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Nestled deep in the heart of Alaska's wilderness is a network of rustic shelters that beckon adventurous souls from around the world: public use cabins. These cozy abodes offer an experience like no other, immersing visitors in the rugged beauty of the Alaska landscape while providing a comfortable retreat from the elements. With no shortage of awe-inspiring vistas and wildlife viewing, a stay…, What is a Public Use Cabin?, A public use cabin is a rustic retreat that can be rented out by visitors for a night or longer, depending on availability. The cabins are maintained by the U.S. Forest Service , Alaska Department of Natural Resources , and other state and federal agencies, and rental fees go towards upkeep and maintenance. These cabins are typically located in more remote areas of Alaska's vast backcountry,…, Why are Public Use Cabins Common in Alaska?, Public use cabins are prevalent in Alaska due to the state's massive stretches of public lands and wide array of outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. Alaska is the largest state in the U.S., but is also one of the least populated, with a relatively limited road system. Much of the state is accessible only by bush plane, boat, or on foot, and public use cabins…, How to Reserve a Public Use Cabin in Alaska, If you're looking to experience the adventure and solitude of Alaska's wilderness in a public use cabin, the first step is to decide where in the state you’d like to go. There are hundreds of public use cabins located statewide, with most of cabins in the Southcentral , Inside Passage , and Interior regions of the state. There are also a handful of public use cabins in the Southwest region, on…, How to Get to Alaska Public Use Cabins, The ways to get to public use cabins are as varied as the landscapes they inhabit. Some cabins are located in campgrounds and are accessible by car. Other cabins are found in extremely remote locations and are only accessible by chartered plane or water taxi services. Some of the most popular cabins are found along the state’s fantastic trail systems and are offer a great respite after a day of…, Leave No Trace and Public Use Cabin Etiquette, The Leave No Trace principle is an essential concept in outdoor ethics that emphasizes the importance of preserving the natural environment and minimizing human impact. It's especially important in Alaska, where the delicate ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to damage from human activity. When it comes to public use cabins, it's essential to practice Leave No Trace principles to ensure that…, Leave No Trace, First and foremost, anyone visiting should strive to leave the cabin and its surrounding areas in the same condition they found it. This means packing out all trash and properly disposing of waste in designated areas. Visitors should also avoid damaging trees and vegetation, building new structures, or leaving behind personal items. Additionally, visitors should use existing trails and avoid…, General Public Use Cabin Etiquette, Here are several other examples of public use cabin etiquette that potential visitors should be aware of: Keep the cabin clean: Visitors should keep the cabin clean and tidy during their stay, leaving it in the same condition they found it. This includes sweeping the floors, wiping down surfaces, and packing out any trash before you leave the cabin. Follow fire safety rules: Many public use…, A Sampling of Public Use Cabins in Alaska, With hundreds of cabins located throughout the state offering access to a wide variety of experiences – from alpine hiking and glacier kayaking to fishing on remote lakes, and even winter adventures like cross country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmachining - selecting the best public use cabin for your Alaska adventure depends on what you’d like to do and how far off the beaten path you’d like to…, Marten Cabin , Accessible from Juneau, Named for the pine martens that can be seen sneaking through the brush in the area, Marten Cabin is located about 27 miles north of Juneau along Glacier Highway. Marten Cabin is an excellent option for those new to public use cabins as it is located about half a mile off the main campground road at the Eagle Beach State Recreation Area. , McKinley Trail Cabin , Accessible from Cordova, The McKinley Trail Cabin provides a bit of a best of both worlds feeling. Located within the Chugach National Forest , McKinley Trail Cabin gives you the wilderness vibes most cabin users desire, yet it is also only 80 yards from the Copper River Highway, making access easier than many other public use cabins. McKinley is popular amongst fishermen and fisherwomen who use the cabin as a home base…, Byers Lake Cabin #1 , Accessible from the Parks Highway, Byers Lake Cabin is one of Alaska’s most desirable public use cabins because of its top-notch location. Yes, it is located near the shores of Byers Lake and easily accessible via the Parks Highway, but what makes the location truly special is that it is within Denali State Park . If you miss out on Cabin #1, there are others around the lake although they will require more of a hike in from the…, Olnes Pond Cabin , Accessible From Fairbanks, Taking Elliot