Alaska is where the wild things are, and the state’s incredible wildlife is as diverse as its landscapes. People travel from around the world to view Alaska’s Big 5: bear, moose, Dall sheep, wolf, and caribou, along with impressive marine mammals like humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales. Other types of wildlife are less common, but all the more exciting for their rarity. Alaska's broad,…, BLACK BEARS, Black Bear in Alaska, Photo Credit: ATIA, Chris McLennan Black bears are the smallest of Alaska’s three bear species (the other two are grizzlies and polar bears) and have a pointier snout than grizzlies. Black bears aren’t always black, as strange as that may seem. Colors vary from white or creamy to brown or cinnamon. The state is also home to rare “glacier” bears, with silver-blue fur, found…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Black bears live in most of Alaska’s forested regions, from the southernmost tip of the Inside Passage to well north of the Arctic Circle and nearly the entire east-west width of the state. Visitors hiking the trails of Southeast and Southcentral Alaska should always make plenty of noise to avoid startling bears. Bears will usually leave you alone as long as they know you’re coming., Best areas to view black bears:, Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area , Anan Creek Wildlife Observatory Site, and other areas in Tongass National Forest Black bears hibernate in the winter, so you won’t see them then. Generally, they hibernate in fall and come out in spring. In some of the southernmost areas, they may emerge during a warm winter, whereas in the Arctic , they can hibernate for seven to eight months., BROWN BEARS, Two brown bears in a river in Alaska Brown bears are much bigger than black bears, and seen side-by-side, it’s easy to tell them apart. While both species come in a variety of colors, from black to light brown, brown bears are distinguishable from black bears by the larger hump on their back and smaller ears. Brown bears that live in non-coastal areas are typically slightly smaller than their…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM: , Brown bears are found throughout Alaska, and it’s easier to say where they aren’t found than where they are. They aren’t on the islands south of Frederick Sound in the Inside Passage , the islands west of Unimak in the Aleutian Chain , or the islands of the Bering Sea. They are often spotted swimming from island to island, particularly in the Inside Passage, fishing along streams and rivers,…, Best areas to view brown bears:, Katmai National Park & Preserve , Lake Clark National Park & Preserve , McNeil River State Game Sanctuary , Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge , Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area Brown bears hibernate from five to eight months in dens. In areas with warmer winters like Kodiak Island , a few bears may stay active all winter. Pregnant females are usually the first to enter dens in the fall,…, MOOSE, A bull moose in Alaska Moose are among the most popular photographic subjects in Alaska, and many people are surprised at how large they are. Males, or bull moose, can weigh up to 1,600 pounds and stand over six-and-a-half feet tall at the shoulder. Babies, called calves, usually stand within a day of birth, though their long, spindly legs make them fairly awkward. They are about 30 pounds at…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Moose are the most commonly seen of Alaska's "Big 5," with around 200,000 in the state. They range from the Inside Passage all the way up to the Arctic and are most abundant in the Southcentral and Interior regions. Though they are often spotted in wilderness areas, they can also be seen in cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks . , Best areas to view moose:, Southcentral and Interior regions, Denali National Park & Preserve , Chugach National Forest , Chugach State Park Moose can be seen all year long. They are commonly seen in cities during the winter, when their main winter food source – twigs – are harder to get to in the deeper snow in dense woods and at higher elevations. The scarcity of food in the winter causes moose to lose a lot of…, CARIBOU, A caribou herd in Alaska in winter Caribou are a member of the deer family and look a lot like their close relatives, the reindeer. Unlike other members of the deer family, both male and female caribou grow antlers, though males grow larger antlers than females. Both male and female caribou develop “velvet” on their antlers — an extra-soft layer of fur that they shed annually. Caribou migrate in…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Caribou live in the tundra and forests in the Arctic , Southcentral , Interior , and Southwest regions of Alaska. There are around 750,000 caribou in the state in 32 distinct herds, with some herds of over 200,000 animals. , Best areas to view caribou:, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge , Gates of the Arctic National Park , Denali National Park & Preserve , Kobuk Valley National Park Caribou can be seen any time of the year. Caribou are migratory and can move up to 50 miles per day. They tend to use the same migration routes year after year, though they can abandon those routes in favor of new areas with more food., DALL SHEEP, Two Dall sheep in Denali National Park Alaska Dall sheep are distinguished by their curled horns. Male Dall sheep (called rams) can grow particularly large racks called “full curls,” meaning they have an entire 360-degree turn in their horns. Both male and female Dall sheep grow horns, but females (called ewes) grow smaller horns. They are agile and skilled at climbing steep, mountainous terrain., WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, One of the most popular places to see Dall sheep is along