Alaska is the largest state in the United States of America, and this polar land offers breathtaking scenery: glaciers, lakes, rivers, national parks, mountains… Travelers with an adventurous spirit will literally be overwhelmed by the beauty of Alaska.
On this unique journey, you can follow in the footsteps of Christopher McCandless, whose story inspired “Into the Wild”, follow the itinerary of gold prospectors or hike the steep rivers and trails used by trappers – the possibilities are immense! There’s no doubt that traveling to Alaska will stay with you for the rest of your life.
However, with its hostile nature, voyager in Alaska can’t be improvised. When to leave? Where to go? What to do ? In this guide, you’ll find all the information you need for a successful trip to Alaska, rich in emotion and off the beaten track!
When to travel to Alaska?
Unsurprisingly, if you’re chilly, travel to Alaska is not the best idea! The climate in this region is polar, with very cold, snowy winters and relatively short days. Summers are fairly short and mild, but still relatively cool.
Alaska is a huge area, so the climate can vary depending on location. Distance from the ocean, mountains, latitude and altitude are all factors that can influence the weather.
The best time of year to enjoy the beauty of Alaska is undoubtedly during the summer months. Specifically, we recommend that you plan your trip between May and September. You’ll enjoy long days and bearable temperatures. Bear in mind, however, that the temperature on summer nights is often negative.
Note: before travel to Alaska, think mosquito repellent! During the summer, some regions are infested with these insects. And if you’re a fan of bears, the best months to see them are between July and September.
When can you see the northern lights?
The Alaskan aurora borealis is a dazzling, hypnotic spectacle visible mainly in polar zones. To admire this extraordinary phenomenon, it’s generally advisable to stay above 60° north latitude, in an area of low light and without a full moon. Be careful, though, as you’ll need a little self-discipline to enjoy these marvels of the sky. The best times to admire the Northern Lights are either very early in the morning, before dawn, or late at night.
The time of year is also very important. In general, the best time to see the Northern Lights is around the equinoxes, i.e. mid-March to mid-September. Although they are more intense in the depths of winter, it’s extremely difficult to contemplate this majestic spectacle in freezing winter temperatures.
Watching the midnight sun
Alaska offers many breathtaking natural phenomena: in addition to the aurora borealis, you’ll be able to observe the midnight sun. This natural spectacle is only visible above the Arctic Circle. In the village of Barrow, for example, between May and August, the sun doesn’t set for 84 days. Conversely, from mid-November to January, the sun never rises, leaving Barrow in total darkness.
Where to travel in Alaska?
It would be very difficult to recommend the most beautiful sites, as Alaska offers such a diversity of different landscapes. However, we’ve put together a selection of the places we think are must-sees for your next trip.
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
Glacier Bay National Park is undoubtedly one of the places to visit if you’re travel to Alaska. A World Heritage Site, the park covers a total area of 13,287 square kilometers and is home to a total of 12 glaciers.
Glacier Bay is difficult to access, with few hiking trails, so most travelers choose to visit by boat.
In addition to its splendid scenery, this national park is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Both terrestrial animals (bears, caribou, wolves, red foxes, elk, marmots, etc.) and marine animals (otters, whales, orcas, sea lions, salmon, etc.). To admire the richness of this wildlife, the best option is to opt for an organized cruise. You’ll then be able to enter the heart of the park and discover its many fjords.
Denali National Park
A spectacular region, Denali National Park is a favorite for lovers of the great outdoors. Hiking, trekking, fishing, rafting, road trips, you name it! If you’re a fan of mountaineering, you can also climb the mythical Mount McKinley. However, climbing this mountain requires a great deal of preparation. At an altitude of 6,168 metres, it is the highest mountain on the North American subcontinent.
The Museum of the North
If you’re passing through Fairbanks, the second-largest city in the state of Alaska, a stop at the Museum of the North is a must. Managed by the University of Alaska, this museum houses numerous collections of art objects and sculptures. An opportunity to learn more about Alaska’s rich history. In the Rose Berry Gallery, you can admire splendid historical works such as the Okvik Madonna, an ivory sculpture over 2,000 years old.
Riverboat Discovery
If you’re staying in Fairbanks for several days, why not embark on an hour-long cruise along the Alaskan rivers. This escapade will allow you to discover both modern-day life and the traditional customs of the locals. You’ll also have the chance to stop off and discover the Indian village of Chena. You’ll learn how local people have adapted, generation after generation, to the harsh Alaskan climate.
Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park
On July 18, 1897, three American newspapers made a sensational announcement: gold deposits had been discovered in the heart of Alaska. The news spread like wildfire across the country and around the world, and the gold rush began. Gold diggers continued their relentless search along the Klondike, a tributary of the Yukon.
To find out more about the living conditions of these adventurers, you can watch a film retracing their history at the Skagway Visitor Center. We also recommend taking a stroll through the town’s distinctive architecture, where houses were built at the height of the gold rush and the pioneer spirit still reigns.
To immerse yourself in the gold rush atmosphere, you can also follow in the footsteps of the gold prospectors by hiking the Chilkoot and White trails. Please note that you must apply for a permit before embarking on these hikes.
Anchorage
Known as the “City of Lights” in winter and the “City of Flowers” in summer, Anchorage perfectly blends wilderness and modern urban life, hence its famous slogan: “Life Big Wild”. Bordering the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by green spaces, the city of Anchorage is ideal for people looking for a breath of fresh air and a close connection to nature, while remaining close to civilization.
Anchorage is the starting point for many excursions, cruises and other outdoor activities. From here, you can head for the majestic Chugach Mountains or the sumptuous Denali National Park.
If you’d like to be accompanied, note that the city is full of local agencies offering guide services and tours of the must-see sites.
Organizing your Alaska trip
Don’t forget that Alaska is part of the USA, so you’ll need to apply for a residence permit before setting off on your vacation. If your stay in the Far North doesn’t exceed 90 consecutive days, you won’t need a visa – an ESTA will suffice!
ESTA authorization
To obtain your ESTA document before your trip to Alaska, nothing could be simpler: visit the official U.S. government website or a specialized private site and fill in the online form. You’ll receive your authorization within 72 hours. However, to ensure that your trip to Alaska goes smoothly, we advise you to plan ahead.
Travel to Alaska via a travel agency
If you want to travel with a free mind, without worrying about itineraries and routes once you’re there, you’re free to consult travel agencies. Some tour operators also offer tailor-made trips, ideal for creating the trip of your dreams.
So you see, travel to Alaska will offer you a complete change of scenery at the end of the world, and unforgettable memories. You’ll always find something to do, so there’s no room for boredom on this exceptional trip! At last, you’re ready to explore these wild lands. trip to Alaska !