Alaska is a land of immense beauty, with towering mountains, pristine glaciers, and rugged coastline. Although it’s the largest state in the US, it’s also one of the least populous, which means there are plenty of hidden gems to be discovered. If you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten path, here are 10 hidden gems in Alaska that you need to visit:
Denali National Park
Denali National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska, and it’s easy to see why. The park’s 6 million acres offer stunning views of Mount McKinley also called Mount Denali, the tallest mountain in North America. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife watching in the park. However, if you’re looking to get away from the crowds, head to the less-visited Kantishna region in the park’s interior. There you’ll find pristine forests, alpine meadows, and glacial rivers. The Kantishna region is only accessible by foot or air, so you’ll definitely have a sense of solitude when you visit. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a chance to relax and recharge, Denali National Park has something for everyone.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Wrangell-St. Elias is the largest national park in the US, and it’s also one of the most remote. The park’s 13.2 million acres are home to glaciers, mountains, and wildlife including grizzly bears and caribou. If you’re up for a challenge, hike the 14-mile Chugach Mountains Traverse, which offers stunning views of the Wrangell volcano. The trail is only recommended for experienced hikers, as there are some steep sections and river crossings. However, those who make it to the end are rewarded with incredible views of the park’s wilderness. camping is allowed along the trail, but be sure to obtain a permit in advance. With its remote location and challenging terrain, Wrangell-St. Elias is a true wilderness experience.
Katmai National Park
Katmai National Park is one of the most beautiful places in Alaska. It’s best known for its remarkable brown bears, which you can observe up close at the park’s Brooks Camp. But the park also offers incredible views of mountains, glaciers, and ocean coastline. Take a boat or floatplane tour to get a bird’s-eye view of the park’s volcanic landscape. You can also hike or bike through the park, enjoying the amazing scenery and wildlife. And don’t forget to take a dip in one of the park’s many hot springs! Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax and take in the beauty of nature, Katmai National Park is the perfect place for you.
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park is one of the best places in Alaska to see wildlife. The park’s 3 million acres are home to glaciers, whales, seals, and sea otters. You can take a boat tour through Kenai Fjords to get up close and personal with the park’s stunning glaciers. Or you can go kayaking to explore the park’s coastline from the water. Either way, you’re sure to have an up-close and personal encounter with some of Alaska’s most amazing wildlife.
Lake Clark National Park
Lake Clark is one of the most remote national parks in the United States, and it’s only accessible by plane or boat. But the effort required to get there is well worth it, as the park offers stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and lakes. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including brown bears, caribou, and moose. Lake Clark is an excellent place to get away from it all and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in Alaska. So if you’re looking for an adventure, make sure to add Lake Clark to your list.
Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alaska, but it’s still possible to find solitude here. Head to the less-visited West Arm or Upper West Glacier for breathtaking views of glaciers and mountains. Or go kayaking in the park’s Glacier Bay to get up close and personal with the ice. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the park, so you can explore at your own pace and really take in the scenery. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just a chance to relax, Glacier Bay has something for everyone.
Kodiak Island
Kodiak Island is a large island on the south coast of the U.S. state of Alaska, separated from the Alaska mainland by the Shelikof Strait. Kodiak Island is a haven for wildlife lovers. The island is home to abundant marine life, including seals, sea lions, and otters. You can also find brown bears, deer, and eagles here. Kodiak is also a great place for fishing, with plentiful salmon and halibut. The scenery here is stunning, with towering mountains and pristine wilderness.
Fairbanks
The city is located in the aurora oval, meaning there’s a high chance of seeing the northern lights on any given night. But Fairbanks has more to offer than just the northern lights. The city is also home to the University of Alaska Museum of the North, which houses an impressive collection of Alaskan art and artifacts. In addition, Fairbanks is home to a number of parks and trails, making it the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors.
Sitka
Sitka is a beautiful coastal city with plenty to see and do. Stroll through Sitka National Historical Park to learn about the area’s Tlingit heritage. Take a walk on the Indian River Trail to see Alaskan wildlife in their natural habitat. Then head to the Alaska Raptor Center to see bald eagles, owls, and other birds of prey up close. Stop by the Sheldon Jackson Museum to see artifacts from the area’s Russian history. And don’t forget to check out the St. Michael’s Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox church with stunning onion domes.
Haines
Haines is a census-designated place located in Haines Borough, Alaska, United States. It is in the northern part of the Alaska Panhandle, near Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Haines is a small town with big scenery. The town is located at the base of mountains and glaciers, making it the perfect place to go hiking or skiing. And don’t miss the chance to see the Chilkat Bald Eagles. Every winter, hundreds of bald eagles congregate in Haines to feast on the area’s abundance of salmon.
Alaska is a vast and beautiful state with plenty to offer visitors. From the stunning scenery of Glacier Bay National Park to the abundant wildlife of Kodiak Island, there are endless opportunities for adventure. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adrenaline-filled expedition, be sure to add Alaska to your list.