the Seward Highway south of Anchorage . They are found many other places, but not usually so close to a major highway. The Alaska Railroad runs along the highway in this area, and the glass-domed cars on the train make for an excellent vantage point. Dall sheep inhabit mountain ranges primarily in Southcentral , Interior , and Arctic…, Best areas to view Dall sheep:, Southcentral and Interior regions, Denali National Park & Preserve , Chugach National Forest , Brooks Range , Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Dall sheep can be seen any time of year. But because of their white color, it’s much easier to spot them during the summer, when the brown and gray rocks contrast nicely with their coats., WOLVES, Three wolves in Denali National Park Alaska Wolves are pack animals and their pack behavior is dictated by a highly structured hierarchy. Packs average around six to seven animals, and fighting within the pack is rare unless the animals are stressed or having a hard time finding food. It is uncommon to spot a wolf in Alaska, not because they aren't here - the state is home to 7,000 - 11,000…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Wolves can be found in every region of Alaska, covering a range of about 85% of the state. While they have a wide range, they are rarely seen., Best areas to view wolves:, Denali National Park & Preserve , Katmai National Park & Preserve Wolves can be seen in winter or summer by those willing to spend the time quietly watching for them in remote areas in national parks or other protected areas., BALD EAGLEs, A bald eagle in Wrangell Alaska Alaska is home to the densest population of the United States' national symbol - the bald eagle. Over 30,000 bald eagles live in Alaska, thriving on the abundance of fish, their main food source. The distinctive white head is easily spotted among the dense, dark Sitka spruce of Alaska’s coastal regions, and eagles are frequently seen flying above coastal waters,…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Bald eagles are most commonly seen in Southcentral Alaska and the Inside Passage region. In the Inside Passage community of Haines , eagles are attracted to a late-season run of salmon, and gather by the thousands in November and December along the Chilkat River . Farther south along the Inside Passage, the Stikine River near Wrangell hosts a similarly huge concentration of eagles in the spring., Best areas to view bald eagles:, Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve , Chugach National Forest , Kenai Peninsula , Tongass National Forest , Prince William Sound Although the best places within Alaska to view eagles varies somewhat by time of year, eagles can be seen all year long., HUMPBACK WHALES, A humpback whale breaching in Alaska Humpback whales are common sights in the summer in Alaska. The “flukes,” or tails, of humpbacks have distinct patterns that make it possible to identify individual whales. The most impressive humpback sightings involve “breaching,” when whales leap out of the water. Scientists are unsure why whales breach and have numerous theories on the matter, from pure fun…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Humpback whales spend their winters in the warm waters of Hawaii and then migrate to Alaska in the summer to feed in the state's nutrient-rich waters. The best places to spot humpbacks in Alaska are the coastal areas in the Inside Passage , Southcentral , and Southwest regions., Best areas to view humpback whales:, waters outside of Juneau , Sitka, and other Inside Passage communities, Kenai Fjords National Park , Prince William Sound , waters around Kodiak Island and the Barren Islands, eastern Aleutian Islands . Most humpback whales head to Hawaii during the winter, so the best time to see them in Alaska is from the late spring to the fall. Humpbacks are easy to spot. When they surface to breathe, they…, ORCAs, An orca swimming in Alaska Orcas, also known killer whales, are black and white and are distinguished by their stately dorsal fins that can grow up to 6 feet tall. Orcas are the largest member of the dolphin family and typically travel in pods of up to about 40 animals. There are three different types of orcas in Alaska, based on their prey and habitat: resident, transient, and offshore. Resident…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Orcas are found throughout the marine waters of Alaska but occur most commonly in the waters of the continental shelf from the Inside Passage , along the coast of Southcentral Alaska, through the Aleutian Islands , and northward into the Chukchi and Beaufort seas., Best areas to view orcas: , waters outside of Juneau and other Inside Passage communities, Kenai Fjords National Park , Prince William Sound , Kachemak Bay State Park , waters around Kodiak Island , Aleutian Islands, GRAY WHALES, Gray Whale Gray whales are the first migrating whales to reach Alaska each spring. Swimming slowly from their winter breeding grounds in Mexico’s Baja California, these amazing animals have one of the longest migrations of any mammal on earth — up to 14,000 miles round trip! Gray whales are “medium sized” whales, roughly 40-50 feet long and up to 90,000 pounds — about the size of a school bus.