This transitional month is ideal for those looking to enjoy the crisp air, see the tail end of the northern lights and witness wildlife beginning to stir. Here are the best places to visit in Alaska in April, each offering its own unique charm and adventure opportunities.
1. Juneau
As Alaska's capital city, Juneau is a gateway to incredible natural beauty, making it one of the best places to visit in Alaska in April. Here, visitors can experience the Mendenhall Glacier, accessible via walking trails that offer views of the glacier and its surrounding waters. April also sees the start of the whale-watching season, with humpback whales frequently spotted in the nearby waters. For those interested in local history and culture, the Alaska State Museum provides insightful exhibits.
2. Skagway
Skagway, steeped in Klondike Gold Rush history, offers a nostalgic look back in time with its well-preserved historical buildings and the famous White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Starting in April, visitors can take a scenic train ride that winds through rugged mountains and past towering waterfalls—a perfect excursion for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Skagway’s charm and the surrounding scenic vistas make it one of the best places to visit in Alaska in April.
3. Tracy Arm Fjord
For those who enjoy dramatic natural landscapes, Tracy Arm Fjord is a must-see. This spectacular fjord, lined with steep cliffs and dotted with waterfalls, is especially magical in April when it’s less frequented by tourists. Boat tours offer close-up views of the fjord’s tidewater glaciers, including the impressive Sawyer Glaciers, where visitors might witness ice calving into the jade-colored water—an awe-inspiring sight that defines the raw beauty of Alaska.
4. Sitka
Sitka is a unique blend of Native Tlingit culture and Russian heritage, set against a backdrop of stunning island scenery. April is a great time to visit the Sitka National Historical Park, where you can walk trails adorned with historic totem poles. The raptor center rehabilitates birds of prey and offers educational tours, making Sitka not only one of the best places to visit in Alaska in April but also a center for wildlife conservation.
5. Ketchikan
Known as the "Salmon Capital of the World," Ketchikan is vibrant in April, with fewer crowds and the opportunity to experience local culture firsthand. The city’s Creek Street, a boardwalk on stilts, boasts quaint shops and restaurants. Nearby, the Misty Fjords National Monument offers flightseeing tours that reveal the vast wilderness areas of waterfalls, lakes and snow-capped peaks, providing an unforgettable aerial perspective of Alaska’s untouched landscapes.
6. Glacier Bay National Park
Visiting Glacier Bay National Park in April is perfect for those seeking solitude and the grandeur of Alaska’s glaciers without the peak season crowds. Boat tours during this time provide visitors with the chance to see massive glaciers up close and personal, along with a variety of marine wildlife. The park’s quiet and pristine environment makes it a top contender for the best places to visit in Alaska in April.
7. Icy Strait Point
Icy Strait Point offers an authentic Alaskan experience with incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. In April, the area is less crowded, allowing for more intimate encounters with nature. Whale watching begins in earnest and the nearby forests and coastal areas are great for bird watching and seeing other wildlife as they become more active in the spring.
Why Visit Alaska in April?
Traveling to these best places to visit in Alaska in April allows you to enjoy the state’s breathtaking landscapes with the added bonus of quieter attractions and the chance to see wildlife as they emerge from the winter season. Each destination offers unique activities that cater to different interests, from historical train rides and glacier tours to cultural museums and wildlife encounters.
Keep Exploring Alaska
Want to learn more about a few Alaska destinations? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Juneau Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Juneau with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What Is Juneau Known For? - Learn more about the city's natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.
- Skagway Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Skagway with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is Skagway Known For? - Learn more about the city's gold rush history, picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture.
- Sitka, Alaska Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Sitka with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is Sitka Known For? - Learn more about the city's historical parks, wildlife centers and vibrant art scene.
- Ketchikan Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Ketchikan with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
- What is Ketchikan Known For? - Learn more about the city's native culture, stunning natural beauty and rich history.
- Icy Strait Point Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Icy Strait Point with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
