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Alaska is a great, solemn poem, set to music by volcanoes and glaciers, with an accompaniment of forests and aurora borealis.

Victor Hugo

Want to take a walk on the wild side for your next adventure? It’s time to venture north — way north — to the Last Frontier.

Beyond being a bucket list item for many travelers, Alaska has a way of putting life in perspective. Maybe it’s the wide-open spaces, the quiet that settles over a glacier, or the fact that you might spot a bad eagle before breakfast. It’s the kind of place that feels far from everyday life, but isn’t hard to reach as you think.

Whether you’re traveling with family, marking a milestone trip or chasing a thrill, Alaska works around your style. Here’s our Insider’s Guide to Alaska, plus our best tips on where to stay, what to try and why it’s a trip worth planning ahead.


Know Before You Go

Every trip takes a little planning to make the most of it (and avoid pitfalls), and Alaska is no different. Whether you’re cruising, hiking or heading off-grid to a remote lodge, a little prep goes a long way. And this Insider’s Guide to Alaska tells you how.

Wildlife is one of the biggest draws here, but it’s a look-don’t-touch situation. Stay on marked trails, keep your distance, and never feed animals no matter how friendly they seem. Eco-conscious lifestyles are the norm here, so remember to leave no trace.

Some areas are remote, and that’s part of the appeal. But it’s also why travel insurance is highly recommended. Regional flights may be on small planes with limited service, so build in a little flexibility.

Out on the trails, it’s smart to carry water, snacks and a basic first-aid kit. If you’re in bear country (and often you are), carry bear spray and know how to use it.

A Few More Planning Tips:

→ Popular tours, lodges and cruises book up fast, often a year or more in advance.

→ If your trip starts or ends in Vancouver or Seattle, make sure your passport is up-to-date.

→ Going fishing? Get your license online ahead of time; it’s cheaper and easier to do so.

What to Eat: Alaska’s food scene leans into what’s fresh, local and wild. You’ll find just-caught seafood, hearty game meats and foraged ingredients that tell the story of the landscape.

Alaskan king crab legs are a must. Sweet and rich, this local delicacy is usually served simply with butter and/or lemon. Halibut cheeks are another local favorite, often pan-seared and paired with seasonal vegetables. And don’t pass up the chance to try smoked salmon. It shows up on everything from appetizers to breakfast boards, typically served with sourdough or crackers. For more adventurous eaters, why not try reindeer sausage?

What to Wear: As you can imagine, Alaska is the place to flaunt flannel over high fashion in most situations. Bring versatile layers, waterproof gear and comfortable shoes. The weather can shift quickly, and conditions change depending upon where you are. If you’re heading out in towns like Fairbanks or Anchorage, jeans, sweaters and comfortable boots will fit right in.


Where to Stay in Alaska

Stillpoint Lodge | Halibut Cove

It’s not all log cabins in Alaska! Alaska may be wild, but that doesn’t mean you have to rough it (at least not entirely). From wilderness immersions to central city stays to luxury lodges, there is truly something for everyone. Here are a few of our favorites.

Stillpoint Lodge: A peaceful eco-lodge across the bay from Homer, in Halibut Cove. Here it’s all about quiet luxury and nature. Think cozy cabins, chef-prepared meals, and on-site wellness with yoga and massage. What makes staying at Stillpoint even better are the adventure experiences they offer: helicopter adventures, wildlife photo-safari cruise, saltwater fishing and much more. Book with me for a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Tutka Bay Lodge — Within the Wild (Kachemak Bay): This off-the-grid gem offers an intimate experience on the edge of the water. You’ll have just a handful of other guests, access to wild landscapes, and the chance to forage, fish or go bear viewing. Book with me for a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Alyeska Resort (Girdwood): Here you can fully relax with a stay in a full-service resort in a mountain town just an hour from Anchorage. There’s glacier hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter, a saltwater pool, and mountaintop dining year-round. A solid pick for travelers who want it all in one place!

Sheldon Chalet (Denali National Park: If you want remote and exclusive, this is it. Perched on a glacier deep in Denali‘s backcountry, it’s one of Alaska’s most extraordinary stays. It has only five rooms, private guides to show you around, and unforgettable glacier treks. Oh, and did we mention you’ll arrive by helicopter?!

