If you would like to mix up your vacation routines by taking a trip to somewhere that thrives in the winter months, Alaska could be for you. The country’s largest state is home to beautiful wilderness, history, food, and winter activities. Whether you stay within the cities or bring out your adventurous side and explore the natural landscapes, Alaska can make a great vacation spot. Read on for what you can do on your trip to Alaska.
Here are 6 Things to do When You’re on Vacation in Alaska
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Take a Tour of the Water
One great way of experiencing what this state has to offer is to take an Alaska cruise. You can depart either from Alaska itself or other cities such as Seattle or Vancouver. The cruises will give you both an amazing look at the natural landscapes of Alaska as well as guided tours on land. For a comfortable and relaxing experience of the state’s beauty, a tour on the water can give you a well-rounded experience.
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Go Hiking
There might be no better way of connecting with the natural world than hiking. If you are in Juneau and are up for the exercise, take a tram to carry you up to the top of a mountain. Once there, you will have miles of hiking trails to traverse at your own pace. You can also find gift shops and places to spend time and get information about the area.
Juneau offers just one example of the natural hiking experience, as the wide scope of Alaska allows you to enjoy the natural experience anywhere you go. Look up the best hiking experiences near your destination in Alaska.
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Fly Over the Mountain Range
Alaska is home to many mountain ranges that are best seen from a high altitude. The state offers flightseeing tours that allow you to view the breathtaking vistas from above. If you want to see all the natural beauty that the state has to offer, soaring over the mountain ranges on a tour can give you the thrills you desire.
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See the Northern Lights
The northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, can be seen during the colder months, specifically between the months of September and April between 11 PM and 2 AM. Seeing the dark night sky illuminated with gorgeous waves of green light is a wondrous sight to behold.
There are numerous spots in Alaska that can provide a great view of the lights. Fairbanks is generally a good spot to go, as they shine brightly there and visitors can be provided with a guided tour. Taking a tour is preferable to trying to hunt down the lights for yourself, as you can be guaranteed to find the best spots with a guide.
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View the Wildlife
One of the symbols of Alaska is the bear, and the state can provide you with ample safe opportunities to see them among other wildlife. While finding bears and other animals on your own may be difficult, fortunately, you can take tours to guide you to the prime spots to view the majestic creatures. A tour in Juneau can additionally provide you with the best way of seeing whales out in the ocean as well.
Being accompanied by a guide can keep the experience safe and friendly for you and others to comfortably enjoy. For another method of seeing animals, Alaska has many zoos and aquariums to provide you with a safe, sheltered viewing experience.
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Enjoy Winter Activities
Alaska is a great place for those who enjoy snow. If you are interested in skiing or in snowboarding, you will have a huge array of opportunities for fun down the mountains. Generally starting in November and persisting through the winter months, resorts are open to the public. You could pack your own equipment or rent your gear before you take to the slopes.
Time of Visit: Alaska’s peak tourist season is during the summer months, from May to September when the weather is milder and the days are longer. However, if you’re interested in winter activities like skiing or viewing the Northern Lights, you may want to consider visiting between November and March.
Transportation: The best way to reach Alaska is by flying into Anchorage, the largest city. From there, you can rent a car or use domestic flights to explore other regions. Alaska has an extensive road system, making it easy to access many attractions by car.
National Parks: Alaska is home to several stunning national parks, including Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Glacier Bay National Park. These parks offer breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, and various hiking trails.
For the less adventurous types, just getting a good experience out in the snow can be invigorating and fun. Many spots in Alaska have hotels and spa resorts to grant you a relaxing day after spending time outdoors.
In addition to its nature, Alaska also has a bustling city life full of fine dining, art, and history to see. No matter your exact plans, if you love the winter months and beautiful nature, consider making Alaska your next vacation destination.
