Is it worth visiting Alaska in the winter?

Is it worth visiting Alaska in the winter?

Alaska is a paradise for all things winter recreation including downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, fat tire biking, and snowmobiling. In many places in Alaska, winter also means great rates on everything from hotels to rental cars and tours.

Can you go to Alaska in winter?

By road or by air, visiting Alaska in winter is a snap. Flights arrive in Anchorage from U.S. cities across the country. Winter comes naturally here; Anchorage’s airport rarely closes for snow. You might even catch a glimpse of the northern lights on the ride up.

Is it worth going to Alaska in December?

However, visiting Alaska in winter can be one of the most rewarding trips you will ever take. Easily comparable to Finland or Norway, Alaska offers Northern Lights tours, snowy landscapes, world-class skiing, and your favorite winter activities.

Is it good to visit Alaska in January?

You could stay at the Best Western for your whole trip, but it is not a great place for viewing the Northern Lights. Too much light pollution and the surrounding trees block the horizon.

Is it safe to drive to Alaska in winter?

Travel is strongly discouraged for your safety. Please abide by these warnings as roads are impassable due to extreme weather conditions and may be life threatening. Emergency services and travel assistance are not available. These warnings are noted under Urgent Reports on the 511.Alaska.gov.

Is it safe to drive to Alaska in the winter?

Use the Alaska Highway, not Highway 37. It is the highway of choice in the winter, and offers more services and safety as a result. Prepare your vehicle well – tune-up, oil change and a full safety check. Ensure that you have winter or all-season radial tires that are in excellent condition.

Can you see the Northern Lights in December in Alaska?

While there are no guarantees that the northern lights show will happen on any particular night, Northern Lights trips are typically best made in late fall and winter/early spring, though they can be seen throughout the winter months on nights with clear skies.

How many days do you need in Alaska?

The sweet spot for an Alaska vacation is seven to 10 days. If you’re traveling on a land tour only, in seven days you can go all the way from Kenai Fjords National Park to Denali National Park with plenty of time for day-long guided excursions along the way.

Do and don’ts in Alaska?

Never keep food in a tent overnight (not even toothpaste or bug spray), and don’t camp along animal paths, especially near a lake or river. Bears use these trails. Do try the local berries, but avoid the poisonous baneberry—it looks like a red black-eyed pea when ripe.

Do I need bear spray in Alaska?

It can actually be an attractant so it’s best to get out of there and let others on the trail know. Getting a direct spray on the bear is also important. I talked to Alaska Wildlife Trooper Kyle Ferguson. As part of law enforcement training, he had to get pepper sprayed.

Do you need snow chains in Alaska?

Prepare your vehicle for the winter season Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.

What should I keep in my car in Alaska?

Include high-protein, non-perishable snacks such as nuts, trail mix, or energy bars. When traveling in Alaska, three to five days’ worth of food and water is advisable. Blankets: Wool blankets are a good option for staying warm. Pack at least one blanket per person in the vehicle.

How many hours of daylight does Alaska get in December?

Juneau: Alaska’s capital city sees about six hours and 22 minutes of sunlight on December 21. This is actually one of the higher amounts of time in the state. The sun rises shortly before 9 a.m. and sets several hours later at 3:07 p.m….Business Hours.

Do you need a passport to go to Alaska?

Do I need a passport to go to Alaska? United States residents do not need a passport to go to Alaska, but soon they will need a REAL ID. Beginning May 3, 2023, U.S. citizens aged 18 and up traveling by air within the United States will need REAL ID-compliant identification to go through airport security checkpoints.

What should I avoid in Alaska?

20 Things Everyone In Alaska Should Avoid At All Costs

• Farmed seafood. Flickr/fs999.
• Or buying fish in general.
• Even feeding your dogs farmed fish.
• Eating hot dogs.
• Camping without a view.
• Snacking on chips from the lower 48.
• Shopping at big corporate box stores.
• Drinking wine that isn’t from Alaska.

What to do if a brown bear approaches you?

Remain still; stand your ground but slowly wave your arms. Help the bear recognize you as a human. It may come closer or stand on its hind legs to get a better look or smell. A standing bear is usually curious, not threatening.