Alaska has been called The Last Frontier, and for good reason: There is so much of the state that is largely unexplored. Alaska has become a popular vacation destination in the summer, when tourists go to enjoy the mild temperatures and see the midnight sun. Have you ever considered visiting this region in the winter, though? Visiting Alaska in the colder months can be quite the adventure. If you want to go, here are some ideas:
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Winter Sports As you might imagine, the bulk of outdoor things to do in Alaska are going to involve snow in the winter! Winter sports might not be quite what you do at home, though, if you live in the lower 48 states. Of course, you can get your fill of skiing, whether you enjoy flying down steep hills or trekking long distances on cross-country skis. You can also go ice skating, build a snowman, go sledding or have a snowball fight, just like you would at home, assuming you get snow in the winter. Have you ever gone ice fishing for king salmon, though? Or how about learning how to drive a sled pulled by a dog, which is known as mushing? Hockey is extremely popular here, as well. No matter what type of winter sport you like, and whether you prefer to participate or simply cheer on the sidelines, Alaska has got you covered.
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Northern Lights and Hot Springs The wintertime counterpart to the midnight sun is the Northern Lights. On cold winter nights in Alaska (and yes, they are very cold!), you can sometimes see the flickering pinks, greens and oranges of the Aurora Borealis, better known as the Northern Lights. You can even soak in a hot spring (and yes, they are very hot!) while enjoying the view up above. At the Hot Springs Resort in outer Fairbanks, for example, you will be able to run in your swimsuit in the -40 degree night air into the 140+ degree hot springs on the property. That is an experience that you won’t want to miss!
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Remote Alaska During the winter, you are going to need to stay in an area that’s fairly close to civilization, because the weather is unpredictable and you don’t want to get caught in a storm where airplanes cannot get to you. With that being said, several travel companies offer jaunts to some of the more remote areas of the state. When you go with a reputable company, you will have access to any first aid products that you need, plus the tour operators won’t go if the weather will make it unsafe to fly back. From outlying areas, you’ll have a great chance of seeing wildlife as well as the aforementioned Northern Lights.
- Rail Journey Take in the amazing scenery when you travel by train between Anchorage and Fairbanks.
- Exploration Why not board a bush pane and fly across the legendary Arctic Circle? While in flight, marvel at the majestic beauty of the Yukon River and mountains below.
Visiting Alaska is full of mystery and intrigue any time of year. During the winter, especially, you will need to travel with someone who knows what they’re doing, particularly if you plan to venture off the beaten path of the major cities. There is plenty of adventure to be found in the larger cities of Fairbanks and Anchorage, but if you’re really up for something extraordinary and want to find a smaller village or outpost location, be sure to talk to a travel agent about finding a tour operator to help you.
