Check it Off the Bucket List: 10 Can't-Miss Things to Do in Alaska

Keyword(s): things to do in Alaska

Breathtaking moments come in various forms, aside from the allure of the seashore or the calm of the woods. They also come from various places, including areas laden with snow and cold.

Take Alaska for instance. There are a lot of places to explore and activities to experience in this wonderful place. 
From the awe-inspiring glaciers to the sight of wildlife, there is always something you can bring home.
Have you thought of something you wish to check off from your bucket list? Not sure where to start your Alaskan adventure?

Here are some things to do in Alaska that you can explore and enjoy:

1. Whale Watching

One of the things to do in Alaska you can try is to watch the whales during a day cruise. You can spot them at the Kenai Fjord National Park. While you are there, you might end up spotting more than just the whales.
During the day cruise, you might also see sea lions, porpoises, and even eagles along with other rare birds. This is all part of the astounding Alaskan wildlife.

2. Snorkeling

While it may sound unlikely at a glance, you can also enjoy snorkeling in Alaska. It’s cold up there but there are a few months each year when the water is warm enough for a dip. With the average summer water temperature at 55 degrees Fahrenheit, you can explore the assortment of underwater flora and fauna. 

You can also explore and snorkel the inside passage in Ketchikan and experience the underwater wonders of Alaska. 

3. Visiting the Glacier

Don’t forget to visit a glacier, a hallmark activity for any tourist in Alaska.  There are three ways to proceed with this activity. One method is to explore by air. This is often referred to as flightseeing. You can have a wonderful perspective as you view the glacier on a helicopter or plane. Another method you can try is by land. You can go with ice climbs, hikes, or even ATV tours. This allows for a direct experience with the glacier. And of course, going by water is also something you can try out. You can go with kayaking, canoeing, and wildlife cruises. 

4. Dogsledding

Another way you can experience Alaska is by trying out the national sport of dogsledding. You can try it on normal land covered by snow or the popular variety of dogsledding on ice.  Visit one of the competitive Iditarod kennels during the winter. Experience the ride through the trails they use for race training   There’s also a snowless variant of dogsledding if you happen to be short on time. You’ll have to use a wheeled summertime sled for this type of activity.

5. Bear Viewing

Bears are among the other majestic animals you can set your eyes on while in Alaska. Head over to Katmai National Park and you can even spot one in action. It’s a double-win because you get to see breathtaking landscapes and views while out looking for bears. You can check out the details of this expedition to know more.

6. Wilderness Safari

There is also the option of taking a traditional wilderness safari. With a wilderness expedition, you can experience and bear witness to the majestic Alaskan scenery on a safe, well-explored route.

You also get to explore fjords and rainforests, as well as sights of spectacular Alaskan mountains, vistas, and fields. You can even conclude this with the sight of the Davidson Glacier.

These offer wonderful opportunities to capture them with photography, allowing for the best souvenirs to bring home with you.

7. Bering Sea Crab Fishermen’s Tour

You may have seen or heard of the Discovery Channel show called Deadliest Catch. You can get the chance to ride aboard one of the fishing vessels featured on the show, the Aleutian Ballad.  You can take the tour to meet some of the captains and crew members from the show. With the ship tricked out to provide you comfort while aboard. This is one tour you should give a shot and include on your bucket list.

8. Exploring the Ice Caves

Do you want another scenic location to explore? Consider going to the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area. Here, you will find these blue ice caves. Keep in mind this is an activity unfit for amateur explorers. You need an experienced guide that knows the current conditions of the ice caves. Said guide should have all the right gear and knowledge on the trails.

9. Seeing the Northern Lights

Both a scientific marvel and a spectacular view, the Aurora Borealis happens to be one good reason to head north to Alaska. The Northern Lights manifest due to the solar particles blown into the Earth’s magnetic field.
The ideal time to catch these wonderful lights is during the winter but you can still catch glimpses during the summer. 
Have your cameras ready and hire a tour guide to lead you towards the best spots in viewing the Northern Lights and taking photos of it.

10. Expedition to  Kodiak Island

Saving one of the best areas for last, a place that you should check out while you are in Alaska is Kodiak Island. This expedition from Kodiak Island to Katmai hosts a lot of scenic areas that you can take in and photograph.  In addition to that, you can also experience the wildlife as you go. Check out the details of this expedition for more.

Now You Have Things to Do In Alaska!

Alaska carries a lot of wondrous sights and experiences that you should check out, from the glaciers to the wildlife, and the local culture. Now that you have an idea of things to do in Alaska, take every moment to experience these and make sure you enjoy every minute of it.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Alaska today. To get started with planning an expedition or a tour, contact us and we’ll get to you right away.