Highway 22 miles north of Fairbanks will bring you to Olnes Pond Cabin. Olnes Pond Cabin is one of the very rare examples of a public use cabin in Alaska that is wired for electricity. Reservations are most easily found during the shoulder seasons, as reservations during summer are either hard to come by or unavailable. But don’t let that deter you. With easy access from Fairbanks,…, Aialik Bay Cabin , Accessible from Seward, Located deep in Kenai Fjords National Park , the Aialik Bay Cabin offers breathtaking views of glaciers and the surrounding wilderness. Visitors reach the cabin by boat or plane, which sleeps up to six people, and enjoy kayaking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching in the area., Crescent Lake Cabin , Accessible from Cooper Landing, The Crescent Lake Cabin is situated on the shore of Crescent Lake in the Chugach National Forest . This cozy cabin is only accessible by hiking, making it a great option for visitors looking for a more remote experience. The cabin offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake, as well as access to Alaska staples like fishing and keeping your eyes peeled for moose and bears., Mulcahy View Cabin , Accessible from Kodiak, This remote cabin is located in Shuyak Island State Park on Shuyak Island at the northern end of Kodiak Island , making it accessible by boat or floatplane. The cabin is situated in a picturesque rainforest near the shore allowing for marine wildlife viewing. Keep an eye on the sea, and you are sure to spot sea otters or whales., Nugget Creek Cabin , AccessiBle from Fairbanks, Located in the Chena River State Recreation Area near Fairbanks , the Nugget Creek Cabin was once used by gold miners in the area, offering an authentic cabin experience. , Be Prepared and Have Fun!, Alaska public use cabins are a unique way for adventurous visitors to explore Alaska's backcountry. These cabins are truly off the grid and usually don't have cell service. You are responsible for being prepared to ensure a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience, and being a responsible steward for the cabin and surrounding area. With idyllic views, peace, quiet, and access to the outdoors and…
Type: Editorial
Raise a glass to Alaska’s booming local beverage scene! With new breweries popping up every year, you could easily plan an entire trip around sampling Alaska’s microbrews, ciders, and other craft beverages. Our world-class craft breweries and distilleries use distinctive Alaska-grown ingredients like spruce tips, berries, fireweed, grains, potatoes, glacier water, and even kelp to create one-of-a…, Southcentral Breweries & Distilleries, Anchorage:, With over a dozen breweries and counting, Anchorage could easily be called the brewery capital of Alaska. Ranging from small, intimate microbreweries to bustling brewpubs, Anchorage is a top destination for those in search of quality craft beers. Don’t miss 49th State Brewing Company, Anchorage Brewing Company, Broken Tooth Brewing Co (served at Bear Tooth and Moose’s Tooth restaurants), Cynosure…, Kenai Peninsula :, Heading south from Anchorage to the beautiful Kenai Peninsula are more breweries with lots of local flavor. First stop is Girdwood Brewing Company in Girdwood , featuring local favorites like IPAs and saisons plus some fun sours, hard seltzers, and kombucha. At the end of the Seward Highway is the town of Seward , home to Seward Brewing Company and Stoney Creek Brewhouse. A wide variety of…, Mat-Su Valley :, Alaska’s agricultural hub, the Mat-Su Valley is home to a handful of breweries and distilleries. In Palmer and Wasilla you’ll find Arkose Brewery, Bearpaw River Brewing Company, Bleeding Heart Brewery, Last Frontier Brewing Co., and Matanuska Brewery, along with Susitna Brewing Company in Big Lake and Odd Man Rush Brewing in Eagle River . One of the state’s most popular breweries is Denali…, Prince William Sound:, A little more off-the-beaten track are the breweries found in Prince William Sound . Cordova , only accessibly by boat or plane, is home to Copper River Brewing which serves up beers using local ingredients like spruce tips and kelp. Valdez is located at the end of the Richardson Highway and has two breweries: Valdez Brewing and Growler Bay Brewing Company., Interior Breweries & Distilleries, With endless summer days under the midnight sun and cold, clear winters perfect for northern lights viewing , it’s no surprise that the Interior region has a robust brewery and distillery scene centered around its largest community: Fairbanks . Black Spruce Brewing Company, HooDoo Brewing Company, Latitude 65 Brewing Company, and Silver Gulch Brewing Company are all in Fairbanks, plus three…, Southwest Breweries & Distilleries, If you’re looking for craft brews in the Southwest region, head to Alaska’s Emerald Isle: Kodiak Island . The town of Kodiak is home to the charming Kodiak Island Brewing Company and Still, producing craft beers, spirits, and cocktails. Or, post up at the nearby Double Shovel Cider Co. for some refreshing hard ciders. Kodiak Island Brewing Company, Inside Passage Breweries & Distilleries, Alaska’s Inside Passage region is popular with cruise ship visitors and independent travelers interested in exploring the region’s charming towns and rugged coastline, with most major ports of call having at least one brewery and distillery. From south to north (the direction that most cruise ship itineraries travel), you’ll find Bowden Street Brewing Company and Uncharted Alaska Distillery in…
