Discover the Unspoiled Wilderness: The Top 10 Places to Visit in Alaska
Alaska, the 49th state of the United States, is a marvel that continues to draw in intrepid travelers and nature lovers alike with its unparalleled scenic landscapes and intriguing remoteness. Beyond the well-known cities such as Anchorage, the true charm of Alaska lies in its majestic natural wonders and awe-inspiring attractions. Here, we present a curated list of the top 10 places you must visit on your Alaskan journey.
1. Wrangell St. Elias National Park
This national park offers a perfect blend of awe-inspiring Alaskan landscapes and easy access. As the largest national park in the U.S., it boasts some of the nation’s tallest peaks and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in conjunction with Glacier Bay. With numerous opportunities for ice climbing and exploration of immense glaciers, Wrangell St. Elias is a gateway to otherworldly experiences.
2. Anchorage
Anchorage, located in the south center of the state, is nestled amidst splendid mountains and expansive wilderness. This city, serving as a hub of transport, culture, and economy, also offers a wealth of attractions to explore right within its bounds. Anchorage provides an ideal base for venturing into Alaska’s rugged landscapes.
3. Ketchikan
Known for being the first port of call for many cruise ships, Ketchikan, the southernmost city in Alaska, is blessed with a plethora of scenic attractions. The most charming among these is Creek Street, an erstwhile raucous red-light district that today stands as a peaceful historical precinct teeming with unique establishments.
4. Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park, the most frequented park in the state, allows you to savor breathtaking views without even having to step off your boat. Keep an eye out for orcas and whales while you marvel at the towering glaciers that frame every vista. Kayaking can get you even closer to this icy wonderland if you’re up for it.
5. Homer
Homer, situated on the Kenai Peninsula and renowned as the fishing capital of Alaska, is a paradise for nature explorers and fishing enthusiasts. The city offers captivating wildlife spotting opportunities in Kachemak Bay State Park, where you can encounter mountain goats, bald eagles, sea lions, humpback whales, and black bears.
6. Skagway
Skagway was catapulted to prominence during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 19th century. The town retains its wild west ambiance in its wooden buildings and Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park. An enchanting train journey on the White Pass and Yukon Route offers awe-inspiring views that underscore the town’s historic allure.
7. Mendenhall Glacier
A short drive from Juneau brings you to Mendenhall Glacier, an impressive glacier that calves into an adjacent lake. Whether it’s a simple shuttle ride, a thrilling helicopter ride, or a challenging hike along the West Glacier Trail, there are various ways to witness the incredible grandeur of this icy monument.
8. Kenai Fjords National Park
This national park transports you back to the ice age with its glaciers and ice caps that touch the ocean’s edge, creating stunning vistas. Half the park is cloaked in ice year-round, with deep fjords providing an ideal habitat for a plethora of aquatic wildlife, including migrating whales and fish-hunting birds.
9. Katmai National Park
Situated in southwestern Alaska, Katmai National Park is known for its scenic allure and its proximity to Homer and Kodiak Island. At its heart is the ‘Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes,’ an extensive ash flow from the 1912 eruption of the Novarupta Volcano. Visitors can expect thrilling wildlife encounters, especially with brown bears, and enjoy fishing due to the abundance of rainbow trout and salmon.
10. Denali National Park
Crowning our list is the iconic Denali National Park, home to the towering Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley. This mountain, the tallest in North America, along with snowy boreal forests, desolate tundra, rugged mountains, and serene lakes, offers a safe haven to diverse wildlife like caribou, moose, grizzly bears, and wolves. For those yearning for true wilderness, Denali National Park is the ultimate destination.
As you traverse the splendid landscape of Alaska, each of these destinations unfolds a unique story, intertwining the allure of pristine nature with rich history and culture. This is a journey that promises memories of a lifetime.