alaska trip in march

Why March is the Best Time to Visit Fairbanks Alaska

Last Updated on February 15, 2024

I might be the only person to tell you that March is the best time to visit Fairbanks Alaska but it’s true. Stay with me here and remember that I lived in Fairbanks for years and still visit regularly (in the winter) before you decide I’m nuts.

Fairbanks in winter is absolutely magical but the middle of winter (December, January, early February) can be bitterly cold and it’s harder to enjoy everything Fairbanks has to offer. March is absolutely perfect, with longer days and slightly less frigid temperatures. This article is specifically about the month of March and my Fairbanks in winter guide includes even more information about where to stay and some of my favorite restaurants for winter.

Fairbanks is such a unique place it makes sense to visit it when the things that make it unique are on display at their absolute finest .

4 reasons why March is the best time to visit Fairbanks, Alaska

• March is the BEST time of year to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks and Fairbanks is the best place in Alaska to see them! It has clearer skies than fall but isn’t as bitterly cold as mid winter.
• March is the best month of the year to enjoy various winter activities – longer days, plenty of snow and it’s not as cold as the darker months just before. It’s still plenty cold to be real winter!
• March is when the World Ice Art Competition happens. This is such a unique and incredible experience. If you’re there in early March, you might get to see some of the artists finishing up their carvings. In addition to the small (single block) and large (multi block, the size of a small house!) sculptures, there is also a play area with slides and other fun all made out of ice. Go at night and see the colorful lights on the sculptures.
• NO BUGS !! Interior Alaska has epic mosquitoes and a great strategy for avoiding them is visiting when everything is frozen

Things to do in Fairbanks in March

The most important reason why March is the best time to visit Fairbanks, Alaska is because of all the unique winter things to do that you just can’t do in the summer , but the longer and slightly less cold days that make it easier to enjoy them.

Go Aurora Hunting

Fairbanks is the best place and March is the best time to see the Aurora so join the chase by watching the Aurora forecast and staying up late.

All you really need to do is look up, a lot, when it’s dark and clear . However, you can also take a tour and have your guide help you keep watch and do the driving. Another good option is Aurora Pointe Activity Center , where you stay in one spot (a spacious heated building with hot drinks and cookies!) and learn about the Aurora while waiting in the comfort of a heated room.

Visit Chena Hot Springs

I love to go to hot springs in winter! Chena Hot Springs is a developed hot spring resort with changing rooms and showers and you can go even if you’re not staying there. They also have an indoor pool but soaking in the outdoor pool on a winter day is amazing. There are also lots of winter activity tours offered here, including dog sledding, skiing and snowmobiling.

There’s nothing quite like sitting in the hot springs and being surrounded by snow. Sometimes at night you can even see the Aurora from the pool.

Pro tip: Combine this with going dog sledding or walking with Reindeer on the way out or back. Chena Outdoor Collective is about halfway between Fairbanks and Chena Hot Springs.

See the World Ice Art Competition

Every year in late February and March, Fairbanks is host to the World Ice Art Competition. Ice artists come from all over the world (mostly arctic countries) to carve ice blocks. If you get there in the early part of the competition, you can watch the carvers as they work on their ice art.

Once the art is completed and judged, you can walk around the park and see all the sculptures, ranging from smaller sculptures to ones as big as a garage. Every year they are different and they are especially magical at night when they are all lit up.

There is also an ice playground that is fun for kids and adults to check out from slides to teeter totters and more to board games made of ice. The ice toys and ice playground are different every year.

Go Cross Country Skiing

Cross country skiing is one of my favorite activities and Fairbanks is where I learned! There are so many world class trail systems in and near Fairbanks. These are my five favorite places to cross country ski in and around Fairbanks.

Another reason why March is the best time to visit Fairbanks is that the cross country skiing is usually excellent in March.

Try Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is exciting and super unique! You can take a tour and ride behind a dog team and learn more about the sport. You can also check the calendar of the Alaska dog mushers association to see if there are any races happening during your visit. Dog sledding is really fun to watch and super exciting to participate in.

Chena Outdoor Collective is my favorite and one of the many wonderful dog sledding tour operators near Fairbanks. Great opportunity to do this on the way to Chena Hot Springs.

Try Snowmobiling

Try one of Alaska’s most popular winter sports -snowmachining! Snowmachining is what Alaskans call snowmobiling. On a tour they’ll loan you all the gear you need for a warm, safe and exciting winter adventure.

Try Ice fishing

If you’re a fisherperson, you might want to try ice fishing! You can find a guide or tour to set everything up for you. One of the best places for ice fishing near Fairbanks, and one most guides will take you to is Chena Lake. They even have the huts to keep you warm while you’re waiting for those fish to bite. This is another classic Fairbanks activity and honestly it’s a lot more fun when the days get a bit warmer and longer.

Take a winter day trip to Denali National Park

Take a winter day trip to Denali National Park – much of the park is under deep snow, but you can enjoy exploring the trails by snowshoe or skis, visit the sled dog kennels and see some great views of Denali.

Take a hike to Castner Glacier and Castner ice caves

If you’re up for the (very scenic) 3 hour drive each way from Fairbanks and you enjoy hiking in the snow, don’t miss Castner Glacier! A 1.25 mile mostly flat hike takes you to the edge of the glacier and the entrance to the ice caves.

This is a more enjoyable day trip in late winter while things are still frozen but there are longer days for driving in daylight – one more reason why March is the best time to visit Fairbanks!

The trip is short but there can be deep snow and it can be very cold and windy, so make sure to be prepared in this remote wilderness area. Ice caves are by nature dangerous to enter so this adventure is at your own risk. I recommend going with a guide if you want to check out the ice caves. Learn all about how to get to there here .

What to Pack for Fairbanks in March

My standard packing list for Alaska , is a good resource for this trip if you’re looking for specific items that I wear and pack for winter. Additionally, here are a few key items to keep you warm and happy.

One reason March is the best time to visit Fairbanks is that there is more daylight (with plenty of night for Aurora chasing) and it is usually not as frigid as mid winter. One downside of March is that the temperature can vary a LOT from day to day and night today. Nights of -30 followed by a day above zero degrees are not uncommon.

Make sure you have the following:

• Very warm puffy coat that is hip length and has a hood
• Boots with good traction and enough room for warm socks
• Sunscreen and sunglasses – it may be winter in Alaska but the sun is building intensity, especially on the snow. You’ll need sun protection for sure.
• Lip balm – Fairbanks is VERY dry
• Snow pants or rain pants to wear over leggings (only if you’re doing outdoor snow activities)
• Gloves and mittens to wear over them

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Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown (2024)

Trying to decide the best time to visit Alaska? This month by month breakdown will help you figure out the best time to travel to Alaska, depending on what you’d like to do and see.

We spent 5 weeks exploring Alaska and can attest that is the last real wilderness left in the United States. It is an untouched, rugged, and pristine destination that’s just waiting to be explored by intrepid travelers. 

Be sure to also check out our extensive Alaska Travel Guide

The northernmost state though, is a very seasonal place to visit, because the vast landscapes and sporadic towns and small cities are at the mercy of the weather. 

This far north, you find a land of extremes. Alaska endures long, dark winters with some areas having no daylight for weeks at a time. There are fierce snowstorms and temperatures are well below zero for much of the year. 

Summer is beautiful, and arguably it’s the best time to visit Alaska because the days are long and the temperatures are relatively high. Although, I’ll admit that we prefer the spring months for better contrast and cooler weather.

You’ll even catch the midnight sun in some locations. But the summer season is short, lasting only from late May to September, and this is when it’s peak season, and the cities and glaciers are full of cruise ship tourists. 

So When Is The Best Time to Go to Alaska?

Table of Contents

When it comes down to it, the best time to plan a trip to Alaska depends on what you want to do in Alaska and which Alaskan destinations you want to visit.

If you want to go on an Alaska road trip , you’ll want to visit at a completely different time than if you want to see the Northern Lights . The Alaska cruise season is different still.

And while there are only a few months of the year where you can hike in the national parks, cities like Anchorage , Juneau , and Fairbanks offer a longer tourism season.

Below, we’ll go into a month-by-month breakdown of the best time to travel to Alaska. Once you know what you’d like to do, you can use this guide as a reference to decide the best time to plan your trip.

Best Time to Visit Alaska FAQs

Before we go into the month-by-month breakdown, here are a few quick answers if you’re wondering about things like the best month to see Northern Lights in Alaska or the best month to cruise Alaska.

April, May, and September are typically the cheapest months to visit Alaska. The weather isn’t perfect but it’s not winter and the crowds are a lot smaller. Just note that some activities may not yet be open (or may already be closing).

July tends to be the most expensive month to go to Alaska – because that’s when most people want to go to Alaska. It’s the peak of high season for both cruises and those flying in. Expect higher prices on accommodation, flights, cruises, and tours.

The Alaska cruise season runs from April to September, which peak months being June-August. While most would say that summer is the best time to cruise Alaska , I actually think that spring is an even better time!

The Northern Lights are technically visible from August to April. However, you’re most likely to see them between November and February.

The spring and summer months are the best time to see wildlife in Alaska. Grizzly bears are usually all awake from their winter hibernation in May. June is the peak season for whale watching and most other animals are active too.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Alaska (Regional Guide)

Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month Breakdown

To be able to plan the ultimate trip to the national parks, and to remote destinations, you’ll need to know the best time to visit Alaska.

Here’s our month by month guide on the weather and the best places to go! 

January in Alaska 

January is a cold, cold time to be in Alaska. But it’s also a unique time of the year to explore the state, as you’ll experience the region in the throes of winter. 

The far north of Alaska sees almost no daylight in January, being well within the Arctic Circle. However, stay south in Anchorage or Juneau and you can enjoy a few hours each day of sunlight.

In fact, the skies are beautifully clear when the sun is out for its brief stint each day. This makes January the best time to visit for flightseeing trips over the glaciers and mountains. 

At night you’ll likely see the Northern Lights too, especially if you head further north.

There’s ample opportunity for snow sports, including dog sledding and snowshoeing of course. You can learn more about local cultures during the dead winter months too.

Remember though that travel in January can be difficult, especially if you want to head to the Arctic areas.

Overland travel is almost non-existent, even in summer, and even less so in winter, of course. 

February in Alaska

In February, it’s just as cold and just as dark as in January, perhaps even colder depending on the weather patterns.

This is not the best time to visit Alaska, because there’s almost perpetual darkness and you’ll be at the mercy of the extreme weather. 

This is still very much winter. But as in January, stick to the cities and you can enjoy Alaskan culture at this unique time of the year.

You can still take the odd flightseeing trip if the skies stay clear and of course, this is a great time to see the Northern Lights. 

Head out from the cities and you’ll likely catch the Northern Lights in the sky, while there’s lots of chance to go dog sledding or snowshoeing too, all across Alaska. 

March in Alaska

While March sees the beginning of spring in more southern areas of the USA, in Alaska, it’s a completely different story. 

It’s still winter, but in March the temperatures are rising incrementally, and the darkest days are now over. 

The days are getting longer and this is a good time to visit if you want to enjoy outdoor activities in the snowy wilds of the Alaskan national parks. 

In fact, if you want to enjoy the Northern Lights, this can be the best time to visit Alaska, because you’ll catch them in the night, but still be able to enjoy the daylight hours too.

April in Alaska

April is when the weather begins to transition from winter to summer. This is the short Alaskan springtime and it’s the best time to visit Alaska before the summer crowds arrive. 

Small numbers of cruise ships begin to dock in places such as Anchorage or Juneau, while it’s much easier to travel overland. 

The wildlife begins to emerge from hibernation and if you head into the national parks you’ll begin to see all sorts of animals, including moose and perhaps even the odd bear. 

May in Alaska

May is the start of summer, or at least, the end of spring, and temperatures continue to rise all through the month. Truth be told, this is one of our favorite times to be in Alaska. There is still snow on the mountains, yet the land is green and flowers are starting to bloom.

In May, the days are now incredibly long, and the further north you travel the longer they’ll become. 

You’ll start to see whales in the ocean and more and more wildlife in the national parks.

In fact, this is probably the best time to visit Alaska if you want to spot wildlife because as the ice thaws across the state new life emerges into the sunlight.

Alaska is well and truly in bloom in May, and luckily, this is still very much a shoulder season too, because the summer crowds have yet to arrive in port. 

June in Alaska

Those summer crowds really make their first appearance in June, because this is the start of the high season. That said, we loved being there in early June. It’s not quite high season yet but everything is open and operating again.

This is not the best time to visit Alaska if you want the most popular places, such as Denali National Park or the famous glaciers around either Juneau or Anchorage, to yourself. 

Remember though, that Alaska is a vast place and there is so much more to see than just the tourist hot spots. We booked a trip to Bear Camp in Lake Clark National Park in the first week of June and were the first group to visit that year.

Take the time to head north, and you’ll quickly find the cruise crowds dissipate, and you’ll have the backcountry all to yourself.

Go to Fairbanks or head to the Kenai Peninsula, or better yet, head far, far north for the Midnight Sun in the Arctic Circle, where the sun never sets for most of the month of June. 

July in Alaska

July is still peak season and it’s still the height of summer in the state. If you’re looking to explore the national parks and to go hiking then this is the best time to visit Alaska. 

All the national parks are now well and truly open as the snow has melted in most locations, and you can enjoy trekking deep into Denali National Park or even attempt to summit Mount Denali if mountaineering is your pursuit of choice. 

The days are long and there is little darkness in July, and you’ll find wildlife everywhere, both in the oceans and on land.

For an off-the-beaten-track experience, take a cruise to the little-visited Aleutian Islands, which are glorious this time of the year.

August in Alaska

In August, the days begin to get slightly colder but there’s still a lot of daylight, with sunshine averaging around 18 hours per day across the state. The next time we visit Alaska, we want to go in August.

The wildlife is out and about and enjoying the weather before the short autumn soon arrives and before Alaska is then plunged into darkness when winter begins all too soon.

The last of the summer crowds are here in August, but by the end of the month, things are getting quieter.

This is a great last chance to enjoy the best of the national parks and outdoor activities in Alaska, while the waters off the coast will be teeming with humpback whales and orcas.

September in Alaska

As early as September the beautiful summer weather is gone, but it’s prefaced with a resplendent autumnal glow across the state. 

The wildlife is very active in September, and this is the best time to visit Alaska to see the wildlife preparing for their winter hibernation, by stocking up on food and hunting. 

You might have the chance to see the Northern Lights too, but you’ll need to head up north and get lucky.

The nights are getting longer but there’s still plenty of daylight too, and none of the summer crowds of the previous few months either.

October in Alaska

By October, winter is almost upon Alaska, and the days are getting much shorter and the nights are much longer. 

Wildlife begins to slow down in the wilderness and you’ll have a harder time spotting them in the wild as they prepare for the cold weather. 

This is very much a shoulder season meaning that there are few other tourists around.

Unfortunately, this is also a transition month and not just in terms of the weather but in terms of tourist activities too.

Many summer activities such as hiking are difficult now, while there’s also not much snowfall, meaning winter activities have yet to actually begin.

All of this ensures that October isn’t the first choice for many travelers and really isn’t the best time to visit Alaska. 

November in Alaska

November sees the beginning of winter and the start of heavy snowfall across the state. 

The days are much shorter now and temperatures are extremely low, especially at night time. 

You’ll have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights however and winter activities will be in action, and you can enjoy snowshoeing and dog sledding. 

December in Alaska

December is a dark time to be in Alaska, but if you’re after a true winter escape and a guaranteed white Christmas, then this would make for an unusual getaway. 

Be prepared to be cold, but also be prepared for unique winter experiences. Stick to the south for better weather, and because you’ll have a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights too, rather than needing to venture too far north. 

You might also like:

• 27 Things You Should Know About Alaska Before You Visit
• Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska: Ultimate Planning Guide
• Ultimate Guide to Visiting Chena Hot Springs
• Denali State Park Heli-Hiking Adventure in Remote Alaska

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I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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Best Time to Visit Alaska

“What is the best time to visit Alaska?” or “What is the best time to cruise Alaska?” These are among the most common questions we receive, and indeed an important consideration when planning Alaska travel.