…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, From Mexico, gray whales travel up the west coast of the U.S. and Canada, cruising along the Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska, ultimately heading through False Pass in the Aleutian Island chain to their summer feeding grounds in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort Seas., Best areas to view gray whales:, Kenai Fjords National Park The best time to see gray whales is during the migration, before and after they reach their northern feeding grounds. You may start seeing gray whales heading north along Inside Passage and Southcentral waters in March, then again as they and start swimming south in October. Many whale watching tours start operating in early spring to catch the northward migration., PUFFINS, A puffin swims in Alaska Puffins are one of the most distinctive sea birds in coastal Alaska. Both varieties found in Alaska — the tufted puffin and the horned puffin — feature bright-orange beaks and webbed feet with black-and-white coloring. Early sailors called them “sea parrots” because of this color scheme. The tufted puffin is named for the golden tufts of feathers behind each eye, while…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Puffins are found in the Inside Passage , Southcentral , and Southwest Alaska along the coast. The best way to see puffins is on a wildlife cruise or kayaking trip departing from coastal communities like Seward , Valdez , and Kodiak . Your best bet for up-close views of puffins is at the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward , where you can join a Puffin Encounter tour and go behind the…, Best areas to view puffins: , Kenai Fjords National Park , Prince William Sound , Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge , waters around Kodiak Island Puffins spend May through September in rookeries along the coast, nesting in dirt burrows or in notches in the rocky coastline. Here, each breeding pair raises one baby per season, tending the egg until around July, then carefully guarding the delicate baby until fall, when…, SEA OTTERS, Sea otters haul out on an iceberg in Alaska This little creature has played a big role in the modern history of Alaska. Although sea otters range as far south as California, early explorers had never seen them in such abundant quantities as they did in Alaska. Pelts brought to Russia after Vitus Bering’s 1742 voyage to Alaska prompted the Russians to sail to Alaska and set up fur-trading…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Sea otters are seen from the Aleutian Islands , across the Kenai Peninsula and the Gulf of Alaska, and south to the Inside Passage . They tend to stick together in small communities and don’t range far unless food becomes scarce. They are curious animals and quite gregarious. They are often seen floating on their backs, cracking open mussels or other shellfish on a rock to get at the tasty…, Best areas to view sea otters:, Coastal areas along the Inside Passage , Prince William Sound , Kenai Fjords National Park , Kachemak Bay State Park , waters around Kodiak Island, Aleutian Islands Sea otters are found year-round in Alaska’s coastal areas., MUSKOXEN, Musk oxen in Nome Alaska Muskoxen are prehistoric-looking animals with long coats that skim the ground and horns that curl toward their faces. They don’t just look prehistoric: it is believed that the ancestor of the muskoxen migrated to North America between 200,000 and 90,000 years ago. The underhair of muskoxen is called qiviut, and it is softer than cashmere. Muskoxen living in captivity are…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, There are about 4,000 muskoxen in Alaska, and they are found in very specific places: the northeast and northwest Arctic , western Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta , Seward Peninsula in the western Arctic , Nunivak Island, and Nelson Island. In the summer, they gravitate toward river valleys to feast on sedges and grass, and in the winter they move to higher ground to avoid deep snow., Best areas to view muskoxen:, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge , Bering Land Bridge National Preserve , Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge Muskoxen can be seen year-round. They are usually found in herds, and with their long coats, appear to be hunkering down in the cold wind and snow., POLAR BEARs, A polar bear with two cubs in Alaska Polar bears are one of the largest bears in the world, matched only in size by the massive Kodiak brown bears on Kodiak Island . Polar bears can weigh over 1,500 pounds and stand up to 10 feet tall. Unlike brown bears, polar bears are strictly carnivorous and live nearly their entire lives on sea ice. They have waterproof guard hair to keep them warm and dry…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM: , Polar bears are most abundant near coastlines and toward the southern edge of the ice pack in polar regions. In Alaska, they can be found in the northern Arctic and Western Arctic areas, usually on the frozen sea, but sometimes on land near towns like Kaktovik, Utqiagvik , and Kotzebue . Polar bears don’t tolerate temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit because of their thick coats and…, Best areas to view polar bears:, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge through the gateway community of Kaktovik, Utqiagvik Polar bears can be seen in Alaska usually in fall and spring on guided wildlife tours available from the remote Inupiaq communities of Kaktovik and Utqiagvik , accessible by air from Anchorage and Fairbanks . Although polar bears don’t go into full hibernation like brown and black bears, they are scarcely seen in…, WALRUS, Walrus haul out on rocks in Walrus Islands State Game Sanctuary In shape, walruses look a lot like their pinniped relatives - seals and sea lions - but two major characteristics set the walrus apart: they are much larger and have gigantic tusks found on both male and female adults. In fact, the genus name for the walrus, Odobenus, means tooth-walker, and truthfully describes the great use…, WHERE & WHEN TO SEE THEM:, Pacific walruses are found in the Bering and Chukchi seas, from Bristol Bay in Southwest Alaska to Point Barrow near Utqiagvik in the Arctic ., Best areas to view walrus:, Walrus Islands State Game Sanctuary, Pribilof Islands , St. Lawrence Island The easiest time to see walrus is in the summer, though they are around all year long.
