Alaska Bucket List: 30 Adventures to Discover

Alaska is the largest state in the United States of America and about 1/3 of its land is in the Arctic Circle.  With only 20% of its land accessible by road, it’s easy to see why it’s called “The Last Frontier”.  Everything in Alaska is BIG, home to 17 of the 20 tallest peaks in North America, some of the largest land mammals on the continent, and over 100,000 glaciers. This beautiful state stole my heart and I am excited to share the following list of Alaskan adventures with you. 

1. Take a Road Trip

Alaska is known for its extensive size, which makes it the perfect place for a road trip! Seward Highway, Dalton Highway, and Denali Highway are some of the most famous routes bringing visitors to all of the best spots. The roads are wide, safe, and well maintained- with plenty of adorable towns and outdoor recreation stops along the way. We get to dive into some of our favorite spots below.

2. Take an Alaskan Cruise

Consider an Inside Passage Cruise which will take you to some of the best stops on this bucket list; Glacier Bay National Park, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and the Tracy Arm Fjord. This cruise boasts whales, bears, eagles, and gold rush history as some of its excursions.

3. Go fishing in Homer

Homer is situated on the far edge of the Kenai Peninsula with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Kachemak Bay. It is known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World” but salmon, lingcod and rockfish are also abundant. We got to fish in “The Fishing Hole” located on the Homer Spit, where we had the best salmon fishing experience of our lives, and we can’t wait to go back! Charter a fishing tour for the best of what Homer has to offer.

4. Tour the Tongass Rainforest

When you think of a rainforest, you may not immediately think of Alaska, but the Tongass National Forest is home to one of the last intact temperate rainforests in the world! It is the largest national forest in the United States, over 17 million acres, housing glaciers, fjords, and ancient trees as well as a plethora of wildlife. With over 11,000 miles of coastline and so many acres to explore, there are endless opportunities for recreation in this old-growth rainforest. Visitors from Ketchikan or Sitka can take a day tour with a guided rainforest walk, or take a floatplane ride to Prince of Whales Island to view Bears. Kayaking, canoeing, and other marine tours are also offered.

5. Visit Denali National Park and Preserve

Covering over 6 million acres, and the home of North Americas tallest peak, this National Park is a must for anyone that appreciates nature. Everything in this Park is big- the rivers, the trees, the wildlife- it’s absolutely stunning. Visitors may enjoy taking the park shuttle to the end of Denali Park Road, hiking, cycling, or perhaps a flight seeing tour. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some unique wildlife- grizzly bears, wolves, moose, caribou or Dall sheep. 

6. Walk along the Iditarod National Historic Trail

The Iditarod route stretches from Seward to Nome, but some sections can be enjoyed by hikers all year round. If you can time your trip to see the beginning or end of the race, that would be ideal. If not, the sections of the route near Seward or Girdwood offers a beautiful and scenic hint of the iconic “Last Great Race on Earth”.

7. Hike on Matanuska Glacier

True, there are several glacier hikes to choose from in Alaska, but this is the largest one accessible by car which makes it an easy choice. Matanuska stretches 27 miles, and can be explored best by foot. Hiking tours include walking on ice, exploring ice caves, and viewing moulins, ice falls and creaking, blue-lit ice crevasses. The glacier moves about 1ft per day, and because it is so active there are always interesting new things to discover. 

8. View Totem Poles

Typically carved by hand from from old cedar trees, Totem Poles can reach heights of 18 meters and be used to tell stories, record events, even scare off strangers. Originating from the Indigenous Tribes of Alaska, this culturally significant testament cannot be missed. Some of the best places to view these beauties are at Totem Pole Trail at Sitka National Historic Park or Totem Bight State Historical Park. 

9. Chase the Northern Lights

A never ending adventure, and “chasing” being the most apt word here. My friend Melissa and I were so determined to find the elusive Aurora that we; 1. Got pulled over and scolded for driving without our headlights, not having our drivers license on us at the time, and being outside in our pajamas in the middle of the night. 2. Almost drove into a lake (different time). 3. Almost died driving in a snowstorm (different time). 4. Stayed up all night every night. 5. Scoured the internet and Facebook groups trying to predict the Auroras nightly showing. 6. Made our families take a scary military snow cat thing to a yurt at the top of a mountain in the middle of the night…… and still we only caught one mediocre glimpse of them the whole trip- and not even a show we could see with the naked eye! However, having since experienced the Aurora Borealis in her full splendor, I can attest it is worth the chase, and Alaska is known for being an amazing place to witness the incredible phenomenon. 

