As a resident of Alaska, I've had the immense pleasure of exploring the stunning landscapes of my home state through various trips and excursions. Whether it's venturing to remote locations, going on road trips across the mainland, or camping overnight in the heart of wilderness, many of these adventures have been as a solo, female traveler, and each journey has been uniquely rewarding.
With its vast expanse and pristine beauty, Alaska is an excellent destination for solo travelers. It offers solitude and friendliness, affordability, and a wealth of beautiful sights to fill your days and nights.
That said, traveling solo in Alaska isn't always straightforward – it can be incredibly expensive and remote, presenting significant challenges for solo adventurers. In this guide, I'll share the top solo traveler tips I've gathered over the years to help you plan a successful, enjoyable solo adventure in the Last Frontier.
Tip #1: Ensuring Safety on the Road
Safety is always at the forefront of any solo journey. This was no different when traveling in Alaska. A crucial step I always take is to inform someone about my plans. Whether I’m planning to explore remote glaciers or hike along Denali's captivating trails, letting someone know where I am going, and when I am expected to return, helps provide an extra layer of security. I also make it a point to regularly check-in with friends or family back home, keeping them updated on my whereabouts and accommodation plans.
Additionally, it helps to carry an emergency beacon device if you plan on hiking in a remote area. I carry a Garmin InReach (link contains affiliate link, but there's no extra cost to you) everywhere I go, and have emergency contacts preloaded so I can check in, even outside of cell range. It is also important to always carry bear spray. Not only is bear spray an essential item for hiking, but it also provides protection against other threats. Alaskan locals are incredibly friendly and helpful, but as a single person on the road, it never hurts to have extra protection.
Tip 2: How to Navigate the Vast Landscapes
One of the things that surprised me most about Alaska was how navigable it was. Since I typically travel during the off season, I typically rent a car (going through Turo to save money on costly rentals). The freedom to explore the open roads at my own pace, pausing whenever a stunning landscape captures my attention, is priceless. Alaskan highways are remarkably easy to navigate, with clear signage directing travelers to major towns and attractions. The risk of getting lost is minimal, given the few roads.
However, driving isn’t the only way to get around. The state-run ferry system, the Alaska Marine Highway, is a wonderful way to travel between the coastal towns, offering remarkable views of the state's pristine coastline and marine life.
The iconic Alaska Railroad is another great choice, especially for those who prefer to sit back and soak in the landscapes from the comfort of a cozy train cabin.
Tip 3: Dive into Solo Activities (that are fun and affordable!)
Alaska offers an impressive array of activities for solo travelers. My personal favorite is hiking. The state's extensive network of trails accommodates every fitness level. Some days, you might find yourself exploring serene forest trails, and on others, trekking up a mountain ridge to overlook glacial valleys. The AllTrail app has been immensely helpful in finding suitable trails, fitting within my timeframe and skill level. It also provides current information on bear sightings, trail conditions, and any hazards.
Another extraordinary experience is wildlife viewing in Alaska. Observing the majestic grizzly bears, awe-inspiring whales, or the graceful moose in their natural habitats feels like stepping into a National Geographic documentary. I recommend using iNaturalist to find current wildlife spots and log your sightings for future travelers.
Tip 4: Make New Friends and Memories on Guided Tours
While I usually prefer to steer clear of guided tours, the ones in Alaska cater to a unique spirit of adventure, making them an excellent choice for solo travelers looking to experience the Alaskan wilderness and form an incredible network of friends.
Some of my personal favorites include bear tours to Katmai National Park, where you can observe the majestic coastal brown bear and learn a few photography tricks, and guided kayaking through Kenai Fjords National Park. Multi-day tours to Gates of the Arctic National Park, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, and along the Yukon River are also worth considering. If you prefer less remote options, consider one of the many wildlife tours departing from Anchorage, where you'll spend a fun-filled day spotting bears, moose, and foxes.
Tip 5: Cut Costs By Staying in One Place Longer
Alaska, being a tourist hotspot, can be a bit heavy on the pocket, especially when you're traveling solo. But I discovered a simple hack to cut costs - staying longer in one place. By spending more time in one city or town, I not only saved money on transport but also managed to negotiate better rates for accommodations.
For example, I’ve stayed in numerous AirBnBs for 3 or more days at a time, often getting a hefty discount on the nightly price and saving on cleaning fees for other bookings. By staying longer in one location, you also get the chance to explore each place in depth, uncovering hidden gems and chatting with locals.
Tip 6: Don’t be Afraid to Chat with the Locals
Alaskans take great pride in their state, and they're always eager to share their love with you. As a solo traveler, you'll find chatting with locals to be one of the best resources. Local breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants are great places to meet residents and get advice on what to do and see in the area. Visiting the local outfitters shop can also yield information about hiking spots and fishing.
Whether you're photographing a bear in Hallo Bay, navigating the trails of Denali, or simply basking in the tranquility of the forest, the best solo activity in Alaska is the one that resonates with your spirit of adventure. Alaska truly offers something for every solo traveler, and the more you open your heart to this beautiful state, the more it will share with you on your journey.
Remember, whether you're photographing a bear in Hallo Bay, navigating the trails of Denali, or simply basking in the tranquility of the forest, the best solo activity in Alaska is the one that resonates with your spirit of adventure. Alaska truly offers something for every solo traveler, and the more you open your heart to this beautiful state, the more she will share with you along the way.