Type: Editorial
Stacey Simmons is the director of operations at the Kodiak Brown Bear Center & Lodge, president of Discover Kodiak, and the senior director of shareholder services for Koniag, the Alaska Native regional corporation for the Kodiak region. She grew up in Old Harbor , a small commercial fishing village on Kodiak Island. A Sugpiaq/Alutiiq , Stacey holds a Bachelor of Arts in rural development…, We love to share our rich history and culture with anyone who visits our little slice of paradise. Below are just some of my favorite things to share with travelers who come to visit Kodiak Island ., The Village of Old Harbor , Visits to Old Harbor are at the top of my list! I don’t like to play favorites, but this is my village. Nestled along the sheltered waters of Sitkalidak Strait, Old Harbor is on the southeast coast of Kodiak Island and is one of the most picturesque villages on Kodiak. Tall peaks serve as a dramatic backdrop for the city, which faces Sitkalidak Island. Old Harbor boasts having the only glacier…, Port Lions, Located in Settlers Cove, 19 air miles west of the city of Kodiak, the community of , Port Lions, is home to about 200 residents. A relatively young community, Port Lions was built to house the inhabitants of Afognak and Raspberry Island after their communities were wiped out by the tsunami accompanying the 1964 Good Friday earthquake. My mother is from Afognak and she and her family were raised in Port Lions after the tsunami. Port Lions has a small village charm. One of my favorite places…, Larsen Bay, Larsen Bay, is a beautiful village that extends off Uyak Bay on the west coast of Kodiak Island. The first thing you will notice flying into Larsen Bay is the historical cannery built in 1889 by the Alaska Improvement Company. It is currently owned by Icicle Seafoods. Larsen Bay has some of the nicest people on the island. Check out the Larsen Bay Lodge for all your fishing or hunting needs. Mike and…, Take a hike, Kodiak has some of the most epic trails for day hikes. Whether you are a novice hiker or just want to go for a short walk, Kodiak caters to all. The Island Trails Network has done a phenomenal job taking care of our trails. Discover Kodiak even has a challenge that you and your whole family can sign up for call the Adjust your Altitude Challenge. You can sign up right at the visitors bureau.…, Downtown Kodiak at its best, The best part about downtown Kodiak is that many great cultural and historical places are within walking distance! I recommend visitors stop into the Alutiiq Museum . The Alutiiq Museum & Archaeological Repository Center is where visitors can explore 7,500 years of Alutiiq heritage. Another can’t-miss landmark is the Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral, home to one of the oldest Orthodox…, Stacey’s favorite things to eat in Kodiak, You guessed it! Food is one of my love languages. Stop by Henry’s in downtown, Kodiak, for fish and chips. The cod is the best. Hana Restaurant has fantastic sushi. They make custom rolls and cater to both large and small groups. Order the Coastie roll, it does not disappoint. Head out the road to Java Flats and try its life-changing Countryside sandwich…yum. Do not leave without a cookie! The Rendezvous offers not only occasional live music but the best clam chowder that will have…, Kodiak Brown Bear Center & Lodge, The Kodiak Brown Bear Center & Lodge is located on the west coast of Kodiak Island on Karluk Lake and offers a true Alaska adventure: outstanding and intimate bear viewing opportunities in their natural habitat. The lodge is owned by the Alutiiq people, who have called Kodiak home for over 7,000 years. Most of the bear viewing locations are on privately owned land. The exclusivity is…
Type: Editorial
If you’re looking for the ideal balance between luxury and adventure in Alaska, wilderness lodges and resorts are a perfect fit. Often located in remote destinations only accessibly by boat or small plane, wilderness lodges and resorts allow you to get away from it all while still enjoying the luxuries of comfortable beds, gourmet food, and experienced hosts and guides that can lead you on…
Type: Editorial
Alaska contains 17 of North America’s tallest peaks, over 27,000 glaciers, the United States’ only temperate rainforest, and seemingly endless acres of shoreline. Alaska’s vast landscape — bigger than Texas, California and Montana combined — delivers endless opportunities for land-based adventures and cruising along the coastline. It’s no wonder why so many travelers dream of visiting Alaska, and…, Do I need a passport to go to Alaska?, United States residents do not need a passport to go to Alaska. Beginning May 7, 2025, U.S. citizens aged 18 and up traveling by air within the United States will need REAL ID -compliant identification to go through airport security checkpoints. REAL ID-compliant identification includes a state-issued REAL ID, U.S. Passport, military ID or other form of compliant ID. REAL ID driver’s licenses,…, What is the best month