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Alaska's wild landscapes provide healthy habitat for bears. In fact, there are so many bears in Alaska, the odds are good you'll be able to catch a glimpse — especially when the salmon are running! The easiest (and safest) way to view bears in the wild is on a guided tour by small plane or boat that lands you and your expert guides near an isolated camp. Human behavior in these bear viewing camps…
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From magnificent bald eagles to tiny hummingbirds, nearly 500 species of birds can be found in Alaska. Spring migration brings millions of birds north, ready to take advantage of the long summer days to mate and raise their young while food is plentiful before flying back south for the winter. April, May, and June are the best months to see these travelers passing through or laying claim to…, Good places to bird watch in Alaska, There’s no shortage of stunning locations to catch a glimpse of Alaska’s birds. Glacier Bay National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park are must-visits for any bird enthusiast. Glacier Bay has roughly 240 different species and Kenai Fjords has about 190, many of which are easily found from early May to mid-September. Meanwhile, the Pribilof Islands have been formally recognized as part of the…, Best times to bird, Generally speaking, the best time to bird in Alaska is from late April until mid-September. These summer months are when many birds migrate through to the area or settle here for the season. In the fall, birds tend to leave, however, local birds become more active—which can be a nice surprise for birders who aren’t familiar with Alaska’s native bird species. For rare birds that migrate to western…, Types of birds found in Alaska, Alaska is home to an impressive and extensive array of birds including the American robin, chickadees, crossbills, dark-eyed junco, fox sparrow, jays, pine siskin, red-breasted nuthatch, redpolls, and the rufous hummingbird, to name a few. Not to mention, the downy woodpecker, song sparrow, and the European starling are some of the most commonly spotted by birders. More exotic birds found in…, Birding Festivals in Alaska, Birding is such a hot commodity in Alaska that the state actually hosts a number of birding festivals throughout the year. In early May, Cordova hosts the Copper River Delta Shorebird Festival where the tidal flats of the Delta are bombarded with nearly 5 million shorebirds. The festival celebrates the significance of their migration with scavenger hunts, art exhibits, and group viewings.…, Where to find a guide, While independent birding can be fun, there are a number of organizations and tour operators that provide local guides who can offer in-depth explanations about birds' behaviors and movements, as well as show visitors less accessible locations to see birds. Guides are typically long-time Alaskans that are accustomed to bird patterns and can offer tailored tours according to group size and…
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Are you dreaming of seeing Alaska's Big 5 land mammals — bear, moose, Dall sheep, wolf, and caribou? Or perhaps the Ocean 5 — humpback whales, Steller sea lions, orca, grey whales, and playful sea otters? One of your best bets is a wildlife excursion with air, land, or sea transportation, taking you to the best wildlife viewing destinations in Alaska. Wildlife viewing excursions are available in…
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Zoos and aquariums are relatively scarce in Alaska because the state is already one gigantic wildlife park. Those that do exist, however, are fascinating facilities dedicated to research, public education, and rehabilitation for orphaned or injured Alaska animals. Behind-the-scenes tours let you get close to animals and sometimes even participate in their care by feeding them or offering "…
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It's no secret that people come to Alaska to get outside, as the 49th state has some of the most incredible scenery in the United States. The list of opportunities to experience Alaska's outdoor recreation is about as massive as the backcountry itself. Narrow down some of the choices by deciding how you'd like to encounter it: camping , hiking , biking , glacier trekking , mountain climbing ...…
