Interior Alaska Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Interior Alaska with this comprehensive tour guide featuring places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Interior Alaska

Located in the northern part of Alaska, Interior Alaska is known for its rugged wilderness, scenic views, and outdoor adventures. It’s home to several interesting cultural and historical attractions, as well as natural wonders that will take your breath away. The region is filled with wildlife, including Arctic wolves, grizzly bears, and many species of birds, making it one of the best places in the world for nature lovers.

List of Places to Visit in Interior Alaska

There are plenty of places to visit in Interior Alaska that every traveler should consider on their itinerary. Here are some of the top places you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Museum of the North: Located in Fairbanks, it’s the best place to learn about the region’s past, culture, and geology.
  • Pioneer Park: A themed historical park featuring replica Pioneer-era buildings, museums, and a train ride.
  • The Alyeska Pipeline Visitor Center: Showcasing the engineering marvel that is the Trans-Alaska pipeline.
  • El Dorado Gold Mine Tour: Explore Alaska’s mining history and learn the techniques used to mine gold.

Natural Attractions of Interior Alaska: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Denali National Park: Home to North America’s highest peak, Mt. Denali, it offers an opportunity to see wildlife, hike, and marvel at the natural beauty.
  • Chena Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs or take a dip outdoors while viewing the northern lights if visiting in winter.
  • The Tanana Valley State Fair: Enjoy local food, exhibits, and amusement rides in late August every year.
  • Hiking and Biking Trails: Interior Alaska has several hiking and bike trails with scenic views in the summer.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Interior Alaska

Some hiking and biking routes to consider exploring in Interior Alaska are:

  • The Granite Tors Trail
  • The Angel Rocks Trail
  • The Beaver Creek Trail
  • The Iditarod Trail
  • The Harding Lake Trail

Best Things to Do in Interior Alaska: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to take in Interior Alaska:

  • Northern Lights Tour: A chance to see the northern lights, which dance across the sky in the winter months.
  • Sightseeing Tours: Tours of the city, wildlife-viewing and bird-watching tours, and more.
  • Rafting and Kayaking: Tour the Yukon, Tanana, and Chena Rivers through a tour operator or rent your gear and paddle yourself.
  • Dog Sledding Tours: In winter, dog sledding is the go-to activity in most parts of Interior Alaska.

Week-Long Itinerary for Interior Alaska

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for Interior Alaska:

  • Day 1: Arrival and orientation day. Head to Pioneer Park and the Museum of the North to learn about the local culture and history.
  • Day 2: Explore Chena River State Recreation Area.
  • Day 3: Experience the natural wonder of the Denali National Park and Preserve.
  • Day 4: Visit North Pole city and Santa Claus House.
  • Day 5: Visit the Fairbanks Ice Museum.
  • Day 6: Enjoy the northern lights at Chena Hot Springs.
  • Day 7: Departure day.

Food and Drink Scene of Interior Alaska

The food and drink scene of Interior Alaska is heavily influenced by the wilderness, and this reflects in the local cuisine. Wild game, fresh fish, and locally sourced produce are prevalent.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Reindeer Sausage: A local favorite, reindeer sausage is made from locally caught reindeer.
  • Grilled Salmon: Freshly caught salmon, grilled over an open flame, is a must-try for seafood lovers.
  • Berry Cobbler: Made with locally sourced wild berries, it’s a perfect dessert to end your meal.

Local Beverages

  • Alaska Amber Beer: A local beer brewed in the state for over 30 years.
  • Birch Sap Juice: A refreshing juice made from the sap of birch trees.
  • Chaga Tea: Made from the medicinal mushroom, chaga, it is known to have several health benefits, including immune-boosting properties.

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

Here are some of the top lodging options in Interior Alaska:

  • Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Conference Center: Located in Fairbanks, this hotel is the perfect base for exploring the city.
  • Borealis Inn: Offering comfortable accommodations and good food, this is a great place to stay while visiting Denali National Park.
  • River’s Edge Resort: This resort offers luxury cabins with stunning river views, perfect for a romantic getaway.

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

  • Artisan-made crafts: Locally made arts and crafts make great souvenirs, especially for those wanting to take home unique Alaska-style items.
  • Glacier Ice Cream: A local creamery that uses only local, natural ingredients, it’s a must-try and great for gifting.
  • ** Alaska Photo Books**: There are several beautiful coffee table books that showcase the wildlife and natural beauty of the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Interior Alaska

The Interior Alaska is home to several communities that have a rich history and culture, so it’s important to respect their customs. Here are some local customs:

  • Do not litter: Interior Alaska has a delicate ecosystem that needs to be preserved. So, it’s important to dispose of waste properly.
  • Respect wildlife: To avoid endangering yourself or the animals living here, maintain a safe distance when encountering wildlife.
  • Be polite: It’s essential to always greet locals with a smile and be respectful when approaching them.

Best Time to Visit Interior Alaska

The best time to visit Interior Alaska is from late May through early September. During this time, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, and the days are long, allowing for maximum exploration.

Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Alaska

Do:

  • Dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Stay on marked trails to preserve the environment.
  • Hire a local guide or take a tour to explore the wilderness safely.

Don’t:

  • Approach wildlife closely.
  • Litter in the national parks, rivers, or lakes.
  • Ignore warnings or guidelines provided by parks officials and tour operators.

Safety and Health

Safety in Interior Alaska

  • If hiking alone, make sure to tell someone where you are going and when you’ll be back.
  • When camping, make sure to properly store your food away from your tent to avoid attracting bears.

Health in Interior Alaska

Mosquito repellent is a must during summer trips as mosquitos are prevalent in the region and can carry West Nile Virus and Lyme disease. Always carry and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Getting to Interior Alaska: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Interior Alaska

Fairbanks International Airport is the largest air hub in the Interior Alaska. Direct flights are available to many U.S. cities, including Seattle, Portland, Minneapolis, and Denver.

Bus Stations Near Interior Alaska

There are several bus services connecting many towns and cities across Alaska and Canada to the Interior Alaska.

Other Options

Hydroplanes or trains are a more unique option to getting there.

How to Get Around in Interior Alaska

Rental cars and RV’s are available from major car rental chains, or choose to use the local public transport (bus service) or even the Alaska Railroad!

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

  • The Arctic Circle: Get a chance to cross the Arctic Circle through a tour.
  • Kenai Peninsula: Explore glaciers, fjords and marine wildlife in the Kenai Peninsula region.
  • The Yukon: Take a tour of the Yukon River and learn about the region’s gold rush history.

Conclusion

Interior Alaska is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Explore the natural wonders, learn about the local culture and history, and experience the delicious local cuisine. Whether you choose to explore on your own or opt for a guided tour, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.



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