to go to Alaska?, Alaska is a must-see destination year-round. Every month offers its own unique experiences! February and March are great for watching dogsled races and for attending winter festivals , while whales and other migrating marine wildlife start appearing in Alaska’s waters in April and May. June through August are the most popular months to visit Alaska, with long daylight hours, the warmest…, How much time do I need to visit Alaska?, If you have a long weekend or a week, you have enough time for a thrilling and memorable vacation to Alaska. Almost any itinerary can be adapted to match the time you have. Planning your perfect itinerary is easy due to the wide variety of activities and tours available to you. Whether you have 7 or 17 days to travel, here are some handy trip suggestions:, 7 days:, Fly round-trip to Alaska and spend your time exploring independently. Focus on one area of the state and take a variety of shorter excursions around that area. Rent a car or RV and discover Alaska's unique roadside communities. You'll get a chance to meet friendly people, see wildlife, and view unforgettable scenery. Stop where you want for as long as you want., 7 to 14 days:, Fly round-trip to Alaska or fly one way and take a cruise ship or ferry back home. If you plan to travel by sea , add a few shore excursions to experience adventures such as flightseeing , kayaking , hiking tours , and fishing trips . Add land-based day trips and tours to your itinerary. Plan on one low-key day for every two days of intensive touring., 14 days or more:, Travel to and from the state using different methods of transportation. Cruise to Alaska through the Inside Passage and across the Gulf of Alaska, and then add on a land-based package to explore Southcentral and Interior Alaska. Drive to and from Alaska in your own car or RV and see several regions of the state by road, adding occasional flightseeing trips , land-based tours , and day cruises .…, What should I pack to visit Alaska?, When you’re packing for your Alaska vacation, it’s best to pack in layers. Weather can vary dramatically by region and season. Alaska’s summer season is May through September. May is generally the driest month across the state, even in the temperate rainforest of the Inside Passage . By July, daytime temperatures in the Interior average around 70 degrees F—although it has been known to reach well…, Is Alaska affordable?, While Alaska has a relatively high cost of living compared to other states, it has lower pricing than many other big-name destinations in the United States. According to the Consumer Price Index, Alaska is more affordable than vacation hotspots like San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Seattle, Boston, and Honolulu., Lodging & Dining Costs:, Accommodations in peak season are typically $200 and up. Restaurants in Alaska charge similar or slightly higher prices than restaurants in most major U.S. cities. Those numbers offer a good starting point for your budget planning. But you also need to consider your individual circumstances and whether meals are included as part of a tour package., Transportation Costs:, Getting to and from your destination is often a large part of a vacation budget. The cost of getting to Alaska can vary widely, depending on your means of transportation. For example, transportation costs can be low if you find a bargain airfare online. Additionally, the price of a package tour or cruise would likely include transportation, lodging, and meals, and it might save money in the long…, The Bottom Line:, Research shows that you'll probably spend about the same as you've spent on past vacations that take you beyond your state borders. So, whatever your budget, an unforgettable Alaskan experience is within your reach!, Ways to Save:, Check for travel deals and specials . Consider traveling in the shoulder seasons of May and September, or visit in winter when accommodation prices are typically lower. Take advantage of early-booking discounts that are usually available in January and February. Book your accommodations as early as possible to ensure the lowest prices. Save on transportation costs by focusing your trip on one…, Where are the best places to see bears in Alaska?, Bears top of the list of Alaska’s “Big 5” wildlife-viewing experiences. Because bears tend to visit the same locations in search of seasonal foods year after year, there are a number of fairly reliable viewing locations for bears across the state. Anan Creek, , Inside Passage : Black bears, July – August, The creeks and estuaries of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest provide a healthy habit for salmon populations—and the bears that feed on salmon. Anan Creek, near the town of Wrangell , was traditionally used by the area’s Tlingit peoples as a summer fish camp to catch their winter supply of salmon. Today, a trail through the temperate rainforest leads to an observatory and viewing platform near…, Pack Creek , Inside Passage : Brown bears, June – September, Pack Creek , near Juneau , is in the heart of Admiralty Island. Approximately 1,600 brown bears live on the forested island that’s also known as the Fortress of the Bears (Kootznoowoo in the local Tlingit language). Visitors have been viewing bears