Arctic Alaska Travel Guide

Learn all about the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for traveling to Arctic Alaska with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Arctic Alaska

Arctic Alaska is one of the most remote regions in the United States, located in the northernmost part of the state. It’s known for its pristine natural landscapes, unique wildlife, and cultural significance for indigenous people. With its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather, Arctic Alaska offers a true wilderness experience for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Arctic Alaska

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Inupiat Heritage Center in Barrow, which showcases the history and culture of the native Inupiat people, featuring traditional crafts, artifacts, and storytelling.
  • Anchorage Museum in Anchorage, which offers exhibits on Alaskan Native art, history and science.
  • University of Alaska Museum of the North in Fairbanks, which has displays on Alaskan history, geology, and wildlife.

Natural Attractions of Arctic Alaska: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is an untouched wilderness the size of South Carolina, which is home to diverse wildlife, such as caribou, grizzly bears, and wolves.
  • Denali National Park and Preserve, a UNESCO world heritage site, with North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali. Visitors can hike, bike, and camp in the park, or embark on a guided wildlife safari.
  • Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is one of the most remote national parks in the United States and accessible only by foot or plane. It offers visitors breath-taking views, challenging hikes, and opportunities to see unique wildlife, such as Dall sheep and arctic wolves.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arctic Alaska

Arctic Alaska offers a wide range of hiking and biking trails. Some of the best trails include:

  • The Stampede Trail: a challenging 28-mile hike featuring stunning views of the Denali wilderness and the Teklanika River.
  • The Herbert Glacier Trail: an 11-mile hike in the Tongass National Forest offering visitors the chance to see the Herbert Glacier and catch glimpses of grizzly bears, moose, and mountain goats.
  • Pilgrim Hot Springs Trail: a moderate 4.8-mile hike that leads to a natural hot springs and stunning views of the surrounding tundra.

Best Things to Do in Arctic Alaska: Activities and Tours

  • Aurora Viewing is one of the most popular activities in Arctic Alaska, as the region has some of the best Northern Lights viewing spots in the world.
  • Whale Watching is one of the most unique experiences visitors can have in Arctic Alaska, with the opportunity to see gray, humpback, and beluga whales.
  • River Rafting trips are well-suited for the daring adventure seeker. The Arctic region features several spots for river rafting, including the Kongakut River, the Noatak River, and the Kobuk River.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arctic Alaska

Day 1: Arrival in Anchorage and explore the Anchorage Museum and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail

Day 2: Take a scenic drive along the Seward Highway and stop at the Turnagain Arm for whale-watching.

Day 3: Fly to Fairbanks and spend the day exploring the University of Alaska Museum of the North and the Aurora Ice Museum.

Day 4: Take a guided trip to the Arctic Circle and join a hike across the tundra.

Day 5: Fly to Barrow and visit the Inupiat Heritage Center, then end the day with an aurora viewing tour.

Day 6: Take a round-trip flight to Barter Island and plunge into the Arctic Ocean, take in stunning views and find whale vertebrae along the shore.

Day 7: End the week-long itinerary with a day trip to Chena Hot Springs, soaking in the natural thermal pools of its natural hot springs.

Food and Drink Scene of Arctic Alaska

Must-Try Dishes

  • Akutaq, a dessert made of whipped animal fat mixed with berries or fish.
  • Muktuk, traditional Inupiat name for whale blubber, a staple food for indigenous people of Alaska.
  • Reindeer Sausage, leaner but more flavorful than traditional pork-based sausage.

Local Beverages

  • Birch Syrup is a unique Alaskan treat, much rarer than maple syrup, and often used in baking or as a flavoring for tea.
  • Alaska Brewing Company produces award-winning beers using glacial water from the Southeast Alaskan rainforest.
  • Alaska Grown Wine, the Matanuska Valley is the only American growing region north of Canada that can sustain outdoor grape cultivation.

