Craving for an adventure without the touristy crowds? Then you'll want to keep reading about these 8 incredible Alaska wilderness experiences most haven't discovered yet.
Come face-to-face with nature's raw beauty and encounter Alaska's legendary wildlife in their natural habitat. Read on to learn more about the Last Frontier's wild side.
1. Fly Fishing in Remote Alaskan Rivers
Alaska’s remote rivers offer some of the best fly fishing experiences for salmon and trout. Accessing these pristine waters often requires a bush plane, so consult with local outfitters for trip planning and permits.
The video below shows what a bush plane transport looks like as it flies over the Kenai Peninsula:
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) provides regulations, fish run timings, and licensing information to ensure a successful and responsible fishing adventure.
For more of the best fishing spots around Alaska, check out these areas: Top 5 Spots for Fishing in Alaska
2. Bear Watching at Lake Clark National Park
Lake Clark National Park is a hidden gem for bear-watching, offering a more secluded experience compared to its counterparts.
The park's official site (NPS) provides essential bear viewing tips and guidelines to ensure your safety and wildlife protection.
Optimal viewing times are from late spring through early fall. You're encouraged to use reputable tour operators for guided experiences, ensuring a safe and respectful distance from the bears.
3. Kayaking Among Icebergs in Prince William Sound
Kayaking in Prince William Sound offers an intimate encounter with Alaska’s magnificent icebergs and glaciers. For safety and navigation tips, visit the Chugach National Forest's official page (USDA Forest Service).
The sound's calm waters suit both beginners and experienced kayakers, but always check weather conditions and consider hiring a local guide for the best routes and hidden gems.
4. Joining a Northern Lights Photography Tour in the Brooks Range
Capture the aurora borealis against the backdrop of the Brooks Range, one of the best spots for Northern Lights photography due to its latitude and dark skies.
Planning your visit between late August and early April increases your chances of witnessing this natural spectacle.
If photography tours are your thing, the Alaska Travel Industry Association recommends a handful of them. You can check them out here.
5. Hiking the Kesugi Ridge Trail in Denali State Park
The Kesugi Ridge Trail presents an awe-inspiring, yet quite difficult, trek with views of Denali, North America’s highest peak. Before setting out, check the Alaska State Parks website (Alaska DNR) for trail conditions and registration requirements.
This trail demands good physical condition and proper gear, as weather can change rapidly. Consider hiking in late summer for optimal conditions and fewer mosquitoes.
6. Exploring the Wrangell-St. Elias Backcountry
Embark on a backcountry adventure in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the U.S.
With activities ranging from glacier hiking to visiting historic mining sites, there’s an adventure for every type of explorer.
Just make sure to properly equip yourself for varying conditions: bring high-calorie food, bug spray, a tent, trekking poles, layers for 20-75°F temps, and bear spray (check regulations for transport). Pack extra food in case of weather delays.
Check out the park’s official website for more planning and safety tips.
7. Packrafting in Gates of the Arctic National Park
Experience the thrill of pack rafting through the Gates of the Arctic National Park, an unparalleled adventure in one of the most remote corners of the United States. Before embarking on this journey, ensure you’re prepared for the wilderness.
The National Park Service advises bringing bear-resistant food containers and recommends thorough preparation for self-rescue in this roadless area.
Packrafting here means navigating wild rivers with potentially challenging conditions, so experience in both backpacking and rafting is essential.
For a more thorough guide on safely getting to and around Arctic National Park, check out our guide: “Off the Beaten Path” Gates of The Arctic National Park, Alaska
8. Wilderness Skiing in the Chugach Mountains
The Chugach Mountains offer unparalleled backcountry skiing and snowboarding for the ultimate winter adventure. Heli-skiing options allow access to untouched slopes, but ensure you’re prepared with avalanche safety knowledge and equipment.
The Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center (CNFAIC) is a critical resource for current conditions and safety advisories.
Don't Miss Out on Alaska's Best-Kept Secrets
These Alaska adventures are just scratching the surface of the incredible experiences waiting for you in the Last Frontier. The wilderness is filled with surprises if you're willing to go off the beaten path.
So what're you waiting for?
Alaska's rugged beauty is truly something special - don't let these under-the-radar gems stay a secret any longer.