours & 700 Cruises

Cruise travelers will sail within Alaska’s waters on 60 ships, large and small, during the 2023 cruise season. Did you know that 700 voyages are planned between April and September? So, you’ll have a big choice of voyage options.

Some sail roundtrip from Vancouver, B.C. or Seattle, WA, others one-way between Seward, AK,  and Vancouver, BC. In addition, expedition vessels call at remote destinations within Alaska as part of a one-of-a-kind journey, such as a Northwest Passage sailing.

Right now, consumers can tap into great Wave Season deals for an Alaska cruise or cruisetour vacation  this summer.

But cruising isn’t the only way to go. People are also taking escorted land tours. And, they’re taking flights into Alaska for an independent land vacation with stays at urban hotels, rural resorts or wilderness lodges.

Sea or Land

“Whether exploring by sea or land, people desire to view Mother Nature’s incredible scenery, learn more about indigenous Alaskan culture, ‘dive deep’ into Gold Rush history and savor the local cuisine and beverages,” says Shelby Steudle , president of Pavlus Travel, Albuquerque, NM.  “And, of course, there’s the wildlife.  Steudle says that “looking for whales, seals, birds, moose and, of course, bears in the wild is great fun.”

So, what’s new in Alaska this summer? What’s different? What new activities, programs and options await travelers? The Meandering Traveler is pleased to present a peek at some new options, thanks to updates from Travel Alaska , the state’s official tourism organization.

New “Alaska Native Culture Guide”

First up, we’d like to start with a new resource for travelers, the “ Alaska Native Culture Guide. ” We’d suggest downloading it prior to taking a an Alaska cruise or land trip.

It will give you a deeper understanding of Alaska’s First Peoples and lands in all five regions of Alaska.

Written by Mary Goddard and Samantha Phillips , both of Tlingit heritage, the guide offers insightful content from the Alaska Native Heritage Center ( see photo above ), Alaska’s statewide cultural center. You’ll find the following:

• A regional map of the five main Alaska Native cultural group;
• Alaska Native events, values, traditions and stories;
• Cultural tours, experiences, museums and heritage sites;
• Indigenous culinary opportunities;
• Ways to support Alaska Native businesses and artisans; and
• Traveler’s etiquette.

So, follow this link to download the new guide. 

Cruise Port Infrastructure Enhancements

New port infrastructure projects are under way in Seward, Whittier and Juneau. In addition,  Klawock , a totally new port destination for cruise calls, will open for cruise tourism this spring. The first port call and three others this Alaska season will be by Oceania Cruises.  

A project of Alaska native businesses  Na-Dena` LLC  and  Klawock Heenya  Corporation,  Klawock will be developed over several years. Look for the Klawock port destination to occupy a 16-acre site along the Pacific Coast side of Prince of Wales Island.

Supported by logging, fishing and canning, the nearby town of Klawock has fewer than 1,000 residents. The site of Alaska’s first cannery, the town has been a native Tlingit village for thousands of years.

One big perk for those going ashore here? Get ready for incredible artistry. Klawock town has one of the world’s most extensive collections of totem poles.

In several years, look for the new Klawock port destination to ultimately resemble something akin to what was created at Icy Strait Point. This Alaska cruise season’s activity options will focus on totem carving traditions, fishing and wildlife viewing.

Oceania’s 2023 Options

Oceania’s 656-passenger Regatta  will first call at Klawock during its 12-day “ Glitz to Glaciers ” voyage from Los Angeles to Vancouver on May 12. At press time, pricing for an inside cabin started at $2,699 per person, double occupancy. The highest category suite with availability, the Penthouse Suite, started at $6,499 per person, double occupancy.

Many other categories in between including oceanview, veranda and concierge veranda accommodations were also still available. It’s a great opportunity to see Alaska and visit an up-and-coming new port destination. So, talk with a professional vacation planner about booking options, discounts, Wave Season deals, and solo travel or accessibility needs.

Three other 10- to 11-day voyages on Regatta also will call in 2023 at Klawock. Operating roundtrip from Vancouver, those departures are June 23, July 3 and August 8.

Techie Explorations

The University of Alaska Fairbanks Museum of the North is offering visitors the ability to experience the museum as an outdoor exhibit. How so? Visitors use the museum’s new mobile app and GPS.

Experience the architecture and the grounds while seeing historical artifacts, scientific specimens and larger-than-life artwork.

Separately , MyAlaskaGuide is another new app that puts a local, experienced tour guide in a visitor’s pocket. Two-hour, GPS-activated “Anchorage Historical Walking Tours” unfold as travelers walk through Anchorage.

It’s a great way to learn about fun, historical stories and insight from the early days of living in Alaska. It includes both free and paid content.

Next up for MyAlaskaGuide’s mobile app tours will be “The Anchorage Art Tour,” “ Anchorage Down & Dirty Tour” (painted trash can, murals and dive bars); the “ Anchorage to Seward/Seward to Anchorage Driving Tour,” plus city tours throughout the state.

Pre-Cruise Stay 

Many cruises depart from Seward , giving travelers good pre-cruise options for visiting Anchorage. For example,  Viking’s  10-night “ Alaska and The Inside Passage ” cruise sails from Seward to Vancouver on many dates throughout the summer.

Offered on the 930-passenger  Viking Orion , the itinerary also operates in reverse — from Vancouver to Seward  — on many dates. That can allow travelers to book a post-cruise Anchorage area stay.

At press time, cruise fares started at $4,999 per person, double occupancy. Prices cited in this story are all subject to change. Talk with your travel advisor about options, discounts and deals.