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge (Talkeetna): Just outside of town with killer views of Denali and the Alaska Range, this lodge has a log-cabin-meets-boutique-hotel feel. Stone fireplaces, cozy dining and viewing decks make it a great place to slow down.


Exploring Alaska by Cruise

Not ready for a full-on expedition on foot? An Alaskan cruise may be your best route? It’s an easy — and comfortable — way to see a lot of this cast state while taking in the dramatic coastline, glacier-packed fjords, and even exploring inland if desired. An added benefit? You’ll only have to unpack once!

That said, cruises are just for more casual travelers. Cruises give you the ability to see Alaska from a perspective you simply can’t get on land. They also work especially well for families, couples or groups who want to balance adventure with convenience.

Most cruises sail from Seattle or Vancouver, so you can add a cit stop at either end of your trip. Some itineraries are cruise-only, while others are part of a land-and-sea combo that includes time onshowe in places like Fairbanks or Talkeetna.

Here are a few options we love.

Holland America Line: Great for travelers who want a laid-back, scenic experience. Their Land+Sea journeys combine a coastal cruise with inland stays. Onboard, you’ll find Glacier Bay access, comfortable ships and talks from local experts. Book with me for up to $100 onboard credit, complimentary Music of Denali dinner theatre if doing a land tour.

Princess Cruises: A classic cruising experience with flexible itineraries that combine cruising with land tours near Denali. It’s well-suited to first timers, families and any who wants great service with lots of options. Book with me for up to $100 onboard credit.

Royal Caribbean: For a big ship experience with high-energy extras (like sky-high lounges and glacier views from observation pods), Royal Caribbean is always a good choice. It’s also a good match for families or groups looking for more amenities and activities. Book with me for complimentary specialty dining for 2 and spa treatment for 1.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Want a trip that’s casual, flexible and fun? With freestyle dining, entertainment and a relaxed vibe, it’s an easy way to see Alaska’s wild beauty without too much structure.

National Geographic x Lindblad: These small ship expeditions focus on wildlife, photography and learning. These cruises are immersive and personal, making them a great fit for curious travelers. Book with me for cup to $200 onboard credit.

HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions): For something more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path, these small ships take you into Alaska’s hidden gems. You’ll also learn from naturalist guides and enjoy guided hikes. Book with me for cup to $100 onboard credit.

Silversea | Regent Seven Seas | Viking: For a m=quieter, more luxurious experience, these cruise lines are the gold standard. They offer all-suite rooms, high-end dining and a more intimate feel with shore excursions included.


Step Into Alaska’s History & Culture

Insider's Guide to Alaska

Alaska is known for its landscapes, but there is so much more below the breathtaking surface. Long before it became a U.S. state, this region was, and still is, home to Indigenous communities with deep roots in the land. The Tlingit and Haida, Inupiat, Yup’ik and many others have traditions that are still woven into daily life — from art and dance to hunting and storytelling.

You’ll also find strong traces of the Gold Rush era, especially in places like Skagway, where the frontier feel lingers in saloons, wooden boardwalks and preserved buildings. These old mining towns offer a window into the tough, gritty life of early settlers and fortune seekers.

Insider's Guide to Alaska

Cultural sites like Totem Bight State Park in Ketchikan and the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage invite you in to connect with local history. Whether you’re watching a Native dance performance, learning about traditional carving, or walking through a historic town, the human side of Alaska adds a whole new layer to your trip.


Seasonal Events & Local Traditions

Insider's Guide to Alaska

Alaska may be remote, though it knows how to celebrate. From quirky festivals to cultural traditions, there’s something going on to celebrate the season any time of the year.

World Ice Art Championships | Fairbanks (late February to March): Some of the best ice sculptors in the world gather to turn massive blocks of ice into glowing works of art. Go at night to see them lit up.

Midnight Sun Festival | Fairbanks (weekend closest to June 21): With 20+ hours of daylight, this solstice celebration is packed with food, music, and late-night fun. It’s one big street party under the never-setting sun.