But the answer isn’t so simple. Thankfully, our experts have compiled all our tips here so you can see the benefits of each month as they might pertain to your needs. Start thinking about your own best time to go to Alaska, then make it happen with our trips that focus on wildlife and wilderness.

IN THIS POST – Best Time to Visit Alaska: Month by Month: – Apr , May , Jun , Jul , Aug , Sep , Oct , Nov , Winter Best Time to Cruise Alaska Best Time to Travel to Alaska by Land Alaska Whale Watching Season Alaska Mosquito Season Alaska Weather & Packing Alaska Climate Tables More Resources

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A Primer on Alaska by Month: When to Go & Why

Alaska is huge and weather is vastly different in the north vs south or interior vs coast. And while the primary Alaska travel season is short, conditions can vary greatly between spring, summer and fall. Combine all this with Alaska’s notoriously unpredictable weather, and it can be a challenge to determine a single best time to visit Alaska.

That’s where our experts come in. The guide below is one piece of the puzzle to help you determine the best month to visit Alaska. We outline Alaska weather by month and answer questions such as “When is summer in Alaska?” and “What month is the best time to visit Alaska?” or “When is the best time to go to Alaska?” But our firsthand experience and one-on-one conversations can fill in the gaps. So don’t hesitate to contact us.

Note that in the guide below you’ll see us referring to Coastal, Interior and Arctic regions:

• The coastal region includes Southeast Alaska and the Alaska Inside Passage and Glacier Bay , Southcentral Alaska including Prince William Sound, Anchorage, Kodiak Island, as well as coastal Katmai National Park and the Aleutian Islands.
• Interior Alaska is the region north of Anchorage up to the Brooks Range just north of Fairbanks and includes Denali National Park .
• Arctic Alaska includes the Brooks Range north to the Arctic Ocean.

And while, of course, Alaska is open for travel year-round, the primary tourist season begins in June and ends in August. But our Alaska by month travel season calendar below starts in early spring, because that is when the cruising season kicks off in some of Alaska’s lower, warmer latitudes.

We hope this guide helps you make the most of your Alaska summer vacation . For even more information and detailed climate tables, view our Alaska climate page .

April in Alaska

Small Alaska cruise ships begin plying Alaskan waters as early as mid-March, with most early spring departures running regularly starting in mid-April. Early spring offerings center on Alaska Inside Passage cruise itineraries, with most spanning a week. During this time, you can also consider a longer cruise, traveling with small ships positioning from Seattle, Washington up to Alaska. Nights are still long enough to possibly see the northern lights , while days are getting longer and animals are beginning to stir. The annual early spring Pacific herring migration makes for optimal wildlife viewing opportunities, as humpback whales and orca seek out the abundant fish. Hungry bears awake from hibernation and also go looking for food. Snowcapped peaks drive mountain goats and other creatures to the shoreline to forage. And waterfalls are copious as they gush down fjord walls.

Alaska Weather in April:

• Coastal temperature in Alaska in April: 30-45 degrees & 11 hours of daylight
• Interior temperature in Alaska in April: 15-40 degrees & 14 hours of daylight
• Arctic temperature in Alaska in April: -10-5 degrees & 16 hours of daylight

Benefits of Alaska Travel in April:

• Travelers in April and early spring will find lower prices & Alaska travel deals
• April & early spring have Alaska to themselves with non-existent crowds
• Increased offerings for themed cruises & onboard special guests
• Longer northbound positioning cruises from Seattle to Alaska
• Dark nights may show northern lights

Emerging Alaska Wildlife in April:

• Water: Steller sea lions, orca, humpback whales, herring
• Birds: chickadees, wrens, jays, grouse, thrushes, ducks, loons, swans, geese, owls, bald eagles
• Land: mountain goats, brown & black bears

May in Alaska

May is considered Alaska’s spring and early shoulder season. Many small ship cruises begin operating, but with kids in school, you can still feel like Alaska is all yours. The Inside Passage remains the focus as many more cruise departures start in earnest, as well as opportunities for longer sailings from Seattle to Alaska, passing British Columbia along the way. May is one of the driest months and an optimal one to view wildlife awakening, with lots of babies being born, spring migrations ramping up, snow melting and the landscape budding. Land tours are beginning but National Parks in Alaska’s interior are still closed. Mid-month, the shops and attractions also return to life after a winter slumber.

Alaska Weather in May:

• Coastal temperature in Alaska in May: 40-55 degrees & 16 hours of daylight
• Interior temperature in Alaska in May: 30-55 degrees & 18 hours of daylight
• Arctic temperature in Alaska in May: 15-24 degrees & 22 hours of daylight

Benefits of Alaska Travel in May:

• On average the month of May has the least amount of rain
• Travelers in May will find lower prices and Alaska travel deals
• May has fewer tourist crowds than the prime summer months
• May offers longer northbound positioning cruises from Seattle to Alaska

Emerging Alaska Wildlife in May:

• Water: gray whales, harbor seals
• Birds: migratory songbirds & pelagic seabirds arriving on coast
• Land: Dall sheep, moose, wolves, lynx

June in Alaska

June is when the Alaska travel season comes into full swing, especially in the latter part of the month, and marks the beginning of the best time to visit Alaska. Glacier Bay cruises are in full swing. Cruises in the Southcentral and Southwestern part of the state begin operating, offering adventures along Prince William Sound, Kodiak Island, Katmai National Park and the Aleutian Islands. Some departures even focus on the Arctic waters of the Bering Sea, bringing guests ashore at various points along Russia’s Siberian coastline—you might even spot a polar bear on Wrangel Island.

June is the month to begin taking land trips in Alaska. The Denali National Park road opens (learn more about visiting Denali National Park ); bear viewing in Katmai is optimal with various salmon runs underway; the Kenai peninsula (including Kenai Fjords National Park) is lush with greenery; and the weather is more reliable for flightseeing, floatplane rides, scenic Alaska railroad trips and other special modes of transit for reaching remote wilderness lodges.

Alaska Weather in June:

• Coastal temperature in Alaska in June: 40-60 degrees & 18 hours of daylight
• Interior temperature in Alaska in June: 50-70 degrees & 20 hours of daylight
• Arctic temperature in Alaska in June: 29-38 degrees & nearly 24 hours of daylight

Benefits of Alaska Travel in June:

• Longest daylight hours make active wildlife & ample time for exploration
• Denali National Park & other interior parks open
• Popular towns such as Juneau, Sitka, Anchorage & Fairbanks are in full swing
• Opportunities for cruise & land tour combinations begin
• Wildlife is active with opportunities to view young animals
• Melted snow enables higher altitude hikes

Emerging Alaska Wildlife in June:

• Water: harbor seal pups, ducks hatching, beluga whales
• Birds: optimal seabird & alpine bird rookery viewing
• Land: caribou, mountain goat kids, black bear cubs, moose calves

July in Alaska

For many people, the answer to the question “When is the best time to go to Alaska?” is July. With wildlife fully active, all trails accessible, long days and Alaska’s warmest average temperatures, July can be the best month to visit Alaska. This translates into a busy time for The Great Land, with a swell of visitors. Small ship cruises during this busy month mean you can still enjoy areas inaccessible to the large cruise ships, such as Kake and Wrangell Narrows; plus, weather won’t affect your ability to access key Alaskan cities like Sitka. Land tours, averaging 5-8 days, set you up to thoroughly enjoy some of Alaska’s best national parks during this ideal month. If you are planning travel to Alaska in July, then plan ahead and book early.

Alaska Weather in July:

• Coastal temperature in Alaska in July: 50-65 degrees & 18 hours of daylight
• Interior temperature in Alaska in July: 50-70 degrees & 19 hours of daylight
• Arctic temperature in Alaska in July: 33-45 degrees & nearly 24 hours of daylight

Benefits of Alaska Travel in July:

• Opportunities for cruise & land tour combinations continue
• Long daylight hours make active wildlife & ample time for exploration
• Alaska’s warmest temperatures of the year occur in July
• Spawning salmon means ideal fishing

Must-See Alaska Wildlife in July:

• Water: prime month for humpback whales, salmon runs, sea otters
• Birds: puffins, shorebirds begin migrating (millions of birds possible in a flock)
• Land: black & brown bears (including grizzlies); mountain goats

August in Alaska

August is a popular time to visit Alaska and marks the end of the high travel season. Increased moisture improves the vibrancy of an already verdant landscape. Midway through August, colder temperatures encourage brilliant fall foliage, especially in the interior and Denali National Park. Wildlife remains in abundance and all Alaska small ship cruises and Alaska tours are operating on a regular basis. As the month winds down, so do the number of travelers to Alaska, with a shift in weather that signals fall has arrived.

Alaska Weather in August:

• Coastal temperature in Alaska in August: 50-60 degrees & 18 hours of daylight
• Interior temperature in Alaska in August: 45-65 degrees & 18 hours of daylight
• Arctic temperature in Alaska in August: 33-41 degrees & 20 hours of daylight

Benefits of Alaska Travel in August:

• Cruise & land tour combinations
• Ideal fishing conditions (halibut, rainbow trout, northern pike, salmon)

Must-See Alaska Wildlife in August:

• Water: beavers, humpback whales & orca,
• Birds: peak songbird migration, bald eagles, loons
• Land: caribou, black & brown bears (including grizzlies)

September in Alaska

September brings Alaska’s fall shoulder season, with fewer visitors and often Alaska special offers. Longer nights again bring possible opportunities to view the aurora borealis. The cooler weather turns trees and tundra into explosive fall colors of red, gold and purple. Snow begins to dust mountain peaks. Animals are busy preparing for the oncoming winter—migrating, mating, marking territory, hunting and foraging for food—which increases your odds of viewing all manner of wildlife. September marks the end of the Alaska travel season and is the best time to travel to Alaska for low prices and Alaska travel deals.

Alaska Weather in September:

• Coastal temperature in Alaska in September: 40-55 degrees & 15 hours of daylight
• Interior temperature in Alaska in September: 35-55 degrees & 17 hours of daylight
• Arctic temperature in Alaska in September: 28-33 degrees & 14 hours of daylight

Benefits of Alaska Travel in September:

• Travelers in September will find lower prices & Alaska travel deals
• September has fewer tourist crowds than the prime summer months
• September offers longer southbound positioning cruises from Alaska to Seattle

Alaska Must-See Wildlife in September:

• Water: gray whales, harbor seals, sea lions
• Birds: gulls & raptors begin migrating, bald eagles, black oystercatchers
• Land: elk, moose, caribou, deer

October & November in Alaska

Late fall in Alaska is not known for cruises and land tours. Weather is wet and increasingly cold. Alaskan wildlife and Alaskan residents are preparing for the cold dark winter to come. Specialty tours and fishing can attract hearty travelers and custom tours can be arranged.

Winter in Alaska—December Through March

Winters in Alaska can be harsh and beautiful. Weather is extremely cold and storms are severe. Winter activities such as dog sledding, snow shoeing and skiing are possible. A popular attraction during Alaska’s winter is viewing the northern lights (aurora borealis). Specialty lodges offer comfortable accommodations for hearty travelers willing to brave cold long nights to witness this spectacle of nature. What’s the best time to cruise Alaska to see the northern lights? Look to our dedicated page on northern lights cruises for tips and best places to spot the aurora.

Best Time to Cruise Alaska

The Alaska cruising season begins in March and ends in October. The peak season with best weather and wildlife occurs during summer months. It’s then that travelers will find the best combination of long days, good weather and abundant wildlife, including greater numbers of whales that congregate in predictable feeding pods putting on quite a show. But spring, when Alaska awakens from a long winter, is also another favorite time to cruise Alaska. Snow is present in the mountains, driving hungry bears down to the coast for a meal. Small ships, which can sail close to the shore, take advantage of these springtime encounters. April and May are the driest months along Alaska’s coast and there are fewer crowds in both town and on the water. You will find the best prices of the year on small boat tours of Alaska as well at this time.

As Alaska small ship cruise experts, we advise clients that the best time to cruise Alaska is May 15 through September 1. If we had to choose one, the best month for an Alaska cruise is July.

Typically, there are no scheduled cruises from mid-October through February, but special Alaska charter cruises can be arranged during this time with advanced notice. Families typically visit mid June through mid August. View the best Alaska cruises for families . See our monthly Alaska weather tips and travel advice above to find your best time to take an Alaskan cruise.

Best Time to Travel to Alaska by Land

Alaska’s interior is colder than the coast so the land-based travel season can be shorter than the cruising season. Keep this in mind if you are planning an Alaska small ship cruise and an Alaska land tour combination.

Summer in interior Alaska is short and occurs from mid-June through late-August. Winter in Alaska sees far fewer travelers with December through March being the best months to view the northern lights . The spring and fall months in Alaska offer unique opportunities and lower prices.

In our opinion the best time to travel to Alaska is in June, July and August. The best month to visit Alaska is July, when travelers will experience the best combination of weather and wildlife. See our breakdown of Alaska weather by month above to learn more about the temperatures, sunlight and wildlife, to find the best time to visit Alaska for you.

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Alaska Whale Watching Season

Whales can be seen from small ships to Alaska throughout the small ship cruise season of May through September. Orca and minke whales are residents so they may be found at any time of year. But most travelers want to see humpbacks and if you fall into this category, then you must plan your trip accordingly.

When to see humpback whales in Alaska? The first humpbacks begin to arrive in Alaska about late April and early May. These are typically the adult males that can make the long migration the fastest. They are followed by younger males, females and finally mothers with calves arriving in late May and early June. Small ship cruises in May will likely view whales, but they will be individuals or smaller groups of two or three spread about looking and waiting for food. 

When is the best time to see whales in Alaska? The best time to cruise Alaska for whales is from mid-June through mid-August. 

By mid-June most humpbacks have arrived and they are gathering together in predictable feeding pods. This is the best time for whale watching in Alaska and the consistent sightings will continue through mid-August when the first whales will begin to leave for warmer waters. During this best time to see humpback whales in Alaska, sightings are almost guaranteed. 

Why is mid-June through mid-August on an Alaskan cruise the best time to see whales? Sunlight from long midsummer Alaskan days causes a bloom of phytoplankton (tiny plants) which serves as the base of Alaska’s rich marine food chain. Strong currents bring nutrients from deep below to mix with oxygen-rich water near the surface resulting in huge blooms of zooplankton (tiny animals), krill and small fish such as capelin, candlefish and herring. 

For more insights into seeing whales on your expedition cruise , including tips on where to spot whales, how to prepare and the advantages offered by small ships, read our primer on whale watching in Alaska .

Alaska Mosquito Season

Mosquitoes, sometimes jokingly referred to as the Alaskan state bird, are a fact of life during the summer travel season. But they are more annoyance than deterrent so don’t let bugs affect your travel plans. Mosquitoes and other bugs are most prevalent in the boggy interior and Arctic tundra regions during mid-summer. Populations spike in late June and dissipate in early August. They can’t fly in a light breeze and they aren’t as active in rain, which keeps coastal and mountainous regions relatively bug-free.

You will not encounter bugs on small ship cruises, except when venturing ashore on calm days and even then, they are seldom troublesome. Your packing list should recommend remedies to repel bugs and long-sleeve clothing to keep them at bay when they are encountered. Being equipped for weather and conditions will make your Alaskan experience more enjoyable. 

Weather & Packing for Alaska Travel

Weather in various Alaska destinations is unpredictable and travelers should prepare themselves for a range of conditions, no matter what month you travel. We have developed comprehensive Alaska planning guides for our booked clients, with expertise culled from years of our own living, working, guiding and traveling in Alaska.

Prepare for a range of conditions, no matter what month you travel.

Layers are essential for a comfortable Alaska vacation, using fast-drying wicking materials. A raincoat and rain pants are also must-haves, as is a warm hat and gloves. Many boats and some lodges will provide rubber boots. With a well-packed bag, you can appreciate the opportunities created by varying weather, which in turn creates the cornucopia of landscapes and wildlife that brings travelers to the Last Frontier.

