5 Must-Visit National Parks in Alaska
Please note that because of Alaska’s extreme winter conditions, most people plan their national park visits in the spring, summer, and early fall. Please check weather conditions and the most up to date park information and make your travel and accommodation plans accordingly.
Denali National Park is the home of Mt. McKinley, which is just over 20,000 feet tall. Biking, camping, and ranger-lead hikes are popular activities. There are a variety of bus options for scenic tours as well. Denali is a popular destination for photography enthusiasts. The park hosts its own professional photography program.
Located 200 miles northwest of Fairbanks, Gates of the Arctic National Park is an ideal location for watching caribou and common loon. It is an excellent place to observe unchanged wilderness with valleys, river courses, mountains, and tundra that look almost exactly as they did when they were first discovered.
Glacier Bay National Park is a popular destination for many cruise ships and tour boats. If you do not arrive there by boat, it is highly recommended that you take a boat trip during your visit, as it is one of the best ways to view the park. Kayaking, mountaineering, backpacking, and camping are also great options at Glacier Bay.
Katmai National Park is most famous for its volcanoes. It is also known for its remote wilderness, abundance of fish, and rugged coastline. There are many opportunities to explore the wilderness both by boat and on foot. Backpacking, canoeing, and kayaking are also popular activities there.
Kenai Fjords National Park was formed by glaciers, ocean storms, and earthquakes. It is home to bears, ice worms, and whales. You can experience the wilderness first hand at Exit Glacier or on a boat tour or kayak excursion. One popular hiking destination is to the top of Harding Icefield Trail.