Guide

The Kodiak Archipelago has drawn visitors from all over the world who are eager to explore the wilderness and vast beauty of the island. I’ve been lucky to call this place home for several years, and experience the magic of living in one of the wildest places on Earth.

While our beautiful corner of Alaska has much to offer, there are some essential tidbits I wish every visitor knew before arriving. Here are 10 insider tips to make your Kodiak trip unforgettable.

Arguably the top fear among anyone hiking in Alaska is what to do if they encounter a bear.

A recent encounter in Canada's Banff National Park is a chilling reminder of the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the need for awareness and preparedness in bear country. The encounter was captured on video and shared widely, sparking a necessary conversation about safety in bear habitats.

Nestled amidst the Chugach Mountains and the head of Prince William Sound, Valdez is often referred to as the "Switzerland of Alaska" due to its stunning mountainous backdrop. In September 2023, I had the immense pleasure to explore this lovely gem of an Alaskan town during a multi-day road trip with my family.

One of the best road trips in Alaska is the route from Anchorage to Valdez. This drive is like diving head-first into a natural wonderland, full of endless views and amazing wildlife. In September 2023, I had the pleasure of taking this drive with my family. I’ve heard amazing things about Valdez, and almost every Alaskan local has told me that the best way to experience Valdez is by driving there.

Alaska's pristine waters offer a bounty of some of the finest salmon known to the culinary world. Living in Kodiak, I’ve had the opportunity to test out a variety of recipes with our locally-caught salmon, and I’ve compiled some of my top favorites I tested over the years. 

The best part about preparing wild Alaskan salmon is the diverse flavors available to try, and these recipes will get you started on some of the best ways to prepare your daily catch. 

Fly fishing is one of Alaska’s favorite pastimes. Throughout the summer, the rivers become full of anglers casting their lines across pristine water as salmon surge upstream. While a little more difficult to learn, fly fishing can be incredibly rewarding, as it allows you more precision and control over your casting and fly – something that is incredibly important when targeting difficult species, such as coho and sockeye salmon.

Alaska is an angler's dream. With rivers teeming with salmon, the Last Frontier is the perfect destination for anglers looking to land their first pacific salmon. But like any fish, there are certain tips and tricks that will make your fishing experience much more enjoyable. 

One of my favorite animals to view in the wild are bears. Since I was a kid, I loved touring the national parks across the United States for a chance to see a black bear or grizzly in the wild. A few years ago, I moved to Kodiak Island, known as the “Island of Bears”, where I get the immense pleasure of seeing brown bears in the wild all summer.

Eagle River is a destination where history, adventure, and scenic vistas converge. Located just a short drive or bike ride from Anchorage, Eagle River promises an unforgettable day trip teeming with activities for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Welcome to Eagle River

Eagle River has a rich historical backdrop, initially home to the Dena'ina Athabascan people and later explored by Russian expeditions.

Embarking on a day trip from Anchorage to Portage Valley and Whittier grants you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Alaska's natural beauty and rich history. Both Whittier and Portage Valley are excellent day-trip destinations on their own, but combined, they make the ultimate day adventure. The following itinerary is designed for a summer day trip; be sure to double check seasonal closures and weather conditions if you plan on embarking on this trip in the winter.