Contrary to its image of a snow-clad land, Alaska experiences all 4 seasons. The best time to visit Alaska is between mid-June and September.
The summer season coincides with the high tourist season and runs from late June to August. In the central and southern parts of the state, temperatures fall in the range of 60°F – 72°F. Long days with 18- 24 hours of sunshine give you plenty of time to explore the state. The state slips into the fall season by September with a glorious display of autumn colors happening towards the end of the month and the beginning of October. Temperatures drop into the 40s and 50s and rainfall levels increase.
Alaska’s winter sets in November and continues through mid-March. The season is characterized by gray skies, short days, snowstorms and abundant snowfall. It’s the best time to watch the dancing Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis. The wildlife that Alaska is famous for wakes up from its sleepy slumber by the end of March. By April the snow is melting, lakes and rivers fill up and the hillside is covered in wildflowers. Evenings are still cold but day time temperatures climb into the mid-40s and 50s.
No matter what time of the year you are planning to visit, the key to packing for a trip to Alaska is ‘layers’. Since there are considerable differences between daytime and evening temperatures, wearing warm layers allows you to dress up or down depending on weather conditions. A warm, waterproof jacket and rain gear are a must as are good quality hiking shoes. With plenty of outdoor activities to participate in, we recommend packing long-sleeved quick-drying shirts, pants, and a foldable hiking pole. For half-day and full-day trips, we suggest you pack a day pack with water, snacks, sun protection, insect repellant, and binoculars. A down jacket and scarf are also necessary for times when there are strong winds.
Summers see plenty of sunshine hours that go well past midnight so pack an eye mask that will help you fall asleep. If you are traveling during winter, plan on getting your warmest layers – thermals, woolens, warm jackets, winter socks, boots, gloves, and caps.
Contact our travel experts to find out the best times to visit Alaska. Let us create your tailor-made itinerary so that you can experience the many unique wonders of this stunning state.
Experience the highlights of wild and wonderful Alaska on this exceptional train journey. Explore Anchorage, the state’s largest city, on a privately guided walking tour. Embark on an exciting train ride that showcases the pristine beauty of the region. All you have to do is sit back and bask in its glory. Take a customized…
Discover the spectacular natural beauty of the Last Frontier on a personalized road trip! Enjoy guided fishing excursions to the freshwater rivers and lakes around Fairbanks. Then, head into the wild at Denali, where North America’s tallest peak overlooks an untouched landscape. Hike along scenic trails, enjoy guided whitewater rafting on the Nenana River and…
Take an unforgettable road trip through the rugged landscapes of Alaska, known as the ‘Last Frontier’ both for its distance and its untouched nature. Spanning two weeks, this vacation includes bucket-list destinations such as Denali National Park, the Kenai Fjords, and Katmai. You’ll also go off the beaten path to lesser-known yet stunning destinations such…
Experience the best of nature, wildlife and adventure on this nine day winter tour of the most remote parts of Alaska. Start at Fairbanks, a picture perfect town that is also your gateway to the Arctic region deep in the interiors of the state, and proceed on a guided trip to Denali National Park, Black…
Have you always wanted to explore the untamed wilderness of Alaska on a cruise? This eight-day cruise starting from Juneau lets you soak in the raw beauty of the region. Sail past the outback areas of Glacier National Park such as Dundas Bay and Fern Harbor, hike to glacial lakes near Thomas Bay and try…
This eight-day cruise aboard the Safari Endeavour promises some of the most magical experiences. Glide along the frigid waters past glacier carved fjords, remote islands and deep, dark woods. Spot puffins and sea lions at the expansive UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay National Park, go on guided hikes on Baranof Island and bask in the changing scenery…
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