America has millions of miles of natural beauty from coast to coast. However, the breathtaking views aren’t only in the lower 48 states. If you travel 1,600 miles northwest of Seattle, you’ll end up in the great state of Alaska.
The Last Frontier has mountains, glaciers, polar bears, and other majestic sights. Alaska is an excellent choice for an adventurous trip, but it is unique compared to the other states. It’s vital to understand what to expect when traveling through Alaska.
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1. Take Your Time
Maps don’t do Alaska justice for how big it is. It’s the largest state in the union at 665,000 square miles. In fact, it’s larger than the combined size of Texas, California, and Montana. Ensure you give yourself enough time to see the sites and truly appreciate the state’s greatness.
You could spend a weekend in Alaska, but you need a week or two to go sightseeing and soak in what the state offers. In two weeks, you can easily take a trip to Denali, fish in Talkeetna, and explore Wrangell St. Elias. The state is enormous, so you won’t run out of things to do.
2. Map Out Your Trip
Alaska is vast, with thousands of square miles of untouched beauty. However, this can complicate navigation. Navigating roads in Alaska is challenging because there aren’t many. You may only have a couple of options to get from point A to point B. The Last Frontier only has 12 numbered state highways and a handful of named routes, so veering away from these roads could lead you to get lost.
You should plan your itinerary carefully for the sake of time and safety. Driving will take a long time but be worth it when you arrive at your destination.
3. Plan Around the Weather
It’s hardly a secret that Alaska gets cold, especially in the winter. During any month, you’ll want to bring a jacket and other winter clothes to ensure your comfort. Plan your Alaskan vacation around the time of year because it will significantly impact the weather you encounter.
The most popular time to visit Alaska is during the summer. June through August see the most tourist activity, and that’s when many seasonal businesses are open. Summertime brings the most travel, which can also be the most expensive. Consider going in the shoulder season, such as the beginning of May or the middle of September. The weather is still comfortable for travel and you can beat the crowds.
The cheapest time to visit Alaska is winter. The heavy snow and lower hotel rates make it a skier’s paradise. However, you should be conscious of the season’s dangers. Alaskan winters can be brutal, with sub-zero temperatures regularly. The snow and salt on the roads cause corrosion in your vehicle if they touch metal. Alaska is part of the Salt Belt, a group of states where cars rust faster than in other areas. If you plan to drive, wash and wax your car regularly to prevent rust.
4. Drive a Safe Vehicle
The lack of highways and roads means you’ll need a durable car. Four-wheel-drive machines like SUVs and trucks are your best options because they can go off-road and handle any terrain. The tires have deep treads, giving you more grip when navigating harsh lands.
You can be 100 miles from the nearest gas station or hospital when driving in Alaska. It’s wise to bring a first-aid kit and other emergency supplies in the car. For example, you should have at least one spare tire and an extra can of gasoline to ensure enough fuel. Gas has a shelf life, but you can extend it with fuel stabilizers.
5. Take the Train
If you want to avoid driving in Alaska, you have other options like the Alaska Railroad. The tracks span 470 miles and take you through sought-after destinations like Seward, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali, and more. You’ll see the amazing sights of Alaska and enjoy food along the way.
Alaska Railroad has fun for the family throughout the year. For example, there’s an Easter train in the spring and a beer journey in the fall. You can even imagine yourself on the Polar Express with the holiday trains in December.
6. Board a Cruise
Another non-driving option for your Alaska trip is a cruise. Cruise liners typically bring to mind images of Caribbean beaches with a margarita in your hand. You can still have the margarita, but the scenery will include views of snow-capped mountains and whale watching.
Cruise season in Alaska lasts from May through September because that’s when conditions are optimal for boats and passengers. Numerous companies like Viking, Royal Caribbean, and Princess run cruises taking you up the Pacific Coast and around the Gulf of Alaska. You can depart from Seattle or Vancouver and shorten your travel time to the port.
Safe Travels on the Last Frontier
Alaska can be daunting because of its sheer size, but a trip here is like none other. Where else can you see polar bears in the United States? Traveling to Alaska gives you numerous options to have fun and appreciate nature. Plan your trip to the Last Frontier and get ready to make lasting memories.