Checking the Weather Before Your Trip

Many travelers incessantly check the daily weather in Alaska as their trip approaches. We advise you to resist this temptation, it will only drive you crazy. Local forecasts in Alaska are astoundingly inaccurate and weather changes by the hour. Checking daily forecasts does little to help you prepare.

Stick to the broad guidelines above and as previously stated, follow the advice of your packing lists. Checking the weather before your Alaska trip will only serve to frustrate your preparations and offers little insight into what conditions will be like when you arrive.

Timing & Latitude in Alaska

While this Alaska by Month guide is a valuable resource for planning when to go, wildlife and weather can never be fully predicted, especially in a land as powerful as Alaska. Life in Alaska is greatly affected by latitude variances, as slight latitude shifts can result in big seasonal and light changes. The nature of small ship cruising is to be flexible and nimble, and this ethos should be applied to any trip in Alaska, by land or sea. After all, the surprise in what you experience while in Alaska is a big part of the fun.

Alaska Climate Tables

Use the Alaska climate and weather tables below to determine the average temperature, rainfall and daylight. Learn more about Alaska’s climate and find the best month to visit Alaska.

Averages by Location

Anchorage, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska

Denali National Park

Learn more about the best time to visit Denali .

Arctic Alaska

So, When is the Best Time to Visit Alaska?

Considering everything stated above, we advise travelers that June 15 through August 15 is the best time to go to Alaska. But not everyone can schedule their trip during this time and as we’ve noted, each season has its benefits. If you plan your trip during the peak season, then plan ahead and book early as these are the dates that sell out first.

If you like this guide to the best time to visit Alaska, you’ll love our comprehensive travel planning services. Our experts have more information on when to visit Alaska, planning your Alaska trip or the best time of year to visit Alaska. When you are ready to book the trip of a lifetime, just give us a call, our experts are ready to help.

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Have a question or looking for advice about the best time to visit Alaska? Use the comments below and we’ll answer your questions about the best time to travel to Alaska . Ready to plan and book your Alaska with our experts? Contact us .

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My husband and I want to see the Northern Lights. What month is best for clear skies and best viewing. We wanted to go in March but the Borealis Basecamp is already booked. Is April a good month. or is the snow already melting which would hamper dog sledding? Is February too cold?

Hi Vicki, thanks for your question. April is on the tail end of Alaska’s aurora season. If your ultimate goal is to see the lights, going earlier in winter is the best time. February can be quite cold, but it often brings dark clear skies, ideal for seeing the Aurora. If you’re flexible with dates, late February to early March might be a good compromise. There are a number of other remote lodges and tours out of Fairbanks that you may enjoy. Contact us directly to speak with a specialist who can check availability and craft a custom Northern Lights vacation that’s right for you.

Hi, my birthday is at the end of October, and I want to see the northern lights, is October a good time to see the northern lights and what’s the best place?

Hi George, In Alaska, viewing the Northern Lights is possible in October. Typically, there are no scheduled small ship cruises from mid-October through February, so traveling inland for a tour in Fairbanks and areas more north are your best bet in this region. We offer custom tours in Alaska and can offer October recommendations that fit your goal.

For the ultimate birthday celebration, head to the Arctic for the Northern Lights. Our northern lights cruises in Greenland and Iceland are focused in October for best chances of witnessing.

Hello, This was very informative. My friends & I are cruising to Alaska June 4-16,2024. Our first time and my bucket list. I’m hoping to have the trip of a lifetime. I’ve been trying to come see Alaska for 40+ years. I’ve watched the commercials on TV and know it’s going to be amazing. Can’t wait. Can you help me with packing? How much & what? Thanks so very much. Janis A. Jones Coming from Maryland by way of California

Thank you Janis, and congratulations on your upcoming trip to Alaska! It will be well worth the wait. We recommend packing a variety of versatile attire and clothing layers to accommodate the unpredictable Alaskan weather. Besides our firsthand expertise, another one of the many benefits of using a travel specialist is access to our comprehensive Alaska trip planning materials. As you continue your preparations, reach out directly to your cruise operator for any packing resources they may offer. Have an unforgettable trip and keep us in mind for future small ship cruises worldwide.

Cruise in September 20-27. Never been to Alaska I really didn’t want to over pack, any suggestions?

Hi Tammy, What an exciting trip to look forward to. You can read more about Alaska in September plus advice on packing layers, rain gear and more in the A laska Weather & Packing sections above. Or learn about Alaska’s climate and how greatly the weather is affected by latitude variances. Our comprehensive Alaska trip planning materials are written by our experts with decades of combined experience and provided to our clients at the time of booking. The best thing to do is contact your cruise operator directly and request their packing resources. Have an incredible cruise and please talk to our experts when planning your next small ship cruise vacation.

I am taking a cruise by Norwegian cruise line and I was wondering when is the best time to come to see all the sites my friend wants to see the northern lights if possible can you tell me when to come? I appreciate it. Thank you very much.

Hi Mike, The best time to see aurora borealis in Alaska is during the winter, but the cruise options during that time are slim. To better your chances of seeing the northern lights via Alaska cruise, search for trips with departures as early or late in the cruising season as possible: typically March or late September or October. Learn more about Alaska northern lights cruises on our dedicated northern lights cruises page. Have a great trip.

Will I need a heavy coat in september

Hi Esther, thanks for your question. During September in Alaska temperatures and conditions vary across regions. At the beginning of the month, you’ll likely have fall-like conditions, but it is a short fall. As the month progresses temperatures drop. By late September you will want thicker clothes and a winter jacket. It can also be colder at higher elevations, on a boat, and during morning and evening hours. Layering is essential, so we always recommend inner layers with a combination of a fleece layer then waterproof layer you can remove.

Alaska is on by my bucket list, for one reason is the northern lights, I want to see as much as possible when I come. Either by plane, train, boat, or bus. I may never get but one trip so when should I come or do you have any suggestions?

Thanks for your question, Denise. The best time to go to Alaska really depends on your focus. For prime Northern Lights viewing you should visit during the dark winter nights from November through March. If you want a well-rounded winter trip, visit a specialty lodge for Northern Lights. For the best Northern Lights cruises , consider instead traveling to the Arctic.

But to get the most out of your Alaska trip with great weather, wildlife, longer daylight hours, and have the potential for Northern Lights, you could take an Alaska small ship cruise in the fall, then continue north to Fairbanks, where the Northern Lights begin showing themselves in late August and early September. We offer custom crafted tours in Alaska so contact us if you are interested in speaking with an Adventure Specialist.

I loved all of the info on this post. Thank you. This will make my preparations more accurate. Knowing the weather, daylight hours and wildlife information is a tremendous help.

Glad we could be of assistance, Sherri! Our experts have lived, worked and explored Alaska during every season. Have a wonderful time on your trip in Alaska! If you need further trip planning assistance don’t hesitate to contact us .

I am planning an economic run in my Mitsubishi Mirage to see as much of alaska as possible by car. I’ll be planning late September as I wish to see the northern lights as well during this trip. Trip starts in Texas, my home state. Will the roads be passable around that time for small front wheele drive cars, or should I plan this in early August?

Hi Royce, What a long and exciting trip! Weather can be very unpredictable year-to-year in the fall in Alaska, and services associated with the busy summer tourism season will be winding down. We’d recommend contacting a AAA chapter in Alaska to get some more road-trip guidance. Our expertise is in guided trips and small ship cruises, so for travelers wanting to take in aurora borealis on a ship, we recommend our Arctic-based Northern Lights cruises .

This has been very informative as I want to plan a trip to Alaska. I want to be able to visit the Glaciers, National Parks as well as the Arctic Area.

Wow Gail that sounds like quite the comprehensive Alaska trip! If you need help crafting the itinerary, please contact our experts. AdventureSmith Explorations specializes in creating custom travel by land or sea and will suggest draft itineraries with Alaska lodging or small cruise ship that meet your needs and budget.

This post was very helpful because I’m planning a trip to Alaska in August.

How exciting! August is a popular time to visit Alaska. Wildlife is abundant, the days are long and the weather is warm and wet. If our experts can further help you choose an Alaska small ship cruise or Alaska tour please do contact us.

Can’t wait to travel to Alaska this coming August

You’re in for a real treat, Barbie! August in Alaska is a great time to see humpback whales, orcas, bears and other wildlife as they capitalize on salmon runs. Have a great time.

Hi, I’m a senior with limited walking. I’m hoping to take a cruise the beginning of August. Will I enjoy cruising without a lot of side excursions. Thank you

Hi Patty, There is an Alaska small ship cruise for every style of travel from active to relaxed. Many travelers remain on board to enjoy scenic wilderness cruising from the ship. Travelers with limited mobility may also seek a small ship with an elevator to make moving around the boat easier. Consider Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness aboard the 100 guest National Geographic Quest or Venture . Small ships cruise close to shore where bears, moose, eagles, and wildlife are easily spotted (bring your binoculars). Flexible itineraries mean small ships can stop and linger longer when whales are spotted. Contact our experts for a full consultation on your perfect Alaska trip and small ship.

Would like to know if someone can tell me weather in April I’m riding my motorcycle Plan is to start Fron SD CA to Prudhoe Bay and back down To SD /camping and also motel. I’m researching and I’m a little confuse any help is appreciated

Thanks for your comment and what an adventure! We once had a group of clients ride their motorcycles all the way from Florida to embark one of our smalls ship cruises in Alaska . While our specialty is planning and booking small ship cruises and wilderness adventures, here are some resources to help with your trip. The post above has an overview of the wildlife and weather in Alaska in April. Find more detailed Alaska climate information with temperature, rainfall and daylight tables. You will surely want to learn more about how to visit Denali National Park .

Getting to Alaska will require a transit of the Alaska Highway and The Milepost is a good resource for travelers traveling by road. Finally, the State of Alaska travel site can be a good resource for Alaska weather. We believe that getting away from the roads and rails is essential to any authentic Alaska trip , so if you interested in getting off your bike to experience the real Alaska, please contact us.

We want to visit Alaska July 21- 30 for my daughter birthday. Tips on what to do are highly appreciated.

Thanks Miros, you’ve come to the right place! Our team of true Alaska experts can craft the perfect birthday trip suited to your interests, ability and budget—by land, sea or both. Space is quickly becoming limited for July 2022 so we recommend booking soon. An Alaska expert will be in touch.

Hi we are doing a cruise the end of august. I am trying to figure out how to pack. We have gone in July and it was extremely hot, then we went the next year about the same time and it was extremely cold. Like to know what the weather is like the end of august

Hi Robin, Here is the section on Alaska in August . It sounds like you’ve experienced how unpredictable Alaska’s weather can be firsthand, so you’ve got a leg up on packing. Our advice is to always prepare for a range of conditions, no matter what month you travel to Alaska. Read more advice on packing layers, rain gear and more in the Alaska Weather & Packing section above. Or learn about Alaska’s climate and how greatly the weather is affected by latitude variances. Weather can never be fully predicted but reach out directly to your cruise operator for packing materials, they may supply comprehensive Alaska planning guides like we do for our booked clients. Have a great time!

Scheduled for a cruise to Alaska June 11-18 2022. Wanted to find out how to dress. I live in Hawaii & it’s summer we use summer clothes that time if the year & ha ha most year ‘round.

We are thrilled you get to experience Alaska this summer. Our comprehensive Alaska trip planning materials are written by our experts with decades of combined experience and provided to our clients at the time of booking. The best thing to do is contact your cruise operator directly and request their packing resources. Have an incredible cruise and please talk to our experts when planning your next small ship cruise vacation.

My name is Sonya, and I really want to be brave and travel to Anchorage and other parts of Alaska in mid February,2022. Are there many things to see and do at that time or would you recommend another time? I was really hoping to see the Northern lights if possible. Please help guide my decision. Thanks in advance for the advice.

Hi Sonya and thanks for your question. While the northern lights (sometimes called aurora borealis) occur year round in Alaska the best time to view them are dark nights November through March. February is cold and clear, making it an excellent time for northern lights viewing. March is also nice with dark nights but a bit more daylight. We’d recommend getting farther north to Fairbanks and away from the city lights for the best aurora viewing. Stay up late as the best viewing is from 10am-3am. Some lodges can arrange for a wake-up call if/when the lights do come out. If you plan on spending 5-7 days in Alaska with a least 3 nights looking for the lights you’ll have a 90% of seeing them. Remember the lights need to be out and you need clear skies. The aurora can be elusive so think of it as an adventure. But the payoff is one of the most incredible spectacles of nature. Finally you can check the aurora forecast from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. There are a host of winter activities available such as the Alaska Railroad, hot springs, dog sledding, snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing. We offer custom crafted winter tours in Alaska so contact us if you are interested in speaking with an Adventure Specialist.

We want to travel summer 2022, fly into Anchorage and travel north and south from there. I’m concerned about it raining if we come in late July into August. Does it rain constantly, or do you have brief showers like Hawaii?

Hey Karen! “Unpredictable” best describes Alaska’s weather. Throughout the summer, weather is variable and can change rapidly. Alaska is a rainy destination, so you are likely to encounter rain at some point during your trip no matter what summer month you choose. In Anchorage and Denali rain showers and the chance of storms, with more than just showers, increase as the summer progresses. See the above Alaska climate tables for rainfall by month.

Our clients are prepared with an extensive packing lists and travel preparation. Pack the right gear, prepare for rain and if you get lots of sunshine, it’s a bonus! May and June are considered the “driest”, but even then there’s always a chance of rain on any given day. Feel free to contact our Alaska travel experts for further assistance. They have lived, worked and explored the region in depth as former guides, operations managers and naturalists, and can help you craft the perfect Alaska package.

Hello, and thank you for this wonderful information. My husband and I would like to fly in from Arizona. We are not big into city life, noise pollution, bright lights and lots of people. We love nature and I am a photographer. We love the fall and moderate hikes. Where would you suggest we fly into, as well the areas of beautiful Alaska, that you would suggest, based on our interest.

Hi Nancy, I’m glad our post helped you decide that fall is the best time to visit Alaska. Our full-service trips showcase the best of Alaska, with plenty of nature, hiking and photography opportunities (as evidenced by our small ship Alaska cruise reviews and Alaska tour reviews ). Fly into Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan or Petersburg for Southeastern Alaska’s Inside Passage. And fly into Anchorage to access Prince William Sound, Denali/Katmai/Kenai Fjords National Parks and Kodiak Island. To help narrow your options, consider our Alaska Cruise Guides (and our picks for 5 iconic Alaska wildlife cruises ) and how to visit Denali National Park . An Adventure Specialist will be in touch soon to discuss fall options and better hone in on your ideal trip.

Hello, I wanted to catch beautiful fall foliage in AK as well. I’m planning to go there in 2nd week of September. Will that be too late for fall foliage? We also would like to check out some national parks as well and definitely wildlife sightseeing and finishing. We also will visit some old friends who live in Dutch Harbor. We will be staying in Airbnb, rent a car to drive around. Should we land in Anchorage airport for our convenience ? We are from Sacramento, California. Please give me some ideal here when go go, should we stay in Anchorage for few days then take off to Dutch Harbor? Please advise. Thank you. Sincerely, Yen

Hi Yen! That will be quite the adventure! The remoteness of Dutch Harbor, part of the Aleutian Islands, fits our hallmark style of small ship cruising perfectly. September is a great time to see Alaska’s fall colors and Anchorage is a perfect central hub to explore from. It offers many ways to enjoy the surrounding national parks plus flight connections to Dutch Harbor. The earlier in September you go the less likely you will have to deal with snow conditions and will have more options for cruises and Denali National Park tours . As a full service tour operator we’re here to help you arrange the seamless vacation of a lifetime experiencing the best of Alaska up close and in style. Contact us to talk about the benefits of our expertise.

We are traveling to Alaska the second week of October 2022. Our only nailed down event is a wedding in Glacier View mid week. We are avid hikers and would love to see the National Parks in any aspect. We will likely rent a car and also looked at winter trains. We thought we’d start in Anchorage, hit Glacier View, Wragnell, Denali, then back to Anchorage. Is this doable?

