Alaska is a vast and rugged land full of immense natural beauty and incredible wildlife encounters. Planning an Alaska adventure brings exciting possibilities, from bear viewing and glacier hiking to fishing and cruising between ports. If you’re specifically looking to encounter the majestic bears, “Your Ultimate Guide to Bear Viewing in Alaska: An Unforgettable Experience!” is a perfect resource for you. Use this comprehensive guide to help you plan your ideal Alaska experience.
When is the Best Time to Visit Alaska?
Alaska has four distinct seasons, each offering different activities.
- Summer (June-August) brings warmer weather and almost 24 hours of daylight. This is the best time for cruising, hiking, and bear viewing. Temperatures range from 40s to 60s.
- Fall (September-November) offers beautiful changing leaves and Northern Lights viewing. It’s still cold but less rainy. Temperatures can dip below freezing.
- Winter (December-February) activities include dog sledding, skiing, and ice festivals when there’s only 4-6 hours of daylight. Bundle up for temps as low as -40F!
- Spring (March-May) brings longer days, wildlife babies, and the start of cruising season. Temperatures range from 30s to 50s.
Where are the Top Destinations and Attractions in Alaska?
Alaska’s top destinations offer stunning scenery and signature experiences.
- Anchorage – Alaska’s largest city with an urban vibe and access to wilderness activities like hiking and fishing. Don’t miss the Anchorage Museum.
- Denali National Park – Home to North America’s highest peak, abundant wildlife like bears, moose, caribou, and wolves. Go hiking or see it via bus.
- Glacier Bay National Park – Cruise or kayak this scenic park to view tidewater glaciers, whales, and seals.
- Kenai Peninsula – Boasts stunning fjords, hiking, fishing, and bear viewing opportunities. Don’t miss Exit Glacier.
- Ketchikan – Known for its Native culture, coastal scenery, and wild bears. Check out the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center.
- Juneau – Alaska’s remote capital, featuring lush forests, Mendenhall Glacier, and gold rush history. Ride Mount Roberts Tramway.
Wondering about your travel options? “Getting to Alaska: Your Guide to Flights, Cruises, and More” provides detailed insights. How Should I Get to Alaska?
How Should I Get to Alaska?
Reaching Alaska takes time no matter which mode you choose.
- Flights – Regular flights arrive in Anchorage and Fairbanks. Charter flights reach smaller towns. Book early for deals.
- Cruises – Popular way to see glacier-lined coasts and ports like Ketchikan and Skagway. Go roundtrip from Seattle or Vancouver.
- Ferries – Alaska Marine Highway System ferries access towns like Haines, Sitka, and Gustavus from Bellingham, WA. Book months ahead.
- Road Trips – Driving the Alaska highway from the Lower 48 takes 1-2 weeks one way. Factor in long distances between towns and services.
- Rail – Take the Alaska Railroad between Anchorage, Denali, and Fairbanks from late May to September. Book well ahead.
What Top Tours and Activities Should I Book?
Immersing yourself in Alaska’s stunning landscapes often requires guides to access remote areas. Here are top tours and activities to consider:
- Bear Viewing – View brown bears in natural habitats like Katmai National Park and Lake Clark National Park. Fly-in day trips or multi-day camping tours available.
- Flightseeing – See glaciers, mountains, and whales from a small plane or helicopter. Flights depart from Juneau, Ketchikan, and other hubs.
- Hiking and Backpacking – Trek through forests, up mountains, or across glacial icefields with skilled guides. Popular in Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Chugach State Park.
- Sea Kayaking – Paddle calm inlets viewing remote coastlines and wildlife. Take day trips or multi-day camping adventures.
- River Rafting – Ride Class II-IV rapids surrounded by spectacular scenery near Denali National Park and Talkeetna.
- Glacier Trekking – Strap on crampons and trek across glacial landscapes with a guide. Available at Exit Glacier, Matanuska Glacier, and others.
- Fishing – Hire experienced guides to fish for salmon, halibut, trout and more on remote rivers, lakes, and coasts.
When and Where Can I See Wildlife in Alaska?
One of Alaska’s top attractions is the abundance and diversity of wildlife. The best opportunities to see animals include:
- May-September – Bears feeding on salmon runs at Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park, Anan Creek near Wrangell, and McNeil River State Game Sanctuary.
- May-September – Whales like humpback, orca, and beluga whales can be seen from cruise ships or on whale watching tours out of Juneau, Seward, or Ketchikan.
- May-September – The huge numbers of caribou in the Porcupine Herd can be seen on the drive between Anchorage and Denali National Park.
- July-August – Moose, especially cow moose with calves, are frequently spotted around Anchorage, Denali, Kenai Peninsula, and along the Alaska Highway.
- February-April – Thousands of bald eagles gather near the Chilkat River near Haines for the late winter salmon run.
What Should I Pack for an Alaska Adventure?
Preparing for an Alaska trip takes forethought due to the remoteness, changeable weather, and rugged terrain.
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots – For hiking trails and glaciers
- Lightweight wool and synthetics – Avoid cotton! Layers are key.
- A good fleece or down jacket – For warmth during evenings and adventures
- Windproof and waterproof outer layer – Essential rain jacket and pants
- Warm hat and gloves – Temps can dip below freezing even in summer
- Binoculars – For exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities
- Bear spray – For safety in bear country when hiking
- Motion sickness medication – For boat and plane excursions
- Mosquito repellent – Especially in early summer
- Eye mask and ear plugs – For sleeping during the midnight sun
Considering Alaska’s diverse climates, packing can be a challenge. Our blog, “Packing for Alaska: The Travel Essentials You Need,” can help. What Should I Pack for an Alaska Adventure?
Proper gear and clothing will ensure you have an enjoyable, safe Alaska adventure amidst the dramatic landscapes and wildlife! Ready to start planning your trip of a lifetime? Contact the Alaska experts at Bear Viewing in Alaska today!
