As the largest state in the country, Alaska has a lot to see and even more to do. From exploring cities and towns to trekking across a glacier, you’ll never run out of adventurous things to fill your days and nights.
The question is, how will you know which things are not to be missed? Luckily, there’s something for everyone, and maybe even several must-do things for your itinerary. From extreme adventures to calming scenes, consider all six of the following must-do things in Alaska for your next trip.
Explore Glaciers Your Way
When you think glaciers, you think Alaska, so don’t miss out on seeing at least one while visiting. Start with Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau, then head north to the Matanuska Glacier for a trek, or south to the Tracy Arm Fjord for a scenic glacier setting. Trek, kayak, or raft among these icy wonders. You can also sign on for a glacier day cruise, many of which depart daily from coastal towns. Enjoy spotting a few whales along the way as well as many land animals.
Go Flightseeing
Seeing what Alaska has to offer while flying over its mountains, glaciers, volcano, forests, coastlines, and wildlife is an experience you’ll not soon forget. This huge state’s roadways are limited, and to see more of it, schedule a tour on a floatplane, small bush plane, or helicopter.
Go Halibut Fishing
Whether you enjoy fishing back home or not, halibut fishing is a whole new experience in Alaska. This flatfish ranges in size here, with some weighing up to 400 lbs. Visit during the best halibut fishing time between May and September or during an off-season peak. You can choose to try your hand at fishing along the shore or join a charter with a guide for the best experience.
Experience Dog Sled Mushing
Home to the famous 1,000-mile Iditarod race from Anchorage to the city of Nome, Alaska is synonymous with dog sledding. If you’ve always wondered what it is like to be pulled along snowy, icy trails by a team of energetic huskies, go mushing along the Iditarod National Historic Trail. Enjoy the adventure and the views of some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.
Observe the Wildlife
Let’s face it, Alaska is teeming with wildlife not often seen elsewhere or in such quantities. Take a bear viewing tour and marvel at the size of big Alaskan brown bears. Watch as they snap up salmon as they leap out of McNeil River or in the waterways of Katmai National Park. At the Anan Wildlife Observatory, watch from the covered viewing shelter. Also, be on the lookout for majestic Bald Eagles and Moose wherever you are in the state. If you prefer, head into Denali National Park for a chance to see caribou, wolves, and grizzly bears.
Cruise the Inside Passage
Cruising the Inside Passage, a network of sheltered interior waterways, is one of the most popular things to do in Alaska and doesn’t disappoint. Join a passenger cruise or enjoy taking the ferry between towns along the way. Enjoy mountainous scenery as it surrounds you, and keep an eye out for whales along the way. Stops may include Skagway and its Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park as well as Ketchikan and its Totem Heritage Center and display.
With so many magnificent things to see and do in Alaska, you may need to schedule more than one trip.