10. See Bald Eagles

The National bird of the USA and a Native American spiritual symbol. They have a flight speed of 40 mph, wingspan of 8 ft, and live to be about 30 years old. We got to see one dive to a river and come out with a fish about 10 yards from us once and I will never be the same again. They are magical, and Alaska is a likely place to catch one living its wildest life. 

11. Hear a Glacier Calving

It can be scary to hear the crackling and booming of a glacier just going about its daily life. When chunks of ice fall off the terminus edge of a glacier, it can make a booming sound that can be felt in your bones. Visitors can hike to the Exit Glacier near Seward or take a tour to Hubbard Glacier and witness the true power of nature for themselves. 

12. Ride an Alaskan Railroad

Two popular options are offered; 1. the Seward to Fairbanks train for glorious views and stops which include Anchorage and Denali National Park. 2. Train to White Pass Summit in Skagway called the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad, which is a guided historic train route that includes the Klondike Trail remnants from the 1898 Gold Rush. Either would be a stunning way to take in the state of Alaska without having to rent a car. 

13. Behold a Moose

I know, the use of the word “behold” here seems extreme. Until you’re sitting in the hot tub enjoying the view and an animal the size of a small truck comes stomping by like its reenacting a scene from Jurassic Park. Its honestly hard to describe or imagine the size of a real life wild moose until you’re with it- but it is absolutely something to behold. 

14. Fly to Kodiak

Off the coast of Alaska, Kodiak Island is known for its rugged landscapes and beautiful vistas. There are several fantastic museums in Kodiak, as well as churches and other architectural beauties to explore. For adventure seekers, hiking, fishing, and bear viewing are amoung the best in the world. There is also a crab festival each Memorial Day weekend, for an added fun bonus! 

15. Try Dog Sledding

Historically, dog sledding was a means of transporation and hauling for the indigenous peoples of Alaska. The remains of the first domesticated dog date back over 9000 years! Starting around the 16th centuries, adventurers started exploring the north and adopted the custom of dog sledding to help with hunting, trapping and transportation of pelts. In the 1900’s gold rushers used sled dogs to carry them to Klondike to try and strike it big. Then, in 1903 the book The Call of the Wild introduced the world to dog sledding. In 1925, a 3-year-old Siberian Husky named Balto led a team of dogs laden down with medicine to the isolated town of Nome, which had broken out with Diphtheria, and the international community celebrated. Still today, dog sledding is used for both recreation and hunting, as well as travel. Take a ride with these athletes yourself and see if you can hold on! 

16. Hike to the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Cave

Near Juneau, this accessible Glacier is 13 miles long and is fed by the Juneau Icefied. One can visit the visitor center, hike along the trails, or witness calving from the water. Perhaps the best experience is to take a tour to the the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Cave, where you will be given protective gear and a knowledgeable guide while kayaking across the Mendenhall Lake and hiking to the cave. The breathtaking blue caves are a unique wonder sure to impress any visitor. 

17. Visit Talkeetna

A charming historic town known for gold mining, railroad development, and fishing. You can wander the quaint shops and cafes in Talkeetna Historic District, and eat at some delicious local cafes. Adventure seekers can zip line, take the Hurricane Turn Train Ride, go hiking, gold panning, river rafting, or take a jet boat ride. It is also a fantastic base for visiting Denali National Park or hiking Mt. McKinley. 

18. Trek to the Castner Glacier Ice Cave

Located just outside of Delta Junction, this 2.6 mile easy trail following Castner Creek leads to a fantastic ice cave. Although the cave size and stability change seasonally, winter usually brings a huge explorable cavern that is truly spectacular. 

19. Observe Grizzlies in the Wild

One of my dreams is to witness grizzly bears salmon fishing in the wild. Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park or Lake Clark National Park are supposed to be the best places to witness them in the summer months. Perhaps it will still happen one day!