Best Eats in Anchorage

Are you a culinary buff? As the only culinary tour company operating in Anchorage, Alaskan Footprints will offer visitors new full-day tours in summer 2023. A local guide will share the history of the city and samples of food and drinks along the way.

In Juneau , Alaska’s capital city, we’re also excited about a new four-hour “ Sip, Savor and Explore Jeep Adventure” tour  from Juneau Food Tours. ” Travelers will view the Juneau area’s Mendenhall Glacier , Tahku Whale statue and more. They’ll also “lunch” at a local brewery and pair the food with a flight of craft beers or seltzers.

Zip, Zipping Away

Near Palmer , AK, Alaska Zipline Adventure Park   is now open. It’s a new activity option for those who enjoy outdoor adventure and fun. Top draw? That’s the tandem zip lines that soar 255 feet over the boreal forest.

Riders reach speeds up to 45 mph and cover nearly 4,000 feet over the course of six ziplines. Wheeeeee… here we go.

In the Seward area, Seward Hospitality Group , which owns multiple restaurants and overnight accommodations in that area, has also opened an Alaska Adventure Park . Along with an aerial park and rope course, visitors in 2023 will be able to go mountain biking, rent kayaks, go ATVing and more.

For Hiking and Biking Fans

Revel Treks & Tours is offering day and extended trips for hikers of all abilities, including the “Hike and Brew” trip that includes a stop at a local microbrewery. Also new for travelers, this summer Go Hike Alaska will be offering a heli-hiking experience at the Knik Glacier ( see photo below ).

In Skagway, Klondike Electric Bicycle Rentals and Tours will offer a new “Trail & Sail Tour,” combining the guided “Skagway City Highlights and Gold Panning Tour” with a sailboat experience and a lunch.

For the first time, the U.S. National Park Service, which created its own Dyea walking tour,  will permit private companies to offer tours of the Dyea townsite . Originally the Tlingit people used this area as a summer camp. During the Klondike Gold Rush, though, Dyea swelled to a town of around 10,000 people.

Today, some of Dyea’s former streets can be explored via flat, hard-packed trails, suitable for mobility devices, according to Alaska Travel update.

New in Ketchikan

Just south of downtown  Ketchikan , the  Herring Cove area is home to a salmon hatchery. It’s also popular for fishing, and wildlife viewing. To provide safer and more accessible bear viewing, Alaska’s Department of Transportation  has begun upgrades to the  Herring Cove Bridge  to install a new structure with pedestrian walkways on both sides.

Alaska Native-owned Cape Fox Lodge is installing a new funicular to help further connect guests to downtown Ketchikan .

Adventure Ketchikan Tours will begin operating marine charter tours of Neets Bay in 2023. Neets Bay is located at Revillagigedo Island approximately 30 air miles from Ketchikan. On these new marine charter tours, travelers can possibly see black bears fishing for salmon in the area’s crystal-clear waters.

New in Juneau

Coming in 2023, Juneau Lighthouse Tours will be offering tours across Auke Bay to the 1902-era Sentinel Island Lighthouse . Travelers will view the original lighthouse’s exterior and look for whales along the way. The tour also includes views of Mendenhall Glacier ( see photo below) and the Lynn Canal.

Sealaska Heritage Institute is currently working with nine commissioned Indigenous master carvers to create 10 totem poles. They’ll be placed along Juneau’s waterfront as part of the Kootéeya Deiyí or Totem Pole Trail .

Once completed, the trail will reflect Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian spiritual beliefs, continuing to promote the area’s Native cultures.

Significant Anniversaries

One of the most popular activities for cruise travelers is taking a ride on Skagway’s famed White Pass & Yukon Route Railway . Traveling along a historic route of the Klondike Gold Rush , the train is celebrating 125 years of service in 2023. The railway will commemorate the anniversary with a variety of events and happenings throughout the summer.

Holland America Line , which will sail 121 cruises to “The Great Land” in 2023, is celebrating 150 years of sailing in 2023.  The Meandering Traveler wrote about  some of the 150th anniversary happenings in a recent blog.

The Alaska Railroad ( shown in the photo above ) turns 100 this year. Connecting visitors and Alaskans since 1923, it is the last full-service freight and passenger railroad in the U.S. On July 15, 2023, in Nenana, the railroad will commemorate the moment a century ago when President Warren G. Harding drove in the ceremonial golden spike to signal the completion of the 470-mile mainline.

So, how can passengers learn more about the railroad’s heritage? They’ll experience the centennial through special onboard commentary revisiting 10 decades of the Alaska Railroad’s impact in Alaska. In addition, special centennial-themed touches will cover such elements as food or commemorative souvenirs.

Head to Alaska

As mentioned earlier, 700 cruise departures for exploring Alaska are planned for 2023. Many tour operators also take travelers to “The Great Land.”

Tauck , for instance, offers both land-based touring and small-ship cruises. Its “ Alaska’s Inside Passage ” offering on Silversea Cruises’ 596-passenger Silver Muse is a 10-day journey between Anchorage and Vancouver.  At press time, 2023 pricing started at $7,290 per person, double occupancy; prices are subject to change.

For more information on Alaska travel activities and destinations, visit this Travel Alaska link. To discuss all the top 2023 tours, cruises and resort/wilderness lodge stays in Alaska, consult an experienced personal travel planner.

If you’re considering an Alaska cruise, tour or independent land trip in 2023, talking with an advisor is a great way to get the most out of your vacation to America’s Last Frontier!