at Pack Creek reliably since the 1930s. During peak salmon runs in July and August, bears congregate along the mudflats at the creek’s outflow and…, Katmai National Park , Southwest : Brown bears, July & September, Over 2,000 bears live in Katmai National Park and Preserve , and one of the best places to see bears at Katmai is at the famous Brooks Falls. Salmon swim upriver each summer and fall to spawn and Katmai’s bears gather at the falls in search of their next meal. Bears are focused on food, packing on the pounds for a long winter’s nap. Be sure to track their progress during Katmai’s “Fat Bear Week…, Lake Clark National Park , Southwest : Brown bears, June – September, The long miles of Lake Clark National Park and Preserve’s coastline provide ample food opportunities for coastal brown bears. In spring and early summer, bears congregate along the tidal mudflats to munch on beach grasses and look for clams, using their long claws to peel open the shells. In late summer and fall, when salmon start making their way up Lake Clark’s many creeks, bears splash up and…, Kodiak Island , Southwest : Brown bears, June – September, The , Kodiak Archipelago, is home to its own subspecies of brown bear — , Ursus arctos middendorfii, . Approximately 3,500 of these bears roam Kodiak’s islands, and these bears are big. Brown bears living along the coast tend to be larger than their “grizzly” cousins found in the Interior. Access to lots and lots of food (including lots and lots of salmon) means these bears can pack on the pounds. The largest Kodiak bear on record was more than 1,600 pounds! The area surrounding Karluk Lake in…, Denali National Park , Interior : Brown bears, June – September, Head into , Denali National Park and Preserve, for a chance to see the “Big 5”—wolves, Dall sheep, moose, caribou, and bears. Interior Alaska’s brown bears are constantly looking for food. They dig for roots and ground squirrels, delicately pick berries with long claws, and wander along steep hillsides in search of their next meal. Look high and low as you travel along the park road. You may see a solitary grizzly bear or a female (sow)…, , Arctic : Polar bears, September & October, The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is home to all three species of North American bear, but the polar bear is king of the castle. Polar bears are the world’s largest land carnivore, although they are technically classified as a marine mammal because of their reliance on seals and other marine species for food. Arctic National Wildlife Refuge has a population of approximately 900 polar bears.…, Is Alaska accessible for people with limited mobility?, Whether you’re looking for a guided tour package or independent adventures, there are a wide variety of accessible, year-round vacation experiences available. If you opt for cruise travel , shore excursions at popular ports of call have sightseeing options that include lift-assisted motor coaches or rail cars. Try a helicopter ride above a glacier or watch whales from a wheelchair-accessible boat…, Denali National Park & Preserve, , a popular visitor destination, tour buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts . Be advised that not all national-park trails meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. Adaptive gear for skiing and other recreational activities is available through organizations such as Southcentral Alaska’s Challenge Alaska and Southeast Alaska Independent Living . Many public and private…, Is it easy to make reservations for a trip to Alaska?, You should make as many arrangements prior to your arrival as possible when planning a trip to Alaska. Accommodations and rental cars can be expensive and hard to find if you wait too long. So, you'll definitely want to reserve those first. Accommodations near popular destinations like Denali National Park and Preserve fill up quickly during peak season and should be booked as early as possible…, Is marijuana legal in Alaska?, In Alaska, it's legal for adults 21 and older to possess and use recreational marijuana (from approved marijuana stores), but there are limits. Here’s the rundown: You can possess and use recreational marijuana if you are 21 and older. If you are younger than 21, it is illegal. Licensed marijuana retail stores may sell small amounts of marijuana to recreational users of legal age. You can possess…, How many time zones does Alaska have?, Alaska has two time zones—Alaska Time and Hawaii-Aleutian Time. Most of the state is on Alaska time, which is four hours behind our friends on the East Coast. So, when it’s noon in New York, it’s 8 a.m. in Alaska. If you’re traveling from Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, or another West Coast destination, Alaska is one hour behind your home time zone Hawaii-Aleutian time is reserved for Alaska’s…, What can I buy in Alaska?, Wherever you go in the Alaska, you'll find unique, authentic Alaskan products and crafts. Handcrafted Alaska Native artwork found in galleries and shops make special gifts and are a wonderful way to remember your trip to Alaska. One-of-a-kind Alaskan handcrafts include: Gold-nugget jewelry and items carved from ivory and jade Handmade clothing and toys Collectors’ items made from animal skins,…, Are there