Places to Visit in Alaska in Summer From Glaciers to National Parks
Places to Visit in Alaska in Summer From Glaciers to National Parks: Alaska’s unique geography and stunning natural wonders make it a must-visit destination for any adventurer. Despite its physical separation from the mainland United States, the state’s seclusion only adds to its allure. From the bustling city of Anchorage to the serene wilderness of Denali National Park, Alaska has something for every type of traveller.
Alaska’s summer season, in particular, is an ideal time to visit as the days are longer and the weather is mild. Take in the breathtaking views of the state’s glaciers and mountains, or try your hand at fishing in its crystal-clear rivers and lakes. For a truly unique experience, witness the spectacle of the Northern Lights, which can be seen in Alaska’s dark skies during the summer months.
While exploring the major cities is certainly worthwhile, it’s crucial to venture out and experience the state’s renowned landmarks and attractions. Make the most of your Alaskan adventure by including as many of these top destinations as possible in your itinerary. You can include these places to visit in Alaska in summer in your bucket list.
1. Denali National Park
Denali National Park is one of Alaska’s most renowned and beloved attractions, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its awe-inspiring landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park is home to the iconic and towering peak of Denali, the highest mountain in North America, which serves as a stunning backdrop to the park’s scenic vistas.
Within the protected wilderness area, visitors can observe a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, wolves, caribou, and more. Take a leisurely stroll along the River, gaze in wonder at the stillness of Wonder Lake, or embark on a challenging hike through the Polychrome Pass to truly immerse yourself in the park’s breathtaking beauty.
Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a first-time visitor, there are plenty of ways to explore Denali National Park and its surrounding wilderness. Popular activities include hiking, whitewater rafting, and backcountry camping, which allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the park’s pristine natural beauty.
For those seeking a more comfortable and convenient way to experience the park, there are also bus tours available, offering a climate-controlled and safe way to explore Denali’s vast landscapes. For a more educational experience, the Denali Visitor Center offers short ranger-led trail walks and informative exhibits that provide a deeper understanding of the park’s history, geology, and ecology
2. Katmai National Park
Located in Southwestern Alaska, Katmai National Park is a picturesque getaway that’s easily accessible from both Homer and Kodiak Island. The park’s centerpiece is the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an enormous ash flow that was formed after the eruption of the Novarupta Volcano in 1912.
Visitors can explore the park’s unique landscape through hiking trails, scenic flights, or guided tours. For wildlife enthusiasts, Katmai National Park is also home to one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world, providing an unforgettable opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous excursion, Katmai National Park is a must-visit destination in Alaska’s summer season.
In addition to its unique volcanic landscape, Katmai National Park offers incredible opportunities to witness and interact with Alaska’s iconic wildlife. The park is home to one of the largest populations of brown bears in the world, and visitors can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat as they feed on the local salmon.
For those who enjoy fishing, Katmai National Park is a must-visit destination, as it offers ample opportunities to catch rainbow trout and salmon in its clear rivers and lakes. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time fisherman, the park’s abundant fish populations make for an unforgettable fishing experience.
3. Kenai Fjords National Park
Visiting Kenai Fjords National Park is like stepping back in time to the Ice Age. The park’s glaciers and ice caps still exist and touch the edge of the ocean, creating dramatic and unforgettable views.
Nearly half of the park is covered in ice year-round, and its deep fjords have been shaped by water valleys over millennia. These fjords provide an ideal habitat for a variety of aquatic wildlife, and visitors can easily spot migrating whales, sea lions, and birds swooping down to feed on the fish in the water.
With a range of outdoor activities available, visitors can experience the park’s natural beauty in a variety of ways, from hiking its many trails to kayaking through its stunning fjords. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-visit destination for any Alaska itinerary.
Due to the icy conditions and limited accommodation options within the park, many visitors choose to explore Kenai Fjords National Park on a guided day tour. These tours offer a variety of activities, including glacier walks, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Alternatively, visitors can opt to stay in nearby towns such as Seward, which offer a range of lodging options and easy access to the park’s many trails and scenic vistas. Whether you’re exploring the park for a day or a week, Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-see destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Kenai Fjords National Park is the best for Places to Visit in Alaska in Summer.
4. Mendenhall Glacier
Just a short drive from the city of Juneau lies the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, an enormous glacier that is calving, or separating, into its own adjacent lake. This natural wonder is a sight to behold, and visitors have a range of options to experience the glacier’s beauty up close.
A simple shuttle ride will take you to the glacier’s visitor center, where you can hike to various viewpoints to get a closer look. For a truly unforgettable experience, a helicopter ride over the glacier offers a stunning bird’s-eye view and the chance to land on the glacier itself.
No matter which option you choose, the Mendenhall Glacier is sure to leave you in awe of its sheer size and natural beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of Alaska’s most iconic landmarks during your summer trip to the Last Frontier.
For adventurous and physically fit visitors, the Mendenhall Glacier West Glacier Trail is a must-try. While challenging, this trail offers unparalleled opportunities for photography and breathtaking views of the glacier. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center is a great option.
