As the largest state area-wise and the least densely populated, Alaska is known as “the last Frontier.” It’s one of the best-unspoiled places on the planet to explore and offers a long list of exciting outdoor adventures. Here are 7 ways to make your Alaska vacation extra special.
1. Day Cruise
Alaska has around 6,600 miles of stunning coastline The best way to experience part of it is by booking a day cruise. After boarding in one of the state’s quintessential coastal towns, you’ll pass through breathtaking inlets and fjords surrounded by amazing wildlife such as orca and humpback whales, bears, and mountain goats grazing on jagged cliffs.
2. Fishing Charter
Picture catching king salmon weighing almost 100 pounds and huge halibut even bigger. Whether it’s a bumpy ride on the open ocean or down a peaceful river, an Alaskan fishing charter is unlike any fishing trip you’ll ever experience. Even if you’ve never fished before, fishing charters in Alaska make it fun, easy, and affordable. Most charters offer instructions and tackle, and if you catch “the big one,” they’ll even filet, freeze, and ship your prize.
3. Guided Hiking
It’s hard to beat the sport of hiking anywhere you go. It’s the best way to experience a place up close and personal, and Alaska is no exception. You can choose to hike on your own, but for the best hiking go with a group led by a local guide. They know the best trails that lead to places with the most stunning scenery.
4. Glacier Tours
You can’t go to Alaska and miss seeing a glacier. Glacier tours can be experienced in 3 ways— by land, air, and sea. The choice is yours. By land, you’ll travel over the rough terrain in an ATV tour. In a plane, you’ll get a unique bird’s eye view of expansive fields of ice. By water, you’ll pass by icebergs in a kayak, raft, or canoe.
5. Sea Kayaking
Sea kayaking takes water exploration to another level. Unlike rafting where you’ll mostly see land animals on shore, kayaking by sea allows you to paddle past otters, sea lions, seals, and possibly even a whale. You can book Alaskan sea kayaking tours that last all day or longer with overnight camping.
Indeed, sea kayaking offers a unique and immersive way to discover Alaska’s marine wonders. Gliding through pristine waters, you’ll have the privilege of observing a diverse array of marine life in their natural habitat.
6. Dog Sledding
One of the most unique outdoor adventures in the Frontier State, dog sledding is an Alaskan tradition. Imagine zipping through a snowy forest on a sled pulled by these powerful creatures. You’ll even get to visit the champion dogs in their kennels. Look for dog sledding in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Giridwood, and Denali. While dog sledding is primarily associated with winter, many tourists enjoy participating in this activity during the summer as well.
7. Rafting Tours
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure that you’ll have dreams about back home, book an Alaskan rafting tour. You’ll begin with an easy glide, and once you hear rushing water, you’ll be battling the caps of whitewater on an unforgettable white-knuckled adventure of a lifetime.
For many people, a vacation in Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience so it’s important to find ways to make it extra special. Absolutely, embarking on an Alaskan rafting tour is a thrilling way to elevate your vacation experience to unforgettable heights. As you navigate through the pristine wilderness, each bend in the river promises heart-pounding excitement and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time rafter, the rush of conquering whitewater rapids amidst Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes will leave an indelible mark on your memory. So seize the opportunity to turn your Alaska vacation into an extraordinary adventure that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.