mosquitos in Alaska?, Much like wilderness areas in other parts of the United States, Alaska has its share of pesky insects. Mosquitoes are perhaps the most widespread and persistent insects in Alaska. They occur in the state’s many miles of swampy tundra and lakes from early spring into the fall. Mosquitoes are generally active in the early morning and at dusk, and they are the most bothersome in areas with stagnant…, What should I see in Alaska?, There are many things to see and do in Alaska, so it’s hard to pick just one or two! Exploring Alaska’s natural attractions generally top the list. This includes our ice-blue glaciers, bears and other wildlife , ancient temperate rainforests, and Denali, the tallest mountain in North America . You’ll also want to experience some destinations that are off the beaten path, like walking tours of…, trip itineraries, . Adventure awaits! Kayakers float in front of a glacier in Alaska's Prince William Sound., Where is the Iditarod National Historic Trail?, Dog mushing is Alaska's official sport, and the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race held every March is the longest, toughest test of a professional musher's endurance. You don't have to own a sled to check out the Iditarod National Historic Trail traversed by the mushers and their fleet of dogs. Drive down Joe Reddington Road in Wasilla to see Iditarod Trail Headquarters . You can stroll the famous…, Where is the most beautiful place in Alaska?, Alaska has so many beautiful places and different ways to experience our amazing landscapes, it’s hard to pick just one “must-see” location. Around every corner you’ll see something unforgettable. Imagine … Standing among thousands of shorebirds as they pause along Southcentral Alaska ’s tidelands during spring migration. Looking up into the forest canopy of the Tongass National Forest ,…
Type: Editorial
About Fairbanks (Tanana Athabascan : Ch'elaat'uudze Yekh) , At 65 degrees north latitude, Fairbanks is renowned for the northern lights , also known as the aurora borealis, the midnight sun, and sunsets and sunrises that last forever. Basecamp to , Denali National Park & Preserve, , the Interior , and the Arctic — Fairbanks is the Golden Heart of Alaska. Home to just over 100,000 hearty souls, the Fairbanks region is the second-largest population center in Alaska. Locals embrace the natural world and have created a vibrant river city in the far north. Where else can you travel to such a remote locale and still enjoy all the amenities of a charming downtown, a thriving…, HISTORY of Fairbanks, Fairbanks dates back to 1901, when E.T. Barnette cruised up the Tanana River on the SS Lavelle Young with 130 tons of supplies bound for the Tanacross goldfields. The next year an Italian prospector named Felix Pedro struck gold 12 miles to the north and Barnette’s trading post became a boomtown with hordes of miners stampeding into the area. The construction of the Alaska Railroad , the Alaska…, Getting to Fairbanks, Fairbanks sits at the confluence of the Richardson Highway, George Parks Highway, Steese Highway, and Elliott Highway, which is why it’s known as a hub city. The Fairbanks International Airport also serves Fairbanks with frequent flights from within Alaska as well as from the Lower 48 and even some international destinations. The Alaska Railroad offers service from Anchorage via , Denali National Park & Preserve, ., Things to Do in Fairbanks, Fairbanks is one of Alaska's best year-round destinations and visitors will find plenty to do whether they come for the long, warm summer days or to watch spectacular northern lights coloring the night sky during Aurora Season. With the summer sun shining up to 24 hours a day during the Midnight Sun Season from April 22 to August 20, the subarctic summer is filled with action and brimming with…, Experience the MIDNIGHT SUN, Whether you plan on going on a hike, floating down the Chena River, or having a late-night dessert on an outdoor deck, the rousing Midnight Sun Season is awesome and energizing. For locals, summertime middle-of-the-night activities include running, golfing, gardening, walking the dog, and even baseball—where the Alaska Goldpanners start their historic solstice game at 10:30pm. With the chance of…, View the NORTHERN LIGHTS, From mid-August through mid-April, Fairbanks is one of the best places to view the northern lights in Alaska due to its location, hours of darkness in the winter, and auroral activity. While the northern lights can be seen from anywhere in town, the best opportunities for northern lights viewing happen away from the city's ambient light. Join a guided tour to let the locals take you to the best…, City Attractions, DOWNTOWN FAIRBANKS Built alongside the Chena River, downtown Fairbanks is bustling year-round with a variety of shops, restaurants, museums, the Golden Heart Plaza, and historical buildings. A boat cruise of the Chena River, including some on a historical sternwheeler, is an excellent way to explore the city’s outlying areas. Golden Heart Plaza Golden Heart Plaza was built as a public space for…, MUSEUMS, Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center To discover more about Alaska Native culture in Fairbanks, spend some time in the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. The