A summer vacation in the USA typically means a trip to the coast in one of the sunnier states – one with vibrant cities and theme parks. This often means a trip down South, Orlando, Miami or the Californian coast.
Few would think of heading further north for a summer getaway, especially as far north as the remote landscape of Alaska. Still, there is more to this state than some may initially expect.
In fact, there is so much going on here in the summer months that it offers plenty of must-see spectacles. So, why should we visit Alaska in the summer, and what does “summer” actually mean in such a northern area?
Few would think of heading further north for a summer getaway, especially as far north as the remote landscape of Alaska. Still, there is more to this state than some may initially expect.
In fact, there is so much going on here in the summer months that it offers plenty of must-see spectacles. So, why should we visit Alaska in the summer, and what does “summer” actually mean in such a northern area?
Here we will look at some of the main reasons why the best time to visit Alaska is in the summer: the climate, the wildlife and the hospitality and event of the major towns and cities.
Does Icy Alaska Have A Summer In The Same Way As Other US States?
The first thing to think about when deciding on a summer vacation in Alaska is the weather. You aren’t going to have the sort of blazing hot summer days that you would in other destinations. However, that doesn’t mean that you won’t enjoy good weather.
The summer season in Alaska is early May to mid-September, which may be longer than some would expect. The height of the season is mid-June to the end of August when there are better chances of tours, sightings, and improved weather. Still, there is no reason why travelers can’t enjoy a summer vacation to this northern state in those earlier or later periods.
The summer season in Alaska is early May to mid-September, which may be longer than some would expect. The height of the season is mid-June to the end of August when there are better chances of tours, sightings, and improved weather. Still, there is no reason why travelers can’t enjoy a summer vacation to this northern state in those earlier or later periods.
(Source: Long Range Weather)
The Sun Just Acts A Little Differently Up In Alaska.
The sunlight is a key factor here. It may not be that strong, but the upside is that there is so much sunlight to enjoy. This means more hours that are available for exploring. This is a long summer with long days because of the location of this northern state.
We have to remember how far north Alaska is and how much it differs from sunny Florida and California much closer to the equator. The longest day of the year is June 21st, and the sun barely sets at all on this day. The hours of sunlight that are available will depend on your location in this vast state.
Anchorage sees around 19 hours on Midsummer’s Day, while Fairbanks gets as much as 22. The length of the day in early September remains considerably longer than in more southern states, so there is no wonder that this is a great option for a late summer getaway.
Some cautious travelers may look at this climate and assume that while the sun is abundant, it isn’t strong enough to make a big impression on the temperature. The truth is that there is a moderate temperature on a good day. The peak season can see highs of as much as 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but this will drop at night to around 40 -50. May and September are a little cooler again.
Of course, it is impossible to plan for good weather in this state. One day could offer glorious sunshine and calm conditions, and another could see torrential rain. As long as you pack for each eventuality, you shouldn’t find yourself in too much trouble.
This is a different climate and terrain, with some interesting quirks.
This difference between the states is also clear in the landscape of this vast, sparsely populated state. It is a wonderland of vast tundras, plains, forests, mountains ready to explore by all those ready for a good hike, a long bus or bike ride or even a kayak.
Some may opt for an early visit when the snow and tundra ice are still visible for a summer trip with a difference. It is like trekking to an Arctic wildness without leaving the country. Alternatively, there are the later trips when the ice has gone, and there is a greater chance of exploring the coastal regions, mountains, and forests.
At this point, travelers should note that there is a slight cross over of the summer season and the northern lights season. The best chances to spot these incredible light display come between September and around April 20th.
The height of winter is the best time as this when they are most frequent and visible in the darker skies. Still, those that fancy a later summer trip might try their luck with the right guides in the right parts of Alaska. Research some of the best spots and travel guides for the best chance of seeing the auroras on native soil. Many find that the inland areas around Fairbanks are particularly good.
We have to remember how far north Alaska is and how much it differs from sunny Florida and California much closer to the equator. The longest day of the year is June 21st, and the sun barely sets at all on this day. The hours of sunlight that are available will depend on your location in this vast state.
Anchorage sees around 19 hours on Midsummer’s Day, while Fairbanks gets as much as 22. The length of the day in early September remains considerably longer than in more southern states, so there is no wonder that this is a great option for a late summer getaway.
Some cautious travelers may look at this climate and assume that while the sun is abundant, it isn’t strong enough to make a big impression on the temperature. The truth is that there is a moderate temperature on a good day. The peak season can see highs of as much as 80 degrees Fahrenheit, but this will drop at night to around 40 -50. May and September are a little cooler again.
Of course, it is impossible to plan for good weather in this state. One day could offer glorious sunshine and calm conditions, and another could see torrential rain. As long as you pack for each eventuality, you shouldn’t find yourself in too much trouble.
This is a different climate and terrain, with some interesting quirks.
This difference between the states is also clear in the landscape of this vast, sparsely populated state. It is a wonderland of vast tundras, plains, forests, mountains ready to explore by all those ready for a good hike, a long bus or bike ride or even a kayak.
