WANDERLIST Alaska: Ten must-see attractions (and some off-the-beaten-track)

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Alaska is a vast and destination that never fails to captivate the imagination of adventurous visitors with its rugged wilderness, towering peaks, and glaciers.

  • Denali National Park:vHome to Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America, this national park is a testament to the untamed wilderness that Alaska is celebrated for. Explore its vast landscapes, spot wildlife like grizzly bears and moose, and hike scenic trails that promise vistas.
  • Inside Passage: Embark on a cruise along the Inside Passage, a coastal route that traverses fjords, majestic glaciers, and coastal towns. Bask in the beauty of Glacier Bay National Park or witness the spectacle of humpback whales breaching in the waters.
  • Kenai Fjords National Park: Located near Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park hosts a dramatic coastline adorned with glaciers, icefields, and fjords. Take a boat tour to witness the calving of icebergs, spot sea otters, and Admire the sheer beauty of nature.
  • Mendenhall Glacier: Just outside Juneau, the state capital, lies the Mendenhall Glacier. Embark on a scenic hike to witness this magnificent river of ice, explore ice caves, and visit the Visitor Centre to learn more about the glacier’s formation and impact on the surrounding environment.
  • Anchorage: The largest city in Alaska, Anchorage offers a blend of culture and nature. Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Centre to immerse yourself in Alaska’s rich indigenous cultures or take a scenic flight to Lake Hood, the world’s busiest seaplane base. Don’t forget to try fresh seafood at the local restaurants.
  • Talkeetna: Located at the base of Mount Denali, Talkeetna exudes a small-town atmosphere. Experience the thrill of flightseeing tours, embark on guided wilderness hikes, or enjoy the lively arts scene in this town.
  • Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: As one of North America’s largest national parks, Wrangell-St. Elias offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration. Trek across ancient glaciers, raft through exhilarating rivers, and discover the relics of Alaska’s mining history.
  • Kodiak Island: Venture off the mainland to Kodiak Island, known for its abundant wildlife and scenic beauty. Spot Kodiak bears, visit archaeological sites, and soak in the tranquility of this island.
  • Sitka: Once the capital of Russian Alaska, Sitka hosts a history combined with natural surroundings. Explore Russian Orthodox churches, visit the Alaska Raptor Centre, and take in the beauty of the Sitka National Historical Park.
  • Dalton Highway: For the ultimate road trip adventure, venture on the Dalton Highway, a remote highway stretching from Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay. Immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of Alaska’s Arctic region, witness wildlife, and Admire the Northern Lights dancing above the vast tundra.

Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:

  • Gates of the Arctic National Park: Experience true solitude in one of the least-visited national parks in the United States. With no roads or established trails, this untouched wilderness promises a raw and authentic Alaskan adventure.
  • Lake Clark National Park: Escape the crowds and delve into the remote wilderness of Lake Clark National Park. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lakes, and untamed wildlife, this park epitomizes the solitude and tranquility Alaska is famous for.
  • McCarthy-Kennicott: Step back in time as you explore the abandoned mining town of Kennicott and its neighbouring town, McCarthy. Wander through historic buildings, hike through the spectacular Wrangell Mountains, and witness the remnants of Alaska’s gold rush era.
  • Admiralty Island: Known as “The Fortress of the Bears,” Admiralty Island is home to one of the densest populations of brown bears in the world. Immerse yourself in this untouched paradise, where wildlife thrives in its natural habitat.
  • Valdez: Discover the hidden gem of Valdez, a small coastal town Located between towering mountains and the shimmering waters of Prince William Sound. Explore the waterfalls, enjoy world-class fishing, and witness the Columbia Glacier.
  • Haines:
  • Escape the tourist crowds and visit the town of Haines, situated at the northern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Take a hike through the scenic Chilkat State Park, watch for bald eagles, and experience the rich cultural heritage
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