The scenery in Alaska is gorgeous at any time of the year. The changing seasons in Alaska bring with them some pretty dramatic weather shifts. So, what is the best time to visit Alaska to suit your traveling style?
The answer to that question depends upon what you would like to see and do. We’ve listed the seasons below in order to help you choose the right season to create memories that will last a lifetime. When you’ve chosen a season, plan your ideal Alaska getaway with the help of Salmon Berry Travel & Tours.
Springtime in Alaska
The slightly warmer weather of early spring brings a jump in activities despite the lingering snow. Spring also brings with it the return of the sun.
Which of these spring month’s best piques your interest?
March-April
March is the month in which the world-famous Iditarod dog sled race takes place on the first Saturday in March with a ceremonial start in Anchorage and finishes when the last musher reaches Nome. By April, visitors and residents alike will be savoring up to 16 hours of daylight. April also provides visitors an opportunity to go whale watching, The Cook Inlet Beluga Whales can be spotted at high tide along the Turnagain Arm and gray whales can be spotted in Resurrection Bay!
May
May is the perfect time to enjoy the peace and solitude of an Alaskan spring. The cost of travel is a bit more affordable, and most visitors arriving are coming to see the migratory songbirds and pelagic seabirds, of course! You’ll also enjoy a full 16 hours of sunlight away from the crowds!
June
Late spring sees the arrival of bears and mountain goat kids. The Midnight Sun is also at hand, offering up 22 hours of sunlight in Anchorage! All of Alaska’s major cities are alive with travelers and the quickly melting snow allows for more activities and trips across the land. This may just be the absolute best time to visit Alaska! Mark your calendars, the Independence Mine State Historical Park opens June 18!
Alaskan Summers
Tourism is at its peak during the Alaskan summer, and so are the number of available activities to enjoy. The weather stays mild (in the 70s), which is a nice break from high temps in the Lower 48.
July
Escape the heat, Alaska can be your 2024 cool-cation destination! Enjoy a cool walking tour across Matanuska Glacier. These tours are available year round, but they’re especially appreciated during July. Humpback whale, sea otter, and salmon run sightings are common, and the national park tours are available! Tours tend to fill up in July so book early if you have a “must do” activity in your list!
August
This month is your last chance to enjoy the warmth before cooler weather returns. The days are starting to get shorter, too. Watch out for the awe-inspiring Aurora Borealis making an appearance this month. Those nights provide us an opportunity to view the northern lights. August 21 is the start of aurora season. Travelers adding an aurora tour to their travel vacation should consider 3 or more nights dedicated to aurora viewing. By doing so, you will increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights! By the middle of the month, trees will start displaying their fall colors. Amongst the abundant wildlife, grizzly bears make themselves known and bear viewing is spectacular in Lake Clark National Park.
Alaska Mosquito Season
Mosquitoes (sometimes jokingly referred to as the Alaskan state bird) are unavoidable from June through August (or even early September). Be sure to pack long-sleeved shirts and bring plenty of mosquito repellant.
Fall in Alaska
There’s still a lot to enjoy during an Alaskan fall, despite the cooler temps and snow falling in the upper elevations.
September
You’ll also see plenty of wildlife, and visitors enjoying a local hike or ATV ride! If fishing is on your list, this is one of our favorite times of the year to go rainbow trout fishing!
October and November
October is the end of the Alaska cruise season, however, Alaska is Always in Season! Experience an exhilarating Dryland Dog Sled ride with six-time Iditarod champion, Dallas Seavey Racing or head out into the cool waters of Blackstone Bay on a small group Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise. The Nordic spa at Alyeska is another wonderful addition to any itinerary. Enjoy a day of mindfulness and wellness as you “hot, cold, rest, repeat” your way through their hot tubs, cold plunges and relaxation stations.
Alaskan Winters
December
How does a “Christmas in Alaska” tour sound? Specialty lodges offer a magical Alaskan Christmas adventure. Dress warmly or take advantage of our winter gear rental program! We can outfit you with a parka, snow pants, mittens and boots rated for below zero. Our small group Northern Lights Getaway package starts this month!
January and February
January may boast the coldest temperatures in Alaska, but there is not a lack of things to do. Most nights are aurora viewing and during the day, join us for small group sightseeing, hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating and more! The Aurora Borealis and ski resorts brighten the Alaska winter nights. The sun may be set, but the northern lights dance and the stars in the Alaska night sky are endless. Want to add a day of skiing? Check out Skeetawk in Palmer, Hilltop Ski Area in Anchorage or Alyeska Resort in Girdwood. The Nordic spa at Alyeska is another wonderful addition to any itinerary. Enjoy a day of mindfulness and wellness as you “hot, cold, rest, repeat” your way through their hot tubs, cold plunges and relaxation stations.
Preparing for Your Alaskan Adventure
The weather is always unpredictable in Alaska, so pack accordingly. Bring water-resistant clothing and prepare to dress in layers so you can change as quickly as the weather does here.
A warm hat, gloves, scarf and boots are essential if you might experience rain or snow during your Alaskan adventure. Sunglasses are always recommended! A full list of what to bring for your Alaska vacation is sent out with every trip we organize!
Enjoy an Unforgettable Alaskan Experience
Alaska offers plenty of adventure at any time of the year. The best time to go to Alaska depends on your interests. Let us know what experiences you have and when you want to ideally visit and we can create something tailor made for you. Experience the beauty of Alaska year round when you book a tour with Salmon Berry Travel & Tours! Contact us to learn more.
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