Going to Alaska during the summer is the best time to visit because the weather is great, the wild life is active, and the days are long. One of the first things you will notice when you arrive for summer in Alaska is the length of the days, which are 20-22 hours long. These long summer days give the time needed to explore the largest state. So, what should you do during a summer trip to Alaska?
Alaska offers more activities than one can do in a lifetime, so trying several activities will be key to having a great trip to Alaska during the summer. Your options vary drastically based on your fitness level, however there will be something for everyone at all levels of fitness. I suggest you hike, go on wildlife tour, climb a mountain, see a glacier, and go kayaking while visiting Alaska in the summer.
Keep reading this article to discover your hiking option, wildlife viewing opportunities, how to itch your mountain climbing urges, where to see a glacier, and how to go kayaking during the Alaskan summer.
hiking to a swing with a waterfall view on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska during the summer. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Hiking During the Alaskan Summer
Alaska's vast and pristine landscapes beckon adventurers to embrace the untamed allure of its wilderness, especially during the enchanting summer months. The remoteness and sparse population of the state contribute to a hiking experience that is truly unparalleled, setting Alaska apart from the more trail-laden terrains found in the lower 48.
In the lower 48, hiking often follows established trail systems, providing convenient paths for enthusiasts to traverse. However, Alaska defies such norms. With its rugged terrains and well-protected lands, the Last Frontier offers a unique freedom to explore the wilderness, allowing hikers to chart their own course. Once the snow retreats in the summer, a vast expanse of open land becomes a canvas for adventure.
Alaska's distinctive hiking culture encourages a primal connection with the environment. There's no need to meticulously plan routes or adhere to designated trails. Instead, visitors are encouraged to tap into their instinctual wanderlust and embark on a journey where the path unfolds with every step. It's a liberating experience that beckons hikers to discover hidden gems and scenic vistas off the beaten track.
For those venturing into the wild for the first time, the prospect of choosing a starting point might seem daunting. The truth is, there's no need to overthink it. Simply step outside, breathe in the crisp Alaskan air, and let the vastness of the landscape guide your exploration. Whether you're on the iconic Kenai Peninsula or amidst the rugged terrains of Denali, each step is an opportunity to discover the untouched beauty that defines Alaska.
However, a word of caution resonates through the wild: be prepared. Alaska's wilderness is as unforgiving as it is captivating. As you set out on your expedition, ensure you carry essentials like bear spray—your steadfast companion in the presence of Alaska's majestic wildlife. While the prospect of wandering into the unknown is exhilarating, safety should always be a priority.
So, embrace the spirit of the Alaskan summer, where every hike is a journey into the heart of true wilderness. Allow the rugged landscapes to guide your footsteps, and let the untamed beauty of Alaska captivate your adventurous spirit. After all, in the Last Frontier, the best hikes are the ones where you simply let the wilderness be your guide.
A whale tail splashing in the Kenai Fjords during the summer in Alaska. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
Viewing Alaskan Wildlife During Summer
As the brief Alaskan summer emerges, it orchestrates a symphony of natural events that beckon both seasoned adventurers and curious travelers. This fleeting season, spanning mid-May to mid-July, becomes a crucial period for wildlife in the Last Frontier. Against the backdrop of blooming berries, surging salmon, and relatively "warm" waters, Alaska's inhabitants engage in a race against time, fervently consuming resources to fortify themselves for the impending winter.
Understanding the urgency of this seasonal feast provides visitors with a unique opportunity to witness Alaska's diverse wildlife in action. The rugged landscapes become a stage for a remarkable display of survival instincts and natural rhythms, making wildlife viewing a quintessential experience during an Alaskan summer sojourn.
With the brevity of the summer season, animals diligently seize the chance to replenish the pounds shed during the harsh winter months. The lush vegetation and teeming waterways become a banquet, attracting a myriad of creatures, from majestic bears to agile otters and playful dolphins.
For those seeking to partake in this extraordinary spectacle, there are two primary avenues: guided tours or independent exploration. Opting for a guided tour ensures not only safety but also insider knowledge from experienced guides who know where to find the best wildlife viewing opportunities. Many reputable services operate in key wildlife hotspots, providing a seamless and enriching experience.
Alternatively, the adventurous spirit may choose to blaze their own trail, armed with research and a keen sense of adventure. While this option allows for a more personalized experience, it comes with the responsibility of ensuring safety in the unpredictable wilderness.
Among the recommended experiences, a sea tour stands out as an immersive way to witness Alaska's marine and coastal wildlife. Aboard these excursions, participants may marvel at the grandeur of breaching whales, the charming antics of sea otters, the acrobatics of dolphins, and the comical flights of puffins. The vastness of the ocean becomes a canvas for nature's spectacle, an experience often difficult to replicate independently, especially for those without access to a boat.