Some may opt for an early visit when the snow and tundra ice are still visible for a summer trip with a difference. It is like trekking to an Arctic wildness without leaving the country. Alternatively, there are the later trips when the ice has gone, and there is a greater chance of exploring the coastal regions, mountains, and forests.
At this point, travelers should note that there is a slight cross over of the summer season and the northern lights season. The best chances to spot these incredible light display come between September and around April 20th.
The height of winter is the best time as this when they are most frequent and visible in the darker skies. Still, those that fancy a later summer trip might try their luck with the right guides in the right parts of Alaska. Research some of the best spots and travel guides for the best chance of seeing the auroras on native soil. Many find that the inland areas around Fairbanks are particularly good.
Getting Around Alaska In The Summer With Tours And Other Forms Of Transport
The height of the summer season brings plenty of opportunities to explore the landscape and sights via a range of modes of transportation. The most obvious are the guided tours or boat tours to sights of interest. Here tour guides can inform and help you spot wildlife and other delights. Helicopter tours, kayak rides, and ATV tours add a little more action and adventure.
Most tours are in operation in that peak season of around ten weeks in the height of summer. Those that wish to travel a little earlier or later will need to double check with any tour providers to make sure there are no alterations or days where tours aren’t available. Denali national park is a good example of this. Here operators limit tours to that peak period.
Summer is the best time to spot Alaska’s wildlife. Of course, many of these tours and trips help tourists spot the animals and the natural spectacles of the season. Summer is the time of year when Alaska comes to life with a range of creatures to see across the different landscape.
Tourists come to see many of the majestic creatures that thrive here in the summer thanks to the annual salmon spawn. The adults return to the rivers and lakes to breed, providing abundant food for many species. The fish themselves are quite a spectacle, but many tourists flock to Alaska for the bears.
Most tours are in operation in that peak season of around ten weeks in the height of summer. Those that wish to travel a little earlier or later will need to double check with any tour providers to make sure there are no alterations or days where tours aren’t available. Denali national park is a good example of this. Here operators limit tours to that peak period.
Summer is the best time to spot Alaska’s wildlife. Of course, many of these tours and trips help tourists spot the animals and the natural spectacles of the season. Summer is the time of year when Alaska comes to life with a range of creatures to see across the different landscape.
Tourists come to see many of the majestic creatures that thrive here in the summer thanks to the annual salmon spawn. The adults return to the rivers and lakes to breed, providing abundant food for many species. The fish themselves are quite a spectacle, but many tourists flock to Alaska for the bears.
Bear Watching In Alaska In The Summer
Bears are high on the wish list for many visitors to Alaska. This is one of the best places to see them in their natural habitat due to the landscape and numbers of animals. They roam Alaska in the summer, having emerged from their dens with their cubs, to teach the next generation and feast on the salmon.
Male brown bears gather at the rivers for impressive spectacles of cunning and strength. Families of black bears travel deeper in the forest and are more secretive. One option is an ATV trip with guides. Many recommending heading to the two bear viewing lodges by Silver Salmon Creek within Lake Clark National Park. It is a short flight away from Anchorage.
Male brown bears gather at the rivers for impressive spectacles of cunning and strength. Families of black bears travel deeper in the forest and are more secretive. One option is an ATV trip with guides. Many recommending heading to the two bear viewing lodges by Silver Salmon Creek within Lake Clark National Park. It is a short flight away from Anchorage.
Birdwatching In Alaska In The Summer
Summer is the best time for birdwatchers to visit and spot some of the impressive migratory species that visit the state. There are many geese, ducks and other water birds to tick off. Anchorage coastal wildlife refuge at Potter Marsh is a great, accessible place to look and a temporary home for trumpeter swans, red necked grebes, goldeneyes, pintails and much more. Then there are the bald eagles –
The nation’s symbol – found deeper into the forests and picking off salmon by the water.
The nation’s symbol – found deeper into the forests and picking off salmon by the water.
Whale Watching In Alaska In The Summer
For many, summer in Alaska offers the chance to come and see the whales gather to the feast of the spawning fish. Orcas and humpback whales are a major highlight here, as mother bring calves to favored spots and pods congregate to feed. There is also the chance to see sea otters, Dall’s porpoises, dolphins, sea lions, and sharks.
A great option for families and photographers is a boat trip out to Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park. This usually takes around 2.5 hours from Anchorage. It is a great way to see the wildlife and landscape without a long, exhausting expedition
A great option for families and photographers is a boat trip out to Resurrection Bay and Kenai Fjords National Park. This usually takes around 2.5 hours from Anchorage. It is a great way to see the wildlife and landscape without a long, exhausting expedition
Other Parks And Areas Of Interest For Wildlife Watching In Alaska In The Summer
Guided tours into the wild are exciting but are not guaranteed to offer sightings. Many guides warn that you may only glimpse a couple of bears for a short period.
An alternative for nature lovers is to head to the 200-acre Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center where you are sure to see more species at closer proximity. This Center is a refuge for a range of native creatures orphaned, injured or simply too sick to stay in the wild.