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We might be biased, but there’s no better place to hike than Alaska. From paved nature paths to singletrack trails through the forest to ridgeline hikes in the mountains — Alaska has a trail for everyone. With the state’s vast network trails, it may feel overwhelming to plan your perfect Alaska hiking trip — but don’t fret. No matter where you go, you’ll find countless ways to explore Alaska’s…, Best Hikes in Alaska, If you’re looking for the best hikes in Alaska, you’ll find the possibilities are nearly endless. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for new ways to enjoy the outdoors, Alaska has everything to offer adventurers of all skill levels! From glacier hikes to lush forest trails, peaks, and waterfalls , hiking is one of the best ways to experience the splendor of Alaska. Be sure…, Inside Passage Alaska Hiking Trails, HAINES : BATTERY POINT TRAIl, 3.7 miles roundtrip, Easy, This unpaved trail starts at the end of Beach Road and takes you through rainforest to a pebble beach and views of Lynn Canal. Bring binoculars to look for marine life and shorebirds., J, UNEAU, : PERSEVERANCE NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIl, 4.6 miles roundtrip, Easy to Moderate, This old mining trail starts near downtown Juneau, leading through temperate rainforest to waterfall and river views. Perseverance Trail’s moderate elevation gain makes it easy to moderate for most hikers. Side trails leading from the main Perseverance Trail range from moderate to difficult., KETCHIKAN : DEER MOUNTAIN traiL, 5 miles roundtrip, Moderate to Difficult, The partly gravel Deer Mountain Trail starts approximately 1 mile from town (up the steep Ketchikan Lakes Road) and moves through muskeg and temperate old growth rainforest to the summit of Deer Mountain. The trail is initially steep but rewards with spectacular views of the Tongass Narrows. An A-frame shelter is available to rent for overnight use. This trail connects to a longer track leading…, WRANGELL : PETROGLYPH BEACH STATE HISTORIC PARk, Less than 1 mile roundtrip, Easy, Located approximately 1 mile from the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry Terminal, this boardwalk trail takes you to more than 40 rock carvings, the highest concentration of petroglyphs in the Inside Passage. The carvings, some more than 8,000 years old, are best viewed at low tide. Petroglyph Beach hike in Wrangell Alaska, SITKA : SITKA NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK TOTEM TRAIl, 1.3 miles roundtrip, Easy, This gravel loop trail starts at the Sitka National Historical Park visitor center and takes you past 18 totems created by Alaska Native carvers and to the Indian River — site of an 1804 battle between the local Tlingit people and Russian colonists, which ultimately led to Sitka becoming the capitol of Russian North America. Sitka National Historic Park Totem Trail, Southcentral Alaska Hiking Trails, ANCHORAGE : TONY KNOWLES COASTAL TRAIl, Up to 11 miles one way, Easy, This paved multi-use trail connecting downtown Anchorage to Kincaid Park weaves its way along the waters of Turnagain Arm and Cook Inlet, with sweeping views of Mt. Susitna (also known as Sleeping Lady) and the peaks of the Alaska Range. Take a leisurely walk from Elderberry Park (off 5th Avenue) to see the birds at Westchester Lagoon for an easy there-and-back evening walk or rent a bike to ride…, ANCHORAGE : Flattop Mountain, 3.4 miles round-trip, Moderate, A local favorite and one of the most popular hikes in the Anchorage area, this 3.4 mile loop trail is great for both hiking and running and boasts amazing views overlooking Anchorage, the Cook Inlet, and surrounding mountains. The trail is short but challenging with sections of steep and rocky terrain, with wooden stairs at several sections of the trail. A short section of trail right below the…, NEAR COOPER LANDING : KENAI RIVER TRAIl, 10 miles roundtrip, Easy to Moderate, This unpaved, maintained trail — accessed from Skilak Lake Road — offers stunning views of the Kenai River’s vivid blue water and the Kenai River Canyon. In spring, wildflowers abound, and the trail weaves its way through alder forests. Be aware of bears and make plenty of noise as you hike, especially when the salmon are spawning in July and August., CORDOVA : PIPELINE/MCKINLEY TRAIl, 4.2 miles roundtrip, Easy, These two trails, taken individually or together, offer impressive views of the Chugach Mountains, along with access to two public use cabins and the Lucky Strike gold mine interpretive site. The mostly boardwalk Pipeline Trail was once a water pipeline route to supply locomotives on the CR&NW railway. The trailhead is located 20 miles “out the road” from downtown Cordova., DENALI STATE PARK : K’ESUGI RIDGE TRAIl, 27.5 miles one way, Moderate to Difficult, Located south of Denali National Park in Denali State Park , this trail provides amazing views of the Alaska and Talkeetna Mountain ranges, providing spectacular views of glaciers, wild river valleys, and soaring Alaska Range peaks — including Denali. Plan 3 to 4 days to do the full backpacking trek or embark on an out and back day trip from one of the several trailheads