Important Notes from Pavlus Travel

• If anything does tweak your interest in the story and you DO have questions about specific pricing, brochures, savings, accommodations, accessible options and so on, please contact us at   800-528-9300.  Or  visit us online at Pavlus Travel’s official agency Web site;  t here you can “live chat” with us online too!
• This blog site is designed for “basic, general information” about travel. It’s not staffed by travel advisors.
• Any price examples used in the above blog are subject to change. They also do not represent the full range of options; a travel advisor can assist with additional information.
• Please don’t use the Reply Section below if you are asking for pricing, travel dates, accommodations, brochures or other specific requests. Please use the 800 number or online link. 
• Thanks for reading!

Susan J. Young

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Alaska Land Tour Itineraries

How to plan your own epic Alaska trip.

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With so many remarkable experiences waiting for you in Alaska, trip planning can be overwhelming. We live here, and picking just one or two weekend activities is a challenge. So here's a simple questions to start your Alaska vacation planning: How many days can you spend?

Our customizable packages range from as few as three days to as many as 20, with five-day , seven-day , and 10-day land tours the most popular.

You can sort through all these types of travel packages (and more!) using our handy Trip Finder tool. There you can narrow options by number of days and start and end cities, plus see itineraries with certain types of transportation and your must-see Alaska destinations . Each itinerary you see is fully customizable .

Alaska 5 Day Itinerary

Max out five days in Alaska with itineraries that include Denali and Seward, day cruises and flightseeing, and multiple transportation options. Learn More >

Alaska 7 Day Itinerary

Seven days is the sweet spot for an Alaska vacation. Check out these popular itineraries for inspiration, then customize to make one your own. Learn More >

Alaska 10 Day Itinerary

What can you do with 10 days in Alaska? A lot! Check out longer itineraries that give you more time in places like Denali and special spots off the beaten path. Learn More >

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Use the Alaska Trip Finder to find your perfect Alaska vacation package. From three days to three weeks, travel by train, bus, or rental car. Learn More >

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The MILEPOST 2023: Alaska Travel Planner Paperback – April 15, 2023

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The Milepost is the best-selling travel guide to Alaska and a "quintessential reference" for northern travelers. The Milepost includes mile-by-mile descriptions of more than 15,000 miles of road in Alaska, Yukon, Northwest Territories, British Columbia and Alberta. Its 700-plus pages detail accommodations, camping, fishing, gas stops, restaurants, attractions and services found along the highways and byways of Alaska and western Canada. The guide's Travel Planning section answers frequently-asked questions about travel in the North, including what you need to know about crossing the international border, traveling with pets, the Alaska ferry system, driving conditions, railroads, tours and wildlife. Suggested itineraries are mapped out to help travelers plan their trips.

The 2023 edition of The Milepost® is the 75th edition of this classic annual travel guide, which was first published in 1949 as a 72-page guide to the recently opened Alaska ("Alcan") Highway. While the log of the Alaska Highway is still the foundation of this guide, it has been joined by dozens of connecting routes as well as newer roads, such as the Dalton Highway, the Dempster Highway and the recently opened road to Tuktoyaktuk. All highway logs, which are updated every year by field editors, include a look at the history of the route and often the natural history of the region. The Alaska Highway section includes a brief history of the Alaska Highway that is a poignant reminder of the scale of this project. The Alaska Highway was named an International Historical Engineering landmark in 1996.

The Milepost® has more than 100 city and highway maps; the wildly popular Plan-A-Trip Map; more than 600 photos; and numerous sidebar features of special interest. Print book buyers have free access to a digital edition.

• Print length 704 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Milepost
• Publication date April 15, 2023
• Dimensions 8.44 x 0.81 x 10.66 inches
• ISBN-10 1892154579
• ISBN-13 978-1892154576
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Milepost; 75th edition (April 15, 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 704 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1892154579
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1892154576
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.42 pounds
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• #5 in British Columbia Travel Guides
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The best time to cruise to alaska in 2024.

Plan your bucket list adventure to explore the extraordinary beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

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Alaska's astounding beauty and vast wilderness are unlike any other destination in the U.S. – and even in the world. While you can plan land-based trips to the state, many of Alaska's majestic snowcapped mountains, pristine forests, glacial waterways and abundant wildlife are in remote locations, only reachable by plane or by boat. That's just one of the many reasons why Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

If you're ready to stop dreaming and start planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land, here are tips on the best times to cruise Alaska.

Best Overall Time: Shoulder Seasons

Best time for warmer weather, best time for wildlife viewing, best time for salmon fishing, best time for the northern lights, best time for shore excursions.

If you want to score a deal and have fewer crowds, travel during the shoulder seasons: May and September. In these months, cruise fares are typically lower and ships are not as full, offering more cabin availability. However, with changes in the global climate bringing more moderate temperatures to Alaska, and the cruise season now extending into April and October, cruisers can also expect to find deals in April and October. There will be fewer sailings to choose from, but you may find lower pricing and avoid the peak-season crowds on the ship and in the ports.

In addition, select shore excursions may be available at a discount in the spring and fall. If you're planning on exploring Alaska on your own before or after your cruise, you'll also find cheaper hotel rates at the beginning or end of the cruise season.

Alaska's weather can change dramatically, especially the further north you go, no matter the month or season. While the weather may not be as predictable in April as in the middle of summer, Alaska can be beautiful in springtime with temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Tyler Hickman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, an Alaska Native-owned port in Hoonah and a port of call in Southeast Alaska. Hickman says there are long stretches of sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, offering the opportunity for late-season viewing of the northern lights . He also adds that April is one of the favorite times of year for local Alaskans.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska in April, Norwegian Cruise Line has a few options, including weekly sailings on Norwegian Bliss beginning April 6. The line also offers Alaska itineraries through the end of October. Other lines sailing the extended season in Alaska in late April include Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise Line , UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions.

