Top Alaskan Destinations
Alaska is akin to one of the Seven Wonders. It is a vast frontier for visitors looking for an adventure off the beaten path. With its mountain peaks and pristine waterways, Alaska allows visitors an opportunity to see and experience nature to the fullest.
To get the most out of every minute of your Alaska vacation, private tours and excursions are available depending on the season. Choose whale watching with a group, fishing charters for the freshest catch of the day, guided hiking tours, snow skiing and dog sledding in winter and aerial tours by plane or helicopter.
Denali National Park and Preserve
Denali National Park is by far one of the most expansive US parks consisting of approximately 6 million acres. The park's only entrance is via George Parks Highway. Denali is accessible by car, bus, van services and the Alaska Railroad which runs directly to the park
Skagway
Skagway was known as the gateway to the gold fields of the Klondike. Many prospectors passed through the area leaving a rich history to explore. Two cemeteries - Gold Rush Cemetery and Pioneer Cemetery - are a reminder of the many individuals and families that traveled to Alaska from the US and around the world in the hopes of "striking it rich" panning for gold.
Additional activities in Skagway include a scenic ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railway, ziplining at Grizzly Falls, a look at history at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park and the Trail of '98 Museum, canoeing past Davidson Glacier and hiking along the Upper and Lower Dewey Lake trails.
Sitka
Points of interest: when visiting Sitka include the 17-acre Raptor Center bordering the Tongass National Forest. The center is home to the bald eagle and other bird species who've received medical treatment and rehabilitation. The center is one of the most visited attractions.
Sitka National Park features the 1842 Russian Bishop's House, one of the last remaining structures built during the Russian colonial occupation of the area. Explore the park and see the authentic Haida and Tlingit totem poles that line the trails.
Take a hike through lush, natural landscape leading to the 200-year-old Russian cemetery with over 1600 graves. Guided tours are available with in-depth information provided while touring the cemetery about Russia's influence on Sitka, the Castle Hill fortification and St. Michael's Cathedral.
If arriving by cruise ship, take advantage of the majestic views of Mt. Edgecumbe and once on land, plan a hike to the summit of this dormant volcano.
Fairbanks
One of the most spectacular natural light shows takes place in the latter part of summer when the northern lights - aurora borealis - lights up the evening skies with colors from an artist's palette. For 240 nights, you'll have an up-close view of the unusual formations that make the sky look like a surreal abstract painting.
For those with experience in the outdoors and seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, travel by air taxi to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge where an abundance of activities from hiking to climbing and fishing to hunting, await. The refuge is for seasoned travelers adept at camping, hiking and map reading. Guides are available for hunting, hiking and polar bear observation.
Ketchikan
Located in the southeastern region, Ketchikan offers plenty of activities and attractions. Take a canoe ride and walk through the rainforest at Tongass National Forest, hike along the trails at Totem Bight State Historical Park and see original totem poles displayed at Totem Heritage Center.
At Misty Fjords National Monument, visitors have access to pristine lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks and abundant wildlife. Kayaking, aerial tours, day cruises and opportunities to camp or stay in a cabin or one of the many lakes is available.
There's something for every one of all ages in Alaska whether you prefer shopping, dining and sightseeing the local attractions or you prefer climbing a mountain, canoeing the passages or delving into the lush wilderness for an adventure of a lifetime.
