The Ultimate Alaska Travel Guide (Updated January 2026)
Alaska, the Last Frontier, continues to captivate with its vast wilderness, glaciers, wildlife, and endless adventure opportunities. As a born-and-raised Alaskan, I’m excited to share updated insights for 2026. Tourism hit a record 3.08 million visitors in the 2024-25 season, with strong recovery post-pandemic. New cruise lines like Virgin and MSC arrive in 2026, but ports like Juneau implement ship caps for sustainability.
Safety remains solid—no major U.S. travel advisories beyond standard precautions for wildlife, weather, and urban areas like Anchorage (higher crime rates). Pack layers, bear spray, and prepare for unpredictable conditions.
Iconic Alaskan glacier landscapes in Glacier Bay and beyond.
Quick Tips for 2026
- Best time: June-August for warm weather, wildlife, and long days; shoulder months (May/September) for fewer crowds and lower prices.
- Aurora viewing: September-April (peak chances in March/September); 2026 may see the end of recent strong solar activity cycles.
- Getting around: Rent a car for flexibility—rates start ~$100/day in summer (book early).
- Budget: Mid-range 7-day trip ~$3,000–$4,500/person (up due to inflation); save by camping, shoulder-season travel, or self-driving.
- New for 2026: More eco-focused tours, small-ship cruises, and potential overtourism limits in popular spots.
When to Visit
- Summer (June-Aug): Peak season—warm (50-70°F), 24-hour daylight, prime for hiking, fishing, and cruises. Expect higher costs and crowds.
- Shoulder (May & Sep): Mild temps, fewer tourists, vibrant fall colors or spring blooms; great value.
- Winter (Nov-Mar): Cold (-20°F possible in interior), but ideal for aurora, skiing, and dog sledding.
- Spring/Fall: Underrated for solitude and wildlife.
Spectacular Northern Lights displays over Alaska.
Getting There & Around
- Fly in: Anchorage (ANC) or Fairbanks (FAI) hubs; direct flights from major U.S. cities.
- Road trip: Drive the Alaska Highway (Alcan) from Canada.
- Cruise: Inside Passage from Seattle/Vancouver—popular and scenic.
- Inside Alaska: Rent a car/RV (best freedom), Alaska Railroad, ferries, or bush planes for remote areas.
Top Things to Do
- Wildlife Viewing — Bears at Brooks Falls (Katmai), whales in Kenai Fjords, moose/caribou in Denali.
Grizzlies, moose, and caribou—Alaska’s iconic wildlife.
- Glacier Experiences — Trek Matanuska, cruise Kenai Fjords, or flightsee Denali.
Humpback whales breaching in Kenai Fjords.
- Denali National Park — Bus tours, hiking, potential Denali summit views.
Majestic Denali and its surrounding wilderness.
- Flightseeing & Kayaking — Aerial views of glaciers; paddle fjords.
- Anchorage Base — Museums, coastal trails, day trips.
Anchorage skyline with mountains beyond.
Must-Try Food
Fresh salmon, halibut, king crab, reindeer, and craft beers. Favorites: Moose’s Tooth pizza (Anchorage), Tracy’s King Crab Shack (Juneau).
Budget & Packing
Expect higher costs in peak season. Pack layers, rain gear, bug spray (summer mosquitoes!), hiking boots, and bear spray. For winter: extreme cold-rated clothing.
Alaska’s magic lies in its raw beauty and adventure—plan ahead for 2026 availability. Questions on itineraries or specific spots? Ask below!