Okay, I know Winter is approaching, and we don’t always think of cold destinations during that time. However, if you would like to consider Alaska for summer vacation of 2024, it’s a great time to start planning. Alaska is an extremely popular destination for summer travel and tours and cruises often book up quickly and well in advance. So I wanted to put some information out there to help you decide whether Alaska is a destination for you and if it is, some things that should be on your list to do/see while you are there.
Welcome to the Last Frontier - Alaska! With its rugged wilderness, towering glaciers, and abundant wildlife, Alaska is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Let's embark on a journey through this untamed land and discover the unparalleled beauty it has to offer.
Majestic Glaciers and Fjords: Alaska is renowned for its spectacular glaciers, such as the iconic Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau and the imposing Hubbard Glacier in Yakutat Bay. Witnessing the massive ice formations calve into the sea is a breathtaking experience. Take a glacier cruise or go kayaking amidst the icebergs to marvel at nature's frozen wonders up close.
Wildlife Encounters: Alaska is home to an incredible variety of wildlife. From grizzly bears fishing for salmon in rivers to majestic bald eagles soaring through the sky, there's something awe-inspiring around every corner. Visit Denali National Park for a chance to spot moose, caribou, wolves, and maybe even glimpse the elusive Denali, North America's tallest peak.
Allure of the Northern Lights: In the winter months, Alaska transforms into a surreal wonderland as the shimmering Northern Lights dance across the night sky. Head north to Fairbanks or the remote town of Nome for prime viewing spots. Be prepared to be enchanted by this celestial light show that will leave you spellbound.
Rich Native Culture: Alaska has a rich Native heritage, and experiencing the local culture is a must. Visit cultural centers like the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage to learn about the traditions, art, and history of Alaska's Native peoples. Engage in traditional activities, taste indigenous cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant stories of the land.
Alaska is an extraordinary destination that captivates and inspires. From its awe-inspiring glaciers to its abundant wildlife and rich native culture, every corner of this remarkable state has something unique to offer. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a connection with nature, Alaska is sure to leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Here are 10 fun facts about Alaska:
1. Size Matters: Alaska is the largest state in the United States, spanning over 663,000 square miles. To put it into perspective, Alaska is twice the size of Texas!
2. Land of Extremes: Alaska is a land of extremes. It is home to Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley), the highest peak in North America, standing at a staggering 20,310 feet (6,190 meters). On the other end of the spectrum, it also boasts the lowest point in North America, the shoreline of the Bering Sea.
3. Midnight Sun and Polar Nights: Due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle, parts of Alaska experience unique celestial phenomena. In the summer, areas like Fairbanks and Barrow bask in the "midnight sun," where the sun remains visible 24 hours a day. Conversely, during winter, they enter a period of "polar nights," where the sun does not rise above the horizon.
4. Glaciers Galore: Alaska is home to more than 100,000 glaciers. Among them is the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, which showcases a stunning display of glaciers carving their way through the landscape.
5. The Iditarod: Alaska is famous for its annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, considered one of the world's most challenging and iconic sled dog races. Mushers and their teams of dogs brave extreme conditions while traversing over 1,000 miles from Anchorage to Nome.
6. Abundant Wildlife: Alaska is a wildlife enthusiast's dream. It is home to an array of animals such as brown bears, moose, caribou, gray wolves, bald eagles, and whales. The Katmai National Park and Preserve provide an excellent opportunity to view wild bears fishing for salmon.
7. State Motto: Alaska's state motto is "North to the Future," symbolizing the state's opportunities and limitless potential for growth and progress.
8. Russian Influence: Before it became a U.S. state, Alaska was a Russian colony. Russian influence is still visible in places like Sitka, where St. Michael's Cathedral stands as a reminder of the Russian Orthodox presence.
9. Dog Mushing is the State Sport: Given its strong ties to the Iditarod race, it's no surprise that dog mushing is the official state sport of Alaska.
10. Aurora Borealis: Alaska is one of the best places on Earth to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The vibrant colors dancing across the night sky are a true natural wonder.
The best way to visit Alaska largely depends on your preferences and the experiences you wish to have. Here are a couple of options to consider:
Cruises: Alaskan cruises are a popular choice for many travelers. They offer the opportunity to witness the state's stunning coastal scenery, visit multiple ports, and enjoy onboard amenities. Cruises typically depart from Seattle, Vancouver, or Anchorage, and often include stops at places like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan while also having a day or two of sailing amongst the glaciers. You can also add a land portion to your cruise which will either go before or after the cruise. This way, you can go deeper into Alaska and see things like Denali National Park (which you cannot see from the cruise itself). These land portions, called cruise tours, can range from 3 – 7 days, and sometimes even longer.
Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour allows you to have a curated experience with knowledgeable local guides. Whether it's an adventure tour, wildlife-focused excursion, or cultural immersion trip, there are various options available that cater to different interests. This can be a great option if you prefer a structured itinerary or if you want to engage in specific activities like glacier hiking or bear viewing.
Keep in mind that Alaska is vast, and transportation within the state can vary. It's essential to plan ahead and consider factors like travel time, weather conditions, and accessibility to the places you wish to visit. Whichever option you choose, be prepared to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty and wilderness that Alaska has to offer!
So, what are you waiting for? Give me a call, send me an email or visit my website (I have it set to take you to the Alaska page!). Let’s start planning for you to get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the untamed beauty of Alaska!
Kathy Freer
Dream Vacations Freer & Associates
888-882-5793
470-735-3778
321-735-0202
kfreer@dreamvacations.com
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