Activities

Encompassing nearly 600,000 square miles, the Last Frontier offers plenty to see and do. Whether you want to fish, hike or fly above jagged mountain ranges, there's endless opportunity for adventure.

Flightseeing excursions are popular, unique and thrilling for visitors and Alaskans alike, with outings ranging from a few hours to a full day or longer.

Sportfishing is a year-round activity in Anchorage and Alaska, but the action surges in summer.

Home to the most glaciers in the United States, Alaska offers incredible glacier experiences for people of all ages and abilities.

By kayak, raft, paddleboard or glacier cruise, a view from the water is tough to beat.

Anchorage

What to see and do in the state's largest city, a home base for your Alaska adventures.

Anchorage’s downtown has many enjoyable experiences to offer, and it’s conveniently compact and centralized for visitors to explore on foot.

Here are just a few hikes, with varying degrees of length and difficulty, that epitomize the beauty and majesty of Alaska, all within a 30-minute drive of downtown.

Museums and galleries across town showcase perspectives, experiences and treasures that offer insight into Alaska’s past, its contemporary landscape and the world beyond.

Take your dose of caffeine simple and black, or whipped up into a sweet, elaborate treat — there’s room for everyone in Anchorage’s coffee culture.

From the tiniest towns to urban hubs, you can enjoy some seriously good local beers, meads and ciders.

Within town limits, Anchorage’s impressive trail system meanders along the city’s coastline, threads through thick forests and connects pretty parks and a multitude of neighborhoods.

National parks

When bigger is better: Catch a glimpse of North America’s tallest mountain, Denali, or explore the country’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias.

Denali has options for every type of visitor, whether you’re an avid backpacker looking to forge new trails or a relaxed traveler content to watch for animals on a tour.

For true adventure seekers and wilderness lovers, Wrangell-St. Elias is a place rife with opportunities to play and see the wilderness in all its glory.

Destinations

There’s more to Alaska than just Anchorage. Hit the road (or catch a plane) and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

With more miles of trails than road, this waterfront community is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Chase endless summer days or wintry auroras — this Interior Alaska city has it all.

What to know about traveling across “Alaska’s playground,” including Hope, Seward, Soldotna, Kenai and Homer.

Experience gold rush history, emerald forests and cozy art galleries — just don’t forget your raincoat.

Enjoy one of the most picturesque stretches of highway in the U.S., with plenty of cute towns, great food and activities along the way.

Drive less than an hour north of Anchorage and the landscape changes dramatically.

This charming town in Prince William Sound is an ideal jumping-off point for your next adventure.

Know before you go

Curious about what to do in a bear encounter, or best practices on hiking trails? Here's what you need to know.

While some hikes demand special equipment, like crampons for a glacier trek or a tent for overnight ventures, there are other items you need every time.

Here’s an overview of a few of the state’s most famous animals and tips on where to scope them out.

Here are some tips, whether you’re an old hand or just looking to sample some unique local fare.