along the route. Kesugi…, GIRDWOOD : WINNER CREEK TRAIl, 6 miles roundtrip, Easy to Moderate, Easily accessible from the Alyeska Resort, this trail — a mix of boardwalk, gravel, and dirt trail — takes you through the most northernly portion of Alaska’s temperate rainforest. Look for wildflowers in the spring and blueberries in the fall. Enjoy beautiful views of the rushing waters of Winner Creek. Winner Creek Trail in Girdwood, HATCHER PASS : REED LAKES TRAIl, 8.7 miles roundtrip, Difficult, This route takes you into one of Alaska’s most beautiful — and accessible — alpine valleys. While the initial section of this trail is maintained, the majority of the Reed Lakes Trail can be rugged, including large boulder fields, before reaching Lower Reed Lake. Stop there for a picnic lunch or overnight camp before continuing to Upper Reed Lake surrounded by the rugged Talkeetna Mountains. Reed…, KENNICOTT/MCCARTHY : ROOT GLACIER TRAIl, 4 miles roundtrip, Easy, Starting from the historic mining town of Kennecott in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park , take the relatively level trail along the edge of the broad Root Glacier or continue on another 2 miles to the Erie Mine tram cables. Root Glacier Trail in Kenicott Alaska, PORTAGE VALLEY : TRAIL OF BLUE ICe, Up to 10 miles roundtrip, Easy, This multi-use, paved trail wanders along the floor of Portage Valley and connects multiple campgrounds. Look for salmon at the Williwaw Fish Viewing Platform and keep an eye out for black bears on the steep mountainsides above. Be sure to stop by the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center for information about the area’s natural history and to see bits of ice calved off from Portage Glacier on Portage…, SEWARD : HARDING ICEFIELD TRAIl, 8.2 miles roundtrip, Difficult, Starting from Exit River Valley in Kenai Fjords National Park , this challenging trail takes you from cottonwood forests to the edge of the 700 square mile Harding Icefield. Plan extra time for this trail, which gains more than 3,000 feet over 4 miles, leading to an otherworldly moraine landscape overlooking the massive Harding Icefield. Trekkers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather.…, SEWARD : EXIT GLAICER OVERLOOK TRAIl, 2.2 miles roundtrip, Easy, This 2.2 mile loop trail in Kenai Fjords National Park takes just under an hour to complete and is a relatively easy hike. You’ll be able to witness a “living laboratory” (as the glacier landscape is known among scientists) up close, witnessing glacier health first-hand along the trail. This trail offers many informational signs along the way so you can enjoy learning about the environment as…, WHITTIER : PORTAGE PASS TRAIl, 4 miles roundtrip, Moderate, This short but scenic trail leads over a low pass and features stunning views of Portage Glacier and Passage Canal. The Portage Pass trail was traditionally used by Alaska Native peoples to travel from Cook Inlet and Turnagain Arm to Prince William Sound. The trail has some moderate uphill sections. This moderate 4.2 mile out-and-back trail takes about 3 hours to complete and is certainly worth…, HOMER: GLACIER LAKE TRAIl, 6.4 miles roundtrip, Moderate, This out-and-back trail is a favorite in Kachemak Bay State Park and takes about four hours to complete. It’s best visited from May through September, and is a great place for backpacking, running, and hiking. A relatively flat trail leads through the forest to the beautiful iceberg-filled Grewingk Glacier Lake, located at the terminus of Grewingk Glacier. To get to the trailhead you have to…, PALMER : PIONEER PEAk, 13.6 miles round trip, Difficult, This trail is certainly an adventurous one! The incline is steep with a 6,637 foot elevation gain on this 13.6 mile, out-and-back trail. It takes nearly 11 hours to complete – so be sure to prepare accordingly! Views are spectacular along the way and the peak offers unparalleled views of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. It’s best hiked June through September and is a quiet trail, without many people., PALMER: LAZY MOUNTAIN TRAIl, 5.6 miles roundtrip, Moderate, Among the most popular in the Matanuska-Susitna area , this 5.6 mile loop trail is challenging but certainly worth exploring if you’re looking for an adventurous and rewarding hike. There are many hikers and runners along the trail and the view is a spectacular reward! Due to harsh winter conditions on the trail, it’s best visited May through September. , MATANUSKA GLACIer, 1.6 miles, Easy, Located near Sutton , Alaska, this unique valley glacier trail is on private land and costs around $100-$150 per person to hike. However, the guided hike is well worth the price and includes all of the glacier hiking hear that you'll need to safely traverse the ice. The 1.6 mile trail