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Things To Do In Alaska
June 25, 2024

Best Things to Do in Alaska: Your Ultimate Bucket List!

Alaska, sometimes known as the "Last Frontier," is a huge, untamed state that offers visitors many thrilling adventures. Hence, many people want to know about things to do in Alaska! Alaska is a place that has enough to offer everyone, from the breathtaking natural beauty of its fjords, mountains, and glaciers to the energetic cities. This state is a must-visit location whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or just searching for a different kind of vacation. In this blog, I will look at the best activities in Alaska, including hiking, fishing, wildlife cruises, and dog sledding. Additionally, I will also cover the top tourist destinations, such as the breathtaking Inside Passage, Denali National Park, and the Northern Lights.  So, if that is what you were looking for, I have you covered! Keep reading to learn more… Alaska If you live in the States, Alaska is a place that you must consider traveling to.  The country is famous for its massive glaciers, wildlife, northern lights, beautiful views of numerous National Parks, and midnight sun. If you are thinking about visiting the country for your vacation, it is important to make a list of all the things that you want to do. To find out some of the best and most unconventional things to do in the country, keep reading the article until the end… Things To Do In Alaska: Your Ultimate Checklist for Alaska! Looking for the best and most unconventional things to do in Alaska? Well, I have got you covered. Here are the top ten things to do in Alaska: 1. Train Ride On Yukon Route Is there anyone who does not like a good train ride? The train ride through the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad leaves a clear image in people's minds. You will be able to see the beautiful landscape of the past, which consists of forests, mountains, gorges, waterfalls, and glaciers. One of the most charming features of this train ride is the Gold Rush, which has remained the same since its beginning. 2. Witness The Magical Northern Lights The magical dance of the Aurora Borealis is something that you cannot miss when you visit the country.  The best time to see the beautiful northern lights is between August and April. This is always on the bucket list of tourists who visit the country. There are many hotels and lodges that are available for stay specifically for this reason. If you do not get to see the northern lights because they are not visible all the time, you do not need to get disheartened. The beautiful and clear night sky is something that will make up for that loss! 3. Visit The Mendenhall Ice Caves If you are looking for something unusual and unconventional, visit the Mendenhall Ice Caves. The ice caves are part of the Mendenhall Glacier. With sky-blue ice walls that have formed naturally over time, they have a beautiful and eerie appeal. They are undoubtedly one of the rarest and most fascinating structures in the world. These caves are melting fast due to various environmental factors. So, if you're interested in having the experience of a lifetime, visit the Ice Caves when you visit Alaska. 4. Do Not Miss The Denali National Park The City and Borough of Juneau, or Juneau as it is simply called, is located in the Alaskan panhandle and the Gastineau Channel. It is one of the most famous places in the country, and there are many reasons for that to happen. Denali National Park, located in Juneau, is one of the most visited places in Alaska. It is a modern building that features several exhibits and programs that are interesting to both children and adults. The awe-inspiring view of the location of the center of something is going to leave a mark on your mind forever. You can also watch short films, take mind-blowing pictures, and learn about wildlife and glaciers. 5. See The Hubbard Glacier Located in Yakutat Bay, the view of the Hubbard Glacier is a mesmerizing treat for visitors. It is one of the most visited sights in Alaska, and that is all thanks to this massive glacier, the largest in North America. Unfortunately, due to safety precautions, sightseers are only allowed to see the glacier semi-close. The beauty of the colossal glacier, seven miles long, is sure to leave you breathless. The view is beautiful and terrifying at the same time, which is why tourists can never really forget how it looks. 6. Hike The Skagway Shore Skagway is a great place in Alaska that is famous for several things. First, it attracts millions of tourists from across the world every year. Even if people generally come here to stroll the boardwalks, there is something that you shouldn't miss when you visit Skagway. And that is the Skagway Shore hike or trail. Popularly known as the Chilkoot Trail, this one is great for adventurous souls. By hiking over the Golden Stairs, you can trace hikers' footsteps and head to the marvelous gold mines. The place became the talk of the town when it was featured in the Chaplin movie The Golden Rush.  