If you prefer to travel in the fall, early October temperatures are usually in the 50s, while the end of the month brings snow in the higher elevations. The days are longer and there are no crowds, so it may be an ideal time to visit if you're not interested in the summer outdoor experiences. Norwegian, Holland America and Seabourn Cruise Line offer sailings in October.

Read: The Best Alaska Cruise Deals

If you'd prefer warmer weather for your cruise, the summer season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-September. During that period, daytime temperatures typically range from 60 to 80 degrees, though they can drop into the 40s overnight. You can expect to have between 16 to 24 hours of daylight in the warmer season. May is considered the driest month, with around a 25% chance of precipitation, but the rain becomes more frequent throughout the summer.

Alaska.org, a website run by local Alaskans that provides travel information and recommendations, advises that the best time to visit in summer is from June 15 to July 15. This 30-day period is regarded as the peak season for warm, dry weather – and it's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking. If you want to experience the most "midnight sun," plan to cruise a few weeks before or after the summer solstice – the longest day of the year – which falls on June 20 in 2024.

Come September, the days are generally shorter, rainier and cooler – but not always. You might get lucky with some unseasonably warm days amid the beautiful fall foliage ; as a bonus, September also means no bugs and fewer crowds.

If you have school-age children, you'll probably need to travel midsummer, during peak season. However, if you're flexible on dates, there's really no bad time to visit this magical destination. Mountain peaks shrouded in clouds or misty days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in late April are as beautiful as sunny days hiking through Tongass National Forest or whale watching on an excursion out of Icy Strait Point in July.

Read: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

According to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the top destinations on the Inside Passage itinerary, wildlife viewing is possible year-round, especially if you have your binoculars at hand. When you're not watching for turquoise ice calving in the bay from the glaciers, you might see humpback whales as long as 65 feet or black and brown bears up to 10 feet tall – as well as orcas, harbor and Dall's porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, seabirds, and bald eagles soaring overhead. And that's just what you can view from the ship.

During cruises through the park, rangers board the ships to offer commentary and information about the marine and terrestrial wildlife. They also help spot whales or other animals along the way. One of the highlights while cruising slowly through the park is to go outside on the bow of the ship – or even out onto your veranda – to listen to the incredible silence of this otherworldly place. You may hear nothing at all, or perhaps you'll be treated to the sounds of birds in the distance or the swoosh from a whale's blowhole before it dives down below the water's surface.

It's possible to view certain animals and marine life throughout the year, according to Hickman. "Whale sightings are consistent from May through September, with fewer occurring in April and October as they migrate from or to Hawaii for the winter," he says, adding: "Even on a foggy day when you can't see the whales, you can still hear them and feel their presence – and that's almost as incredible as seeing them from a ship or along the coastline."

If you're interested in spotting brown bears, here is Hickman's advice: "Bear sightings in the spring will depend on the snowpack and when they are leaving hibernation. This year we had very good bear viewing along the Spasski River starting in May when the coastal brown bears emerged from hibernation."

He adds, "They feed on the grass of the valley and eat skunk cabbage roots in May and early June. As the berries start to emerge in June, it holds many of the same bears, and as we get into mid-July, the salmon start heading upstream. There is a constant food source from May through September at Spasski. Many of the other bear viewing areas do not have the same features we have, and it leads to people thinking that bears are only around when fish are in the rivers."

Chichagof Island – the location of Hoonah and Icy Strait Point – was given the nickname "Bear Island" by National Geographic. The island boasts one to two brown bears per square mile, making it one of the largest brown bear populations in the world. Hickman says you're nearly guaranteed to see bears on one of Icy Strait Point's bear-watching tours. Icy Point Strait also offers whale watching adventures and other treks into the wilderness.

Alaska.org points to May through September as the best time for wildlife viewing, though you can spot some animals year-round, like moose or orcas. The website also advises that fly-in bear viewing starts in May but is at its best in July.

Looking to book a cruise to see Alaska's wildlife? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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If you are an avid angler – or just want to watch the bears fish for their supper – then visit Alaska during the peak salmon runs, from May to September. King salmon season begins in May and goes through the end of July. The silver salmon run lasts from July up until the end of November. Red salmon are available between mid-June and mid-August, while you can catch pink and chum salmon in the brief window from mid-July to mid-August.

If you prefer halibut or just want to get out on the ocean, the best time for this wild Pacific species is from May to September. You can also seek out many other river and ocean species, such as rainbow trout, arctic char and northern pike. Cruise lines offer fishing excursions, or you can arrange for a private or group charter in an Alaskan town like Ketchikan.

If you want to see brown bears during the salmon run, book a bear-viewing excursion in one of the ports, such as Icy Strait Point. Or, extend your trip by combining a visit to Katmai National Park and Preserve and the renowned Brooks River with a stay at Brooks Lodge. Brooks Falls is the site for iconic photos of bears catching salmon that are jumping over the falls, and you may be able to view the bears feasting in salmon season when the property is open, from June through mid-September. The lodge is accessible by floatplane from King Salmon. You can also add a flyover tour during your stay to see the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an area in southern Alaska transformed by ash from the 1912 Novarupta-Katmai volcanic eruption.

Aurora season – the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska – runs from mid-August to mid-April. While some passengers cruising the Inside Passage may catch a glimpse of the phenomenon in late summer and early fall, it's not guaranteed. As southeast Alaska typically has more precipitation and clouds since it's a temperate rainforest, you likely won't find optimal conditions for aurora viewing here.

Your chances to see the lights are better the further north you go, so you may want to look at booking a cruisetour: a land and sea package that's usually offered by some of the major cruise lines from May through September. These combined trips generally include the cruise, overnight accommodations in lodges, railway journeys and motorcoach travel between destinations.

