Alaska travel guide and discussion

#adventuretrips Total silence. Just completely blown away by the raw power of nature. Blue lakes, glaciers, snow-capped mountains... paddleboarding, swimming, hiking-literally doing whatever we felt like. This was our ultimate "splurge" moment in Alaska: the Heli Glacier Paddle Boarding Private Tour. It cost us 20k for two people and we had to book it two months in advance just to snag a spot! Helicopter pickup, then totally isolated out on the endless Knik Glacier. They gave us two guides for the two of us. Since we already know how to play, they were just chilling and chatting with us. Honestly, the guides are living the dream, enjoying this vast glacial world day after day. Mom, can I please change jobs? #traveledit #glacier #paddleboard #10000travelhowtos #wildgeekexperiencehowtowto #movewithme #funlocalspots #anchorage #mywaterfunmap #timetotakethepaddleboardoutoardout...

#adventuretrips Got off the ship in Juneau and a car picked me up for the airport. Then, a quick 20-minute helicopter ride to the glacier. The views along the way were absolutely stunning, like getting a bird's-eye view of the world. Once we landed, we put on crampons and ice axes and followed our guide onto the glacier. The 2-hour hike was so much fun, and every spot was perfect for some amazing photos! The coolest part? You can actually drink the glacier water! That super cold water is like a limited edition mineral water from Earth. Then we flew back to the airport in another 10-minute helicopter ride. The whole experience was so exciting, totally worth it, and unforgettable! #alaskatravel #glacierexploration #helicopterexperience #lifemustcheckin #alaska #glacier #northamericanlife #guestsfromtheiceberg #glaciertrekking #juno

#photovsrealitytravel Imagine standing beneath a dark Arctic sky as waves of green, pink and purple light dance above you. ✨ The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of the world’s most spectacular natural phenomena. But seeing them isn’t simply about traveling north — you need the right combination of darkness, clear skies, location and solar activity. So, where should you go? 🌍👇 🇳🇴 1. NORWAY | Tromsø One of the world’s most iconic Northern Lights destinations. 📍 Tromsø ✨ Fjords + Arctic landscapes + Aurora 🐕 Dog sledding • Snowmobiling • Sámi experiences Tromsø is perfect if you want to combine the Aurora with a wide range of Arctic activities. 💫 Best for: First-time Aurora hunters who want adventure, nature and a lively Arctic city. ⸻ 🇫🇮 2. FINLAND | Finnish Lapland What could be more magical than watching the Northern Lights from a glass-roofed cabin? ✨ 📍 Rovaniemi • Ivalo • Inari • Saariselkä ✨ Glass igloos + snowy forests + reindeer + Aurora Finnish Lapland is famous for its winter wonderland atmosphere and unique accommodation experiences. 💫 Best for: Couples, photographers and anyone looking for a fairytale Arctic escape. ⸻ 🇸🇪 3. SWEDEN | Abisko & Kiruna Looking for a quieter and more nature-focused experience? 📍 Abisko • Kiruna ✨ Mountains + wilderness + stars + Aurora Abisko is particularly famous for its relatively favorable conditions for Northern Lights viewing. 💫 Best for: Travelers who want fewer crowds and a peaceful Arctic adventure. ⸻ 🇮🇸 4. ICELAND | Aurora + Volcanic Landscapes Iceland gives you much more than the Northern Lights. One night you could be watching the Aurora, and the next day exploring waterfalls, glaciers, black-sand beaches and volcanic landscapes. 🌋❄️ 📍 Reykjavík • North Iceland • Rural Iceland ✨ Aurora + waterfalls + glaciers + volcanoes 💫 Best for: Travelers who want to experience several incredible natural wonders in one trip. ⸻ 🇨🇦 5. CANADA | Yukon & Northwest Territories Ready to go beyond Europe? Canada offers vast landscapes, dark skies and a truly wild Arctic atmosphere. 📍 Yukon • Northwest Territories ✨ Wilderness + endless skies + Aurora 💫 Best for: Adventurers looking for a remote and unforgettable experience. ⸻ 🇬🇱 6. GREENLAND | Aurora in the Arctic Wilderness For something completely different… Imagine glaciers, tiny Arctic settlements, enormous icebergs and the Northern Lights illuminating the sky above you. 📍 Ilulissat & surrounding areas ✨ Icebergs + glaciers + Aurora 💫 Best for: Travelers searching for a remote and extraordinary destination. ⸻ 🇺🇸 7. ALASKA | The Wild Side of the Aurora Alaska combines Northern Lights viewing with some of the world’s most dramatic wilderness. 📍 Fairbanks ✨ Aurora + wildlife + mountains + Arctic adventures 💫 Best for: Nature lovers, photographers and adventure seekers. ⸻ 🌌 BUT HOW DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS ACTUALLY FORM? The Aurora Borealis occurs when charged particles from the Sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere. 💚 Green is the most common color, but strong auroral displays can also appear in shades of pink, purple, red and blue. And here’s the important part: ❌ The Northern Lights don’t appear every night. ❌ Winter doesn’t guarantee an Aurora. ❌ Being in an Arctic destination doesn’t guarantee a sighting. You need: 🌑 Dark skies ☁️ Clear weather ☀️ Solar activity 📍 A good viewing location ⸻ 🗓️ WHEN IS THE BEST TIME? The Northern Lights can generally be seen during the darker months of the year. 🇫🇮 Finland → Late August–early April 🇸🇪 Sweden → September–March 🇳🇴 Norway → Autumn–early spring But remember: clear skies can be just as important as solar activity. A strong Aurora happening behind thick clouds is still invisible. ☁️ ⸻ 🧳 WHAT SHOULD YOU PACK? 🧥 Thermal layers 🧤 Warm gloves 🧦 Thermal socks 🥾 Waterproof winter boots 🔋 Power bank 📱 Aurora forecast app 📷 Camera or phone capable of night photography And most importantly… ⏳ PATIENCE. The Aurora isn’t a scheduled show. You might wait for hours and suddenly, for a few magical minutes, the entire sky comes alive. 🌌 ⸻ 🏆 WHICH EXPERIENCE WOULD YOU CHOOSE? 🇳🇴 Norway → Fjords + Aurora 🇫🇮 Finland → Glass igloo + Aurora 🇸🇪 Sweden → Abisko + wilderness 🇮🇸 Iceland → Volcanoes + Aurora 🇨🇦 Canada → Wilderness + Aurora 🇬🇱 Greenland → Icebergs + Aurora 🇺🇸 Alaska → Adventure + Aurora 💬 If you could choose only ONE, where would you go? 🇳🇴 Norway 🇫🇮 Finland 🇸🇪 Sweden 🇮🇸 Iceland 🇨🇦 Canada 🇬🇱 Greenland 🇺🇸 Alaska 📌 Save this post for your future Northern Lights adventure. #NorthernLights #AuroraBorealis #Aurora #Travel #TravelInspiration #BucketList #Norway #Finland #Sweden #Iceland

