The Top 8 Places to Visit in Alaska

Alaska is an awe-inspiring immersion into untamed natural beauty and rugged landscapes that leave an indelible mark on one’s soul. From the towering glaciers of Denali National Park to the serene fjords of Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska boasts an unparalleled diversity of landscapes. The grandeur of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and vast expanses of wilderness captivate the senses, offering opportunities for thrilling wildlife encounters with grizzly bears, bald eagles, and whales. The midnight sun in summer or the mystical dance of the Northern Lights in winter adds an enchanting element to this wild frontier. Exploring Alaska is an expedition into the heart of nature’s magnificence.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park, home to the highest peak in North America, Mount Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley), is a pristine wilderness sanctuary that embodies the untamed spirit of Alaska. Spanning over six million acres of stunning landscapes, this park offers visitors the chance to witness diverse wildlife such as grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and caribou amidst a backdrop of breathtaking mountain vistas, sweeping tundra, and meandering rivers.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is the second largest city in Alaska. From August to April it is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis. roman-krochuk/shutterstock

Fairbanks, Alaska’s second-largest city, is a captivating blend of rugged wilderness and modern comforts. Known for its unique geographical location close to the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks offers visitors the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in winter and enjoy a wide array of outdoor activities, including dog mushing, ice fishing, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of Alaska’s interior.

Barrow

Barrow, a small village inhabited by Inupiat people, is the best place in Alaska to see polar bears. tom-linster/shutterstock

Barrow, now known as Utqiaġvik, lies in the northernmost reaches of Alaska and is one of the prime spots for viewing polar bears in their natural habitat. Visitors can join guided tours or expeditions, often by boat or air, to remote locations where these majestic creatures can be observed safely and respectfully in their Arctic environment. Additionally, Utqiaġvik offers a unique cultural experience, providing insights into the indigenous Iñupiat way of life and their deep connection with the Arctic landscape.

Juneau

Juneau, Alaska’s picturesque capital nestled between mountains and sea, serves as a gateway to the stunning Mendenhall Glacier. Visitors can explore this icy marvel via various trails, witness its breathtaking beauty, and even kayak or take guided tours to gain a deeper understanding of glaciology and the surrounding wilderness. The juxtaposition of Juneau’s vibrant city life against the awe-inspiring natural wonder of Mendenhall Glacier offers a unique and unforgettable Alaskan experience.

The Inside Passage

The Inside Passage in Alaska is a breathtaking coastal route spanning approximately 500 miles, stretching from Washington State, through British Columbia, and ending in the southeastern Alaskan city of Skagway or beyond to Glacier Bay or Whittier. Traveling through this intricate network of islands, fjords, and bays by cruise ship or ferry typically takes around three to seven days, offering passengers unparalleled views of majestic glaciers, lush forests, and abundant wildlife along this scenic marine highway.

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a mesmerizing expanse of icy fjords, towering glaciers, and diverse wildlife along the southeastern coast of Alaska. Visitors can witness the dramatic spectacle of calving glaciers, explore the rich marine ecosystem by boat tours, and marvel at the park’s ever-changing landscape, showcasing a compelling narrative of natural processes at work in this pristine wilderness.

Katmai National Park

Katmai National Park, situated in southern Alaska, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and one of the densest populations of brown bears in the world. The Brooks River Falls within the park is a prime location to observe these magnificent creatures catching salmon during the summer months, providing an exceptional opportunity for visitors to witness bear viewing in their natural habitat.

Hubbard Glacier

Hubbard Glacier, one of North America’s longest glaciers. cecoffman/shutterstock

Hubbard Glacier, a striking tidewater glacier in Alaska, is accessible primarily via cruise ships traversing through Yakutat Bay or Disenchantment Bay in the southeastern part of the state. Visitors can witness the glacier’s immense beauty and dramatic calving, often from the comfort of cruise ships offering guided tours or scenic viewing decks that bring them within safe distance to this natural wonder.