With these tours, you'll be able to visit the vast landscape of Alaska, where you can explore cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks or spend time in Denali National Park and Preserve – and you'll have a better chance to view the northern lights. Lines that offer cruisetours include Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean.

Since 2024 is projected to be one of the best years to view the aurora borealis in Alaska, you might want to extend your trip to venture above the Arctic Circle or into Alaska's interior for a prime viewing opportunity. Fairbanks and the Arctic region are under the auroral oval, which is where the northern lights activity is concentrated. You can watch the forecast for the aurora borealis online at Explore Fairbanks' Aurora Tracker and the Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast .

Read: The Top Places to See the Northern Lights

Some of the excursions offered on an Alaskan cruise may be the most expensive tours you've seen on a ship, but they're also probably some of the coolest things you've ever thought about doing while on vacation.

Note that the probability of a tour being canceled for weather is almost the same for all tours offered between April and October, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Some of the more extreme tours, however, may not be available early or late in the season. If you want the best chance for optimal weather, consider the advice from Alaska.org and book your cruise between mid-June and mid-July.

If you're looking at splurging on a bucket list adventure while in Skagway – like Alaska Shore Tours' flightseeing helicopter adventure, which includes a dog-sledding experience on a glacier – you should check to make sure it's available the month you'll be cruising. This particular tour may not be open for booking before May or after September due to the conditions for the sled dogs.

Another over-the-top excursion dependent on optimal weather conditions is the Heli-Hike and Rail Adventure that begins in Skagway. This tour includes a helicopter ride from town that flies over glaciers and mountains, then drops you off for a roughly 5-mile guided hike to view Laughton Glacier and learn about the natural history of the area. After the hike, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad at Glacier Station for the scenic journey through the mountains back to Skagway.

If you're interested in the Misty Fjords Flightseeing tour in Ketchikan, this thrilling ride is also best on a clear day. This Alaskan bush plane tour soars over the Misty Fjords National Monument, which has more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and snowcapped mountains.

Tours that include activities like mountain climbing or navigating suspension bridges might also be best when done on a sunny day. The prime time for wildlife viewing and fishing, as mentioned above, will depend on what animals you're interested in seeing and which species of fish you want to catch.

The ship's excursion desk, local guides or tour providers can offer the best advice on how to plan your activities. No matter which tours you opt to take, be prepared for the ever-changing weather patterns by wearing layers – and make sure to bring a waterproof rain jacket. Before booking, you should check the individual tour operator's cancellation and refund policy.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

The Bottom Line

If you're flexible as to when you can travel to Alaska, you may be able to take advantage of lower pricing, travel incentives and added perks in the shoulder seasons – and you'll have fewer crowds than in the busy summer months.

If your goal is to view wildlife, then most of the cruise season, especially from May to September, will offer ample opportunities to see bears, humpbacks whales, bald eagles and other amazing animals – depending on the itinerary and excursions you choose. You'll also be able to catch Alaska's prized salmon throughout much of the cruise season.

And if extreme adventures are going to be the highlight of your vacation, then be sure to check with the tour providers to make sure your top picks are offered when you're planning to travel. Not all tour providers operate the full seven months of the season.

No matter when you decide to visit, a cruise to The Great Land will be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime.

Planning a cruise to see Alaska? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship to seek year-round outdoor adventure, view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

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Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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Bicycling in Alaska

Ferry travel, the milepost 2023 photo contest winners, the milepost, alaska's legendary trip planner and travel guide., plan your trip.

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Major Attractions

Transportation

Road conditions vary throughout Alaska from paved highways to unimproved gravel roads. The summer bicycle routes discussed here are on Alaska’s paved highways. These major routes generally have good shoulders. But bicyclists share the highways with vehicles. Be alert! One advantage of Alaska touring in summer are the long daylight hours.

North Pole has all traveler services, including many fine restaurants, fast-food outlets, gas stations, supermarkets, pharmacies and other services. The post office is on Santa Claus Lane.

History of the Alaska Highway

Construction of the “Alcan” Highway (ALCAN was the military acronym for the Alaska-Canada Highway) officially began on March 9, 1942.

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Order the legendary MILEPOST today!

The MILEPOST is the best-selling travel guide to Alaska and a “quintessential reference” for northern travelers. The MILEPOST includes mile-by-mile descriptions of more than 15,000 miles of road in Alaska, Yukon, Northwest Territories, British Columbia and Alberta.

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WHAT ADVENTURES AWAIT IN ALASKA?

Explore Award-Winning Tours

Alaska is like no other place in the world.

Visit the home of North America’s tallest mountain in Denali National Park, marvel at glaciers, ride a historic train through forested river valleys, immerse yourself in native culture at a recreated Athabascan Camp, and discover the breathtaking beauty that makes the Last Frontier a once-in-a-lifetime destination.

Holiday Vacations has received the esteemed “Tour Operator of the Year” award from the visitors bureau, Visit Anchorage , and is the only tour operator in the world to receive this award twice, once in 2011 and again in 2018. We love sharing this beautiful state with guests, knowing we are also contributing to Alaska’s tourism economy.

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Activity Levels

Tour days tend to be shorter in length, at a relaxed pace, and include lots of unscheduled time for leisure. Expect standing and walking for extended periods of time on flat surfaces, mostly low altitudes, and consistent temperatures.

Tour days usually move at a leisurely pace. Some days’ scheduled activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain. You may experience changes in altitude or temperature.

Tour days tend to be long, move at a consistent pace, and may include long travel days. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on uneven surfaces. Some destinations may have changes in altitude and/or temperature.

