Alaska

Alaska

The largest state in the USA, Alaska is the widely known as the last frontier, a wild and untamed land filled with towering mountains, massive glaciers and dazzling Northern Lights. Although Alaska is the most sparsely populated state in the United States of America, home to just over 740,000 residents, it is also home to an abundance of natural resources and breathtaking wildlife.

The summer season is short, lasting from mid-May through mid-September and is characterized by temperatures ranging from 15-27°C. Travel season peaks between mid-June to mid-August, with the milder weather making it the best time to visit natural parks and take in the breathtaking scenery. Although summer season is the most popular travel time, Alaska offers unique reasons to travel year-round. Whether you're watching whales migrate off the coast, hiking through untouched wilderness, or witnessing the legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, Alaska offers experiences that stay with you long after your journey ends.

From breathtaking scenery and unforgettable wildlife encounters to rich cultural experiences and thrilling outdoor adventures, Alaska delivers on every front. In a world where untouched wilderness is becoming increasingly rare, the Last Frontier remains a place where adventure is always waiting just beyond the horizon. Our travel consultants are ready to help you create unforgettable memories on the Last Frontier, whether it’s booking one of our featured trips or forging your own path and creating a custom itinerary we’re here to help!

Alaska

Know before you go

Cell phone/Wi-Fi coverage, ATMs, gas stations, and other modern conveniences are widely accessible in Alaska’s larger cities and towns. It’s important though to keep in mind that these are a bit harder to come by in more remote areas.

Late May through mid-September is prime season. June–July has the longest daylight (up to 19+ hours) and best weather for hiking and wildlife viewing. Late August–September brings fall colors and a shot at the northern lights returning as nights darken. Winter (November–March) is its own trip if you want aurora viewing, dog sledding, or skiing, but many rural attractions and lodges close.

Alaska is huge and not well connected by roads — many towns (Juneau, Skagway, most of the Southeast) aren't reachable by car at all. Options: cruise ships (popular for the Inside Passage), the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system, small regional flights, the Alaska Railroad, or driving the road-connected parts (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Denali, Kenai Peninsula, Seward).

Cruises are easiest for Southeast Alaska (Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, glaciers) with zero logistics hassle but limited time per stop. Independent travel (fly into Anchorage, rent a car) gives more flexibility and works well for the interior/road-system parts — Denali, Kenai Fjords, Fairbanks. Many people combine both: cruise plus a land add-on.

Bears, moose, whales, and eagles are commonly seen but not guaranteed. Best bear viewing is at spots like Katmai (Brooks Falls) or Kodiak, usually via a small plane day trip — book well in advance. Basic bear safety (make noise, carry bear spray, store food properly) matters if hiking.

Only during dark-sky months (roughly late August–April), not in summer since it barely gets dark. Fairbanks is the top spot due to clear skies and less cloud cover than the coast.

Alaska isn't cheap — flights, lodges, and tours (glacier flights, bear viewing, fishing charters) add up fast, especially in peak summer. Ferries and camping can cut costs significantly versus cruises and lodges.

Layers, a waterproof/windproof jacket, sturdy waterproof shoes, and a warm hat/gloves even in summer — mornings and boat trips get cold. Mosquitoes are serious in summer in the interior, so bring repellent.

Thank you to all of our fantastic consultants and store managers who have shared their photos, stories and tips about their time in Alaska, we are able to make these monthly features unique and full of first-hand advice and experiences because of their wonderful contributions!

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