Hi Emily, A self-drive trip is do-able in the late fall. Be aware though, that by October 1st Denali National Park begins to wrap things up. Tours, lodges, shuttle buses, Visitor Centers, Ranger Stations and campgrounds are all closed. Because late fall season DIY trips are largely based around weather conditions, we recommend directly contacting the parks you wish to visit in the fall to get an update before traveling to them.

Winter arrives early to interior Alaska so there can be snow on the ground by the end of September or early October. Take a look at our Alaska climate page to see the rainfall averages and daylight hours in October. We focus our Alaska cruises and land services during the primary tourist season from May through August but can help with custom tours during the fall–contact us if you are interested.

Hi, we are planning a trip to Alaska and have specific things we would like to experience.. Northern Lights, wildlife, beautiful color changes would be on the top of our list. We have special travel needs that need to be addressed as well, one wheelchair bound guest and another is 100% service disabled veteran. We also travel with service animals (2 dogs). Do you have any suggestions pertaining to our situation to guide us in our plans? Thanks in advance

Hi Tammy, Sounds like early fall would be the best time for your Alaska trip. The easiest way to check most of your boxes would be a land viewing rail tour. The Alaska Railroad’s passenger trains are wheelchair accessible and service animals are welcome. From the train you can enjoy Alaska’s fall colors between Anchorage and Denali, stop in Denali for incredible wildlife, then continue north to Fairbanks, where the Northern Lights begin showing themselves in late August and early September. Before the land tour, you could also consider adding a cruise component for even more up-close wildlife opportunities. Fall colors in Alaska last only a few short weeks so timing with Northern lights can be tricky, but with a little luck, Alaska will provide. An Alaska specialist will be in touch soon to discuss Denali-based Alaska tours , potential small ship Alaska cruises , or a custom travel arrangement to cover both.

My husband and i are planning a cruise this coming year. My biggest goal is to see whales. When is the best time for whale watching. Thank you S.D.

Hi Sharon, Whale watching aboard an Alaska small ship is a spectacular goal! Our guide to Whale Watching Aboard Small Ship Cruises in Alaska recommends mid-June through mid-August, although whale sightings are possible throughout the season. Most of our small ship Alaska cruises offer opportunities to see whales. One of our Alaska Adventure Specialists will be in touch soon to discuss a trip that best suits your whale watching goals.

Hello, I want to see the ice caves, but flights in summer are too expensive for me. Can you suggest any other time?

Hi YM, You’re likely referring to the Mendenhall Glacier out of Juneau, Alaska, which our team has experience visiting, but mostly en route to Alaska small ship cruises or other adventures in the Southeast Alaska region. While we’re not experts on ice caves, and conditions can vary any time of the year, the ice is most likely more stable (but the temperatures still bearable for travel & flights less expensive) in the spring and fall. Contact us to discuss planning and booking an Alaska trip like this further if you wish! Just know that our expertise is in adventure travel packages built for you to see the best of Alaska vs. day trips.

Hello, and thanks for the info. Do you know what time of year is when mosquitoes are all over?? Or is there any condition when they are not that annoying?

Hi Sergio, Mosquito density in Alaska varies by month and location. On Alaska small ship cruises there is no need to worry about mosquitos, but inland Alaska land tours do experience them, particularly in Denali National Park. To avoid inland mosquitos, travel outside of July and the first half of August. If you’re aiming to combine a land tour with a cruise, however, consider that whales are in abundance during that time. Contact one of our Alaska specialists to help you pinpoint the optimal timing for your Alaska trip .

So I am trying to plan our first trip to Alaska next year – Flying into Anchorage, renting a car and seeing Homer, Seward and Denali. Just can’t decide what is the best month. We were thinking June 4-13, 2020. Is there snow on the mountain peaks still at this time? What do you think would be the best time to visit? We would to see snow covered mountains! 🙂 We’re from Florida (the Panhandle where Hurricane Michael hit last Oct) 🙁

Thank you so much! Wendy Chambers

Hello Wendy, As you read in this post, every month offers its benefits and as we know about weather, in Alaska especially, it can be quite unpredictable. Depending where you are in Alaska the snow on the mountains can last through the year, but the earlier in the season the better! If you need any assistance booking, we have incredible Alaska tours , in addition to our small ship cruises , that get you deep into the wilderness of Denali, Kenai and other incredible Alaska destinations. We are so sorry to hear you were hit by the hurricane, we hope for a speedy recovery to you and your community!

Thanks for the well organized post which answers some planning questions on travel in Alaska. It saves me some research time, and serves as a focus to refer to as I weigh the options.

“There is no best time to cruise Alaska. The nature of small ship cruising is to be flexible and nimble, and this ethos should be applied to any trip in Alaska, by land or sea. Afterall, the surprise in what you experience while in Alaska is a big part of the fun.”

I appreciate your summarizing statement, as it confirms for me that booking with adventuresmithexplorations is the right choice!

Hello Eileen, Thank you so much for your kind words; we are so glad we could be of assistance. Here at AdventureSmith we aim to offer as much helpful information for our readers and travelers so that they can thoroughly enjoy their time off. We look forward to working with you to find your ideal Alaska trip and an Alaska expert will be in touch with you to help you plan your vacation. In the meantime, check out our Alaska Cruise Guides for another helpful resource.

Find Your Best Time to Visit Alaska

Start your trip search with this selection of Alaska adventure trips by land and sea. Follow the link to “Find an Alaska Trip” to search our numerous Alaska trips by month or your travel dates. Our experts can lead the way to ensure the Alaska adventure you choose is your perfect match, in the best time to travel to Alaska for your interests. All our trips are are aboard ships 100 guests or under or at boutique wilderness lodges tried and tested by our team. Get started finding your dream Alaska trip!

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What can I do in Alaska during a spring visit?

Spring is an exciting time in Anchorage, Alaska, and a great time to visit. Whales and other marine wildlife species return to the coast. Moose calves are born and bears come out of their dens. Of course - unlike bears - a few of Alaska best activities never hibernate and are available year-round.

Spring Weather and Daylight

By the end of February, Anchorage is gaining an extra 42 minutes of daylight each week. After March 20, Anchorage has more hours of daylight than anywhere in the other 49 states. The true midnight sun is still a few months off, but that means northern lights viewing is still feasible in the evenings through April.

Temperatures rise, but there’s still plenty of picturesque snow on the mountain tops. Alpenglow colors the snowy peaks with ethereal shades of orange, pink and red as the sun set on spring evenings.  Alyeska Resort  holds Spring Carnival and Slush Cup in early April. It’s a wet and wild farewell to skiing and a warm welcome to spring.

By early May, the sun won't even dip below the horizon until nearly 11 p.m.

Gray Whale Watch Tours & Glacier Cruises

Gray whales are the first migratory whale species to return in the spring, and whale watching cruises depart Seward run mid-March to mid-May.  Major Marine Tours  and  Kenai Fjords Tours  each offer four hour tours departing Seward at noon. Blackstone Bay glacier cruises from Whittier aboard  Lazy Otter  are another spring option, with multiple departures daily available running from March through the summer.

Moose and Bears in Spring

Moose make their home in Anchorage, and you'll be arriving just before this season's calves do. Keep a sharp eye out and you may see one just traveling around town. If you'd like a closer look at a moose (plus dozens of other species) the  Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center  in Portage is worth checking out. Musk ox, caribou, wood bison and many more species in a large nature preserve. Their brown bears will be more active as May approaches too.

Flightseeing: Available All Year

Sightseeing flights  are popular and available no matter the season. Flights with many companies use Lake Hood, Merrill Field, or the helipad in nearby Girdwood. It's a great way to get a special perspective on the landscape. You can even book flights that circle Denali or land on one some of the glaciers near Anchorage.

Springing into Culture

Anchorage museums and cultural centers merit a stop no matter the season. The Anchorage Museum is open six days a week (closed Monday) all winter, and switches to seven days a week on the first day of May. The museum is home to a stunning Alaska Native art collection, Alaska history as well as rotating exhibits about life in the north, Alaska art and cultures. At the Alaska Native Heritage Center, guests can tour village sites or stroll the Hall of Cultures, learning about Alaska's vibrant heritage and living Indigenous cultures. Find current ANHC opening hours here . And there are more — other Anchorage museums showcase everything from military history to aviation to Lithuanian culture in the Great Land. Click here to plan a trip.

Alaska Native Games

Alaska students compete in games practiced for millennia. The  NYO Games  test endurance, agility, strength and speed in events drawn from traditional Alaska Native life. The competition is open to Alaska students from across the state, and admission for spectators is free.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Anchorage depends on what you plan to see and do. Each season holds something special.

Frequently Asked Alaska Travel Questions

Not sure where to find the answer to a burning travel question about Alaska? We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions, so problem solved!

Places to Stay

Things to do, plan your trip, national parks, itineraries, glacier & wildlife cruises.

Things to do in Alaska in March

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March is a good time to visit Alaska .

Alaska has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your March trip to Alaska. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to March. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Alaska in March

Top experiences in march, holidays in alaska in march.

• Shrove Tuesday/Mardi Gras ( March 4 )
• St. Patrick's Day ( March 17 )

Other notable holidays

• Valentine's Day ( February 14 )
• Elizabeth Peratrovich Day ( February 16 )
• Presidents' Day ( February 17 )

Best attractions for Alaska in March

Explore nearby places

• Fort Wainwright
• Chena Hot Springs
• McKinley Park
• McKinley Village
• Anaktuvuk Pass
• Delta Junction
• Denali National Park and Preserve
• Trapper Creek
• Mentasta Lake
• Chistochina

All related maps of Alaska

• Map of Alaska
• Map of Bettles
• Map of Nenana
• Map of Hughes
• Map of Ester
• Map of Coldfoot
• Map of Fairbanks
• Map of Fort Wainwright
• Map of North Pole
• Map of Two Rivers
• Map of Healy
• Map of Salcha
• Map of Chena Hot Springs
• Map of McKinley Park
• Map of McKinley Village
• Map of Anaktuvuk Pass
• Map of Cantwell
• Map of Central
• Map of Delta Junction
• Map of Denali National Park and Preserve
• Map of Trapper Creek
• Map of Talkeetna
• Map of McGrath
• Map of Paxson
• Map of Willow
• Map of Chickaloon
• Map of Sutton
• Map of Houston
• Map of Mentasta Lake
• Map of Chistochina

Alaska throughout the year

• Alaska in January
• Alaska in February
• Alaska in March
• Alaska in April
• Alaska in May
• Alaska in June
• Alaska in July
• Alaska in August
• Alaska in September
• Alaska in October
• Alaska in November
• Alaska in December

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Best Times to Visit Alaska

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The best time to visit Alaska is NOW. If you’re looking for a unique summer vacation, you’ve come to the right place, and if you love winter sports, you can’t find more of them anywhere else.

Winter in Alaska

The summer season in alaska.

The best time to visit Alaska depends on your interests. Alaska is amazing any time of year, but most travelers prefer to visit during the warm and bright summer months, with July being the busiest. Summer is also the peak season for Alaska businesses that cater to tourists, so your travel, lodging, sightseeing, and adventure options are seemingly unlimited.

Most Alaska vacation tours are only offered during the summer months from mid-May through mid-September. The primary tourist season in Alaska is from May 15th to September 15th. Alaska’s tourist attractions and summer excursions mostly do not open before May 15, and almost all are closed by September 15. The most popular time to visit is typically between mid-June and mid-August. During this time, we have the most sunlight (nearly 24 hours), the warmest temperatures (between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit), and the best weather (mostly sunny, very little rain). We typically receive rain from about the last two weeks of August through the beginning of September. After the first week of September, things quiet down, and it can already start snowing in higher elevations.

The warm weather and long daylight hours allow you to enjoy all Alaska offers—the state, its residents (humans and animals), and communities buzz during the summer. Alaska’s midnight sun makes scenic viewpoints and landscapes spectacular and can fuel your long days of touring the state, soaking up the sights, or going on adventures. In addition, services at the state and national parks are open, fish are abundant, and bears are out of hibernation. Look around, and you’ll see fun outdoor activities and natural attractions everywhere – from farmers’ markets and fairs, fishing derbies and hiking trails, and abundant animals like birds, moose, bears, and salmon.

The Winter Season in Alaska

Winter is also a spectacular season in Alaska. From November through March, Alaska is a beautiful, winter wonderland. While there are fewer travel and exploration options in Alaska during the winter, the state is just as fascinating and fun as in Alaska’s other seasons. Prices are lower and, with fewer visitors, the availability of Alaska tours for tourists is better.

Winter in Alaska has its own unique charm. The landscapes are just as breathtaking when they are blanketed in bright white snow. And winter adventures in Alaska are chilling and thrilling – alpine and Nordic skiing, snow machining, dog sled riding , snowshoeing, ice fishing and winter king salmon runs, and more. And then there are the northern lights , which are worth a trip to Alaska all on their own. They light up the sky in the winter, sometimes even dance and crackle, and must be seen to be believed. Starting at the end of August, the Northern Lights can be seen around Fairbanks (if weather is clear at night). You’ll also find many unique Alaskan events, such as the Iditarod and the World Ice Art Championships.

In Anchorage, we typically do not get the first snow until December, which means winter sports activities are not possible until then. February and March are the best winter months to enjoy all that Alaskan winters have to offer, as we are gaining daylight and temperatures are comfortable. Winter tours typically operate until the end of March.

Regardless of when you visit Alaska, you are sure to have an adventure to remember!

Popular Alaska Summer Activities

Popular alaska winter activities.

• Hot Springs
• Winter Sports

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Why You Should Visit Talkeetna, Alaska in March

While March in much of North America means slushy roads and gloomy gray skies, Alaska is still in the midst of pristine winter, with breathtaking views and adventure around every corner.

And nowhere is this more evident than in Talkeetna , a small Alaska town that comes alive each March.

Picture festivals, natural wonders and incredibly vibrant living. The air is crisp and clear, with sights of the towering Denali visible in the distance and the northern lights illuminating the night sky.

Summer in Talkeetna is bustling, with tourists and mountaineers from around the world pouring into the small village in the Susitna River Valley. Winter is claimed by Alaskans, for Alaskans.

Fernando Salvador, vice president and general manager of Pursuit’s Alaska Collection, has been in Talkeetna for two decades. He says he loves the serenity the winter brings. “Life centers on being outside,” he says. “It’s peaceful and calm here in winter.”

Most of Talkeetna's roughly 1,000 year-round residents love to spend time outdoors during winter. Popular activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, riding snowmachines and watching the northern lights.

This year,  Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge  opens for March once again. Salvador says every year the temporary reopening is a big hit, and continues growing year after year. “Winter tourism in Talkeetna is still in its infancy, but the potential is huge.”

Here are seven reasons to visit Talkeetna in March:

• You can see Denali more clearly: Locals know the big mountain just looks better in winter . Fernando says you can generally see Denali 70 percent of the time in winter because the air is so clear — in summer that number drops to 30 percent. “We have the best view to showcase it right here at the lodge.”

• Fat biking is growing in popularity:  Fat biking's a winter sport that’s gaining traction across the North. The annual Trio Fatbike World Championships  have turned into a festival for lovers of mountain bikes with studded-tires each March in Talkeetna. If you don’t want to haul your own bike to Alaska or you’re looking to try fat biking for the first time, you can find rental shops in town.  
• It’s the prime time for snowmobiling: Salvador says the March conditions remain perfect for touring on a “snowmachine,” as the locals call it. Travel through hundreds of miles of trails around Denali National Park for wildlife viewing and enjoying pristine snow-covered nature views.  
• There’s still plenty of snow for Nordic skiing: The snow is fantastic on the world-class groomed ski trails in Talkeetna Lakes Park. The Nordic season culminates in the annual Oosik Ski Race and Tour. Up to 750 skiers from across the state head to Talkeetna in mid-March. “It’s a big party for the town,” according to Salvador.