Tour days tend to be long, move at a brisk pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

Very Active

Tour days tend to be long, move at a vigorous pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on rough surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown (2024)

Trying to decide the best time to visit Alaska? This month by month breakdown will help you figure out the best time to travel to Alaska, depending on what you’d like to do and see.

We spent 5 weeks exploring Alaska and can attest that is the last real wilderness left in the United States. It is an untouched, rugged, and pristine destination that’s just waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers. 

Be sure to also check out our extensive Alaska Travel Guide

The northernmost state though, is a very seasonal place to visit, because the vast landscapes and sporadic towns and small cities are at the mercy of the weather. 

This far north, you find a land of extremes. Alaska endures long, dark winters with some areas having no daylight for weeks at a time. There are fierce snowstorms and temperatures are well below zero for much of the year. 

Summer is beautiful, and arguably it’s the best time to visit Alaska because the days are long and the temperatures are relatively high. Although, I’ll admit that we prefer the spring months for better contrast and cooler weather.

You’ll even catch the midnight sun in some locations. But the summer season is short, lasting only from late May to September, and this is when it’s peak season, and the cities and glaciers are full of cruise ship tourists. 

So When Is The Best Time to Go to Alaska?

Table of Contents

When it comes down to it, the best time to plan a trip to Alaska depends on what you want to do in Alaska and which Alaskan destinations you want to visit.

If you want to go on an Alaska road trip , you’ll want to visit at a completely different time than if you want to see the Northern Lights . The Alaska cruise season is different still.

And while there are only a few months of the year where you can hike in the national parks, cities like Anchorage , Juneau , and Fairbanks offer a longer tourism season.

Below, we’ll go into a month-by-month breakdown of the best time to travel to Alaska. Once you know what you’d like to do, you can use this guide as a reference to decide the best time to plan your trip.

Best Time to Visit Alaska FAQs

Before we go into the month-by-month breakdown, here are a few quick answers if you’re wondering about things like the best month to see Northern Lights in Alaska or the best month to cruise Alaska.

April, May, and September are typically the cheapest months to visit Alaska. The weather isn’t perfect but it’s not winter and the crowds are a lot smaller. Just note that some activities may not yet be open (or may already be closing).

July tends to be the most expensive month to go to Alaska – because that’s when most people want to go to Alaska. It’s the peak of high season for both cruises and those flying in. Expect higher prices on accommodation, flights, cruises, and tours.

The Alaska cruise season runs from April to September, which peak months being June-August. While most would say that summer is the best time to cruise Alaska , I actually think that spring is an even better time!

The Northern Lights are technically visible from August to April. However, you’re most likely to see them between November and February.

The spring and summer months are the best time to see wildlife in Alaska. Grizzly bears are usually all awake from their winter hibernation in May. June is the peak season for whale watching and most other animals are active too.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Alaska (Regional Guide)

Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown

To be able to plan the ultimate trip to the national parks, and to remote destinations, you’ll need to know the best time to visit Alaska.

Here’s our month by month guide on the weather and the best places to go! 

January in Alaska 

January is a cold, cold time to be in Alaska. But it’s also a unique time of the year to explore the state, as you’ll experience the region in the throes of winter. 

The far north of Alaska sees almost no daylight in January, being well within the Arctic Circle. However, stay south in Anchorage or Juneau and you can enjoy a few hours each day of sunlight.

In fact, the skies are beautifully clear when the sun is out for its brief stint each day. This makes January the best time to visit for flightseeing trips over the glaciers and mountains. 

At night you’ll likely see the Northern Lights too, especially if you head further north.

There’s ample opportunity for snow sports, including dog sledding and snowshoeing of course. You can learn more about local cultures during the dead winter months too.

Remember though that travel in January can be difficult, especially if you want to head to the Arctic areas.

Overland travel is almost non-existent, even in summer, and even less so in winter, of course. 

February in Alaska

In February, it’s just as cold and just as dark as in January, perhaps even colder depending on the weather patterns.

This is not the best time to visit Alaska, because there’s almost perpetual darkness and you’ll be at the mercy of the extreme weather. 

This is still very much winter. But as in January, stick to the cities and you can enjoy Alaskan culture at this unique time of the year.

You can still take the odd flightseeing trip if the skies stay clear and of course, this is a great time to see the Northern Lights. 

Head out from the cities and you’ll likely catch the Northern Lights in the sky, while there’s lots of chance to go dog sledding or snowshoeing too, all across Alaska. 

March in Alaska

While March sees the beginning of spring in more southern areas of the USA, in Alaska, it’s a completely different story. 

It’s still winter, but in March the temperatures are rising incrementally, and the darkest days are now over. 

The days are getting longer and this is a good time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities in the snowy wilds of the Alaskan national parks. 

In fact, if you want to enjoy the Northern Lights, this can be the best time to visit Alaska, because you’ll catch them in the night, but still be able to enjoy the daylight hours too.

April in Alaska

April is when the weather begins to transition from winter to summer. This is the short Alaskan springtime and it’s the best time to visit Alaska before the summer crowds arrive. 

Small numbers of cruise ships begin to dock in places such as Anchorage or Juneau, while it’s much easier to travel overland. 

The wildlife begins to emerge from hibernation and if you head into the national parks you’ll begin to see all sorts of animals, including moose and perhaps even the odd bear. 

May in Alaska

May is the start of summer, or at least, the end of spring, and temperatures continue to rise all through the month. Truth be told, this is one of our favorite times to be in Alaska. There is still snow on the mountains, yet the land is green and flowers are starting to bloom.

In May, the days are now incredibly long, and the further north you travel the longer they’ll become. 