runs on the Matanuska Glacier and typically takes two hours to complete, with plenty of time to capture amazing…, Interior Alaska Hiking Trails, CENTRAL : PINNELL MOUNTAIN TRAIl, 27 miles one way, Difficult, Take a hike under the midnight sun along the Pinnell Mountain National Recreation Trail, stretching between Eagle Summit (Steese Highway MP 107) to Twelvemile Summit (Steese Highway MP 85.5). This primitive trail is entirely above timberline with areas of extremely steep grade. Rock cairns mark your way along open tundra, and the trail provides sweeping views of the Yukon River and Alaska Range., CHENA RIVER STATE RECREATION AREA :, Angel Rocks Trail, 3.6 miles roundtrip, Easy to Moderate, Among the many hikes in the Fairbanks area, Angel Rocks Loop Trail is one of the most popular. The 3.6 mile trail takes on average 2 hours to complete and is located 6.5 miles from Chena Hot Springs in the Chena River State Recreation Area . It’s a popular trail year round as a great snowshoeing option in winter. Views include lakes, rivers, spruce and birch trees, rock outcroppings, and…, CHENA RIVER STATE RECREATION AREA : Granite tors trail, 15 miles roundtrip (optional 2-mile loop), Moderate to Difficult, This unpaved loop trail, located in the Chena River State Recreation Area , takes you past granite pinnacles — called tors — to views of the Alaska Range and Chena River Valley. The public use Granite Tors Trail Shelter (approximate midway point of the longer loop trail) is available to backpackers on a first-come, first-served basis., DELTA JUNCTION : QUARTZ LAKE LOOP TRAIl, 1.8 miles roundtrip, Easy, This unpaved trail, located in the Quartz Lake Recreation Area north of Delta Junction, takes you through birch and spruce forests to Quartz and Lost Lakes. Boat launches and campsites are available, and Quartz Lake — stocked with rainbow trout and coho salmon — is a great family fishing spot., DENALI NATIONAL PARK : SAVAGE RIVER LOOP TRAIl, 1.9 miles roundtrip, Easy, This easy gravel loop trail, at Mile 15 of the Denali Park Road, meanders along Savage River with very little elevation gain. Look for wildlife and wildflowers. The parking lot is the last point for private vehicle access along the Park Road. Savage River Loop Trail in Denali National Park Alaska, DENALI NATIONAL PARK : HORSESHOE LAKE TRAIl, 2.1 miles, Easy, A beautiful hike that won’t take too much effort, this 2.1 mile loop trail takes just about an hour to complete and leads to views of Horseshoe Lake and the Nenana River. It welcomes hikers, backpackers, birding enthusiasts, and runners alike, so it’s a great option for those looking to get in some steps near the entrance to Denali National Park. It can be enjoyed year round, but take precautions…, FAIRBANKS : CHENA RIVERWALk, 3.5 miles one way, Easy, This paved pathway runs along the Chena River in downtown Fairbanks, connecting the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor Center and the historically themed Pioneer Park recreation area. Watch canoes and kayaks paddle by in the summer, or cross-country skiers in winter. Chena River Walk in Fairbanks, FAIRBANKS : CREAMERS FIEld, Varies, Easy, You’ll have multiple trail options at Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge , all leading from the Farmhouse Visitor’s Center — a historic dairy farm. Wander along the boreal forest trail or along the platforms of the seasonal wetlands trail. The highlight of any trail is the wildlife — look for moose and birds, especially the sandhill cranes. In winter, glide along on cross-country skis.…, NORTH OF FAIRBANKS : SUMMIT TRAIl, 20 miles one way, Moderate, There are two access points to the unpaved Summit Trail — one from Milepost 28 of the Elliott Highway and one off of Nome Creek Road — both in the White Mountains National Recreation Area. Hike straight through or just a portion of the trail for panoramic views of the White Mountains. Highlights include Wickersham Dome, approximately 3.5 miles from the Elliott Highway trailhead. The Summit Trail…, Southwest Alaska Hiking Trails, KATMAI NATIONAL PARK : DUMPLING MOUNTAIN TRAIl, 3 miles roundtrip, Moderate to Difficult, Hike through boreal forest and alpine tundra for 360-degree views of Brooks River, Naknek Lake, and Katmai National Park . The trail starts from the Brooks Camp Campground and leads to the overlook, although you can continue another 2.5 miles to the summit of Dumpling Mountain. Take in views of boreal forest and alpine tundra., KODIAK : TERMINATION POINT TRAIl, 6.3 miles roundtrip, Moderate, Termination Point Trail, at the end of the Kodiak road system, offers sweeping scenic views. This loop trail offers a chance to enjoy spruce forest, rocky coastline, and beach access all in one hike. Panoramic views mixed with a possible bird and whale-viewing