Top Summer Activities in Alaska

Alaska’s summer season is a magical time when the days are long and the landscapes are bathed in the golden light of the midnight sun. This unique season creates the perfect backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities. From coastal waters teeming with marine life to the inland wilderness where bears and moose roam freely, Alaska’s natural beauty is unparalleled. For those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors, Alaska offers a variety of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or someone who prefers a leisurely pace, you’ll find lots of ways to enjoy the stunning scenery and rich biodiversity of this remarkable state. Let’s dive into the top 10 must-do summer activities that will make your Alaskan adventure truly memorable.

1. Experience the Thrill of ATV Riding

ATV riding is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore Alaska’s rugged wilderness. The state boasts miles of trails that wind through forests, over mountains, and along riverbanks. One of the top destinations for ATV riding is the Knik Glacier, where you’ll navigate a mix of river crossings, forest paths, and glacial terrain. The highlight of the ride is reaching the glacier itself, where you’ll be awed by towering ice formations. Guided ATV tours are available for those who prefer a structured experience, ensuring you get the most out of your adventure.

For those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature, the Denali Highway offers breathtaking views of the Alaska Range and a chance to explore areas that few travelers see. For a coastal adventure, consider the trails near Homer, which provide stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains, making ATV riding in Alaska a thrilling way to discover the state’s natural wonders.

2. Whale Watching

Alaska’s coastal waters are home to some of the world’s most impressive marine life, including humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales. Whale watching is a must-do activity that provides an up-close look at these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Juneau, the state capital, is one of the best places to embark on a whale-watching tour. The nearby waters of Auke Bay and the Inside Passage are prime spots for spotting humpback whales, especially during the summer months when they migrate to the area to feed. Many tours guarantee sightings, so you’re almost certain to have a memorable encounter.

Another excellent location for whale watching is Seward, where you can take a cruise into Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Fjords National Park. These waters are rich with marine life, and in addition to whales, you might spot sea lions, otters, and puffins amidst dramatic coastal scenery, with glaciers and towering cliffs adding to the experience.

3. Hike in Denali National Park

Alaska’s vast wilderness is crisscrossed with hiking and backpacking trails that offer everything from leisurely walks to challenging multi-day treks. Hiking is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the state’s stunning natural beauty and encounter its diverse wildlife. Denali National Park features iconic trails, including the popular Mount Healy Overlook Trail, providing panoramic views of the park and the Alaska Range.

For a coastal hiking experience, head to the Kenai Peninsula. The Harding Icefield Trail in Kenai Fjords National Park is a challenging hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of the icefield and surrounding mountains, making it a must for those looking to experience Alaska’s rugged beauty up close.

4. Explore the Waters by Kayaking or Canoeing

Alaska’s rivers, lakes, and coastal waters provide excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Paddling through pristine waters allows you to connect with nature and experience the tranquility of the wilderness. Prince William Sound is a kayaker’s paradise with its sheltered waters, stunning fjords, and abundant marine life. Guided tours cater to all skill levels, allowing you to explore areas like the Columbia Glacier and Blackstone Bay.

For a unique paddling experience, consider kayaking in Glacier Bay National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a chance to paddle among icebergs and glaciers while spotting seals, sea otters, and whales in a truly special environment.

5. Enjoy Wildlife Viewing

Alaska is home to some of North America’s most iconic wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and eagles. Wildlife viewing is a highlight of any trip to Alaska, offering opportunities to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Katmai National Park is famous for its brown bears, particularly at Brooks Falls, where you can watch them fishing for salmon. The park provides guided tours and viewing platforms for a spectacular bear-watching experience.

The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is another excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you can spot a diverse range of animals, while the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area offers scenic drives and hiking trails ideal for spotting wildlife.

6. Embrace Fishing Adventures

Although traditional fishing can be considered an outdated practice, Alaska remains a world-renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts. The Kenai River is known for its salmon and attracts people from around the world seeking the thrill of seeing a fish and capturing a trophy photo. For halibut spotting, head to Homer, often referred to as the “Halibut Capital of the World,” where you can explore the deep waters of Kachemak Bay to watch these massive flatfish.

7. Take a Glacier Tour

Alaska’s glaciers are among its most awe-inspiring natural features. Glacier tours, whether by boat, plane, or on foot, offer a chance to see these ancient ice formations up close. The Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau is one of the most accessible glaciers, with options to take a short hike or join a guided tour that includes kayaking or a helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view. Likewise, the Columbia Glacier in Prince William Sound pulls you through iceberg-filled waters to witness its dramatic calving process as chunks of ice break off and crash into the sea.

8. Experience Flightseeing Tours

Flightseeing tours provide a unique perspective on Alaska’s vast and varied landscapes. From the air, you can appreciate the scale and beauty of the state’s mountains, glaciers, and coastlines. Denali Flightseeing is particularly popular, taking you around North America’s tallest peak with stunning views of its rugged terrain. Some tours even include a glacier landing for an up-close experience of the breathtaking scenery.

9. Camping in Alaska

Camping allows you to fully immerse yourself in Alaska’s natural beauty. With numerous campgrounds and backcountry sites, you can find the ideal spot to pitch your tent and embrace the great outdoors. Denali National Park provides easy access to hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities, while the coastal Kenai Peninsula offers pristine settings for backcountry camping adventures.

10. Enjoy Scenic Drives

Alaska’s scenic drives are a fantastic way to explore the state’s diverse landscapes at your own pace. The Seward Highway, running from Anchorage to Seward, is known for its stunning views of Turnagain Arm, the Chugach Mountains, and the Kenai Peninsula. Along the way, you’ll find opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Similarly, the Dalton Highway, which stretches from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay, takes you through rugged and untouched landscapes, providing a unique glimpse into the state’s wild interior.

As you plan your Alaskan summer adventure, remember to respect the natural environments you explore and adhere to local regulations. By doing so, you’ll help preserve the beauty and integrity of these incredible landscapes for future generations. Alaska’s summer season offers an array of activities that cater to all interests and skill levels. From the thrill of ATV riding to the serenity of kayaking among glaciers, each experience provides a unique way to connect with the state’s stunning natural beauty.

So gear up, embrace the adventure, and discover the best that Alaska has to offer!