Golden Days Festival | Fairbanks (July): A nod to the Gold Rush days, this family-friendly event brings out parades, period costumes and gold panning competitions.

Blueberry Festival | Ketchikan (August): Live music, pie-eating contests, and a whole lot of handmade blueberry treats. 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of this small town summer highlight!

National Park Ranger Programs (Summer): From wildlife talks in Denali to guided hikes in Kenai Fjords, ranger-led programs are a great way to dig deeper into Alaska’s natural and cultural history.


Alaska Activities & Excursions

Insider's Guide to Alaska

Heli-Glacier Trekking

Alaska is full of choose-your-own-adventure moments. Some days are for high energy thrills, others for slowing down and taking it all in. Here are a few ways to experience all the 49th state has to offer.

Heli-glacier trekking: Fly over mountains and land on a glacier for a guided hike through the ice. It’s part scenic flight, part bucket-list experience.

Kayaking or packrafting: Paddle through peaceful fjords and glacier lakes in places like Prince William Sound or the Kenai Peninsula. This is a great way to spot sea otters, seals and icebergs up close.

Flightseeing: Soar over Denali or the Wrangell Mountains for jaw-dropping views you can’t get any other way. It’s a perfect adventure if you’re short on time but crave the big views.

Hiking: Whether it’s tundra trails in Hatcher Pass or coastal walks near Seward, guided hikes are a great way to learn the land and spot wildlife along the way.

Wild Foraging: In summer, head into the forest with a guide to find wild berries, mushrooms and edible plants. It’s a delicious way to connect with the land.

Northern Lights Watching: From late fall to early spring, head outside the city and cross your fingers. Fairbanks is one of the best sports for aurora views — especially on a clear, cold night.

Photography Tours: Join a guided excursion to capture wildlife, rugged landscapes or, if you’re lucky, the aurora borealis.

Tidepooling and Beachcombing: Alaska’s coastlines are full of surprises. Kachemak Bay and Resurrection Bay are great places to spot marine life and unique shells.

Anchorage Museum: This museum is a modern, engaging mix of art, science and history that gives you a fresh look at Alaska’s past and present.


If Not Alaska . . .

Insider's Guide to Alaska

Alesund, Norway

Love the idea of Alaska but thinking about something different? These destinations offer their own brand of wild beauty, dramatic landscapes and immersive adventure.

Norway feels like a storybook brought to life. You’ll experience steep fjords, colorful fishing villages and quiet landscapes that stretch for miles. You can also chase the Northern Lights here above the Arctic Circle or take a scenic train through the mountains. There’s a rich culture rhythm here too, from Viking heritage to minimalist Scandinavian design.

Banff is set within one of the most stunning national parks in the world. Think snow-dusted peaks, neon-blue lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and plenty of trails for hiking, biking or skiing. Despite its wild surroundings, Banff has an inviting town center with cozy restaurants, cafes and hot springs. It’s perfect for travelers who want the outdoors at their doorstep without going fully off-grid.

Black sand beaches, bubbling geothermal pools, and waterfalls tumbling down mossy cliffs . . . Iceland offers a getaway that feels a little surreal. It’s compact enough to conquer over a weeklong road trip, but dramatic enough to feel like you’re on another planet. You can soak in a hot spring beneath the midnight sun or trek across a glacier before dinner. Like Alaska, it is much more approachable in summer but offers an incredible winter experience.

For another trip designed around breathtaking landscapers, consider Patagonia. Towering granite spires, endless pampas, and blue-hued glaciers form the backdrop for some of the world’s most unforgettable hikes. But it’s not all extreme! You’ll also find estancias (ranches) with roaring fireplaces and warm hospitality.


Hit the Trail or Set Sail to Alaska

Alaska isn’t the kind of trip you throw together at the last minute. And that’s part of what makes it such a special destination. Whether you want to cruise past glaciers, stay at a remote lodge, or experience it all from land and sea, planning ahead means you get to experience the Last Frontier exactly how you want.

Planning an excursion like this isn’t as straight-forward as some other destinations. I’m here to take care of the planning and help you make the most of every moment, from adventure-packed days to cozy downtime. Reach out today to start planning your Alaskan adventure (or talk through other wild destinations that might be calling your name).


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