• You might get the chance to experience the aurora borealis: Guests at the Lodge can request a northern lights viewing wake-up call. If someone reports a sighting, staff call through the list, and guests can come out to the back viewing deck. Salvador says sometimes it’s as early as 3 a.m. Some guests ignore the call, roll over and go back to sleep. But lots grab their coats and cameras to head out and catch a glimpse. “The aurora can be fleeting, so you’ve got to get out there,” he says.  
• Making friends has never been easier: Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge runs a slimmed-down staff during March. That means employees and guests are able to make closer personal connections. There is time to sit with friends, both new and old, around the fireplace at the lodge or over food and drink in the Base Camp Bistro and Bar . While visiting Talkeetna, you’re sure to make a friend or two.

• It’s an amazing spot to learn about Alaska culture: The Denali Arts Council keeps the cultural scene bustling with live music, film screenings, art exhibits at the Sheldon Community Arts Hangar and more. You can also spend time learning about rivers and salmon, dining at the beloved Roadhouse, or shopping for Alaska-crafted goods in town. There’s so much to experience in Talkeetna — you won’t want to leave!

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge opens on select dates in March every year. Book your getaway .

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• Anchorage Hikes

Things to Do in Anchorage in March

Introduction to anchorage.

Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors in March. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone. Whether you are interested in exploring the stunning natural landscapes, learning about the rich history and culture of the region, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Anchorage has it all. In March, the city experiences a significant increase in tourism, making it an exciting time to visit. With the biggest increase in visitors during this month, you can expect a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of events and festivals to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore Anchorage and all it has to offer in March!

Weather in March

In March, the weather in Anchorage can be quite unpredictable. While temperatures start to rise, it is still common to experience cold and snowy days. It is advisable to dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions. The average temperature in March ranges from 20°F (-6°C) to 35°F (2°C), with occasional dips below freezing. This is the time when Ukrainians fleeing war waiting period is observed, as many individuals seek refuge in Anchorage. If you are interested in learning more about the Ukrainians fleeing war waiting period, you can find additional information on our website.

Popular Events in March

In March, Anchorage comes alive with a variety of popular events that cater to both locals and visitors. From cultural festivals to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. One of the highlights of the month is the annual Fur Rendezvous , a winter festival that showcases Alaska’s unique heritage and traditions. Visitors can experience thrilling events such as the World Championship Sled Dog Races and the Running of the Reindeer. Another must-see event is the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race , known as the ‘Last Great Race on Earth.’ This challenging race covers over 1,000 miles of rugged Alaskan terrain and attracts mushers from around the world. If you’re looking for a relaxing experience, be sure to visit the Anchorage Museum, which offers fascinating exhibits on Alaska’s history, art, and culture. After a day of exploring, unwind at one of the best Anchorage Hotels, where you can enjoy comfortable accommodations and exceptional hospitality.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking in Chugach State Park

Hiking in Chugach State Park is a must-do activity for visitors to Anchorage in March. With its stunning mountain views and diverse trail options, the park offers a unique outdoor experience for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, Chugach State Park has something for everyone. The park is also conveniently located near various bed and breakfast options in Anchorage , providing a cozy and comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring the trails. From charming historic homes to modern accommodations, there are plenty of bed and breakfasts to choose from in Anchorage. So, after a day of hiking in Chugach State Park, why not treat yourself to a relaxing stay at a bed and breakfast in Anchorage ? It’s the perfect way to unwind and recharge for another day of adventure.

Skiing at Alyeska Resort

Skiing at Alyeska Resort is one of the must-do activities in Anchorage in March. With its breathtaking mountain views and world-class slopes, Alyeska Resort offers an unforgettable skiing experience for both beginners and advanced skiers. Whether you’re carving down the slopes or enjoying the stunning scenery, Alyeska Resort has something for everyone. Plus, with the recent visit of President Russell M. Nelson , the resort has gained even more popularity and excitement. If you’re looking for an exhilarating winter adventure, don’t miss the opportunity to ski at Alyeska Resort in March.

Dog Sledding in the Iditarod Trail

Dog sledding in the Iditarod Trail is one of the most thrilling and iconic winter activities in Anchorage. This adventurous sport allows visitors to experience the excitement of mushing through the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness. As you glide through the snow-covered trails, you can feel the rush of the sled and the power of the sled dogs pulling you forward. The Iditarod Trail, known as the ‘Last Great Race on Earth,’ is a historic and challenging route that spans over 1,000 miles. It is the ultimate test of endurance and teamwork for both the mushers and their loyal canine companions. Whether you are a dog lover or simply seeking an exhilarating adventure , dog sledding in the Iditarod Trail is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Cultural Experiences

Visit the Anchorage Museum

Anchorage Museum is a must-visit attraction in Anchorage. It offers a diverse range of exhibits and displays that showcase the rich history and culture of Alaska . Next, you can explore the fascinating art collections, including contemporary works and traditional indigenous art. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the native peoples of Alaska through interactive exhibits and educational programs. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or culture, the Anchorage Museum is a place that will captivate and inspire you.

Explore Native Alaskan Heritage Center

The Native Alaskan Heritage Center is a must-visit attraction in Anchorage. This center offers a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the rich Native Alaskan culture and heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional art, music, dance, and storytelling of the indigenous people. The center also hosts various events and workshops throughout the year, providing a deeper understanding of the Native Alaskan way of life. If you’re visiting Anchorage in March, be sure to check out the Native Alaskan Heritage Center to gain a deeper appreciation for the local culture and traditions.

Attend the Fur Rendezvous Festival

The Fur Rendezvous Festival is one of the most anticipated events in Anchorage in March. This annual festival celebrates Alaska’s rich fur trading history and offers a wide range of activities for both locals and visitors. From exciting sled dog races to unique arts and crafts exhibits , there is something for everyone to enjoy. Attendees can also indulge in delicious local cuisine and explore the vibrant winter landscape of Anchorage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a fun winter adventure, the Fur Rendezvous Festival is a must-attend event in March.

Wildlife Encounters

Take a Wildlife Cruise in Resurrection Bay

March is a great time to visit Anchorage , Alaska, and there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy. One of the must-do experiences is taking a wildlife cruise in Resurrection Bay. This scenic bay is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including whales, sea lions, and seabirds. The cruise allows you to get up close to these majestic creatures and learn more about their natural habitats. It’s an unforgettable adventure that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, a wildlife cruise in Resurrection Bay should be at the top of your Anchorage list .

Spotting Beluga Whales in Turnagain Arm

Spotting Beluga Whales in Turnagain Arm is a popular activity for visitors to Anchorage in March. Turnagain Arm is a prime location for viewing these magnificent creatures, as they migrate to the area during this time of year. Beluga whales are known for their distinctive white color and playful nature. The name ‘beluga’ comes from the Russian word ‘belukha’, meaning ‘white’. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a beluga calf swimming alongside its mother. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness these incredible marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Visit the Alaska Zoo

Visiting the Alaska Zoo in March is a must-do activity for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. This popular attraction offers a unique opportunity to observe and interact with a wide variety of wildlife, including polar bears, wolves, and moose. The zoo is also home to several rescued animals, and visitors can express their gratitude for the life-saving efforts of the dedicated staff. With its beautiful natural setting and educational exhibits, the Alaska Zoo provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Food and Drink

Try Local Seafood at Simon & Seaforts

Anchorage is known for its delicious seafood, and one of the best places to try local catches is at Simon & Seaforts . Whether you’re a fan of crab, salmon, or halibut, their menu offers a wide variety of options to satisfy your seafood cravings. The restaurant’s cozy and inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the fresh flavors of the ocean while in Anchorage.

Sample Craft Beers at Midnight Sun Brewing Co.

Anchorage is known for its vibrant craft beer scene, and one of the must-visit breweries in the city is Midnight Sun Brewing Co. Located in downtown Anchorage, Midnight Sun Brewing Co. offers a wide selection of craft beers that are sure to satisfy any beer enthusiast. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or refreshing lagers, Midnight Sun Brewing Co. has something for everyone. The brewery is known for its innovative and creative brews, with flavors that push the boundaries of traditional beer styles. So if you’re in Anchorage in March, make sure to stop by Midnight Sun Brewing Co. and sample their delicious craft beers.

Indulge in Alaskan King Crab at Orso

Indulge in Alaskan King Crab at Orso. March is the perfect time to indulge in the delicious Alaskan King Crab at Orso. This iconic Anchorage restaurant offers a variety of dishes featuring the freshest Alaskan seafood, including their famous Alaskan King Crab legs. Whether you prefer it steamed, grilled, or served in a decadent crab bisque, Orso has something to satisfy every seafood lover’s cravings. Don’t miss the opportunity to treat yourself to this Alaskan delicacy during your visit to Anchorage in March.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Browse the Anchorage Market and Festival

The Anchorage Market and Festival is a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. This vibrant market offers a wide range of unique and locally made products, including arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, and delicious food. You can browse through the stalls and discover one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find anywhere else. The market also features live music performances, cultural displays, and entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir to take home or simply want to immerse yourself in the local culture, the Anchorage Market and Festival is the perfect place to spend a day.

Shop for Native Art at Alaska Native Arts Foundation

Anchorage is home to a vibrant art scene, and one of the best places to experience it is at the Alaska Native Arts Foundation . This unique gallery showcases a wide range of Native art, including traditional carvings, paintings, jewelry, and textiles. Whether you’re a collector or simply appreciate the beauty of indigenous art, a visit to the Alaska Native Arts Foundation is a must. Browse the stunning displays, learn about the rich cultural heritage of Alaska’s Native peoples, and maybe even find the perfect piece to take home as a memento of your trip.

Buy Authentic Alaskan Gifts at Polar Bear Gifts

Are you looking for authentic Alaskan gifts to bring back home from your trip to Anchorage in March? Look no further than Polar Bear Gifts, a must-visit shop for all your souvenir needs. Located in the heart of Anchorage, Polar Bear Gifts offers a wide range of unique and locally made products that capture the essence of Alaska. From handcrafted jewelry to intricately carved wooden sculptures, you’ll find the perfect gift to commemorate your time in this beautiful city. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to support local artisans and take home a piece of Alaska with you. Visit Polar Bear Gifts today!

Recap of Anchorage in March

March is a great time to visit Anchorage , with plenty of exciting activities and events to enjoy. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. One of the highlights of March in Anchorage is the Fur Rondy Festival, a celebration of winter and Alaskan culture. This festival features a variety of events, including sled dog races, snowshoe softball, and ice sculpture competitions. Another must-visit attraction in March is the Anchorage Museum, where you can explore the rich history and art of the region. Don’t forget to try some delicious local cuisine , such as fresh seafood and reindeer sausage, at one of Anchorage’s many fantastic restaurants. Whether you’re exploring the stunning natural landscapes or immersing yourself in the local culture, March in Anchorage is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Memorable Experiences to Take Home

March is a great time to visit Anchorage, Alaska, as there are plenty of memorable experiences to take home. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, Anchorage has something for everyone. One of the must-do activities is exploring the stunning natural beauty of the area. From hiking in Chugach State Park to taking a scenic drive along the Seward Highway, you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking landscapes. Another highlight of Anchorage is its vibrant arts and culture scene. Visit the Anchorage Museum to immerse yourself in the local art and history, or catch a live performance at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. After a day of exploring, relax and unwind at one of the many Anchorage hotels. Check out our Anchorage hotel reviews to find the perfect accommodation for your stay. With its unique blend of outdoor adventures and cultural attractions, Anchorage in March promises to be a truly memorable experience.

Planning Your Visit to Anchorage

March is a great time to visit Anchorage, with plenty of exciting activities and events to enjoy. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker , there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Start your visit by exploring the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area, from the snow-capped mountains to the picturesque trails. Don’t miss the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, a truly unforgettable experience. For history enthusiasts, Anchorage offers fascinating museums and cultural landmarks that showcase the rich heritage of the region. And if you’re looking for some adrenaline-pumping adventures, you can try your hand at dog sledding or ice climbing. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, Anchorage in March promises an unforgettable adventure.

In conclusion, Listings – Anchorage List is a comprehensive website that provides a wide range of listings in Anchorage. Whether you are looking for a place to live , a restaurant to dine in, or a service provider, Listings – Anchorage List has got you covered. With its user-friendly interface and extensive database, finding what you need has never been easier. Visit Listings – Anchorage List today and start exploring the best that Anchorage has to offer!

Things to Do in Anchorage in February

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What To Wear For Alaska Winter Trip – Ultimate Packing List

Before heading to Alaska for a winter trip, we researched a lot about what to wear and pack which helped us to survive in the Alaska Winters. Here’s the ultimate packing list of what to wear in Alaska in Winters.

What to Wear

We wore 4 layers and based on temperatures around we removed the layers. Like, if you are inside a building (eq, Hotel) which is usually heated you may need to take off few layers to feel comfortable and try avoid sweating ( sweating is also not good when you will be going out in freezing temperatures )

Here are the details about different layers you would need to wear in Alaska winters.

Base Layer – This is basically thermals and we bought the woolen ones. You can choose either synthetic or woolen for the base layer. After a lot of researching, we picked this Merino Wool Thermals from SmartWool. Here’s what we bought  – 

(1)  Base layer top – Woman

(2)  Base Layer Bottom – Woman

(3)  Base layer top – Men

(4)  Base layer bottom – Men  

Mid Fleece Layer – This layer can be anything with fleece 

(1) Women’s Fleece Layer Top

(2)  Women’s Bottom  – If you are wearing Jeans as outer layer this one can be used as a mid bottom layer. 

 (5)  Men’s Fleece Layer Top    

Outer Layer  

 (1) You can wear jeans as bottom outer layer. However, if you are planning for any outdoor activities, you can checkout these fleece lined snow pants to protect yourself from the icy cold temperatures

  Women’s Bottoms  and  Men’s Bottoms .

(2) Pair a jacket with a parka as the outer top layer

– Packable Jackets   –  Women   and  Men  

– Parka – provides protection from windy conditions and  especially important during night time (when you are out in the wild for northern lights) – Women  and  Men

Other option insulated one piece suit –  Women  &  Men  .

Accessories

Beanies – This is to protect your head from harsh winters –  Women  &  Men  (and avoids headache due to cold!)

Headband  – This is helpful for windy days & nights –  Women  &  Men

Balaclava –  I think  this  is best to keep you warm for any outdoor activities in cold weather including Northern light viewing in extreme temperatures.

Gloves  – For any outdoor activities, we found  ski gloves  are best to survive the cold and chills in Alaska. For others – Buy something with wool or fleece like  these .

Mittens  – We found the  woolen mittens  are best to keep us warm. Also, this is the best to operate your phones as they can be pulled up over your fingers and can be folded back. You can pair this with  liner gloves  inside which are thin so that no part of your hands are exposed.

Socks   – Wear 2 to 3 layers of socks , starting with the  Liner  socks which are thin and then   Insulated  or  Woolen  socks over it. 

( Suggestion  : Opt for knee length insulated/woolen socks for better protection ! )

Shoes  – We bought this shoes to survive the cold winters in Alaska –  Women  &  Men  (Not the exact but  we used  similar kinds)

Warmers  – This is an amazing thing to survive extreme cold weather. When you feel cold even after so many layers you have worn, this is something you will need to survive specially during nighttime. (1)  Hand Warmer  (2)  Foot Warmer  (3)  Body Warmer .  Do read the instructions and warnings before using them.

Walk Traction  for hiking in case you are planning one. 

Bring your favorite  swimsuit  for taking a dip in the Hot Springs.

TIP : Always wear the layers just before you plan to leave the hotel since the temperature is warmer inside and you may not feel comfortable wearing the winter clothes for a longer time. Start with Socks -> Thermals -> Mid layers -> Shoes -> Outer later (Jacket or Parka). 

Note – These are the items we bought, however not from the same website we linked – you may check the item in a different website or store for a discounted price. 

Few of the items are not cheap. We live in New Jersey and for us it is like an investment. For those who are looking for a single time use may not find it as a best option. You can check Amazon for cheaper options and would suggest to buy after reading the reviews. 