center has a variety of films, talks, and exhibits that document the history of different communities, and showcase their contributions to life in the city in modern times. The center also houses the Alaska Public Lands…, The Place Where You Go To Listen, exhibit – a sound and light display driven by the real-time position of the moon and sun. The museum is home to the Gallery of Alaska, which examines the geology, history, and unusual aspects of each region of the state. Its most famous exhibit is Blue Babe, a 36,000-year-old bison found preserved in the permafrost by Fairbanks-area miners. In the museum theater, special programs are shown…, Outdoor Activities, Winter Activities Fairbanks' top-of-the-world location makes it one of the best places on earth to see the captivating light of the aurora borealis, but that's not all there is to do in winter. Skiing , ice skating, snowshoeing, ice fishing, tubing, and dog sledding abound. To get out into the backcountry, outfitters offer guided snowmobile tours in the Fairbanks area and Chena River State…, Festivals & Events, One of Fairbanks' largest festivals is Golden Days , staged mid-July to commemorate Felix Pedro's discovery of gold and the founding of Fairbanks. The event features a parade, street fair, games, contests, entertainment, and reenactments. Fairbanks hosts one of the best summer solstice celebrations in Alaska on summer solstice weekend, when the midnight sun shines all night long. This free…, Best Time to Visit Fairbanks, If you’re looking for daylight and warm temps, the best time to visit is June through August, when summer is in full swing. Temperatures can get up into the 80s and it doesn’t get completely dark for 70 days straight, from May 17 – July 27. Keep in mind that July to August is peak visitor season in the city and accommodation prices can be more expensive. For a less busy and more affordable visit…, Lodging in Fairbanks, From large hotels to cozy cabins, there's a wide variety of places to stay in Fairbanks . Several national and locally owned hotels and lodges can be found in town, some featuring riverfront views of the Chena River. If you're interested in connecting with locals, book one of the many bed & breakfasts for cozy accommodations both in and outside of town. Cabins can be rented in town and in…, Downtown, For travelers looking to be close to all the action, downtown is where you want to stay. The vibrant zone is packed with museums and restaurants and is close to the Chena River, which boasts beautiful views across the water. Downtown has many accommodation types, including luxury hotels, family apartments, and tiny homes. Properties are available to suit all budget types., Airport Area, You’ll find a variety of lodging near the airport, from budget options to riverfront hotels overlooking the Chena River. These properties are just a few miles from downtown and are close to grocery stores and restaurants., Out of Town, For those looking for some peace and quiet with a side of adventure, Fairbanks is home to an array of accommodations located outside of town, ranging from high-end luxury lodges to cabins build specifically for northern lights viewing to cozy family-run B&Bs and guesthouses. Away from the ambient city light, staying at these accommodations gives you even better chances of seeing the aurora…
Type: Landing Page
Alaska offers a respite, a place to decompress, , r, oam wide-open space, s,, and marvel in beautiful scenery. We might be biased, but we think it's easy to fall in love with Alaska - so easy that many visitors and seasonal workers end up packing up and moving to Alaska permanently after their first visit. But don’t just take our word for it. We asked a few residents from across the state to share what they love about Alaska. We were so touched by their words, we had to…, glaciers on the planet, the outdoor life is as dramatic and life affirming as coexisting with nature can get.” — Neil Darish, Owner, Ma Johnsons’s Historical Hotel in McCarthy “I love Nome ! Our road system — the most extensive in rural Alaska — winds through precious wilderness that includes rugged mountains, rolling tundra, scenic rivers, lovely lakes, and expansive vistas that fill your heart…, ,, whose families have been tied to this landscape for over 500 generations, continue to welcome newcomers like me. The result is an ever-changing blend of cultures and individuals whose combined talents, skills, and life stories shape the evolving narrative of our small town.” — Carol Gales, Owner, Roam Nome in Nome “It’s really hard not to fall in love with Interior Alaska summers. The long summer…, or, camping . All the while rejuvenating your spirit as you connect with nature. And after a full day of outdoor fun, squeezing in a soak at the hot springs is an excellent way to unwind and relax.” — Mandy Sullivan, Vice Chair, World Eskimo-Indian Olympics in Fairbanks “Every morning I go for a walk with my dogs and there are no highways, stoplights, or sidewalks in sight. The only noises we hear…
Type: Editorial
