Tips for Hiking in Alaska
Whether you’re an experienced backcountry trekker or brand new to hiking, Alaska is a dream destination for anyone interested in hitting the trails. With over 322 million acres of public lands (that’s three times the size of California!) you’ll find a trail that is perfect for your adventure level. Mountain ridgelines, peaceful coastlines, expansive tundra traverses, serene forests, fresh air, and incredible wildlife viewing await on Alaska’s hiking trails. Not only is hiking a great way to see the sights, it offers an opportunity to connect with nature, decompress, stretch your legs, and connect with your travel partners and yourself. Explore our top tips for an enjoyable and safe hiking experience in Alaska.
Pick the Right Trail
With so many trails to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to know where to even start. Wherever you go in the state there is bound to be a hiking trail close by. Here are a few tips for picking the right trail:
Do Your Research
Make sure you’re picking a hike that is suited to your ability and itinerary by doing some advance research. Start with our articles on the Best Hikes in Alaska and Hiking in Alaska by Region to learn more about some of the most popular options. If you’re looking for a longer multi-day hike, learn more about some of the amazing thru-hikes in Alaska. The hiking website and app AllTrails is also a great resource for finding hiking trails by location. When you’re at your destination, check with the locals. Stop by the local visitors center or public lands information center. If you’re visiting one of our national parks, stop by the park’s visitor center for hiking recommendations and maps.
Pick the Right Difficulty Level
When researching hikes, find a distance and difficulty level that is realistic for you and your group. You’ll find something for everyone in Alaska, including paved muti-use trails, short family-friendly hikes, and challenging hikes only suitable for those with backcountry experience. If you’re newer to hiking or don’t have much experience, look for more popular, well-established trails.
If you’re out hiking and have a safety concern about incoming weather, route-finding, or your ability to finish the hike, it’s always best to turn around – even if the summit is in sight! When hiking in Alaska the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination, and you will still have an incredible time even if you’re not able to reach the end. Be sure to keep an eye on the time when you’re out hiking in summer - it's easy to lose track of time under the endless daylight of the midnight sun.
Consider A Guided Trip
If you’re intimidated by hiking on your own or you want to take the guesswork out of researching and planning, you can join a guided hiking trip which are available from many communities. You can also join free guided Ranger Walks in Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Glacier Bay National Park, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Guided multi-day treks are available in wilderness areas like Gates of the Arctic National Park, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Know Where You’re Going
Much of Alaska’s public lands are without cell service. You might even lose reliable service on trails within city limits. Make sure to find or download a map of where you are going or bring a GPS device if you are going into the backcountry. Many trailheads have kiosks with maps. In a pinch you can take a photo of the map on your phone so you have something to reference while hiking. Always tell someone else where you will be hiking and how long you expect to be gone – even if it’s someone back home.
Pack the Right Gear
The most important packing tip for hiking in Alaska is to bring plenty of layers. Alaska weather can be unpredictable and can change very quickly. Check the weather forecast before heading out for your hike and bring more layers than you think you’ll need. Even on nice summer days you should bring a rain coat, jacket, long-sleeved base layer, and pants to change in to if you’re wearing shorts. In addition to keeping you warmer, hiking pants will protect your legs from bugs or an overgrown trail. Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing rather than cotton, and sturdy hiking boots or tennis shoes with good grip. If you’re embarking on a hike with a good amount of elevation or just want extra stability, consider bringing trekking poles. Most poles are collapsible and can be packed away in your backpack when you don’t need them.
In addition to packing the right clothes, you want to be sure you have proper fuel for your adventure. Make sure to pack plenty of snacks, water, and consider bringing an electrolyte drink if it’s a hot day or you’ll be working up a sweat. You don’t want to have to turn around early just because you forgot to pack your trail mix.
Respect Wildlife
Spotting wildlife is one of the highlights of hiking in Alaska. However, for your own safety and the safety of the animals, you must respect wildlife and keep your distance. Bears can be found in every region of the state and it’s essential to know how to be “bear aware” when hiking in Alaska. You never want to surprise a bear, so be sure to travel in groups if possible, make noise (especially in overgrown areas or trails with dense foliage), and wear bear bells. Bear spray is available for purchase at outdoor gear stores, grocery stores, and gas stations, and is sometimes available to rent or borrow from gear rental shops. Review the Alaska Department of Fish & Game’s guidelines on traveling in bear country, including how to avoid encounters and what to do if you see a bear.
Moose are commonly seen along Alaska’s trails – even right in town. While they may look gentle, these large ungulates can be very dangerous and should never be approached. Cow moose (females) are extremely protective of their calves and should be given even more distance. If you encounter a moose on or near the trail, give it plenty of space and wait to see if it will move away to a safe distance before you continue. Read more about moose safety from the Alaska Department of Fish & Game. No matter what kind of wildlife you see on your Alaska hike, from marmots to ptarmigan to caribou, you should never feed them, and always give them plenty of space.
Respect the Land
Alaska is the traditional homeland of Alaska Native Peoples who have a deep connection to the land. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage for an overview of the diverse cultural groups who have lived and continue to live here. Wherever you travel, be sure to include a visit to a cultural center, museum, or cultural demonstration to learn more about the area’s Indigenous Peoples. Learn more about being a responsible traveler and how to practice Alaska Native values when visiting the Great Land.
When out enjoying Alaska’s vast landscapes, be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve and protect the land and wildlife. Don’t leave trash or food waste and be sure to pack out what you pack in. Stay on designated trails when they are available. We hope that hiking in Alaska brings you a greater appreciation of our landscapes and wildlife and that you have a safe and fun journey out on the trail.
Alaska: AKA Your Next Adventure
Where will your Alaska adventure take you? Order our Official State of Alaska Vacation Planner and plot your course.