Other necessary things to carry

Sunglasses  – Bring your sunglasses to reduce the evaporation of your eyes’ tears and natural moisture. Also, it helps to protect from UV rays which may damage the eyes. Carry an  eye moisturizer  as well.

Sunscreen – Yes, even in winters sunscreens (for  face  and  body ) are essential to protect your skin from harsh UV rays.

Lip balm   – Due to dry weather, it is important to keep a  chapstick  handy all the time.

Body Moisturizer  –  Winters can be harsh on the skin, so carry a thick  Body Moisturizer . It is helpful in such extreme dry weathers to keep your skin healthy.

The most important thing to remember is to keep yourself warm and comfortable. Drink Hot Chocolate and enjoy your time in Alaska. Hope this packing guide helps you to plan your trip to Alaska confidently. 

Thanks for reading!  Do let us know if this guide helped you anyway – we would love to know.  Pin it or bookmark this post for future reference.

Liked our content? You buy a coffee for us  here .

Are you planning to visit Alaska in winters ?   Checkout our blogs :

Ultimate Alaska Winter Guide

Matanuska Glacier – What to expect

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Ultimate Alaska winter travel guide

Matanuska glacier – What to expect in Winters

Brooke Eubanks

I’m following to see what you wore as we are going in March! A few weeks! What did you wear under yours outer layer when you were more so in the snow? Did you wear 3 layers or is that too much?

mrnmrstraveler

When we were out in the snow or cold, we used to wear a base layer and a mid-fleece layer under our outer layer. Although it did feel a bit heavy to move, layering up is essential to stay warm, especially when you go out at night to watch the Northern Lights. You can also check this Insulated One-Piece Suit . for alternative.

Hi Pranjal and Priyanka,

Super helpful blog and video. Thank you for the same.

Seeing northern lights is on my bucket list since long time and this year I want to plan to go in March with my 10 year old daughter. Can you please let me know- 1) would you recommend traveling with kids during this time of the year? Would you recommend any specific dates of week in March? 2) for the rental car, would you require snow chains, would it be safe to drive or would you recommend booking tours and avoid driving as a single adult? 3) how much did it cost for 2 or per person if I would like to follow the exact same itinerary?

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Thanks in advance.

Is it worth visiting Fairbanks or do u suggest going around anchorage as we have round trip to anchorage

Yes, it is worth visiting Fairbanks if you want to see Northern Lights (mainly), touch down Arctic circle, visiting Denali National Park and Husky rides.

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When and How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Heading to Alaska to see the aurora borealis? Here's everything you need to know.

While many travelers think they have to head to Canada or Scandinavia to see the northern lights, you can actually spot this phenomenon without leaving the United States. Northern Alaska is ideal for Americans wanting a chance to see the aurora borealis. It may be cold in winter (temperatures can drop to 30 degrees below zero), but the inland Alaskan Arctic — where skies tend to be clearer — is one of the best places in the world to see this famous light show.

The northern lights occur because of solar activity, so during the early part of the solar cycle, known as solar minimum, there is a smaller chance of experiencing a full-on auroral storm. As we move toward solar maximum, which returns in 2025, the odds of seeing the northern lights will increase. The real trick is finding clear skies.

These are our top tips for seeing the northern lights in Alaska.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Alaska's northern lights season is between late August and late April, peaking in March. However, the season is defined more by its long, dark nights than by solar activity.

Displays of the northern lights tend to intensify around the equinox months of September and March because Earth's tilt in relation to the sun means that the magnetic field of Earth and the solar wind are in sync. Plus, there's a higher likelihood of clear skies in Alaska during spring, so the best time to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights is in March.

If you can find dark and clear skies, be on alert from dusk onwards and you might get to see an aurora. According to the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the best time to see the aurora is around midnight, give or take an hour. However, they can occur at any time.

Where in Alaska Are the Northern Lights Most Visible?

The northern lights are best seen in Alaska between 65° N and 70° N latitude. Fairbanks is about 198 miles south of the Arctic Circle and enjoys sporadic northern lights. It's best to forget the more southern destinations of Anchorage and Juneau, which see dramatically fewer displays.

Those wanting to maximize their chances should head for the more remote northern villages of Coldfoot in the Yukon Territory or to Prudhoe Bay and Utqiaġvik in the extreme north. Below are some of the best places to spot the northern lights.

The old gold rush boomtown of Fairbanks is the undisputed capital of the northern lights hunt in Alaska. It's not the very best place for aurora viewing — it's just below the Arctic Circle — but auroras frequently occur here.

Its popularity among northern lights seekers has a lot to do with its accessibility. There are frequent flights and plenty of options for accommodations. Good vantage points in the vicinity include Cleary Summit, about 20 miles from Fairbanks, which is easy to get to and offers parking and a solid view of the horizon.

The Geophysical Institute also recommends Haystack Mountain and Ester, Wickersham and Murphy domes on its website. Chena Lake Recreation Area is a popular place to look for reflections in the water (you can park your car near the jetty). At nearby Chena Hot Springs Resort , you can even watch the show from an outdoor hot tub. By day, try your hand at either cross-country skiing or ice fishing through pre-drilled ice holes.

Once a gold mining settlement, this Alaskan Arctic destination is now little more than a truck stop at 67° N latitude on the famed Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay. It's a prime northern lights observation location, largely because of the rustic Coldfoot Camp in the Brooks Mountain Range on the edge of the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve , the northernmost national park in the U.S. Many aurora adventure tours take guests here, and to Wiseman about 15 miles north, for the high chances of a northern lights display. Another option nearby is the fly-in luxury Iniakuk Lake Wilderness Lodge . Coldfoot is 250 miles north of Fairbanks and 60 miles above the Arctic Circle.

This small town, formerly called Barrow, is on the extreme northern edge of Alaska at 71° N latitude and is home to the Top of the World Hotel , which organizes tours and outdoor adventures connected to Indigenous Iñupiat culture. You can also visit the Iñupiat Heritage Center to learn about bowhead whale hunting and traditional crafts. Alaska Airlines flies to the town's Wiley Post-Will Rogers Memorial Airport from Anchorage.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

Spanning 13.2 million acres, this national park is the largest protected reserve in the United States. Travelers can bed down at the 14-person Ultima Thule Lodge for a wild adventure filled with glacier trekking, rafting, fishing in Tebay Lake, and (of course) waiting for the northern lights to flicker across the sky.

Northern Lights Forecasts

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has a Space Weather Prediction Center , which is a great resource for a short-term forecast of northern lights activity. Fairbanks also happens to be the headquarters of the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska, which issues a nightly forecast on Aurora viewing alongside a 27-day forecast.

SolarHam gives a reliable three-day geomagnetic forecast that's often used by aurora hunters, while the Aurora Forecast app shows travelers the position of the auroral oval around the Arctic Circle. It also indicates the probability of seeing the northern lights where you are (green, not so much; red, and they're probably happening right above you).

Alaska Northern Lights Tours

You'll likely get to Coldfoot on an organized tour, and if you fly to Utqiaġvik, your accommodations will also act as a local tour guide. If you're going to be in Fairbanks, however, you have excursion choices to make. The Northern Alaska Tour Company runs round-trip van tours 60 miles north of Fairbanks to the town of Joy for an increased chance of seeing the northern lights. And 1st Alaska Tours runs nightly trips to Chena Hot Springs 60 miles north and to Murphy Dome, one of the highest peaks in the Fairbanks area, which has a 360-degree view of the horizon.

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ADVENTURE ON THE WILD SIDE

Alaska cruises.

Adventure comes first on the last frontier.

No vacation in the world delivers once-in-a-lifetime adventure like Alaska. Mark this as your year to cross this bucket-busting destination off your list once and for all. Take off by dogsled across thousand-year-old ice as you soak in otherworldly sights. Trek across the majestic Mendenhall Glacier for breathtaking views of the wildest country. Get to know wildlife, big and small, that call this wilderness home, like otters, eagles, bears, and whales. And do it all from onboard one of four thrill-filled ships. This is Last Frontier pioneering with the cruise line voted Best Overall by Travel Weekly readers for 20 years running.

Save Big With These Alaska Cruise Deals

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OF ICE AND MOUNTAINS

Adventuring in Alaska is all about getting to know this state's stunning landscape. It might seem cold and unforgiving at first glance, but the best Alaska cruises allow you to explore the quiet lakes,  imposing glaciers  and breathtaking mountain views, you'll have only warm impressions of this wilderness. 

JOURNEY INWARD

Exploring the interior of Alaska will give you an entirely different perspective on this vast and rugged state. Take an Inside Passage cruise and gaze upward at the sky that is as blue as the lakes below. Hop on the Alaskan Railroad near Anchorage and see the spruce-lined, mountainous landscape whir by from a new perspective.

GLACIERS WILL MOVE YOU

In Alaska, ancient rivers of ice wind between mountains and grind out of valleys. Towering walls of ice like the Hubbard Glacier, Endicott Arm Dawes and the twin Sawyer Glaciers thunder as they calve  massive icebergs . Some shore excursions allow up close interaction with these natural wonders.

JOURNEY TO "THE GREAT ONE"

In the center of the state,  Denali National Park  is blanketed in wildflowers punctuated with mountains, raging rivers and serene lakes. Denali, "The Great One," formerly known as Mt. McKinley, rises to the tallest peak in North America and can be seen from as far away as Anchorage on a clear day. An up-close view is more than worth the expedition during your vacation.

FEEL THE RUSH

Alaska is tailor-made for once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether you sail its icy bays trying to spot huge cold-water whales or fly high above this rough-and-tumble landscape from the vantage of a helicopter, you're sure to come away with memories you couldn't have made anywhere else during your cruise to Alaska. 

WHO LET THE DOGS OUT?

In some parts of the state, dog sledding is still the primary mode of transportation through the winter months. Visit Alaska and get the experience for yourself at the  Skagway Yukon Discovery and Dog Sled Tour . The Siberian Huskies are sweet and energetic, and the ride is a thrill.

WHERE ARE THE WHALES AT?

Head to Kenai Fjords National Park in Seward for a  whale watching tour . There's nothing like seeing these behemoths hurl themselves out of the water, to splash back into the sea. Don't pass up an opportunity to watch these giants feed and play in the water.

Planes are plentiful in Alaska, where they're a common form of transportation across the state. Charter a helicopter or fixed-wing flightseeing tour at Juneau and get an unforgettable perspective of the mountains and glaciers of this vast landscape.

RELEASE YOUR WILD SIDE ON THE BEST ALASKA CRUISE

Embark on an unforgettable Alaska adventure cruise and experience the ultimate vacation. Immerse yourself in the thrilling destinations that Alaska has to offer, each brimming with its own unique style and vibe. Discover the wonders of Alaska with the Best Cruise Line for 21 years running.

QUANTUM OF THE SEAS

Quantum of the Seas® heads to the Last Frontier from Seattle . This adventure packed ship offers glacier gazing from the tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship and activities you can enjoy in any weather. Edge of your seat entertainment, all weather activities like the fan-favorite Flowrider®* and unparalleled views from every room.

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ANTHEM OF THE SEAS

Making its Alaska debut, Anthem of the Seas ® is full of family-favorite thrills and chill. Gaze at giant glaciers from the pool deck while you sail through Endicott Arm . Whether you’re challenging friends to bumper cars at the SeaPlex® or catching record-setting views from North Star®, make unforgettable memories on these 7-night cruises.

SERENADE OF THE SEAS

Bring your adventure crew to the Last Frontier for a 7-night sailing to can’t-miss glaciers and quaint seaside cities brimming with rugged charm. Go peak seaking in Sitka or and take-on rugged adventures in Haines . Once onboard, snag some adults-only time at the Solarium or treat your tastebuds to plated perfection at Izumi Japanese Cuisine. Getting to your coolest getaway yet is easy for the whole family with sails roundtrip from Vancouver .

RADIANCE OF THE SEAS

Sail into the Last Frontier from Seward or Vancouver onboard Radiance of the Seas®. With over three acres of windows and glass exterior viewing elevators, you can watch for whales along Alaska’s Inside Passage when you aren’t wandering wilderness paths from Ketchikan to Juneau. And for the ultimate outdoor adventure, take a CruiseTour into Alaska’s interior where you can hang with huskies in Denali, and scale glaciers in Alyeska.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Alaska Cruises Insider

The sheer size of Alaska lends itself to a wide variety of terrain and travel experiences. This diversity means you need to be prepared for a lot of change while traveling.

The best time to travel to Alaska depends on your priorities. If you're interested in the Midnight Sun, the longest day of the year is June 21, when you can experience close to 20 or more hours of sunlight in some parts of the state. If you're more interested in the Alaska Northern Lights, the earlier sunset in later summer will allow more contrast and better views of this natural wonder.

No two days will be the same, and you'll need to pack your clothing to prepare for temperature changes throughout the day. Think layers: zip-up sweaters, boots, rain jackets.

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Alaska is not a formal place; people even wear jeans to the opera. Focus more on comfort when deciding what clothing to pack.

Cameras, binoculars, rain ponchos and jackets are useful, but add these to the souvenirs you'll be picking up and soon your bag will be too heavy to tote around. Bring along a quality day pack to make it easier to hold your necessities.

Learn a few words in Alaska's local lingo: The "Alcan" is the Alaska-Canada Highway, for example, and "fish stories" are the local version of tall tales — unreliable yarns of mythological proportions, often told by fisherman.

ALASKAN CUISINE WILD IS THE WAY 

Alaskan food focuses on locally sourced ingredients that reflect the state's rugged terrain and the vast oceans surrounding it. These nutrient-rich waters serve up some gorgeous fish and shellfish, from super-fresh salmon to huge Alaskan King Crabs that can feed a crowd, while game meats and berries from the wilderness form a perfect marriage of flavor.

SALMON IS CENTRAL

Fresh-caught wild salmon is served up at backyard BBQs and the finest restaurants. For something different, try the sweet and savory treat Indian Candy, salmon that is sweetened and smoked till hard.

SOURDOUGH WON'T LET YOU GO

Sourdough is such an important part of Alaskan culture that long-time Alaskans are actually called sourdoughs in local parlance. Try a sourdough bread bowl filled with salmon chowder for a hearty lunch.

GO WILD FOR BERRIES

Alaskan wild berries are sweet and pack a powerful punch of flavor. Whether served up in jams, candies, pies or cobblers, Alaskan blueberries, high-bush cranberries and other local wild berries are a staple when it comes to Alaskan summer eats.

RELATED PORTS

Whether you're interested in hiking through a forest, trekking to glaciers or a shopping spree downtown, the towns along Alaska's inside passage provide a variety of adventurous activities. Alaska cruise ports such as Juneau and Ketchikan are small cities with their own personalities. Anchorage is the state's largest city and a gateway to the rest of the state. Denali National Park takes you out of the city altogether, into a wilderness full of spruce forests and snow-capped mountain peaks.

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The Best Time To Go On An Alaskan Cruise, Depending On What You Want Most From The Trip

Wondering when to book your Alaskan cruise? A trip to the northernmost state is delightful at any time of year, but deciding on what you most want out of the vacation can help determine when the best time to book your sailing will be. To start, the seasonal nature of cruises will help you out: The bulk of cruises to Alaska operate from May to September from the West Coast ports of Seattle and Vancouver. So while there are fantastic Alaskan cruises to choose , maybe don't count on ringing in the New Year on one.  

As a travel writer, one of my most treasured trips is the Inner Passage cruise to Alaska I took with my kids on the Discovery Princess. Much of what we enjoyed onboard, including the ritzy dining experiences, getting bundled up to watch outdoor movies under a vast canopy of stars, and snapping roughly one billion pictures from our balcony, would be part of the experience no matter when we traveled. On the other hand, some of the most delightful aspects of the trip, like the temperate weather, the drama of calving glaciers and resulting baby icebergs, and the spawning salmon we watched launch themselves upstream, were down to the fact that we traveled as July turned to August.