You’ll start to see whales in the ocean and more and more wildlife in the national parks.

In fact, this is probably the best time to visit Alaska if you want to spot wildlife because as the ice thaws across the state new life emerges into the sunlight.

Alaska is well and truly in bloom in May, and luckily, this is still very much a shoulder season too, because the summer crowds have yet to arrive in port. 

June in Alaska

Those summer crowds really make their first appearance in June, because this is the start of the high season. That said, we loved being there in early June. It’s not quite high season yet but everything is open and operating again.

This is not the best time to visit Alaska if you want the most popular places, such as Denali National Park or the famous glaciers around either Juneau or Anchorage, to yourself. 

Remember though, that Alaska is a vast place and there is so much more to see than just the tourist hot spots. We booked a trip to Bear Camp in Lake Clark National Park in the first week of June and were the first group to visit that year.

Take the time to head north, and you’ll quickly find the cruise crowds dissipate, and you’ll have the backcountry all to yourself.

Go to Fairbanks or head to the Kenai Peninsula, or better yet, head far, far north for the Midnight Sun in the Arctic Circle, where the sun never sets for most of the month of June. 

July in Alaska

July is still peak season and it’s still the height of summer in the state. If you’re looking to explore the national parks and to go hiking then this is the best time to visit Alaska. 

All the national parks are now well and truly open as the snow has melted in most locations, and you can enjoy trekking deep into Denali National Park or even attempt to summit Mount Denali if mountaineering is your pursuit of choice. 

The days are long and there is little darkness in July, and you’ll find wildlife everywhere, both in the oceans and on land.

For an off-the-beaten-track experience, take a cruise to the little-visited Aleutian Islands, which are glorious this time of the year.

August in Alaska

In August, the days begin to get slightly colder but there’s still a lot of daylight, with sunshine averaging around 18 hours per day across the state. The next time we visit Alaska, we want to go in August.

The wildlife is out and about and enjoying the weather before the short autumn soon arrives and before Alaska is then plunged into darkness when winter begins all too soon.

The last of the summer crowds are here in August, but by the end of the month, things are getting quieter.

This is a great last chance to enjoy the best of the national parks and outdoor activities in Alaska, while the waters off the coast will be teeming with humpback whales and orcas.

September in Alaska

As early as September the beautiful summer weather is gone, but it’s prefaced with a resplendent autumnal glow across the state. 

The wildlife is very active in September, and this is the best time to visit Alaska to see the wildlife preparing for their winter hibernation, by stocking up on food and hunting. 

You might have the chance to see the Northern Lights too, but you’ll need to head up north and get lucky.

The nights are getting longer but there’s still plenty of daylight too, and none of the summer crowds of the previous few months either.

October in Alaska

By October, winter is almost upon Alaska, and the days are getting much shorter and the nights are much longer. 

Wildlife begins to slow down in the wilderness and you’ll have a harder time spotting them in the wild as they prepare for the cold weather. 

This is very much a shoulder season meaning that there are few other tourists around.

Unfortunately, this is also a transition month and not just in terms of the weather but in terms of tourist activities too.

Many summer activities such as hiking are difficult now, while there’s also not much snowfall, meaning winter activities have yet to actually begin.

All of this ensures that October isn’t the first choice for many travelers and really isn’t the best time to visit Alaska. 

November in Alaska

November sees the beginning of winter and the start of heavy snowfall across the state. 

The days are much shorter now and temperatures are extremely low, especially at night time. 

You’ll have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights however and winter activities will be in action, and you can enjoy snowshoeing and dog sledding. 

December in Alaska

December is a dark time to be in Alaska, but if you’re after a true winter escape and a guaranteed white Christmas, then this would make for an unusual getaway. 

Be prepared to be cold, but also be prepared for unique winter experiences. Stick to the south for better weather, and because you’ll have a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights too, rather than needing to venture too far north. 

You might also like:

• 27 Things You Should Know About Alaska Before You Visit
• Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska: Ultimate Planning Guide
• Ultimate Guide to Visiting Chena Hot Springs
• Denali State Park Heli-Hiking Adventure in Remote Alaska

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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The World's 15 Best Airlines To Kick-Start Your 2024 Vacation

Posted: April 21, 2024 | Last updated: April 21, 2024

The winner takes it all

Forget inedible meals, postage stamp-sized economy seats and sky-high fares – the airline industry has stepped up in 2023. From top-tier comfort and cleanliness to the best customer service and family-friendly facilities, we've rounded up a selection of the winners from last year's Skytrax's World Airline Awards 2023. Take a look at the airlines pulling out all the stops to make your flying experience that little bit more special.

World’s Most Improved Airline: Kuwait Airways

World’s Cleanest Airline: ANA All Nippon Airways

ANA (All Nippon Airways) is one of the most consistently high-rated airlines both in Asia and worldwide. It picked up the World’s Cleanest Airline award for the third year in a row in 2023, while also holding onto its 2022 crown for the World’s Best Airport Services. Founded in 1952, Japan’s largest airline – although not the national carrier – is one of the most significant airlines in Asia, operating 43 international and  61 domestic routes.

The airline focuses on an excellent in-flight experience infused with hints of Japanese culture. It provides passengers with amazing amenities, food, cleanliness and friendly cabin crew. After two years of tough COVID-19 restrictions, Japan resumed visa-free entry and independent travel in October 2022 – and it looks like ANA is rising to the occasion.

