As cruise season winds down in Alaska most tourists have packed up and headed home for the winter. But the locals know that the fun is just getting started as winter in Alaska presents some of the best opportunities to discover everything that is increidble about the state.
From virtually unlimited snowsport opportunties, unique lodging, light shows that dance across the sky, and cold, snowy landscapes that capture the imagination there is so much to do in the great white north during the winter months.
If you’ve wanted to pay a visit to the largest state in the country but weren’t so excited about the crowds, mosquitoes, and potential to run into a hungry bear, then give winter a shot. You might just be surprised.
Here are ten reasons why Alaska is the ultimate winter destination.
Northern Lights
In recent months, we’ve been blessed with northern lights shows extending far into the continental United States. Usually, these dancing light shows in the skies above are only visible during the winter months in northern latitudes—like Alaska!
During the winter months, Alaska becomes a go-to spot for northern lights watchers. These shows can appear and disappear directly overhead at a moment’s notice and are so bright that they light up the ground around you.
Winter Sports Wonderland
If you’re willing to brave the cold and get outside and into the backcountry, Alaska offers some of the best snowsport opportunities you’ll find anywhere in the world. With dozens of mountain ranges, you can carve new lines all day long without seeing a single soul.
Ice Sculptures & Festivals
Fairbanks, Alaska, is home to an ice carving show unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Due to the cold temperatures, these carvings can last for weeks, and the artists put in the time to make them stand out!
Don’t miss the giant ice slide that will keep the kids busy until their toes go numb!
Wildlife Viewing
Just because winter has descended upon Alaska doesn’t mean that the animals all head into their burrows to sleep the season away. Around this winter landscape, you’ll still find plenty of Alaska’s coolest animals, like moose, wolves, foxes, hares, ptarmigan, and more! If you’re on the coast keep an eye out for orcas and sea otters!
Less Crowds
Popular tourist spots around Alaska can be downright unenjoyable during the busy summer months. But, come winter, the desolation is evident, and you can enjoy these same spots all to yourself. If you’ve never silently ice skated over a frozen lake in front of a glacier, then you haven’t truly experienced Alaska!
Dog Sledding
Riding on a dog sled is one of those quintessential Alaskan activities that you have to experience to appreciate. In years past, this was THE way to get across the state’s snowy landscapes. Today, you can experience this same thrill as you travel through stunted forests and along stunning mountain ranges under the power of a real-life dog sled team.
Hot Springs
If you’ve never soaked in an outdoor hot spring pool in negative 30-degree temperatures, you’re missing out on a wild experience. Your body will simultaneously be hot while your hair freezes solid on top of your head. And making the mad dash from the pool to the changing rooms will leave your lungs nearly frozen!
Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks is one of the most popular hot springs in the state but there are others scattered across the state that are also worth the trek.
Snowy Landscapes
When snow blankets the ground, the entire landscape takes on a softer, quieter feel. With proper preparation, there is no better way to spend an afternoon than silently walking along snowy trails and taking in the expansive views that this state has to offer.
Those who are unprepared may find themselves scampering back to the car with frozen toes after 15 minutes!
Unique Lodging
Long ago, when dog sleds were the primary form of winter transportation, a network of roadhouses were set up in Alaska’s backcountry to serve as rest stops for folks making multi-day treks across the state. While many of those places have fallen by the wayside as snowmobiles, or snowmachines as we call them in Alaska, have made these previously multiday journeys doable in a single day.
However, a few still remain and are open during the winter as unique lodging options. Be prepared to pay though as running a backcountry lodge during the winter in Alaska is not cheap!
Winter Photography
Winter in Alaska offers some of the most challenging yet fulfilling photography opportunities you’ll find anywhere in the world. From the northern lights to remote snowy landscapes, this environment will put your gear, especially your batteries, to the test, but the payoff will be worth it as you’ll come home with stunning images.
