Embark on Unforgettable Adventures in Alaska

In a state where the journey is just as captivating as the destination, creating an exhilarating Alaska itinerary is highly enticing. The routes encompass everything from verdant Panhandle forests to the stark beauty of the Arctic tundra.

However, given Alaska’s vastness—it’s two-and-a-half times the size of Texas—getting around by car has its limitations. Fortunately, many remote corners are accessible by plane, train, or ferry. A two-week adventure offers just a glimpse of this pristine wilderness, but it’s a remarkable experience nonetheless!

5-Day Itinerary: Fairbanks to Seward by Train

Take advantage of the stunningly scenic Alaska Railroad on this land-based itinerary. Start your journey in Fairbanks, the railroad’s northernmost terminal, where you can explore local museums and marvel at the midnight sun phenomenon.

Next, hop aboard the train to Denali National Park, where a good day hike awaits you on the picturesque Triple Lakes Trail. The following day, enjoy an extraordinary eight-hour ride to Anchorage. During this enchanting journey, the train moves away from the road and into pristine wilderness, often providing views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak.

In Anchorage, spend two nights exploring its sophisticated shopping and dining options. Don’t miss the Anchorage Museum or the stunning Coastal Trail for a bike ride and salmon bake. Continue your journey on the train to Seward, the southern terminus that offers breathtaking views of Resurrection Bay. Be sure to take a tour of Kenai Fjords National Park to glimpse sea lions, otters, and possibly, whales!

10-Day Itinerary: Katmai National Park to Anan Creek

Among the fastest-growing activities in Alaska is bear watching, and the state boasts plenty of opportunities to see these magnificent creatures. Start your adventure at Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park, where grizzly bears catch salmon. With so many bears around in July, a bear orientation is mandatory upon arrival.

Accessibility is better at Denali National Park, where you can hop on a park shuttle bus to observe both brown and black bears, with caribou and moose also making appearances. For those seeking the ultimate bear encounter, fly to Utqiaġvik or Point Barrow for a polar bear sighting. Urban bear watching can be found in Juneau, specifically at Steep Creek near Mendenhall Glacier.

2-Week Itinerary: Cruising Southeast Alaska

One of the most thrilling trips takes you on the Alaska Marine Highway from Bellingham, Washington, to Skagway. Start by boarding the ferry and absorb the spectacular coastal scenery, with opportunities to explore multiple towns, including Ketchikan.

In Ketchikan, climb Deer Mountain for panoramic views or visit Totem Bight State Park for a look at carved totems. Take a wild jet-boat tour from Wrangell up the Stikine River, exploring the beauty of Petroglyph Beach. If time allows, explore Sitka and embark on a whale-watching cruise.

2-Week Itinerary: Road Tripping Alaska’s Uncrowded Landscapes

Experience the thrill of driving Alaska’s expansive roads. Begin in Anchorage and stock up on supplies before heading north on the George Parks Highway through Wasilla to visit Talkeetna.

Your adventure continues along the scenic Denali Highway, followed by a trip to the quaint village of McCarthy to explore the historical Kennecott Mines. From there, head to Valdez and indulge in a cruise to Columbia Glacier.

Ultimately, take the ferry from Cordova to Whittier and drive through the inspiring landscapes until reaching Seward. Be sure to enjoy kayaking in Resurrection Bay before concluding your road trip.

Alaska offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and limitless adventures. With itineraries ranging from thrilling train rides to captivating road trips, iBestTravel invites you to explore the extraordinary beauty of this remarkable state.

© iBestTravel, 2023