Reflecting on personal experiences, the yearning for a bear viewing tour surfaces, a sentiment shared by many visitors. While glimpsing a grizzly bear from a distance provides a taste of the wild, a dedicated bear viewing tour can offer an intimate encounter with these majestic creatures, allowing for a deeper connection with the untamed beauty of Alaska.
In essence, exploring Alaska's wildlife during the summer is an invitation to witness the dance of nature, a symphony of survival and abundance that paints the Last Frontier in hues of wonder and awe. Whether guided or independent, on land or at sea, the opportunity to observe Alaska's wildlife in their natural habitat is an indelible part of the Alaskan summer narrative, an experience that resonates long after the season fades into the crisp embrace of approaching winter.
Climb a Mountain in Alaska During Summer
Alaska, a realm of towering peaks and untamed wilderness, invites intrepid souls to embark on a summer adventure that transcends the ordinary—the challenging yet exhilarating pursuit of mountain climbing. At the forefront of this lofty endeavor stands Denali, a colossus that proudly claims the title of the highest summit in North America and a member of the esteemed 7 Summits, a collection of the tallest peaks on each continent. Often mentioned in the same breath as Everest, Denali presents an unparalleled mountaineering challenge, and for those seeking the pinnacle of summer mountain objectives, this iconic peak beckons.
Strapping on your boots becomes a symbolic initiation into a realm where the air is thin, the vistas are breathtaking, and the journey unfolds over a span of 15 to 20 intense days. Climbing Denali is not merely a physical feat; it's a profound journey of endurance, resilience, and connection with the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. The ascent requires meticulous planning, skillful navigation through unpredictable weather, and a tenacious spirit to conquer the formidable challenges that Denali presents.
For a glimpse into the realities of scaling Denali, one can delve into personal stories, each narrative woven with triumphs, setbacks, and the indomitable human spirit striving to touch the sky. These tales encapsulate the essence of Alaskan mountaineering and offer a vicarious experience for those who dare to dream of conquering the towering giant.
However, recognizing that Denali's mighty summit may be a goal for the most seasoned climbers, there are alternative summits on the Kenai Peninsula that beckon to those seeking awe-inspiring vistas and a taste of mountaineering glory. The Kenai Peninsula, adorned with climbable mountains, offers a more approachable yet equally gratifying experience. As you ascend these peaks, panoramic views of the Harding Icefield and the vast expanse of the ocean unfold, creating a sensory tapestry that captures the essence of Alaska's untamed beauty.
Here, the mountains become both a challenge and a reward, providing a sense of accomplishment as you stand atop their summits, surrounded by the rugged landscapes that define the Alaskan wilderness. The Kenai Peninsula's climbable peaks serve as gateways to the extraordinary, offering a glimpse into the heart of Alaska's grandeur without the prolonged commitment required for Denali.
In essence, climbing a mountain in Alaska during the summer transcends a mere physical feat—it becomes a transformative journey, an intimate dance with the elements, and an opportunity to touch the sky in a land where mountains stand as timeless sentinels, silently witnessing the bold spirit of those who dare to ascend.
Kayaking to Portage Glacier is a splendid way of seeing a glacier in Alaska. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
How to See a Glacier While in Alaska During the Summer
In the rugged expanse of Alaska's wilderness, where nature's grandeur takes center stage, the allure of glaciers stands as a testament to the Earth's ancient and awe-inspiring legacy. With 664 named glaciers and countless more unnamed, this pristine landscape offers a canvas upon which these frozen giants etch their majestic tales. Experiencing a glacier in Alaska during the summer is not just a sightseeing adventure; it's an encounter with a dynamic force of nature, a frozen river in perpetual motion, forever changing and evolving.
The sheer scale and majesty of Alaska's glaciers redefine one's perspective on the planet. Whether it's your first encounter or you're adding to a repertoire of glacier experiences, each sighting leaves an indelible mark on the soul. Witnessing the monumental ice fields, sometimes referred to as frozen rivers, imparts a profound appreciation for the forces that have sculpted and shaped these colossal formations over millennia.
During the Alaskan summer, a variety of options unfold for those eager to commune with glaciers. One of the most exhilarating choices is glacial flightseeing. Soar above the Alaskan landscape in a small aircraft, and marvel at the expansive sheets of ice beneath you. Glacial flightseeing provides a panoramic perspective that showcases the vastness and intricate details of these frozen wonders, revealing crevasses, seracs, and the timeless beauty of glacial landscapes.