20. Wander to the Byron Glacier

Take the easy 1.4 mile trail through a lush valley and along a river to reach this small glacier with a series of “ice caves”. It is easily accessible and a nice stop between Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula. Make sure you bring ear protection so your ears don’t get cold.

21. Go Whale Watching

Alaska is known for its fantastic whale encounters, specifically Humpback Whales and Orcas. Juneau and the area outside of Glacier Bay are known for being great, as well as Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay. Whale watching tours allow you to get close enough to hear the whales breathe, and catch some of their playful personalities. While on a tour you may also see seals, puffins, sea otters, eagles and other wildlife. 

 22. Take a Dip at Chena Hot Springs

Nestled just outside of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs boasts a variety of activities suitable for the whole year. I will say, I was a little underwhelmed with the facilities and the activities that were super hyped up, but if you’re in Fairbanks anyways, it might make a nice stop. A dip in the dramatic hot springs is always relaxing, and some of the other activities include an ice hotel, dog sledding, hiking, and stargazing. 

23. Explore the History of Whittier

Whittier is accessed by the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which is one lane and operated on a strict timetable. The tunnel opens up to a lovely harbor and town, at the base of Prince William Sound. This is a famous area for kayaking because of the calm waters and remote unspoiled area. The entire town lives in a 14 story complex that was built in the Cold War. In WWII, the town was used as an Army base because of its remote and mostly cloud covered location. Today, it is mostly used as a hub for ferries and freight, but it is unique and worth a stop. 

24. Hike to Virgin Creek Falls in Girdwood

Girdwood is a lovely ski resort town tucked in to Mount Alyeska, partway between Anchorage and the Kenai Penensula. Its a beautiful and active community with activities such as skiing, snomobiling, hiking, cycling, rafting and fishing. The Virgin Creek Falls hike is just a half mile round trip and takes you though a peaceful forest path. The falls can be quite remarkable depending on the time year you visit. 

25. Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center

Just near Girdwood and the Byron Glacier, this non-profit sanctuary makes a great stop to see orphaned and injured Alaskan animals. Visitors drive their own car on a 1.5 mile loop that brings you up close to bears, wolves, bison, moose, and muskoxen. It’s definitely worth a quick stop and supports a great cause. 

26. Drop in on Santa in North Pole, Alaska

Near Fairbanks, this small city boasts a year-round Christmas theme, complete with a North Pole, Santa Claus House, and live reindeer. You can even send a letter from their post office with special North Pole postage. If you are traveling with kids, this quaint stop is a must!

27. Explore the Gates of the Arctic National Park

Alaska is the only state in the United States that reaches into the Arctic Circle, and the vast rugged landscape beyond. The Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is home to 8.4 million acres of rugged backcountry, with very few roads and extreme weather conditions. Several indigenous tribes and unique wildlife call this area home. An air taxi is required to visit, so only extreme adventure seekers with adequate preparation should visit this item on the list. 

28. Wander around Seward

Typically a launch point for the Kenai Fjords National Park, this port town is actually bursting with life and color! The downtown area has some lovely shops and cafes, our favorites being Zudy’s Cafe and Resurrect Art Coffee House. There are several beautiful public murals and historic sights to discover on your wanderings as well. The harbor offers lovely wildlife viewing and a nice walking path. Visitors can also tour the Exit Glacier, learn about the Alaska Railroad, and the Iditarod Trail.

29. Cruise the Tracy Arm Fjord

About 45 minutes south of Juneau, and within the Tongass National Forest, this stunning 30 mile fjord offers impressive vistas. Iceburgs, steep cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife complete a day trip on the fjord. You can visit by cruise, small boat tour, or seaplane adventure.

30. Walk the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Anchorage

Known for being one of the most beautiful coastal trails in North America, this 11 mile route winds through moose filled forests and beluga whale spotting lookouts while offering views as far as Mount McKinley.

Alaska has such an immense natural beauty and an untouched wilderness. We treasure our time spent discovering the wildlife, history and cultures dotted throughout this massive space, and can’t wait to return!