Summer in Alaska offers breathtaking adventures, where coastal wonders, inland wilderness, and Indigenous vibrancy converge to create unparalleled experiences. Along the rugged coastline, from the Kenai Fjords to Glacier Bay, marine wildlife and historic towns entice visitors with whale watching, kayaking, and maritime heritage. In Alaska’s Interior, towering peaks and vast wilderness become the backdrop for hiking, fly fishing, and rafting expeditions. Anchoring Alaskan communities are the vibrant expressions of Alaska Native cultures, celebrated in arts, traditions, festivals, cultural centers and sites, and subsistence lifestyles. Nestled between towering mountains and icy fjords, the diverse regions of the United State’s northernmost state come alive during the endless days of summer, offering a variety of experiences that ignite the spirit of exploration.
This story was created in partnership with Travel Alaska.
Coastal Explorations
Alaska’s coasts, bays, and fjords come alive during the summer, offering a plethora of outdoor adventures and cultural explorations. In the historic town of Sitka, sea kayaking reveals hidden coves and wildlife encounters, while the Sitka National Historical Park immerses visitors in the rich heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian cultures. Seward captivates with Kenai Fjords National Park cruises, showcasing awe-inspiring tidewater glaciers and abundant marine life. Fishing excursions in Resurrection Bay and hiking to Exit Glacier provide thrilling activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nestled along Alaska’s shoreline are many islands to explore, including Kodiak Island, the second largest in the US, next to the island of Hawaii. Accessible by ferry or plane, this rugged isle boasts diverse landscapes, from mountainous terrains to lush forests, creating a perfect backdrop for hiking trails and wildlife spotting. Kodiak offers world-class fishing experiences, where salmon and halibut are abundant in its pristine waters. The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge provides a sanctuary for Kodiak brown bears to roam freely and over 250 bird species to migrate to and reside in.
Venturing into Prince William Sound unveils a pristine wilderness where you can join glacier cruises to witness calving icebergs, navigate fjords by sea kayak, and see wildlife such as otters, seals, orcas, and puffins. Glacier Bay’s cruises and kayaking adventures offer a close-up look at the park’s icy wonders, complemented by hikes through lush rainforests. In summer, Alaska’s coastal havens promise an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural insights for anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Interior Expeditions
Embark on a summer expedition into the heart of Alaska’s Interior, where the National Parks of Denali and Wrangell-St. Elias offer the opportunity to explore landscapes unlike any other.
The city of Fairbanks provides a gateway to the Alaskan Interior, where the eternal sun paints the skies in hues of pink and gold, providing a stunning backdrop for a range of adventures. Summer in Fairbanks embodies its title as the Land of the Midnight Sun, with daylight spanning 24 hours during the Summer Solstice in June. The Chena River sets the stage for kayaking and riverboat tours, complemented by cultural exploration at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. Fairbanks’ hiking trails, like Angel Rocks and Wickersham Dome, roam diverse landscapes for those looking to explore the boreal forest and enjoy the tranquility of summer in Alaska.
Venture to Denali National Park for hikes through the tundra against the backdrop of North America’s tallest peak, Denali. Denali’s Nenana River beckons anglers to its gravel bars for a chance to reel in salmon and rainbow trout, while the wild rivers of Wrangell-St. Elias, including the Kennicott and Nizina, provide thrilling playgrounds for those seeking the adrenaline rush of rafting amid the rugged wilderness.
Wrangell-St. Elias, the largest national park in the United States, greets visitors with expansive valleys and glaciers, encapsulated by the meeting of the Wrangell and St. Elias mountain ranges. If you’re looking to get an even better view of these stunning landscapes, embark on a flight-seeing tour. Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife, including caribou, Dall sheep, bald eagles, and grizzly bears, however you choose to traverse the open tundra, river valleys, and weathered mountain trails.
Photo Credit – Ben Prescott
Cultural Experiences
Alaska’s vibrant Indigenous culture takes center stage during the summer, offering a tapestry of traditions and festivals that showcase the resilience and richness of the state’s Alaska Native communities. In Juneau, the Sealaska Heritage Institute serves as a cultural hub, preserving the heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, Eyak, and Tsimshian peoples. Anchorage is home to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, another opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the art and language of Alaska Native roots through exhibits, workshops, and performances.
Fairbanks hosts the annual Festival of Native Arts, a dynamic celebration bringing together diverse Indigenous communities, including the Athabaskan, Yup’ik, Inupiat, and Unangax and Sugpiaq, for traditional dance, music, and arts. This festival not only highlights the talents of Alaska Native artists but also provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and understanding. In Ketchikan, the Saxman Native Village stands as a living testament to the Tlingit people’s cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional totem pole carvings, dance performances, and interactive exhibits.
During the summer, Alaska Native traditions come alive with ceremonies like potlatches, fostering community unity through storytelling, songs, and dances. The season’s long days create space for cultural gatherings, where elders impart ancestral knowledge and traditional skills are passed down to younger generations. Fish camps and outdoor activities become vital expressions of cultural continuity as Indigenous communities engage in practices that honor their heritage and sustain essential resources. Summer in Alaska embodies a celebration of Indigenous cultures, inviting all to participate in the timeless rituals that define the spirit of the Great Land.
Photo Credit – Wáats’asdiyei Joe Yates
