There’s no place like Alaska. This rugged state is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with towering peaks, pristine glaciers, and vast expanses of wilderness. Alaska has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a relaxing getaway from everyday life.
Check out these 10 bucket-list adventures during your next trip to the Last Frontier.
1. Kayak through the Inside Passage
The Inside Passage (a water route between the Gulf of Alaska and Puget Sound) is a beautiful stretch of water that winds its way along the Alaskan coast. Kayaks are the best way to explore this spectacular region, and many tour operators can assist you with that. Kayaking in this region is some of the best in the world, as you pass lush rainforests and snow-capped mountains.
Although the Inside Passage is breathtakingly beautiful, kayaking through these waters can be challenging. As a result of the unpredictable weather and strong currents, your journey may be perilous. It is therefore important that you come prepared for the worst.
The Inside Passage is a popular route for kayakers going from the United States or Canada to Alaska over several months. If you are an adrenaline junkie, this is one of the best ways to travel to Alaska.
2. Climb a glacier
Alaska is home to some of the world’s most impressive glaciers, and glacier climbing is a popular activity among adventure seekers. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a novice, Alaska has glaciers that are perfect for you. The temperatures can plummet even on the warmest days, so pack plenty of warm clothes. If you are planning on climbing the glaciers in Alaska, it is best to join a group tour to make the most of the experience.
3. Hike the Chilkoot Trail
The Chilkoot Trail is a 33-mile trek that winds its way through the majestic Coast Mountains and up into the Yukon Territory. It takes an average of 3-5 days to hike, depending on your level of fitness and experience. It passes through rainforest, alpine meadows, and glaciers, providing hikers with unforgettable views of the surrounding landscape. The best time to hike the trail is between June and September when the weather is milder. It is highly recommended that you hire a reputed tour operator.
There is no doubt that the Chilkoot Trail is the world’s longest museum, with its wealth of history. Klondike gold rush miners used the trail during the late 1800s, and hikers can still find remnants of that era scattered along the path. With its abandoned cabins and crumbling trails, the Chilkoot Trail embodies a tangible connection to the past.
4. Go Dog Sledding
Dogsledding is a quintessential Alaskan experience, and a number of tour operators offer guided trips through the Arctic tundra. Racing through the wilderness behind a team of enthusiastic dogs is an unforgettable experience. Some of the best places for dog sledding will be along the Arctic Circle as well as inside Denali National Park. In this region, you will find wide-open landscapes and a variety of opportunities for exploring the wilderness. Try one of Alaska’s dog sledding tours if you’re looking for an adventure.
5. Visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
There are a wide variety of Alaskan wildlife in this remote wilderness area, including grizzly bears, caribou, and moose. The refuge is accessible by foot, car, and boat, and there are plenty of options for camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge harbors the world’s largest Porcupine Caribou Herd. It is an unforgettable experience to watch Caribou herds in their natural habitat. A hike along animal trails in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a great way to get your heart racing.
6. Bike the Iditarod Trail
If you are searching for an epic cycling adventure, the Iditarod Trail should be on your list. The most efficient way to traverse this trail, which runs from Anchorage to Nome, is by mountain bike. A challenging terrain awaits participants along the trail, as it crosses rivers, climbs mountains, and winds its way through the Arctic tundra.
There is no doubt that the Iditarod Trail Bike Race is one of the toughest in the world. During the ride, riders must traverse more than 350 miles of rugged Alaskan terrain, including frozen river crossings and treacherous mountain passes. Many refer to the race as the “Last Great Race on Earth,” and for good reason: it’s like no other.
7. Camp in Katmai National Park
The Katmai National Park lies on the Alaska Peninsula and includes volcanoes, mountains, glaciers, lakes, and forests. The park is popular for watching grizzly bears, and it’s a great place to camp if you want to get up close with these majestic animals. The experience is one of the most exciting things to do in Alaska. There are a variety of camping options in the park, ranging from backcountry campsites to luxury lodges. The landscape is breathtaking, with stunning views around every corner.
Grizzly bears have been feasting on the annual salmon run along the Brooks River for countless generations. Brooks River is one of the best places to see grizzly bears in the world. Known for their assertive demeanor and commanding presence, these predators can reach weights of up to 1,500 pounds. From Homer, you can join in a day trip to Katmai National Park.
8. Summit Mount McKinley (Mount Denali)
At 20,320 feet, Mount Denali (formerly, Mount McKinley) is the tallest mountain in North America. This challenging summit can be attempted by experienced climbers, but it’s best to hire a guide to help you navigate the tricky terrain.
As you climb Mount Denali, the scenic landscape unfolds before you. It takes you through a vast wilderness where you can see grizzly bears, moose, and caribou. The view of Denali National Park becomes more and more spectacular until you finally reach the peak.
9. Explore the Kenai Peninsula
Kenai Peninsula is a rugged and vast region that you can best explore by a car or RV. The region has glaciers, mountains, lakes, forests, and plenty of opportunities to camp, hike, and fish. Do not miss the opportunity to visit Kenai Fjords National Park, where you will be able to observe glaciers calving into the ocean. At Kenai Fjords National Park, you can also go whale watching, where you may see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine mammals.
Check out popular Kenai Fjord National Park tours
10. Glacier hiking at Root Glacier
Glacier hiking is a popular activity in Alaska, and there are many glaciers to choose from. Root Glacier, in the Chugach Mountains near Valdez, is a great place for glacier hiking.
Root Glacier is a beautiful glacier that’s constantly changing, and it’s a great hiking destination. Glaciers are surrounded by mountains, and the scenery is breathtaking. Prepare for some challenging hiking, as the trail can be steep and rugged. The views, however, are well worth the effort.
Summary
Alaska is a land of unparalleled beauty and natural wonders, and these ten bucket-list adventures include just a taste of what the state has to offer. No matter if you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a first-time adventurer, Alaska is a great place to explore your wild side. An adventure doesn’t have to be extreme to be life-changing. Some of the best adventures in Alaska are those that take you deep into the wilderness without any risk or danger.
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