For those who prefer to ground themselves in the midst of this frozen splendor, glacier hiking presents an intimate and immersive experience. The Kenai Peninsula, in particular, offers opportunities to lace up your boots and embark on a journey that leads to the very feet of these ancient ice masses. Guided glacier hikes provide insights into the geology, history, and ecology of the glaciers, transforming each step into a narrative of the Earth's enduring legacy.
Alternatively, the cool embrace of an ocean breeze and the rhythmic dance of the waves set the stage for glacial encounters through ocean cruises. Sail along the Alaskan coastline, where glaciers cascade into the sea, creating a dynamic spectacle that reverberates with the echoes of nature's grandeur. The juxtaposition of icy blue against the ocean's depths is a visual symphony that captivates the senses.
For those seeking a more hands-on approach, kayaking to a glacier offers an intimate connection with the glacial environment. Paddle through serene waters, navigating among icebergs and witnessing the towering glacier face from the unique vantage point of the sea. The rhythmic paddling becomes a harmonious dance with nature, providing an experience that is both invigorating and humbling.
In Alaska's summer, the options to witness glaciers are as diverse as the glaciers themselves. Whether soaring above in a small aircraft, hiking to their icy toes, cruising along the coastline, or paddling through glacial waters, each avenue unveils a unique facet of these frozen wonders. Whichever option you choose, rest assured that the encounter with an Alaskan glacier is not just a visual spectacle; it's an immersion into the timeless beauty of a world shaped by the relentless dance of ice and time.
Go Kayaking During the Summer in Alaska
As summer unfolds its vibrant tapestry across Alaska, a symphony of kayaking opportunities emerges, transforming the Last Frontier into a haven for paddlers seeking diverse and unparalleled experiences. What sets Alaska apart as a kayaking paradise is the harmonious blend of flat-water, ocean, and white-water kayaking, a trifecta rarely found in a single destination. This convergence creates a kayaking utopia, offering enthusiasts a spectrum of aquatic wonders to explore.
Flat-Water Kayaking: Embark on tranquil waters that mirror the surrounding beauty of the Alaskan landscape. Whether gliding through serene lakes or meandering down gentle rivers, flat-water kayaking provides a peaceful immersion into the pristine wilderness. The stillness of the water allows for contemplative moments, where the majestic scenery unfolds at a leisurely pace.
Ocean Kayaking: Alaska's extensive coastline becomes a playground for ocean kayakers, where the rhythmic ebb and flow of the tides accompany each paddle stroke. Explore hidden coves, navigate through archipelagos, and witness the untamed beauty of the open sea. The ocean kayaking experience in Alaska offers encounters with diverse marine life, from playful otters to majestic whales, creating a dynamic and awe-inspiring journey.
White-Water Kayaking: For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure, Alaska's rivers present exhilarating white-water kayaking opportunities. Rushing through narrow canyons and navigating tumultuous rapids, kayakers can feel the pulse of nature's raw energy. The challenge and thrill of white-water kayaking in Alaska add an electrifying dimension to the summer paddling experience.
Glacial Kayaking: A crowning jewel of kayaking in Alaska during the summer lies in the unique access to glaciers. Paddling through pristine waters, kayakers can approach iconic glaciers such as Portage Glacier and Grewingk Glacier. These frozen giants become a backdrop to the kayaking journey, offering an unmatched panorama of icy grandeur. Witnessing the distant calving of a glacier into the water is an awe-inspiring spectacle, a reminder of the ever-changing dynamics of Alaska's glacial landscapes.
The accessibility of glacial kayaking adds a distinctive layer to the Alaskan paddling experience. Navigating through glacial waters, surrounded by towering ice walls and floating icebergs, creates a sense of communion with the forces that shape the wilderness. The juxtaposition of the kayak against the colossal backdrop of a glacier is a visual testament to the indomitable spirit of exploration that defines Alaska's summers.
In essence, kayaking in Alaska during the summer is not merely a recreational activity; it's a voyage into the heart of a pristine wilderness, where every paddle stroke unveils a new facet of nature's grandeur. Whether seeking tranquility on flat waters, embracing the challenges of white-water rapids, or marveling at the majesty of glaciers, the Alaskan kayaking experience transcends the ordinary, offering a liquid pathway to unforgettable adventures.
Roped together we begin our 15 day journey to summit Denali. Photograph by Dalton Johnson
So there you have it! When you visit Alaska this summer you now know where your hiking options are, what kind of wildlife viewing opportunities are out there, how to itch your mountain climbing urges, where to see a glacier (maybe even an ice-cave), and how to go kayaking during the Alaskan summer. Thank you for reading and make sure to leave a comment below with any additional thoughts about what to do during the Alaskan summer.