World’s Best Airline Cabin Crew: Garuda Indonesia

World’s Best Economy Class: Japan Airlines

World’s Best Premium Economy Class: EVA Air

World's Best Regional Airline: Bangkok Airways

As well as bagging the Best Regional Airline in Asia award, Bangkok Airways took home first place for the World’s Best Regional Airline. It might not come as a surprise: it's the seventh consecutive year the airline has won both awards. It serves 11 Thai hotspots and a growing number of international destinations, including Cambodia, Singapore, the Maldives, Myanmar, Hong Kong and Laos. 

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Bangkok Airways comprises a 30-strong fleet, with each aircraft decorated in their own liveries representing the destinations they fly to. The company's latest generation aircraft, the ATR72-600, includes a full-glass cockpit and larger overhead bins. 

Best Regional Airline in North America: Alaska Airlines

World’s Best Low-Cost Airline: AirAsia

This reliable airline has been awarded the World's Best Low-Cost Airline since 2010 and is well-recognised by other industry heavyweights for its budget offerings. The Premium Flatbed seat on its Airbus A330 is considered among the world’s best-value premium cabins, being fully reclinable with adjustable head and foot rests, plus comfy bedding and a privacy screen. Complimentary meals, priority boarding and baggage collection, and access to hours of inflight entertainment are included in the cost too.

The Malaysia-based airline operates flights across its home continent and beyond, with connections to Australia, the US, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Japan and more. Sign up for the rewards scheme and you can earn AirAsia points on whatever fare you choose, which can then be redeemed against hotels, tours, car hire and even future flights.

World's Best Low-Cost Long-Haul Airline: Scoot

Scoot, owned by the Singapore Airlines Group, has been awarded first place for budget travellers seeking long-haul destinations for two consecutive years now. The airline's economy class offers three fares: Fly, FlyBag and FlyBagEat. The cheapest fare is Fly, allowing carry-on of up to 10kg (22 pounds) per passenger; FlyBag includes 20kg (44-pound) checked baggage; and FlyBagEat adds on a hot meal.

But there's another reason everyone's talking about Scoot. In September 2022, it launched its first Pokémon-themed plane (pictured). The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (or "Pikachu Jet"), with its colourful livery and Japanese-inspired menu, serves selected journeys between Singapore, Taipei, Nanjing, Tokyo and Seoul throughout 2023.

World’s Most Family Friendly Airline: Air Canada

Skytrax’s Most Family Friendly Airline Award is a new category for 2023, factoring in how well an airline accommodates families being seated together, how helpful staff are, what dedicated family check-in, baggage and boarding procedures are in place, and the quality of children’s meals, entertainment and amenities. As well as making the lives of guardians and children that little bit easier while in the air, Air Canada also runs the Aeroplan Family Sharing scheme, where up to eight family members can share rewards points.

Best Airline in South America: LATAM

The largest airline in Latin America, LATAM won big across Skytrax's South America categories in 2023, taking gold for both Best Airline and Best Airline Staff Service on the continent. The airline serves Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay.

So what makes LATAM so great? The airline is addressing its sustainability credentials and has pledged to eliminate all single-use plastics onboard its services by the end of this year. It also aims to be zero-waste by 2027 and carbon neutral by 2050. Plus, its range of LATAM Airlines credit cards could see you earn up to 40,000 miles to redeem on flights.

Best Airline in Africa: Ethiopian Airlines

Not only did Ethiopian Airlines rank in the top 40% of Skytrax's list of the best 100 airlines in the world in 2023, but it was also crowned the Best Airline in Africa once again after winning the category for five previous years. The flag carrier of Ethiopia was founded in 1945 and today serves 19 domestic and 114 international destinations. The airline has the youngest and newest fleet across the entire continent, consisting of Boeing's Dreamliners and Triple Sevens as well as Airbus A350s.

There’s a range of cabin types – economy includes complimentary drinks and its luxury Cloud Nine service provides a curated business-class experience. Guests of Cloud Nine can enjoy exclusive lounge access, additional baggage allowance and an even comfier flight with more room to stretch out.

Best Airline in Europe: Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines was founded in 1933 with just five aircraft. Today, it flies to 269 destinations around the world, best summed up by its tag line: “We fly to more countries than any other airline in the world". The national carrier won the sought-after Best Airline in Europe award, as well as the same award for services in Southern Europe.

The airline offers an incredible culinary service – winning the top award for best catering in both business and economy class in 2023 – and its highly regarded lounge welcomes travellers in Istanbul. It’s regularly commended for being the best long-haul travel experience in Europe, and also serves Africa, North America and Asia.

Best Airline in North America: Delta Air Lines

According to Skytrax, Delta Air Lines is the top airline in North America for the second consecutive year. The accolades don’t stop there – the US-owned airline dominated the major North America categories, taking Best Airline Staff Service, Best Business Class, Best Premium Economy Class and Best Economy Class. It’s one of the world’s oldest airlines and is constantly expanding its network, adding London Gatwick to its roster in 2023 for the first time in 15 years.

But what makes it worth flying with? From check-in to landing there’s a seamless system; its Airport Curbside service (at most US airports) allows you to check in your baggage as soon as you’ve exited your vehicle at passenger drop-off. Its cabins range from Basic Economy to Delta One, where you can enjoy your own flat-bed seat, luxury skincare products and chef-curated meals.

World’s Best Airline Overall: Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines knocked 2022’s Airline of the Year Qatar Airways (a seven-time champion) off the top spot to second place this year, though the Middle Eastern carrier still cleaned up in the majority of the business-class categories. The Singapore Airlines Group (which includes the award-winning budget subsidiary airline, Scoot) ferried nearly 21 million passengers across the world last year and achieved its highest-ever monthly passenger load factor in December 2022. Click here to see the full results of the World Airline Awards 2023.

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Now discover the world's coolest airports

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