Wildlife Spotting

One of the top draws of an Alaskan cruise is the opportunity for wildlife spotting, which hits its stride in the late spring and continues through the summer, before the animals tuck in to hibernate or head south for the winter. Bears, caribou, and eagles are just some of the animals that make their homes in the wildlands of Alaska, with seals, porpoises, and several species of whales splashing offshore. While orcas spend the year in Alaska, grey and humpback whales winter in warmer climates, returning north in the spring (late April/early May, according to the Travel Alaska site.) 

During our summer adventure, we spotted countless bald and golden eagles swooping through the sky and perched on tree branches and telephone poles. On a whale watching expedition, we were treated to views of the giant creatures breeching the surface and diving back into the depths while sea lions sunned themselves on the shore. Near the Mendenhall Glacier, we even spotted a bear. Wildlife safaris, nature walks, and whale-watching tours are often options for excursions. Make sure to book well in advance if creature-spotting is high on the list for your trip. 

Battling fewer crowds

Traveling when school is in session in the spring and fall is your best bet for avoiding crowds, particularly if you are sailing with a family-focused cruise line. Many people don't have a lot of flexibility on when they can travel, so if you do, take advantage! Cruise companies work hard to have ships sail at full capacity for every sailing, so the amount of people onboard might not be noticeably different no matter when you go. When you go ashore, however, the sparse shoulder season crowds will be a bonus. Fewer ships sail on fewer itineraries outside of peak season, so you won't have as many people to contend with. People dream of being alone in the wilds of Alaska . Part of the allure is the wide-open, untamed space ... seeing it without several hundred other people, give or take, seems like a good idea.

Of course, there are drawbacks to traveling to Alaska in the shoulder season. Tripadvisor user Maple_Marshmallows calls the end of April "the worst time to visit," citing spring break. It's also important to remember that some of the seasonal attractions and businesses might not be open if you travel too early or late during the cruise season.

Basking in warmer weather

Alaska is warmest in July. However, if you are booking your trip with visions of endless hours of sun-baked fun poolside, you may need to do some revision to your fantasy. Particularly along the popular Inside Passage cruise route, Alaska has a temperate climate that doesn't feel very different from the Pacific Northwest. In the region of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, and Ketchikan, July averages a high of 64 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 48, with 17 rainy days, according to Alaska.org . August is similar, only a few degrees cooler.

If you are doing an inland excursion or tour into places like Denali National Park, Anchorage, Seward, or Fairbanks, know that things aren't radically different, though it is slightly warmer. This region, known as the Interior or Southcentral area, averages July temperature highs of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 51.

A wardrobe that would feel comfortable for Oregon weather won't be very out of place for a summer sailing in Alaska. That said, in the height of summer, you may get some unexpectedly warm days, so make sure you leave a bit of room in your suitcase for shorts and a tank top! 

Getting dazzled by the Northern Lights

The aurora borealis are more active and easier to spot during long winter nights. Travel Alaska pegs the season as August 21-April 21, so if you want a better chance to see the sweeping light show during the summer, booking your trip for as late in the sailing season as possible is your best bet.

The dancing greens and blues (and purple and red if you are really lucky) are caused by solar wind interacting with the Earth's magnetic field. Space.com explains: "As Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles ... the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike."

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights . The bad news is that in the rainforest atmosphere of the Inside Passage, where most cruises go, it tends to be cloudy and rainy during the months when the aurora is most active. That doesn't mean they are impossible to spot, but if you have an itinerary that takes you farther north, or are part of a land tour that takes you farther inland, your chances of catching a glimpse of the dazzling phenomenon increase substantially.

Keeping more money in your wallet

A trip to Alaska isn't a cheap prospect. Most visitors to the state come for the experience rather than to save money on a bargain vacation. That said, you can save quite a bit by choosing your trip dates wisely. According to Cruise Critic , the lowest average prices are in September and October, followed by prices in May. It goes to reason that the end of season months are cheaper: The weather is starting to turn, kids are back in school, and demand is less. You might be surprised that April is more expensive than May, despite the fact May is arguably a better month to travel to Alaska. Cruise Critic gives the reason for this seemingly illogical quirk — not surprisingly, it's economics. April is a transitory month in the cruise industry, with ships repositioning from their winter ports in the south to their summer ports. Not as many cruise lines run Alaska cruises in April as they do in May, meaning there are fewer cabins available, which keeps prices higher than you might expect.

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The Ultimate Alaska Packing List

Few places capture the imagination quite like Alaska. The largest state in the country by a lot (it's twice the size of Texas, people!), Alaska is home to more than 57 million acres of designated wilderness, including places only accessible by boat or seaplane. Grizzlies and brown bears roam, glaciers shatter into the sea, and nearly two million visitors a year flock to see the last of America’s truly rugged nature. Just as it's not an easy place to get to, it's not an easy place to pack for. We spoke with an expert Alaska guide to find out how to dress for every season, whether you’re seeking the summer’s midnight sun or the winter’s 100 (well, 67 if we’re being technical ) days of night. Want to know what kind of shoes to wear for gravel and snow? How to prepare for a storm cloud of mosquitos? It’s all here. Grab your hiking shoes —we’re going way, way north.

See recent posts by Colleen Stinchcombe

Your suitcase packing checklist

Click items to view travel editor-approved options

Clothing cont'd

• Dresses/skirts
• Leggings/yoga pants
• Coat/jacket/raincoat
• Sweaters/sweatshirts

Shoes & Accessories

• Walking shoes
• Sport sandals
• Waterproof sneakers/hiking shoes
• Waterproof hiking boots

Accessories cont'd

• Glasses/polarized sunglasses
• Dental floss
• Conditioner

Toiletries cont'd

• Moisturizer
• Contact lenses
• Contact lens solution
• Shaving cream
• Brush and comb
• Hair styling tools
• Tampons and pads
• Hand sanitizer
• Pain relievers
• Stain remover
• Portable charger
• Tablet or E-reader
• Device chargers
• Power adaptors
• Memory card
• Selfie stick

Other Essentials

• Medical insurance card
• Water bottle (empty)
• Travel blanket or wrap
• Travel pillow
• Laundry bag

Helpful Printouts

• Emergency contacts
• Boarding pass
• Hotel and car rental reservations
• Maps and directions
• Bank and credit card contact info
• Copies of passport and ID

THE PERFECT LUGGAGE

“People go to Alaska for the nature experience,” says Wendy Redal, editorial director for Natural Habitat Adventures , who has been guiding groups in Alaska for 30 years. “It’s not going to be all paved roads, depending on where you’re going.” That means, unless you’re sticking entirely to Alaska’s cities, you’re going to need to be smart about your bag picks. Redal recommends a duffel bag, which can handle getting thrown around tour buses or plunked on gravel surfaces. At 90 liters, the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel is super spacious. It’s also weather-resistant, in case it gets caught in Alaska’s drizzle. If you’re going to be spending an extended amount of time on foot, Osprey’s Atmos AG 65 backpack is lauded by reviewers for its comfort, manageable weight, and versatility for both city and outdoor travel. If you’d rather stick with a traditional suitcase, the G-RO smart bag can handle troublesome surfaces, no problem. Its large wheels are designed for going up stairs, over cobblestones, and yes, even over sand and gravel (no word on how the wheels perform on glaciers).

THE THREE PAIRS OF SHOES YOU’LL NEED FOR EXPLORING ALASKA

If our shoe picks seem a bit utilitarian, there’s a good reason for that: Alaska is extremely casual. “Even the ‘nicer’ restaurants tend to be pretty casual,” Redal says. “If you’re walking around Anchorage or Juneau , the hiking shoes that you wore on the trail will be just fine in town. You won’t be the least bit out of place.”

You’ll want waterproof shoes, since Alaska tends to be damp. The Merrel Moab 2 Hiking Shoes are a favorite among hikers for their comfortable fit, good ventilation, and grippy soles. Salomon’s X Ultra 3 GTX hikers have similar features, plus an easy-to-tighten lacing system that stays in place all day. Salomon’s boot version is the same but provides extra ankle support for when you’re carrying heavy loads or trekking especially uneven terrain. The women’s pick, the Arc’teryx Bora GTX Mid Backpacking Boot , has a separate liner that hugs the ankle to really keep water out, no matter what. But hopefully you’ll get good enough weather to let your feet breathe on your summer trip, and Chaco sandals are beloved by both men and women for their no-slip tread, comfy fit, and hiker-chic vibe that pairs well with casual outfits.

Women’s Shoes

Men’s Shoes

DRESSING LIKE AN ALASKAN

Think flannels, casual work-ready pants, and whatever level of layering the weather calls for. If you spent your whole trip in hiking gear, no one would bat an eye, says Redal. The only exception is for folks who have specifically planned for less nature, more luxury, like upscale cruisers. (Take a look at our ideas for Alaskan cruise outfits here.)

If you really want to blend in, be sure to pack a few pieces of Carhartt clothing and accessories. You’ll notice a few Carhartt recommendations throughout this guide—that’s because the brand has achieved near-mythical status for some Alaskans. Outside Magazine did a deep-dive on the many legends surrounding Carhartt pants, including that they’ve saved locals from walruses, grizzly bears, and chainsaws. (Not theories we recommend testing, for the record.)

Worth mentioning: Our style picks are designed around summer in Alaska, which is really more like mid-May through July. Summer is the most popular season for visitors and typically provides the driest, clearest weather. The days are long, they occasionally (but rarely) get truly warm, and the only thing that isn’t ideal is the threat of relentless mosquitos.

Winter is another story altogether, and we’ve provided picks for must-haves for each month below. But essentially, the advice comes down to one thing: “Layers are going to be the name of the game,” says Redal.

Classic Women’s Outfit for Alaska

Shop the look.

Patagonia Micro Puff Insulated Jacket

Skinny Jeans

Boyfriend Plaid Shirt

Chaco Banded Z/Cloud

Classic men’s outfit for alaska.

Kuhl Spyfire Down Vest

Rigby Dungaree

Lightweight Flannel Shirt

Darn Tough Socks

Teva Arrowood 2 WP

Five foolproof outfits for alaska, 1. what to wear to alaska’s national parks.

When you’re in Alaska, you might get to view awe-inspiring glaciers at Kenai Fjords National Park  or drive deep into Denali National Park to camp at Wonder Lake Campground . There, you’ll get to see Denali , the largest mountain in North America and the showpiece of the stunning Alaska Range. Then, if you like, you can photograph Mount Saint Elias straddling the border of Canada and Alaska, the second-largest mountain in North America. Obviously, you’ll need clothes that can keep up with you. Summer in Alaska means battling aggressive mosquitos, so we recommend ExOfficio ’s InsectShield-treated clothing to ward them off. Convertible pants from brands like Columbia and Mountain Hardware allow you to move into shorts when the weather—or your activity level—calls for it. Otherwise, simple waterproof hiking shoes, a hat, and a watch to track your adventures will do you well.

Women’s Outfit for Alaska’s National Parks

BugsAway Long-Sleeve Shirt

Stretch Convertible Pants

GPS Smartwatch

Merrell Siren Edge

Men’s outfit for alaska’s national parks.

Mountain Hardwear Convertible Pants

Carhartt Buffalo Cap

Adidas Outdoor Terrex Swift R2 GTX

2. what to wear for outdoor activities in alaska.

Getting off the beaten path? It’s hard not to when you’ve got activities like whale watching, dog sledding, walking with reindeer at Running Reindeer Ranch , or taking a restorative steam at Chena Hot Springs . Even if you’re keeping your outdoor activities urban (walking along the 11-mile urban Tony Knowles Coast Trail , exploring Pioneer Park ), having clothes that breathe—and layers to keep you comfortable—is key. A breezy hiking shirt and pants cover your basics. We recommend a dependable fleece to keep you warm when temps drop. Meanwhile, waterproof hiking shoes keep your feet dry no matter the weather.

Women’s Outdoors Outfit for Alaska

Zip-Up Fleece

Patagonia Venga Rock Pants

Avocado Patch Hat

Orvis Open Air Casting Shirt

Columbia Dakota Drifter Waterproof Shoes

Men’s outdoors outfit for alaska.

The North Face 1/4 Zip Fleece

Prana Stretch Pants

Black Diamond Trucker Hat

Columbia Silver Ridge Lite Long-Sleeve Shirt

Keen Targhee II Hiking Shoes

3. what to wear to alaska’s museums.

Just because you can spend your whole trip in hiking gear doesn’t mean you’ll want to. Anchorage has some of the best museums around, like the Alaska Native Heritage Center , where you can learn about Alaska’s 11 major indigenous cultures, or there’s the uber-modern Anchorage Museum located in the city’s downtown area. In Fairbanks, the Museum of the North on the University of Alaska campus is a great trip, and there’s the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum for all you car geeks out there. If you find yourself in Juneau , the Alaska State Museum recently underwent a $136 million renovation. At all of these places, avoid overdoing it with your outfits and stay laid-back. We recommend a blouse or T-shirt with a nice layer on top, plus a pair of casual pants, and some simple sandals or sneaks. You’ll feel more dressed up without broadcasting “city kid’s first time in the country” vibes.

Women’s Museums Outfit for Alaska

BlankNYC Faux Leather Jacket

Kut from the Kloth High-Rise Jeans

Cashmere & Silk Wrap

Sleeveless Ruffle Blouse

Teva Elzada Web Sandals

Men’s museums outfit for alaska.

Carhartt Work Shirt

Rugged Khakis

BDG Washed Pocket Tee

Nixon Time Teller Watch

Nike Zoom HyperAce 2

4. what to wear shopping in anchorage.

Shopping is a great way to pass time on an unplanned afternoon and to search for gifts for folks back home. The place to go in Anchorage? Tikahtnu Commons. No need to get too fancy for your day out, though. A simple blouse or button-down, casual jacket, and comfortable shoes are perfect.

Women’s Shopping Outfit for Alaska

Ex-Boyfriend Trucker Jacket

Twill Chinos

Striped Sleeveless Blouse

Fjallraven Mini Backpack

Birkenstock Arizona Sandals

Men’s shopping outfit for alaska.

Short-Sleeve Shirt

Docker's Chinos

Carhartt Cap

Converse All-Stars

5. what to wear out to restaurants and breweries.

You’ll probably get your fill of on-trail jerky and power cookies and will really perk up at the thought of a sit-down restaurant. Alaska’s mouthwatering options include the sophisticated Kincaid Grill and Wine Bar , Hotel Alyeska ’s destination restaurant Seven Glaciers , the chic-casual South Restaurant and Coffee House , and the world-renowned Midnight Sun Brewing Co . When you’re packing for your meals (and beers) out on the town, think smart-casual: a nice shirt with a blazer or cardigan, cute (and preferably stretchy) pants, and slip-on shoes are great. Heels and dress shoes definitely not required.

Women’s Restaurant/Brewery Outfit for Alaska

Madewell Striped Shirt

Distressed Ankle Jeans

Caslon Knit Blazer

Crossbody Bag

Ugg Slip-On Platform Sneakers

Men’s restaurant/brewery outfit for alaska.

Carhartt Workwear Jacket

Rag & Bone Slim-Fit Chinos

Frank & Eileen Chambray Shirt

Striped Socks

New Balance Sneakers

$9.99 at Amazon

ALASKA’S WEATHER AND SEASONS

Alaska is a massive place, and the southern parts of the state often have little in common with the interior or northern state when it comes to weather. The temperatures and recommendations below are based on Anchorage , a coastal town in southern Alaska. The coast is no stranger to rain, so it’s always good to have a rain jacket and/or umbrella on hand. It probably won’t surprise you that it gets really cold in Alaska during the winter, but you might be happy to hear that summer temperatures can be quite pleasant. Still, daytime and evening temperatures can be quite different, and you very well may want a sweater in the morning even if you’re planning to bask in the sun in the afternoon. Whatever the season, layers are your friend. Layering is what the locals do, and it’s what you should do, too. During the coldest months, you’ll want a medium-thick baselayer paired with a warm and waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget gloves. In the summer, you can get by with a T-shirt, but for evenings, it’s good to have a warmer jacket within reach. Oh, and keep bug spray on hand in the summer, and sunscreen year round.

Note: This data comes from our friends at Weather.com. We recommend using this together with a traditional forecast as you get closer to your departure date.  