make it a spectacular experience. The trail closely follows the coastline, then heads inland where you can enjoy small lakes and…, KODIAK : PYRAMID MOUNTAIn, 5 miles roundtrip, Difficult, The Pyramid Mountain trail is a quick ascent through thick salmonberry bushes. As the habitat zones change, the low-lying vegetation features a beautiful array of wildflowers in spring and summer. Before you reach the 2400’ peak, you’ll negotiate an extremely steep section before reaching the peak. Once you do make it to the top, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of Kodiak — you may even…, KODIAK : FORT ABERCROMBIE STATE HISTORICAL PARK, Up to 5 miles, Easy, Ft. Abercrombie is one of the most popular hiking and sightseeing locations on Kodiak Island . The northern temperate rainforest within the park is dominated by Sitka spruce (Alaska's State Tree), which can grow over 200 feet tall. Beneath these giants, a trail system and shade-tolerant understory is a profusion of moss, lichen, and wild berry species. Look for red fox, songbirds, bald eagles…, PORT ALSWORTH / LAKE CLARK NATIONAL PARK : TANALIAN FALLS TRAIl, 5 miles roundtrip, Moderate, Plan for some elevation gain as the trail leads upward, but the reward are stunning views of Tanalian Falls — created by an ancient lava flow — and the wilderness of Lake Clark. Bring a fly rod and try your hand at flyfishing at the base of the falls or wander through birch forests and listen for birds. Stop at the falls or continue another .5 miles to vivid blue waters of Kontrashibuna Lake.…, UNALASKA : MT. BALLYHOo, 3 miles roundtrip, Moderate to Difficult, This trail leads to the tallest peak on Amaknak Island, home of Dutch Harbor. There are two trailheads but few markers as there are no trees to obscure stunning views of the port and surrounding coastal landscapes on a clear day. You may also see the remnants of World War II-era fortifications near the base of the mountain. The trail is on private property and a recreational land use permit is…, Arctic Alaska Hiking Trails, MP 98 Dalton Highway (near Livengood): Finger mountain wayside, Less than 1 mile roundtrip, Easy, It wouldn’t seem like a 40-foot rock outcropping should be a mountain, but in the vast tundra landscape, this granite tor provides a highly visible landmark. Hike the short loop trail for views of the Trans Alaska Pipeline and read informative signs about area habitat and wildlife, NOME : TOM’S TRAIl, 6 miles roundtrip, Easy, This hike along a multi-use trail starts at Milepost 7.5 of the Nome-Teller Highway and ends at a historic mining claim and cabin. Look for wildlife and birds, as well as stunning fall colors across the tundra later in the summer., NOME : WINDMILL LOOp, 9.5 miles roundtrip, Easy, There are more than 2,000 species of wildflowers growing on the Seward Peninsula between June and August. You’ll find lots on this loop trail, as well as spectacular views of Nome and the Bering Sea from Windmill Rock., Iditarod National Historic Trail, And finally, one of the most famous trails of them all — the Iditarod Trail. Stretching across Southcentral and Interior Alaska, the Iditarod National Historic Trail is the only winter trail in the National Trails System and the only Congressionally designated National Historic Trail in Alaska. With more than 2,400 miles of primary and connecting trails between Seward and Nome , there's lots to…
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View wilderness as far as the eye can see from the top of a mountain or feel the spongy tundra beneath your feet on a backcountry hiking and camping expedition into some of Alaska’s most amazing wild landscapes. In summer or winter, Alaska’s backcountry guides can take you on multi-day expeditions to places few people ever get to experience. Hikes can be custom-planned to provide all levels of…
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With over 27,000 glaciers, 5 percent of Alaska is covered by ice year-round. Glaciers are located throughout the Inside Passage , Southcentral Alaska’s coastal waters, and the high mountains of Interior Alaska. One quarter of Alaska’s glaciers — more than 4.5 million acres — can be found within Alaska’s national parks . The power of Alaska’s glaciers moves mountains, carves rivers, and stirs the…
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Don’t worry about the gear or picking your route: Alaska guided hiking and camping trips have you covered. These guided tours allow you to experience Alaska’s trails and backcountry vistas firsthand without worrying about all of the details. Whatever the season, these active adventures can be customized to a variety of skill and comfort levels. If you’re looking for a day trip, tour operators…
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