How to Plan a Trip to Alaska: The Ultimate Guide on What You Need to Know

Wondering how to plan a trip to Alaska? A good starting point is to chat with a local.

I’ve had the privilege of living in Alaska for the last 49 years. I’ve also had the experience of spending 49 winters here. I’ve been a carpenter, cabinet maker, pilot, hunter, fisherman, state legislator, natural resource manager, paralegal, professional mariner and now a wilderness lodge owner and eco-tourism – fish guide.

It’s been an amazing ride to experience a lifetime of adventures and memories. I married an awesome, born and raised Alaskan girl, and I’ve experienced most of what Alaska has to offer, and somehow managed to survive.

Alaska is sometimes a tough teacher.

She gives the test first and the lesson later. It will challenge the best, and I’ve experienced more than most.  I’ve had the privilege of experiencing extreme statewide adventure travel, and have lived the Alaskan dream.

So, this makes me the perfect person to explain exactly how to plan a trip to Alaska. Ready? Let’s jump straight in.

How Big is Alaska?

One of the most important things potential visitors to Alaska need to understand is the sheer size and magnitude of the state. Most maps of the United States do not show Alaska in the same scale as the rest of the lower 48 USA states.

If a properly scaled map of Alaska is laid over the top of the 48 states, it would stretch from the East coast to the West coast and from the Canadian border to the Southern border.

Alaska has six distinct regions. This includes Northern, Western, Interior, Southwest, South Central and South East. It’s best to limit your travel to one or two regions and plan more time than you think to see more. It is more than 1000 miles across, not including the Aleutian Islands and SE Alaska.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Alaska?

The other thing to remember is that Alaska is an expensive destination. It costs more to get here from just about anywhere, and it costs a lot to travel once you do get here. The businesses that support you have higher costs to provide that support. Especially if they’re off the road system and rely on getting their food, supplies, and fuel by air or boat.

It’s always a struggle for them to hire help to support the businesses, and they have to pay enough to motivate people to work for them.  Many Alaska visitors say they have spent more money than anticipated when visiting here.

Thus, realistic planning is critical to get the best return on your travel investment.

When is the Best Time to Visit Alaska?

Before and after Summer Solstice (June 21) is a prime time to visit Alaska (mid May – Mid June), simply because endless light 24/7 is really an amazing thing to experience.

But, the best time to visit also depends on what you want to do.

If you plan on fishing, consult with your local guide or do online research when the targeted species are running or biting. Salmon runs tend to be staged over the spring-summer by species. Offshore halibut and rockfish, and other species are pretty good all spring and summer.  Hunters mostly need a registered guide, and hunting season is in the fall (September).

The Northern Lights tend to be elusive, as around solstice, it’s not dark enough, and fall has more cloudy-rainy weather. The best bet is clear colder weather. They’re impossible to predict long-term and depend on sporadic solar flares from the sun. The Interior tends to be the best place to spot them. Fairbanks is a good choice. Another special place to watch them is from the hot steaming pools in Chena Hot Springs. But, it is wise to plan other activities as the Northern Lights are often hit-and-miss.

The best shoulder season is spring. Mainly because in May, the days are really long and the winter storms have generally abated.  September is usually more challenging for storms, and the days are getting pretty short, with not as much sun to warm you or provide daylight for your adventure.

How Long Should Your Trip to Alaska Be?

It depends on your budget, but you have already traveled a long way, so stay long enough to explore the areas you have chosen to visit sufficiently.

If you’re visiting a remote wilderness lodge, allow for some bad weather time, causing travel delays and preventing you from getting out to catch that fish or snap that bear photo you have dreamed about.

Read our guide for bear viewing in Alaska.

Smart travelers will have some cushion on each end for unanticipated weather curve balls. I know of guests who got weathered in at their lodge for two days, and the host graciously offered them extra time to experience what they paid for fully. Luckily, they had enough extra time built in to take advantage of it. Most lodges have weather disclaimers and you’re on the hook for something you have no control of. Ask your lodge or tour operator about their weather cancellation refund policy.

A ten-day to two-week visit is a sweet spot for most. This will allow you to visit different regions and give you a cushion for unexpected delays due to logistics or weather.

Should you Explore Alaska by Land or by Sea?

Alaska’s diverse geography and remote regions make it both breathtaking and challenging to explore. With more coastline than all of the lower 48 states combined, Alaska offers travelers the choice of exploring by land or by sea.

Here’s a breakdown of the best options and tips for navigating this rugged, scenic state.

Exploring Alaska by sea

Alaska’s 35,000-mile coastline features stunning fjords, glaciers, and islands, much of which is inaccessible by road. Southeast Alaska, in particular, is best suited for marine travel, thanks to its intricate network of waterways.

Highlights of Southeast Alaska (SE)

• Popular ports: Many cruise ships dock at towns like Ketchikan, Sitka, Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau, Haines, and Skagway, although these have become bustling with daily visitors.
• Alternative options: Smaller “pocket” cruisers can take you to less-traveled locations such as Elfin Cove, Pelican, and Misty Fjords, offering a more authentic experience.
• Fishing lodges: SE Alaska is home to several top-tier fishing lodges, catering to anglers of all levels.