Here, visitors can learn about the history and formation of the glacier through educational exhibits, and enjoy panoramic views from multiple viewing platforms. Whether you choose to take on the West Glacier Trail or simply relax at the Visitor Center, the Mendenhall Glacier is an essential stop on any Alaskan itinerary.
5. Juneau
Located on the Gastineau Channel, the charming city of Juneau serves as the capital of Alaska and is a major port of call for cruise ships. The city is filled with attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy during the summer months. Be sure to visit the Alaska State Museum to learn about the state’s history and cultural heritage, and stop by the Alaska State Capitol to see where government decisions are made. For a moment of tranquility, head to the Shrine of St. Therese, a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
To get an excellent view of Juneau, take a ride on the Mount Roberts Tramway, which will take you to the top of Mount Roberts, where you can embark on one of the many hiking trails overlooking the city. Visitors can also warm up with a cold beer by taking a brewery tour, as Juneau is home to several breweries. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or beer, there’s something for everyone in Juneau.
For a taste of local flavor and unique finds, make sure to visit Front Street during your trip to Juneau. This bustling street is home to a variety of excellent souvenir shops, where you can find everything from handcrafted jewelry to traditional Alaskan art.
In addition to the shopping, Front Street also boasts a plethora of local restaurants serving up regional cuisine. From fresh seafood to hearty game dishes, there’s something for every palate. Be sure to try the local favorite: Alaskan king crab legs.
After your shopping and dining, take a stroll along the picturesque boardwalk and soak in the stunning views of the harbor and surrounding mountains. A trip to Front Street is a must for any visitor to Juneau.
6. Wrangell St. Elias National Park
Nestled in the heart of the Mountain Kingdom of North America, the Wrangell St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the U.S. Here, three mountain ranges – the Chugach, the Wrangell, and St. Elias – converge, creating a breathtaking landscape. The park offers a range of activities for visitors, from glacier hiking trails to overnight camping adventures.
Hunting, fishing, mountain biking, and kayaking are also popular pastimes. The park is home to informative visitor centers and ranger stations, providing visitors with a wealth of information to enhance their experience.
7. Anchorage
Anchorage, the largest city in the state of Alaska, may not be the capital, but it serves as the economic heart of Alaska, with almost half of the state’s residents living in or around the city. Despite being a bustling city, Anchorage is only a 30-minute drive away from the Alaskan wilderness, providing a perfect balance between the comforts of a large US city and easy access to the great outdoors.
To begin your exploration of Anchorage, consider visiting some of the city’s top cultural attractions such as the Anchorage Museum of History and Art, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, or the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Once you’ve had your fill of museums and cultural sites, take a scenic drive along the Seward Highway to Potter’s Marsh for some amazing birdwatching opportunities, or head out on a hike along the stunning Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.
With so much to see and do in Anchorage, you’re sure to find plenty of ways to make the most of your time in Alaska’s largest city. It is the best for Places to Visit in Alaska in Summer.
8. Homer
If you’re seeking to immerse yourself in nature and indulge in some exciting fishing, then Homer must be included in your Alaskan itinerary without fail. Located on the beautiful Kenai Peninsula, Homer is widely renowned as the fishing capital of Alaska and also serves as the gateway to a plethora of national parks.
While in Homer, you can take a leisurely stroll along the beach leading to the iconic Homer Spit, embark on a drive up Skyline Drive to witness breathtaking views, or catch a glimpse of diverse wildlife at Kachemak Bay State Park, home to mountain goats, bald eagles, sea lions, humpback whales, and black bears.
Day-long halibut fishing trips are immensely popular and guarantee a satisfying haul, which local restaurants will gladly prepare for your dinner.
9. Ketchikan
Ketchikan, the southernmost city in Alaska, is a scenic paradise that has been the first stop for many cruise ships heading north along the coast. Located at the foot of Deer Mountain, Ketchikan is renowned for its diverse range of attractions.
Visitors can explore the Totem Heritage Center, the Tongass Historical Museum, or the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. The most picturesque downtown stretch is the historic Creek Street, which is only a stone’s throw away from the cruise ship docks. Once a rowdy red-light district, Creek Street now houses a quieter class of establishments while still retaining its delightful historic charm.
Ketchikan is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, and there is no shortage of guided day tours to experience activities such as salmon fishing, hiking through the Tongass National Forest, or ziplining through the tree canopy.
10. Glacier Bay National Park
Located in the Panhandle of Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park is a world-renowned destination for glacier sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and wildlife watching. Kayaking is an incredible way to explore the park and witness stunning views, and visitors can either rent kayaks or join a guided tour.
Bartlett Cove offers a plethora of hiking trails that meander in and around glaciers. The park’s most visited and photographed spots are Muir Inlet, which prohibits motorized boats, and the John Hopkins Glacier.
Conclusion:
Alaska is a stunning destination to visit in the summer with an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities to experience. From glaciers and fjords to wildlife and national parks, there is something for everyone. Some of the top places to visit in Alaska in summer include Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Glacier Bay National Park, the Inside Passage, Anchorage, and Juneau.
Each of these locations offers unique and breathtaking sights and experiences, such as hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and more. Whether you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Alaska is a must-visit destination in the summer.
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