The site is home to everything from coyotes to bears, with plenty of Wood Bison and eagles too. This bison is part of a reintroduction project and a rare treat.
Anchorage’s Earthquake Park is another site of interest due to its history and landscape. Many come here to learn about the earthquake and have a family day out. Others will nature hike and look for wildlife. The scenic park is on the coast between Hood Creek and Point Woronzof.
Summer is also the best time to attend some great events.
Alaska offers festivals and events all year round. Many occur in winter, the snow and ice, but there are also plenty of summer events to enjoy to get to know the state a little better. There are great celebrations of culture and the new summer season in the heart of Alaska. Each major town also has an impressive 4th of July event.
The highlight has to be the Alaska State Fair in the Mat-Su Valley from the end of August through to early September. Alternatively, there is the Girdwood Forest Fair in the first weekend in July that celebrates Alaskan music, arts, and crafts deep within the trees.
An alternative for nature lovers is to head to the 200-acre Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center where you are sure to see more species at closer proximity. This Center is a refuge for a range of native creatures orphaned, injured or simply too sick to stay in the wild.
The site is home to everything from coyotes to bears, with plenty of Wood Bison and eagles too. This bison is part of a reintroduction project and a rare treat.
Anchorage’s Earthquake Park is another site of interest due to its history and landscape. Many come here to learn about the earthquake and have a family day out. Others will nature hike and look for wildlife. The scenic park is on the coast between Hood Creek and Point Woronzof.
Summer is also the best time to attend some great events.
Alaska offers festivals and events all year round. Many occur in winter, the snow and ice, but there are also plenty of summer events to enjoy to get to know the state a little better. There are great celebrations of culture and the new summer season in the heart of Alaska. Each major town also has an impressive 4th of July event.
The highlight has to be the Alaska State Fair in the Mat-Su Valley from the end of August through to early September. Alternatively, there is the Girdwood Forest Fair in the first weekend in July that celebrates Alaskan music, arts, and crafts deep within the trees.
Traveling To Alaska In The Summer And Finding A Place To Stay
The cost of staying in Alaska in the summer can vary depending on the month and location. It pays to spend some time researching the right hotels or campsite when it comes to finding the best accommodation.
Be aware that there is likely to be more choice in the peak period when all the establishments open their doors. However, there will be some better deals in what they call “shoulder season.” This is that period in May and September when summer is still in effect but the full season either is yet to begin or is starting to wind down.
Many hotels can reduce prices in this period to increase their flow of visitors across the year. In some cases, this may mean a reduction of as much as 25%
Once you have your hotel, you need to figure out how you are traveling to Alaska in the summer. The best way to this remote part of Northern America, regarding convenience, is to fly. There are plenty of direct flights from Anchorage, and you can easily arrange any further travel from there.
A cruise or ferry offers a slower, but more scenic route into the area. There is also the chance of a few whale sightings on the way in. The alternative is a long road trip, connecting up to the Alaska Highway.
Alaska is beautiful all year round, but it truly comes alive in summer.
As you can see, there is more to the Alaskan summer than just the sunshine. This is the season when the state comes to life – and in more ways than one. The rise in the temperature and the abundance of light brings everyone out of their state of hibernation. Cities and towns awake in full, ready to welcome new visitors to see the sights and celebration.
Animals and birds flock to the coasts, forests, and Tundra to take advantage of the opportunities on offer. A summer vacation in Alaska may not sound like an obvious choice at first, but there is so much to explore and see that it is sure to be a trip of a lifetime. Choose your dates wisely for the best deals, research the best tours for the creatures you want to see and open your mind to the potential of this remote state.
Be aware that there is likely to be more choice in the peak period when all the establishments open their doors. However, there will be some better deals in what they call “shoulder season.” This is that period in May and September when summer is still in effect but the full season either is yet to begin or is starting to wind down.
Many hotels can reduce prices in this period to increase their flow of visitors across the year. In some cases, this may mean a reduction of as much as 25%
Once you have your hotel, you need to figure out how you are traveling to Alaska in the summer. The best way to this remote part of Northern America, regarding convenience, is to fly. There are plenty of direct flights from Anchorage, and you can easily arrange any further travel from there.
A cruise or ferry offers a slower, but more scenic route into the area. There is also the chance of a few whale sightings on the way in. The alternative is a long road trip, connecting up to the Alaska Highway.
Alaska is beautiful all year round, but it truly comes alive in summer.
As you can see, there is more to the Alaskan summer than just the sunshine. This is the season when the state comes to life – and in more ways than one. The rise in the temperature and the abundance of light brings everyone out of their state of hibernation. Cities and towns awake in full, ready to welcome new visitors to see the sights and celebration.
Animals and birds flock to the coasts, forests, and Tundra to take advantage of the opportunities on offer. A summer vacation in Alaska may not sound like an obvious choice at first, but there is so much to explore and see that it is sure to be a trip of a lifetime. Choose your dates wisely for the best deals, research the best tours for the creatures you want to see and open your mind to the potential of this remote state.
RSS Feed