From verdant forests to rugged mountains and deep blue waters, the state offers spectacular sights. Here’s your guide to the best places to visit in Alaska in the summer, featuring destinations perfect for enjoying everything from serene nature walks to thrilling wildlife encounters.
1. Juneau
Juneau, accessible only by sea or air, shines in the summer. The nearby Mendenhall Glacier offers accessible hikes and features a visitor center with stunning views over the glacier. Summer excursions here can include guided ice hikes and canoe trips on Mendenhall Lake, which provide picturesque views and encounters with icebergs. Whale watching tours are also popular, as the nutrient-rich waters near Juneau are a favorite feeding ground for humpback whales during the summer months.
2. Skagway
Skagway, known for its Gold Rush history, retains a frontier town feel with historic buildings and old-time saloons. The White Pass Railway offers a scenic train ride from Skagway up through stunning mountain passes and gorges. This excursion provides unforgettable views of waterfalls, cliffs and canyons, making Skagway one of the best places to visit in Alaska during the summer.
3. Sitka
Sitka, with its unique blend of Tlingit culture and Russian history, offers a different perspective on Alaska. Summer visitors can explore the Sitka National Historical Park, which features totem poles and beautiful coastal trails. Wildlife tours around Sitka provide unique opportunities to see sea otters, bald eagles and other marine birds. Sitka is a culturally rich and naturally beautiful addition to the list of best places to visit in Alaska in the summer.
4. Ketchikan
Ketchikan is renowned for its rich Native heritage and incredible totem pole collections, displayed at places like Totem Bight State Park and the Saxman Native Village. The city is also a gateway to the Misty Fjords National Monument, where boat and floatplane tours allow you to marvel at some of Alaska’s most dramatic landscapes. Soak in the steep fjords, lush forests and pristine waters.
5. Anchorage
While Anchorage is a modern city, it serves as a great base for numerous excursions into the Alaskan wilderness. Summer activities in and around Anchorage include hiking in Chugach State Park, biking along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and fishing for salmon in Ship Creek. The city’s museums and cultural centers, like the Alaska Native Heritage Center, provide insights into the state’s rich history and diverse cultures.
Why Visit Alaska in the Summer?
The best places to visit in Alaska in the summer are renowned not only for their scenic beauty, but also for their accessibility during the warmer months. Long days and milder weather allow for extensive exploration of the natural wonders that Alaska has to offer. Marvel at the wildlife-rich waters around Juneau, the historic paths of Skagway and the cultural treasures of Sitka. Each location provides unique opportunities to delve into the wild, making every summer visit a memorable adventure.
