Girdwood, originally named Glacier City due to its proximity to several stunning glaciers, has carved a reputation for being a hub of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Originally established as a gold mining town in the late 19th century, Girdwood transitioned into a popular recreational hub over the last half century.
When it comes to day trips around Anchorage, Alaska, Hatcher’s Pass stands is a prime destination, offering an excellent mix of history, geological wonders, beautiful vistas, and outdoor activities.
Stretching over the picturesque Talkeetna Mountains, Hatcher’s Pass road offers a scenic route between Willow and Palmer during the summer season. The 60-mile road travels through meadows, forests, and tundra, before reaching Hatcher’s Pass at 3,800 feet and descending back down.
With thousands of miles of coastline and countless alpine cliffs, there is no shortage of spectacular waterfalls throughout Alaska. But unlike many of the falls you will find elsewhere in the United States, Alaska waterfalls are often found in true wilderness, away from crowds, pavement, and busy highways.
A land of vast scenery and wildlife, Alaska's expansive landscape offers so much to see, including towering fjords among the backdrop of massive glaciers, endless waterways, and snowy mountains.
Hiking is a great way to experience all the beauty Alaska has to offer, but hiking in Alaska is a bit different than hiking elsewhere in the United States. With vast amounts of wilderness, dangerous weather conditions, and large animals, Alaska hiking requires a bit more planning and awareness then other states.
Here are some key tips to help you stay safe while you hit the trails!
Thanks to a cool climate and an abundance of snow, Alaska is home to thousands of glaciers. Gleaming walls of ice, these North American glaciers are constantly evolving, creating a dynamic and varied landscape. Their fertile deposits make glaciers a star of their ecosystem, supporting an abundance of wildlife, another top reason to visit them.
With thousands of miles of coastline and countless lakes and rivers, kayaking is one of the best ways to experience Alaska’s wilderness. From kayaking along a glacier to paddling in an alpine lake, there is a kayak destination and experience available for every level of adventurer.
In this guide, I’ll run you through some of the top kayak destinations in the Last Frontier and include some helpful tips for planning your kayak expedition.
One major advantage of cruising is that you can travel to many places internationally that would otherwise require a passport.
Alaska is known for its wildlife, a major draw for tourists and travelers who visit the state each year.
The vast land mass of Alaska is home to a variety of animals, including the “Big 5,” which includes bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves. In addition to these, it is famous for whales that migrate north each year, as well as numerous birds and other animals.
Alaska boasts some of the world's most dramatic and untouched wilderness, drawing wildlife photographers, nature enthusiasts, and fishing lovers alike. Yet, beyond its trees and mountains, the state presents a unique journey through its enchanting small towns. While a significant portion of the population resides in Anchorage, these towns stand as serene retreats for resilient Alaskans, many of whom are deeply connected to the outdoors and channel their creativity into art during the prolonged winter nights.
