An air of mystery encompasses Alaska; for many, it truly is a land undiscovered. As a travel destination, it can bring to mind visions of demanding wilderness, treacherously deep snow and plummeting temperatures – an adventure not to be taken lightly. However, this image and reputation should not deter you. There is much to see across the state: things that you’d expect — glaciers and stunning vistas — and things you might not — surfing. Undoubtedly, Alaska is a place for explorers, but you don’t have to rough it. You can have an A-List Alaskan Adventure.
Reach Alaska’s far-flung lands in style
Due to its expansiveness, Alaska can be problematic to cover with independent travel. As such, many travelers choose to join an organized tour, thus taking the headache out of trip logistics.
If you want to get up close to Alaska’s most famous spectacle — glaciers — then a luxury Alaska Cruise will give that to you. Viewing the stunning scenery from the water (and the comfort of your cabin suite), you’ll have remarkable panoramas of the mountain ranges, forests, and skies. Ensure you have a pair of binoculars at your side, as you’ll have a fantastic chance of spotting wildlife too — whales frequent Alaska’s waters, while endangered eagles fly up ahead.
Enjoy a first-class light show
When the sun sets, Alaska’s skies come to life. The beautiful Aurora Borealis (or The Northern Lights) can be seen across Alaska; causing pink, green, blue and violet colors to illuminate the night sky.
As a natural phenomenon, sightings of The Northern Lights are never guaranteed.
To optimize your chances, visit Fairbanks where the sensational marvel occurs an average of 243 days a year. Whilst you’re there, take a ride on the McKinley Explorer train and immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. If you’re staying on the coast — or out at sea — the open horizon in front of you also places you in a perfect position for viewing Aurora Borealis.
The most exclusive adventure sport: surfing in Alaska
‘Exclusive’ is certainly one way to describe the USA’s largest, and yet most sparsely populated, state. Even if you traveled the world, you’d struggle to find a more exclusive surf spot than Alaska; you may even find a location so remote, that you’d be the first person to catch a wave there. Recommended for experienced surfers only — and only with the guidance of a local, or other experienced surfer who knows Alaska’s waves — you’d have a once-in-a-lifetime experience and an envy-inducing story to tell friends back at home. Make sure you’ve packed appropriately and are up for the adventure — the water will not be warm.
In whichever way you choose to plan your A-List Alaskan adventure, it’s unlikely you’ll be left feeling disappointed – it’s a beautiful place to visit. Whether you visit in winter — to experience Alaska at its coldest – or in the summer, when the landscapes are lush and green, the USA’s largest state has much to offer.