Where to Stay in Arctic Alaska: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Conference Center in Fairbanks, features amenities such as on-site dining, free laundry facilities, and a fitness center.
  • The Top of the World Hotel offers comfortable guest rooms in Barrow with easy access to the Inupiat Heritage Center.
  • For budget hotels, Arctic Adventure Hostel in Fairbanks is a worthwhile choice, while Keystone Hotel in Anchorage offers affordable lodging and easy access to local attractions.

What to Buy in Arctic Alaska: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ivory carvings are a must-have souvenir in Arctic Alaska, with intricate carvings reflecting the unique wildlife found in the region.
  • Ulu knives made of steel and traditional animal bone, are versatile kitchen tools commonly used by indigenous people of Alaska.
  • Birch bark baskets are a traditional handicraft of the Athabascan people and make for a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Arctic Alaska

The indigenous people of Alaska, including the Inupiat and Yupik, have unique customs and traditions. Visitors should be aware of the following:

  • Respecting elders and other members of the community is highly valued.
  • Visitors should educate themselves on the proper behavior while visiting Native lands.
  • Limiting one’s impact on the environment and respecting wildlife is a top priority for local residents.

Best Time to Visit Arctic Alaska

The best time to visit Arctic Alaska is from June to August when the weather is milder and the days are longer. During this time, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and attending festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arctic Alaska

Do:

  • Pack warm clothing and layers as even summer temperatures can drop throughout the day.
  • Respect wildlife and the environment by leaving no trace of your visit.
  • Keenly observe the weather and prepare accordingly for snow and winter conditions.

Don’t:

  • Touch or approach wildlife, even if they appear docile.
  • Plan to go outdoors without telling someone your itinerary, or without the right amount of gear
  • Attempt to interact with locals without asking for permission respectfully.

Safety and Health

Safety in Arctic Alaska

Arctic Alaska can be a very challenging environment, so being prepared is key to staying safe, always keep in mind these tips:

  • Always check the weather and prepare accordingly.
  • Keep your distance from wildlife and never approach them.
  • Know your limits and take responsibility for your own safety when heading out in your trip.

Health in Arctic Alaska

  • Get vaccinated for Tetanus, Diphtheria, Hepatitis A & B and Typhoid before traveling.
  • Sunburn and dehydration can be common issues in Arctic Alaska, drink many fluids and use sunblock to prevent summers burn.

Getting to Arctic Alaska: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Arctic Alaska

  • Anchorage International Airport, served by major airlines including Delta, Alaska Airlines, and American Airlines.

Bus Stations Near Arctic Alaska

  • Fairbanks Bus Terminal, serviced by several bus companies.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars, available at most airports, or car reantal champanies available throughout the greater area.

How to Get Around in Arctic Alaska

Getting around in Arctic Alaska depends on the area you are visiting:

  • A car can still prove an easy way of getting aorund the cities of Anchorage, Fairbanks or Barrow.
  • Planes are the primary mode of transport between remote areas also provide visitors with unique views of the land.
  • Bicycles are readily available for rental in many town locations and permit a great way of exploring Denali National Park or other near city routes.

Where to Go Next from Arctic Alaska: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yukon Territory, Canada is just north of Alaska and rewards visitors with beautiful hiking trails and scenic drives.
  • The Canadian Rockies, a truly majestic mountain range with unique animals and stunning vistas.
  • Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon, offers a range of great activities like dog sledding, fishing, and a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Conclusion

Arctic Alaska offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience untouched natural beauty. With a selection of museums & historical places, unique wildlife, and scenic hiking trails, visitors are sure to leave with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or just someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Arctic Alaska has something for everyone.

Aerial view of Igichuk Hills, Cape Krusenstern National Monument, in summertime Aerial view of Igichuk Hills, Cape Krusenstern National Monument, in summertime


    Anaktuvuk Pass
    Bering Land Bridge National Preserve
    Cape Krusenstern National Monument
    Coldfoot
    Deadhorse
    Golovin
    Kaktovik
    Kotzebue
    Little Diomede
    Nome
    Solomon
    Teller
    White Mountain