If you are planning a trip to Alaska, there are some amazing things you can do. Alaska is the largest state in the United States but is also the least populated. Alaska is perfect for people who love nature and getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life. That said, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Full of natural beauty and incredible people, any trip to Alaska is sure to be exciting and fun.
Whale Watch
One of the things Alaska is known for is its wildlife. Particularly in the water, Alaska has some of the most unique animals in the world. Being so far north, you can see some animals here that you can’t find anywhere else in the United States. Beluga whales are very hard to spot but are one of the many whale species you can see in Alaskan waters. If you take an Alaska cruise, you have a better chance of spotting these majestic creatures. You also have an excellent chance of seeing at least one of four other species of whales that call the waters around Alaska home. These include humpback whales, killer whales, grey whales, and mink whales
Backcountry Hike
Another unique thing you can do is to hike the backcountry. While hiking may not seem very unique, in Alaska it is. Alaska is filled with natural landmarks and incredible views that are only appreciated by seeing and experiencing them in person. Fragrant forests and incredible mountains dominate most of the backcountry. Going out with a guide is the best way to experience this incredible opportunity. Animal lovers will also enjoy hiking in Alaska. Home to the most wolves and grizzly bears in the United States, you are likely to see them while hiking. These are animals that you don’t want to get close to, so hiring a guide is best.
Dogsled Ride
Speaking of animals, Alaska is home to the Iditarod. This is a huge dogsled race across Alaska. It is widely known because, in the 1900s, this trail was used to deliver life-saving medicine to Nome, Alaska. This race is now hugely popular and one of a kind. It not only saved a traditional, Innuit form of travel but saved Alaskan huskies from potentially going extinct. You can take part in this amazing form of transportation for yourself. Dogsled teams can be found throughout the state and, with a little training, can take a dogsled team out for yourself. Experience the strength and teamwork of the dog pack and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Gold panning
Before the Iditarod, people moved to Alaska for its gold. Alaska is currently the second highest producer of gold in the United States. Back in the 1800s, people came out to Alaska looking for gold and striking it rich. Many of the people living in Alaska today can be traced back to these gold miners. It’s said that in some parts of Alaska, the gold is so plentiful that you can find it by just looking into the streams. While in Alaska, you can go gold panning and find out for yourself. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next person to hit gold.
Biking
Another great way to get around Alaska is by bike. However, in Alaska, you need a special kind of bike. Known as a fat bike, the tires are larger and allow you to travel on rough or slick terrain. This is the easiest way to get around Alaskan towns as well as the country. Taking a guide, you can bike out to mountains or valleys and experience more of Alaska’s natural beauty. You can also bike down to the beaches and try to catch a glimpse of ocean life. Biking around the cities is a great option as well. Most Alaskan towns and cities are created with tourism in mind, so you can get around fairly easily on your own.
Alaska is known as the last frontier. It’s a place of extreme beauty and extreme hardship. If you enjoy something beautiful and unique, Alaska is the perfect destination for you.