Part road trip and part ferry ride, this four-day, 350-mile loop takes you through some of Alaska’s best scenery and richest Gold Rush history. Bring your passport: to complete the road portion of the loop, you’ll also visit Haines Junction, Carcross, and Whitehorse in Canada's Yukon Territory., Day 1: Haines, Arrive in, Haines, , a picturesque town surrounded by steep mountains and scenic ocean, via a small regional airline , cruise ship , or the, Alaska Marine Highway ferry system, . You can also, drive here, , of course. Haines is full of charming museums (including the famous Hammer Museum ), a thriving arts community, the longest and deepest fjord in North America, and salmon-filled rivers. It’s also home to the annual Bald Eagle Festival, which takes place every November. Take a cultural tour to the nearby Chilkat Indian Village , or book a jet boat or float trip through the, Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, , where you’ll find the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles., Day 2: Haines Junction, Yukon Territory, Make the 150-mile, three-and-a-half-hour drive north to Haines Junction (located across the Canadian border, so don’t forget your passport). The drive takes you through Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park and Kluane National Park and Reserve, part of the largest internationally protected area in the world, with many mountain trails, lakes, and rivers to explore. Haines Junction serves as the hub…, Day 3: Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Drive 95 miles or about two hours east on the Alaska Highway to Whitehorse, the capital city of the Yukon Territory. Whitehorse hosts a thriving downtown with plenty of stores, visitor amenities, fine dining, museums, and a nearby hot springs. Spend the morning wandering the Yukon River waterfront or exploring a couple of Whitehorse’s top attractions, such as the S.S. Klondike sternwheeler, the…, Skagway, ., Day 4: Skagway, Spend the day in, Skagway, , Alaska’s Gold Rush jewel, which was once the starting point for more than 40,000 Gold Rush stampeders headed to the Yukon in search of gold. Quaint false-front shops and restored buildings stretch for seven blocks along Broadway Street, all of which is part of the, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, . Stroll the wooden sidewalks, take a tour of an old-timey brothel, or go for a ride on the town’s historic narrow-gauge railroad and experience the adventure of ascending a mountainous pass alongside footpaths worn by gold seekers. After your day in Skagway, return to, Haines, via an Alaska Marine Highway ferry . Car berths fill up quickly, so be sure to make reservations in advance for the ferry.
Type: Editorial
Get up close and personal with Alaska wildlife in this three-day itinerary. The trip includes birdwatching near Anchorage , a glacier and wildlife cruise out of Seward , and behind-the-scenes encounters in three wildlife conservation facilities., Day 1: Anchorage, Arrive in, Anchorage, and pick up a rental car. The city offers many great experiences for visitors, but our focus is animals—so your first stop on this itinerary is the Alaska Zoo , where you can participate in behind-the-scenes and animal encounter tours to help feed and learn more about the zoo's wildlife including moose, reindeer, porcupine, and black bears. Once that adventure is complete, grab lunch at one of…, Girdwood, . Stop at Potter Marsh, part of Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge , just south of Anchorage. This wetland features extensive boardwalks and viewing platforms. It’s a great place to view and photograph the many birds that pass through the area, including bald eagles, horned and red-necked grebes, northern harriers, Arctic terns, and trumpeter swans. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and see other…, Day 2: Girdwood to Seward, Start the day with breakfast in, Girdwood, , then take a short drive to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center , located about a dozen miles further south on the Seward Highway. Here, you can see wildlife including brown bears, black bears, elk, moose, wolverines, wolves, and porcupines in natural habitats. Time your visit right and you can take one of the center’s behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, or watch the animals being…, Portage Glacier, and the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center, where you can learn about, Chugach National Forest, , which stretches from, Prince William Sound, to the, Kenai Peninsula, —an area larger than the state of New Hampshire—and take a short cruise to the glistening face of the glacier. Keep an eye out for black bears, eagles, and moose in the Portage area. After your visit, drive the rest of the way to Seward and spend the night., Day 3: Seward, Seward, is the ideal place for learning about Alaska’s diverse marine wildlife. Start the day with a, glacier and wildlife cruise , through, Kenai Fjords National Park, , where you’ll have good chances of seeing humpback whales, orcas, harbor seals, sea lions, sea otters, and numerous seabirds. Once you return to Seward it’s time for a visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center , a combination research, rescue, and rehabilitation center where you can get up-close views of Alaska's marine life. If you have the time, book one of the center's behind-the-scenes tours or…, Kenai, ,, Soldotna, , and, Homer, .
Type: Editorial