Getting around Alaska can be challenging. However, with enough time and planning, it is possible to experience real adventure in North America’s “Last Frontier.” Most travelers explore Alaska by private vehicle or cruise ship. Nevertheless, during the high season, these options may lead to crowded experiences, detracting from your dream holiday.

If you can strap on a backpack and embrace the spirit of adventure, numerous transportation options are available that allow you to truly immerse yourself in Alaska’s beauty. Read on for practical tips on navigating this vast state.

Start Exploring in Anchorage

The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage, presents a unique combination of urban life and wilderness. It’s not uncommon to see a moose wandering while you’re out walking downtown, biking, or skiing along the hundreds of miles of city trails.

Many of these trails connect to Chugach State Park, encompassing nearly half a million acres just outside the city limits. In Anchorage, the best transportation options are taxis, ride-shares, and a well-timed bus system that serves the greater Mat-Su Valley.

Take the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry

The Alaska Marine Highway ferry offers an excellent travel option for those with ample time to enjoy scenic views. A walk-on ticket permits you to carry only what you can manage, and there are first-come-first-served deck spaces available.

This makeshift campground option transforms your journey into a unique experience filled with the stunning vistas and remote communities of southeast Alaska. The ferry provides a moderately priced way to travel, allowing the transport of bikes, kayaks, and larger touring gear without the costs typically associated with air travel.

Scenic Flight Adventures on a Budget

For accessing offbeat locales not served by road, Alaska Air’s “milk run” flights are worth considering. These larger aircraft make multiple stops through southeast Alaska, connecting local communities while providing breathtaking aerial views of glaciers and landscapes.

This journey often starts in Anchorage and may include towns like Cordova, Juneau, and Ketchikan. Each of these locations is rich in culture and adventure opportunities, awaiting your exploration.

The Train: A Unique Way to Get Around Alaska

The Alaska Railroad, centrally located in Anchorage, offers travel options that extend north to Denali and Fairbanks or south to Seward on the Kenai Peninsula. Traveling by train is not only eco-friendly but also allows you to enjoy spectacular scenery, often stopping for wildlife viewing.

Whistle-stop services enable travelers to hop on and off at various mile markers, allowing you to reach remote amenities and hiking spots within the rail belt.

Limited Bus Services Beyond Denali National Park

Bus services for independent travelers in Alaska are limited beyond the Denali National Park connector. Although limited, Denali provides excellent tour services for backcountry permit holders wishing to access deeper wilderness areas.

Renting an RV: A Cost-Effective Choice

Renting a car in Alaska during the busy summer travel season can be expensive. For some travelers, particularly families, renting an entire RV can serve as a cost-effective alternative, combining both transportation and accommodation.

Alaska tourism promotions may provide opportunities for better rates on RV rentals, allowing you to explore the scenic ALCAN highway through Canada with savings in mind. However, always be aware of rental agency policies regarding specific roadway travel to avoid potential charges.

Cycling Around Alaska

For those equipped and eager to explore on two wheels, Alaska presents an exceptional opportunity. Most major roads feature off-road trails typically reserved for ATVs and snowmobiles during winter, making cycling a feasible and adventurous option.

Hitchhiking in Alaska

While hitchhiking can pose risks, it remains a somewhat common practice in more remote Alaskan communities where transportation options are limited. Travelers should proceed with caution while understanding the potential unpredictabilities involved.

Accessible Transportation Options

For those with disabilities, numerous accessible transportation options exist in Alaska. The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures access to amenities, including wheelchair-accessible trails in national and state parks. Many transportation services, such as trains, ferries, and smaller tour operators, offer lifts and other assistance for outdoor adventures.