• Plan for day temps between 8 and 22
• Expect 0.70 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in January: If you’re going to Alaska in January, we salute you! Dress warm and ready for snow, and remember what we told you: layers are your friend. Make sure they’re thick and waterproof.

Women’s Recommendations: Wool baselayer , leather Gore-Tex gloves , thermal jacket

Men’s Recommendations: Thermal baselayer , ski gloves , insulated jacket

• Plan for day temps between 11 and 26
• Expect 0.68 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in February: Start with wool or synthetic baselayers to help keep you warm and dry. From there, pile on more and more warm layers.

Women’s Recommendations: Wool baselayer , Gore-Tex mitts , windproof jacket

Men’s Recommendations: Thermal baselayer , Gore-Tex mitts , down jacket

• Plan for day temps between 17 and 34
• Expect 0.62 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in March: Nope, still not spring. Stay warm with a winter hat and an insulated jacket.

Women’s Recommendations: Baselayer tights , wool hat , hooded down jacket

Men’s Recommendations: Zip-neck baselayer , acrylic beanie , wind-resistant fleece

• Plan for day temps between 29 and 44
• Expect 0.41 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in April: It might be spring elsewhere, but Alaska’s still cold, and even worse, muddy. You won’t be shedding your jacket this month, but it could be worth bringing rubber boots.

Women’s Recommendations: Micro-puff jacket , waterproof trench , waterproof boots

Men’s Recommendations: Rain/wind jacket , hoodie , rubber boots

• Plan for day temps between 39 and 56
• Expect 0.71 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in May: Finally, summer is on the horizon. You can probably let go of heavier jackets and opt for a fleece or sweater underneath a rain jacket. But the mosquitos are starting to buzz, so wear bug spray.

Women’s Recommendations: 1/4-zip fleece , waterproof trench , insect repellent 

Men’s Recommendations: Fleece jacket , insulated vest , insect repellent

• Plan for day temps between 48 and 63
• Expect 1.04 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in June: Hallelujah, it’s finally summer! Still not exactly toasty, so shorts might be overly hopeful. But a light pair is nice to have in case the sun really does decide to shine.

Women’s Recommendations: Casual shorts , hoodie , SPF 50

Men’s Recommendations: Hybrid shorts , rain/wind jacket , SPF 50+

• Plan for day temps between 53 and 65
• Expect 1.90 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in July: The sun is out, rain is common, and bugs are looking for a feast. Bug spray and a rain jacket are essential, but for once you don’t have to worry too much about bundling up.

Women’s Recommendations: Light rain jacket , anti-bug long-sleeve shirt , insect repellent

Men’s Recommendations: Organic cotton henley , insect repellent , baseball cap

• Plan for day temps between 50 and 64
• Expect 2.89 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in August: It’s rainy but still warm in August, so keep your feet dry and your layers light.

Women’s Recommendations: Blanket shirt , Teflon-coated umbrella , waterproof Chelsea boots

Men’s Recommendations: Teflon-coated umbrella , waterproof trail shoes , rain jacket

• Plan for day temps between 42 and 55
• Expect 2.56 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in September: September is one of the best months to spot wildlife, so bring binoculars—and warm clothing!—for some of the best views you’ve ever seen.

Women’s Recommendations: Micro-puff jacket , weatherproof rain jacket , folding binoculars

Men’s Recommendations: Water-repellent thermal jacket , weatherproof rain jacket , folding binoculars

• Plan for day temps between 28 and 40
• Expect 1.98 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in October: As the temperature dips toward brisk again, bundle up with warm clothes and the occasional hand-warmer.

Women’s Recommendations: Rain trench , 1/4-zip fleece , hand-warmers

Men’s Recommendations: Collared fleece jacket , hooded jacket , hand-warmers

• Plan for day temps between 15 and 27
• Expect 1.03 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in November: If you’re planning to go hunting for the Northern Lights, you’ll need to make sure your winter wardrobe is locked down. A strong base layer and a waterproof insulated jacket are must-haves.

Women’s Recommendations: Long-sleeve baselayer , thermal jacket , insulated leather gloves

Men’s Recommendations: Long-sleeve baselayer , waterproof down jacket , insulated ski gloves

• Plan for day temps between 12 and 24
• Expect 1.23 inches of precipitation

What to Wear in Alaska in December: Hello, snow season. If you’re traveling to Anchorage during December, be ready to swaddle yourself in snow-proof layers.

Women’s Recommendations: Zip-neck baselayer , hooded down parka , micro-fleece-lined gloves

Men’s Recommendations: Merino wool baselayer , waterproof parka , insulated leather gloves

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ALASKA

What is the best time of year to visit alaska.

The most popular time is mid-May through late July when the weather is at its finest. April and August tend to be rainy and muddy, making it rough to explore outside the cities. “Wildlife viewing can be excellent in September,” Redal says. Elk and moose are mating in Denali National Park , and it’s a good time to spot them. The fall colors can also be spectacular. December can be a great time to see the Northern Lights, but you’ll want to move away from the coast and into Alaska’s interior, Redal says, since the skies tend to be clearer. March can be a good time for dog sledding, as it’s still cold enough for snow, but the temperatures are warming so you won’t freeze as quickly.

What are the top places to visit in Alaska?

The national parks in Alaska are some of the finest and most wild in the country. Glacier Bay National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park let you witness the glacial remnants of the last ice age. Denali National Park has a scenic road that bisects six million acres of wild land. If you’re eager to see bears, there’s no finer place than Katmai National Park and Preserve . When it comes to cities, Anchorage , Fairbanks , and Juneau all have their own charm.

Is it easy to get around Alaska? What should I know before renting a car?

Compared to most places in the U.S., Alaska doesn’t have a particularly big road network connecting distant places, Redal says. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get around. Renting a car should be relatively easy from major cities like Anchorage, and in the summer months you can still travel far and wide. Denali National Park, for example, is about a four-hour drive from Anchorage. The state’s ferry system can also transport you to places like Sitka , Kodiak Island , or Ketchikan . Commercial buses are also available for transport, and if you want to get somewhere really remote, you can hire a small plane.

What should I make sure to see in Anchorage? What is there to do in Anchorage at night?

Chugach State Park is just outside Anchorage and gives you near-instant access to hiking and other outdoor recreation. Splurge on a flightseeing tour from town to get unparalleled views of Alaska’s glaciers and wildlife. The museums, like the Alaska Native Heritage Center and Anchorage Museum , are an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Otherwise, take a bike ride around the city or visit the Alaska Botanical Gardens . Midsummer, you have nearly 22 hours of daylight, so “night” is relative. Most local breweries, like Odd Man Rush Brewing and Midnight Sun Brewing Co. , shut down around 8 p.m., so hit one up before heading to one of Anchorage’s excellent restaurants. For live music and a rowdy good time, try Chilkoot Charlie’s .

What do I need to know about buying marijuana in Alaska?

According to Anchorage Daily News , anyone over the age of 21 can buy marijuana. There are limits on the amount you can buy and carry at a single time—an ounce—and it’s banned at national parks and on some private property. You’ll need your ID and cash, as cards aren’t accepted. Whether you can travel in-state with marijuana is tricky—it could be fine, or you could be asked to leave it behind. It’s illegal to have marijuana on Alaska’s ferries, but they’re not actively seeking it out on passengers. You’re not allowed to smoke marijuana in public in Alaska.

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Looking to Hike in Alaska? Try Embarking by Ferry.

T he Alaska ferry system is creaky and unpredictable. But it may be the best way to reach the wildest trailheads and abandoned shorelines in America.

I visited Alaska last summer. Lucky me, right? Only, I was on the kind of massive tour boat that provides grand views of the backcountry, but frustratingly little time to do anything aside from just gawp at it. When my ship pulled into Skagway Harbor, I looked longingly at the high peaks and forests, and thought: “I shall return.”

But on an Alaska State Ferry, next time. It provides no-crowd, low-cost (once you reach Alaska, that is) access to some of the most remote, beautiful trailheads, beaches, streams, and lakes in the land. It suffers all the vagaries of local transit, with service interruptions and cancellations. But if you have the time and patience to go slow, there’s no better way to see Alaska.

My ship—Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam—had a population of 3,000, while Skagway is inhabited by only 1,100 people. We overwhelmed them. But after a few hours pawing the knickknacks in town, we were herded back on board, the captain blew our big horn, and we sailed away. 

“For a lot of Backpacker readers, that will be a great moment,” says Jennie Flaming, an adventure planner and voice of the Alaska Uncovered podcast. “When the cruise ships leave, the locals take over, and you can learn what Alaska is all about.” 

Flaming is all about local flavor and color, and you can’t get more local or flavorful than the Alaska Marine Highway System .  

The Alaska State Ferry—as it is also known—is as different from the Nieuw Amsterdam as Campbell’s Soup is from vichyssoise. And that’s a good thing. It’s the ferry of the people, connecting 3,500 miles of rugged coastline, 30 rugged towns, and the rugged people who live in them. According to the AMHS website, it’s the only marine route recognized as National Scenic Byway and All-American Road.

Ready to hop aboard? Flaming, who loves the ferry system, advises a bit of caution. 

“Compared with a cruise ship, this is a Greyhound bus,” she says. “It’s transportation for people who don’t need a lot of amenities. There’s no cell service or wifi. It’s Backpacker , not Conde Nast Traveler. ” 

Sounds perfect, if you ask me. Imagine a $466, 3-day cruise from Bellingham, Washington, to Juneau, Alaska—a great jumping off point for further ferry or foot exploration.  

Long-haul Alaska ferries have a designated area where you can pitch your tent and while away your chug from here to there. You use a towel to dry your tent’s footprint, duct-tape it to the deck, and then toss all your gear inside so your tent doesn’t blow away in the 35-knot winds that will rake the boat when you’re underway. Long-haul ferries are equipped with showers, coin-op laundries, and—on the bigger ships—cafeterias where you can buy a beer and salmon burger, and meet the locals. 

Here’s the guarantee: The views will be sublime, and you’ll have plenty of time to admire them when the summer sun shines for eighteen hours. And that also means oceans of opportunity to download town and trail beta from your neighbors on the tent deck. 

But where will the ferry take you? It’s a big state, and the possibilities are nearly endless.  

For Dayhikers

You don’t usually depend on the D.O.T. for trail intel, but then, Alaska is no ordinary place. Sam Dapcevich, an information officer for the State Ferry, has plenty of ideas where you should take your warmup hikes. 

If you don’t have time for the ferry ride from Bellingham, you might fly into Juneau, with its international airport and plenty of hikes nearby . It’s a good place to stock up on food and bear spray for your adventure, and it has good access to the ferry system when you’re ready for more.

For an initial leg stretcher, head for the Mt. Roberts trailhead at the end of Basin Road, a mile walk from downtown, and you won’t even need to rent a car. 

“A good short loop is the East Glacier Trail, 5 miles from the airport in Juneau,” says Dapcevich. “It’s about 3.5 miles and has beautiful vistas and forest scenery. There’s some history from mining in the area too.” 

Flaming recommends taking the tram from downtown Juneau to the top of Mt. Roberts, which has incredible views on a clear day. Then hike from the top of the tram to Gastineau Peak for the views and wildflowers, which bloom from June to August. Ready for more? Now hop the ferry for the six-hour scenic route from Juneau to Gustavus, the diminutive capital of Glacier Bay National Park .

For Glacier Hounds and Kayak Trekkers

If you’ve traveled the tourist circuit, your mental image of Alaska may be of enormous cruise ships and clueless flatlanders, and they are in fact like fleas on dogs near the ferry docks. But if you manage to escape those jumpoff points, you’ll escape the crowds too. 

“Ninety-six percent of the people who visit Glacier Bay National Park are on a cruise ship,” says Flaming. “It’s a fantastic destination for independent travelers by ferry.”

The Bartlett Cove campground is never full, according to Flaming, and the 4.5-mile Bartlett River Trail is one of her “must-dos.” If you really want to experience Glacier Bay, join a guided kayak tour, or plan your own. You can rent sea kayaks or join a tour offered by Alaska Mountain Guides , Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks , or Spirit Walker Expeditions . If you want to get up close and personal with bergy bits and growlers (the bushel-basket-sized ice boulders that cascade off of glaciers), this is the place for you. 

For Angler-Hikers

Ditch the freeze-dried dinners and catch your own on a visit to Sitka. If you hop on a ferry in Juneau, you’ll be there in a mere nine hours. Dapcevich notes that there are plenty of trails that lead out of town, and good trout fishing from the lakes that you’ll find along them. In the summer, you can make like a brown bear and fish for salmon from the beaches. If you’re after altitude, he cites Gavan Hill and Harbor Mountains as a great 12-mile round trip up to the high peaks inland, with spectacular views of the Alexander Archipelago to the south. Camp at Starrigavan and use it as your jumping off point for exploring the Tongass National Forest , the nation’s largest. 

Flaming recommends these hikes in Sitka, for the non-anglers among you: First, check in with the Sitka Trail Works , to learn about the extensive trail system they’re creating and for local intel. On a clear day, head 2 miles up to Picnic Rock , with views of downtown Sitka and the pyramidal peak of Mt. Verstovia, a perilous scramble for sure-footed hikers. In the rain (likely), take the Indian River Trail 4.5 miles to a no-doubt gushing waterfall.

For the Trip of a Lifetime

Flaming doesn’t hesitate: “It’s the Chilkoot Trail,” she raves. “I can’t imagine too many more spectacular backpacking experiences.” You’ll catch a six-hour ferry north from Juneau to Skagway, and hitch a ride out to the trailhead near Dyea Campground. It’s a 33 mile hike to Lake Bennett, in Canada, gaining about 4,000 feet of elevation and moving through eight distinct climate zones. 

“It’s like a wilderness-gold rush museum,” says Flaming. “It’s a national historic park run by the U.S. National Park Service and Parks Canada, so you’ll find interpretive signs along the way, and a cast iron stove from the 1890s, abandoned by a gold miner.” 

Once you reach trail’s end , you can hop on the White Pass Yukon Railroad to return to Skagway. Not up for the five-day trip? You can book whistle-stops on the Yukon Railroad, and ride to a dayhike destination. The 6-mile Denver Glacier trail will take you through hemlock forest, past Glacier Lake, all the way to the hanging blue ice of Denver Glacier. Book an overnight in the Denver Caboose Cabin , and take turns playing conductor when you’re not soaking up the glacier views. 

More Ports, More Hikes

Headed elsewhere on the Alaska State ferry? Here are the best trails in other ports: 

Ketchikan: The 2-mile Rainbird Trail, through towering forests, or the 10-mile traverse between Carlana and Persevereance lakes, which climbs over Juno and Ward mountains. 

Haines: Take the 6-mile round trip to Battery Point for water views, or Mt. Riley, a 5-mile out-and-back with the big views you came to Alaska for.

Seward: For dreamers and trail activists, consider the Alaska Long Trail , which exists in bits and pieces on the 167-mile trip from Seward up to Eagle River, and then on to Denali National Park. The goal is to extend the trail all the way up to Fairbanks, for a total of 500 miles. 

This wouldn’t be an article about Outdoor Alaska without some timely warnings, and Flaming offers them. Carry bear spray and stay vigilant for the big wildlife (bears, wolves, moose) and the tiny predators as well: mosquitos. 

You’ll need another sort of protection on an Alaska trip, as well: Travel insurance. 

“It’s super important,” she warns, “if your ferry is canceled, or if you’re stuck somewhere you don’t want to be. It’s confusing, and the schedule is weird.” Flaming shops the insurance marketplace insuremytrip.com before she boards a vessel for the unpredictable Great North.

Another must: Be ready for rain.  

“Test the rainfly on your tent in the shower before you go, buy waterproof footwear, and lay out for a new rain jacket and pants,” says Flaming. “Mentally prepare yourself for being a little damp, even on sunny days. The coast is a rainforest, so the woods will be soaking.” 

Hey, if you launch your adventure by ferry, you’ve got to expect water, water, everywhere—flowing, falling, tidal, and frozen. But wet is wild, and Alaska’s hiking trails are as wild as they come.