Smith says the sweet spot for a high-value trip to Alaska is the springtime: “It’s then that Alaska awakens from the long winter, so you’ll see snow up in the mountains, and that drives hungry bears down to the coast for a meal; small cruise ships take advantage of this proximity. April and May are also the driest months along Alaska’s coast, plus there are fewer crowds in both town and on the water.”
When is peak season in Alaska?
The peak season in Alaska is June through August. Yup, peak season is the best time to visit Alaska. “This time brings travelers the best combination of long days, good weather, and abundant wildlife, including greater numbers of whales that congregate in predictable feeding pods, putting on quite a show,” Smith says. Naturally, be prepared for crowds in town and at popular sites like Denali National Park thanks to big ships and bus tours.
If you plan to travel during peak season in Alaska, Palmer recommends taking advantage of the best cruises in Alaska running their full schedules during the summer months: “They offer diverse itineraries in remote locations like Glacier Bay, the Inside Passage, and Price William Sound.”
When visiting Alaska for the first time, where should I go?
One of the best ways to experience the wilderness and wildlife of Alaska is by going on a cruise. For example, the Inside Passage—home to fjords, lush forests, incredible marine life, and Glacier Bay National Park, where you can watch massive glaciers calve into the sea—is best explored by small ship, Smith says: “You can pack a lot into a week-long cruise there. You can see all sorts of things like glaciers, bears, eagles, and whales.” Furthermore, the remote areas of Alaska are hard to reach by land, Palmer says, and cruises give travelers a front-row seat to the state’s untamed beauty.
Additionally, the towns of Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan are also highlights, Palmer says: “Each offers a mix of history, culture, and adventure. Some travelers enjoy combining an expedition cruise in Southeast Alaska to explore the northern part of the state and visit Anchorage, the Kenai Peninsula, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks.”
How many days do I need to spend in Alaska as a first-timer?
Plan to spend 7 to 10 days in Alaska if you’re visiting for the first time. “This allows you to explore multiple regions without feeling rushed,” Palmer says, and suggests first-timers explore Alaska via cruise ship. Smith agrees, saying that a cruise will offer you more wildlife sightings in one week than most people get to see in their whole lives. “If you have two weeks, add a trip to Denali or elsewhere in Alaska’s interior,” he says. “Most folks will only make one trip to Alaska, so it’s best to invest the time to do it right.”
What else should I know before visiting Alaska?
Though the summertime in Alaska generally promises good weather, Palmer says, it can still be unpredictable, so it’s important to dress in layers: “Bring waterproof gear such as a rain jacket and sturdy walking shoes.” Be sure to add lightweight, long-sleeved clothing and insect repellant to your checklist, he says: “Mosquitoes can be present in some areas, especially near forests and inland rivers.”
Speaking of wildlife, Palmer offers an important reminder about expecting and interacting with animals: “One of the biggest draws to Alaska is the fauna, but spotting bears, whales, and seabirds is a plus; it’s not a certainty. It is very likely you’ll see these animals in their natural habitat, but no travel operator can guarantee it will happen. Moreover, it’s essential to keep a safe distance, follow any guidance from your guides, and bring binoculars or a Zoom lens for your camera.”
If you’re booking accommodations on land, Smith suggests focusing on remote lodges and guided excursions away from towns and highways to experience Alaska’s famous wildlife and solitude. “If you’re planning to cruise, you must think outside the boat,” he adds. “When choosing a ship, ignore the onboard amenities and instead focus on how much the crew takes you off the ship to experience the nature you’ve come to see.”