Exploring Alaska by land

Traveling by land offers a flexible, immersive experience, especially in South Central Alaska, where roads are more accessible.

Road trip highlights

• Anchorage as a base: Anchorage provides a starting point with abundant car rentals and camper options. Popular road trip routes include:

• Prince William Sound: Ferry from Whittier to Valdez, returning via Glennallen or Fairbanks.
• Denali Highway: A wilderness route with no services or cellular communication, requiring self-sufficiency. Ideal for those seeking solitude and breathtaking scenery.

Key stops:

• Talkeetna: Known as the gateway to Denali National Park, this town offers glacier flights to Don Sheldon Amphitheater and the luxurious Sheldon Chalet.
• Denali National Park: Most visitors experience the park via bus tours, with options to detour to the Susitna River for river trips or access the park via the Alaska Railroad.

Alaska Marine Highway (Ferry System)

• Ferry options: The ferry system from Washington State allows vehicle transport and stops along the SE Alaska coast.
• Considerations: Reserve well in advance, and plan for limited RV park access in small towns. Consult city halls for local camping regulations.

Journeying through remote regions

Western Alaska and North Slope Villages

• Access and lifestyle: These indigenous villages are remote, with limited visitor services and lifestyles focused on hunting and fishing.
• Travel tips: Plan ahead with local flight operators and tourism operators for guided experiences.

The Dalton Highway (North Slope Haul Road)

• Adventurers only: This rugged road, primarily for industrial traffic, requires a high degree of self-sufficiency.
• Points of interest: Gates of the Arctic National Park and Coldfoot area, with scenic spots like Chandalar Lake.

Read as well our travel tips for the Dalton Highway.

Unique regions to explore

• Bristol Bay: Known for eco-tourism, bear viewing, and fishing lodges, this region offers premium guided experiences in a remote setting.
• Kodiak Island: Accessible by plane, with stunning wildlife, friendly locals, and some of the best fishing in Alaska.
• Prince William Sound: Reached from Whittier or Valdez, it’s a hub for glacier tours, fishing, and kayaking.
• Aleutian Islands: The most remote part of Alaska, accessible via compact cruises or the Marine Highway to Dutch Harbor.

Tips for a South Central Alaska Road Trip

Anchorage, the main transportation hub, connects travelers to some of Alaska’s most iconic landscapes.

Suggested stops

• Alyeska: A ski resort offering scenic gondola rides and thrilling experiences.
• Seward: Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, with plenty of saltwater fishing options.
• Homer: Known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” featuring a 5-mile spit into Kachemak Bay with water and air taxis to nearby communities.

Related read: The Magic of a Day Cruise at Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska

Essential Preparations for Traveling in Alaska

When preparing for a trip to Alaska, it’s important to plan for flexibility and self-sufficiency. Alaska’s weather is famously unpredictable, so pack layered clothing that includes high-quality rain gear. The ability to adapt to sudden shifts in weather is essential, as you might encounter rain, sunshine, or even snow within a single day.

Self-sufficiency is equally crucial, particularly when exploring remote areas where services are scarce. Ensure you have ample supplies of fuel, food, water, and emergency provisions. In the event of unexpected delays or road closures, these essentials can make a significant difference.

For those considering coastal journeys, resources like The Milepost are invaluable for updated travel advice.

If you’re exploring Alaska’s coastline, the Alaska Marine Highway is an excellent option, offering unique perspectives on the state’s scenic water routes.

Embrace Alaska’s rugged charm, but remember that preparation is the key to a safe and unforgettable adventure.

Unwind in a Cozy Oceanfront Treehouse Lodge

Adventure Awaits in the Kachemak Bay Archipelago. Use this trip to reconnect with your family and nature.

At Treehouse Cove, you can choose to stay in a charming timber frame cabin right on the beach in Seldovia Bay or opt for a luxurious treehouse nestled next to a waterfall, offering breathtaking views of the water and mountains. Trust me, the scenery is something you’ll want to wake up to every day!

What’s even better? Your stay includes all sorts of exciting excursions! From bay tours and kayaking to hiking, wildlife spotting, and UTV adventures, you’ll have plenty to keep you busy. Plus, all your meals are taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying your time together.

If you’re looking for something a bit more special, consider our premium packages that include offshore halibut fishing, whale watching, and even remote kayaking! It’s an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Alaska.

Relax in Style

When you book a premium reservation for a group of four or more, we’ll set up a private, all-inclusive lodge experience just for you. Imagine having the entire lodge and treehouse to yourselves, surrounded by your favorite people. It’s the perfect way to breathe deep, relax, and create lasting memories in an intimate setting.

Your Adventure, Your Way

Each day, you can pick from a variety of excursions in our untouched Alaskan paradise. Whether you want to feel the thrill of offshore fishing, go whale watching, or kayak through stunning waters, the choice is yours.

So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure that’s all about you and your loved ones. You won’t regret it!