The trail follows the Taya River, a view you cannot miss. 7. Watch The Whales In Juneau As I mentioned above, Juneau offers much to explore. In addition to Denali National Park, the place is famous for whales. You can easily enjoy the whale-watching experience as you witness them up close. Once the captain of the jetty or cruise spots the mammal, he cuts the engine of the boat to ensure that the whale swims up the surface, close to the starboard. Nothing can be compared to watching the huge humpback whale emerging from the ocean just to greet you! 8. Cruise The Kenai Fjords National Park If you are a nature lover, then this one's for you. You will be able to witness the place where the mountains, the ocean, and the ice melt. If there is something that Alaska is famous for, then it is the presence of several glaciers. That is a view that you are going to get from the Kenai Fjords National Park. Located in Seward, this national park is a haven for people who like to enjoy wildlife. It is one of the most famous sightseeing places in the country, and you can see puffins, porpoises, arctic birds, orcas, and sea lions! 9. Drive Through The Top Of The World Highway The Top of the World Highway is a 127-km highway popular for driving and biking. It connects the Taylor Highway to the Klondike Highway. The highway is named so because of its high altitude of 4,515 ft. Although it was closed during the 2020 pandemic due to travel restrictions, it is now open to the general public and tourists. What is good about this highway? First, you get to witness a marvelous view that will stay with you till the end. 10. Visit The Anchorage Market Anchorage is best known for its beautiful wildlife, glaciers, and trails. It is considered to be the state's cultural soul. The Anchorage market has always been a cross between farmers' and flea markets. The market is located on the south side of Dimond Center Mall. There are as many as 200 stalls from which to choose. The best part? The vendors who put up stalls there change daily. And there is nothing that you cannot afford in the Anchorage market. Food, clothes, jewelry, and other accessories. You will find everything literally here. The market runs from May to September and is definitely one of the most vibrant and bustling parts of the city. Recent Developments in Alaska and its Effect on Tourism Like many other states in the United States, Alaska is also going through massive and highly important developments. For instance, the Willow Project, a significant oil and gas drilling project on the North Slope, has been approved. Although it is anticipated to provide thousands of jobs and boost domestic energy output, environmental concerns have been raised. The agreement signed by the Alaska Gasline Development Corp. to sell gas to Southcentral Alaska is a first step toward constructing a pipeline. This would carry natural gas from the North Slope, potentially lowering energy costs and boosting energy security. Climate change-related relocation of the Yup'ik village of Newtok is something that is being carried out at present! With more than half of the villagers going to the new location of Mertarvik, the process is anticipated to be finished by fall. Furthermore, the Cook Inlet region of Alaska has offshore wind, wave, and tidal resources. According to research by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, these have the potential to meet the state's energy needs. But why am I talking about all this? You see, tourism is impacted by these developments in both positive and negative ways. While the Willow Project and the gas pipeline might draw business visitors and generate employment, eco-tourists might be turned off by environmental concerns. Although the relocation of Newtok village might increase awareness of climate change, it might also adversely affect local tourism. The creation of renewable energy resources has the potential to boost Alaska's standing as an eco-friendly travel destination and draw eco-friendly travelers. Frequently Asked Questions:- Now that you have almost reached the end of this blog, here are some questions that you must take a look at before leaving! Q1.What Are The Best Things To Do In Alaska? Ans: There are many things to do in Alaska. Some of the most famous things you can do in the country are visit the national parks like Denali and Kenai Fjords, watch the colossal Hubbard glacier, and watch the whales greeting you in Juneau. Q2. What Is The Thing That Alaska Is Famous For? Ans: Alaska is an important country in North America that is famous for many things like its natural wildlife and beautiful valleys. However, the most important thing that the country is famous for is the Hubbard Glacier. It is the largest glacier on the entire continent. Q3. What Is The Best Month To Travel To Alaska? Ans: You can visit the country any time of the year. However, the best time to plan your vacation in the country is the months from June to August.The best time is July because of the pleasant weather conditions that make your stay memorable. Wrapping It Up! If you were thinking about going on a vacation this year, Alaska should totally be on your list. There are many things to do in Alaska. The country is famous for its wildlife, bustling markets, and nightlife. When you visit Alaska, you should not miss the following: visiting the Anchorage market, hiking the Chilkoot trail in Skagway, visiting national parks like Denali and Kenai Fjords, and witnessing the gigantic Hubbard Glacier. If you were looking for unconventional places to visit in Alaska, I hope you found this article helpful. If you have any other queries, feel free to let me know in the comments below. Until then, stay safe and happy! Read Also: Top 10 Best Places To Visit In USA Niagara Falls – Lodging, Weather, Map, News Glacier National Park – Lodging, Weather, Map, News