5 Bucket List-Worthy Things to Do in Alaska

Kayaking is a good way to start your adventure.
by Michi Dimaano | May 20, 2016

Famous tourist destinations are a staple in bucket lists, but there is something enticing about going on a holiday in a place that is not common in your news feed. Beautiful scenery coupled with a sparse population makes for a much needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Alaska is probably not the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip to the US. However, whether you’re a nature buff or not, the Great Land of America will make you appreciate the great outdoors. Here’s a list of things to do in Alaska for every thrill-seeker.

Hike

When you’re with a group, a hike up the mountains will fill you with adrenaline while enjoying quality time with other adventurers. Flattop Mountain, which offers a scenic view of Anchorage and the Chugach mountains, is the most visited peak in Alaska. Roundtrip shuttle services to the trail are offered here.

A photo posted by Dwayne Parton (@dwayneparton) on Sep 12, 2015 at 11:36am PDT

Kayak

Kayaking is a good way to start your adventure. A good jump off point would be Valdez, home to a mix of tidewater glaciers, rainforests, and mountains. For beginner paddlers, Aialik Bay in Kenai Fjords National Park is suggested. Three to five day packages are offered here.

A photo posted by State of Alaska tourism office (@travelalaska) on Apr 15, 2015 at 5:00pm PDT

Shop for native art                                                

If your kind of thrill is that of perusing store aisles, take on the adventure of shopping for native Alaskan art. It is also a delightful way to be immersed in Alaskan culture, since most of these products are made of materials that are locally gathered. On your next trip, stop by a craft shop or gift gallery like this one.

A photo posted by Cedar And Spruce Gallery (@cedarandspruceart) on Apr 16, 2016 at 5:27pm PDT

Encounter a bear

Bears are the apex predators of the Alaskan wild. Seeing these beasts is a rare and breathtaking experience. Don’t fret, you can observe how they live in the wild from the safety of bear-viewing lodges and parks such as these. It’ll be an experience that you’ll never forget.

A photo posted by Lyssa Danehy DeHart (@cre8tivehuman) on Feb 2, 2016 at 4:09pm PST

Whale-watching

One of the most captivating experiences is watching the whales that roam the Arctic.

Humpback whales are migratory. They usually swim around Alaska’s Inside Passage during the summer months. They’re well known for their beautiful songs and acrobatics.

A photo posted by Un-Cruise Adventures (@uncruise) on Apr 25, 2016 at 11:14am PDT

Narwhals are fascinating creatures that are sometimes referred to as the “unicorns of the ocean.” Their tusks are actually elongated canines that grow through their top lip. To say that they are breathtaking to behold is an understatement.

A photo posted by Paul Nicklen (@paulnicklen) on Feb 20, 2016 at 9:46pm PST

A 7-day cruise around Alaska will give you the chance to observe these giants in their habitat, along with seeing glaciers and other excursions. From Seattle, it will cost you around USD569-799 for an inside room.

Do you like the cold weather? Also read about Iceland in the Winter: A Worthy Adventure.