#itinerarycheck Denali’s Park Road is closed to private cars past Mile 15, so the Savage River Loop is one of the few trails you reach without the transit bus – but you still need to get to Mile 15. I drove to the Savage River parking (paved pullout, vault toilet, no water) at 8am, parked free, and walked the loop counterclockwise: cross the bridge over Savage River, climb the tundra bench on the east side, follow the cairns along the bluff edge with views down to the braided river and out to Mount Margaret, then descend to the west bank and return. 3.2 km, 120 m gain, 1h10m moving. It’s not a glacier hike – it’s subarctic tundra, dwarf birch, forget-me-nots, and possibly the best low-effort wildlife odds in the park: I saw a lynx track, two caribou, and a golden eagle. No bears close, but spray still required by NPS rule beyond the lot. Transit note: if you want to go farther (Eielson, Wonder Lake), you must book the green bus ($40–60 depending on distance) at the Denali Visitor Center or online – it stops at Savage River both ways. Entrance fee $15/person/day or $30/vehicle/7-day. Mistake: I went at noon first, saw nothing; returned at 7pm and the light on the Alaska Range was better and animals moved. Layer system essential – 14°C at 8am, 22°C at 2pm, wind 30 km/h on the bluff. Discussion: is Savage River Loop worth a stop if you’re only in Denali 1 day and torn between the bus to Eielson vs a short walk? I’d say do the bus (you see more range) but if you’re prone to bus sickness or have kids, Savage Loop + sled dog demo at HQ is the better half-day. Anyone pair this with the Mount Healy overlook on the same day?

Fairbanks completely lived up to its reputation as one of the best places on Earth to see the Northern Lights! We took a local night tour out to Murphy Dome in mid-March, and it was easily the highlight of our entire trip to Fairbanks! At 2,890 feet in elevation, we were completely above the tree line with a massive, wide-open 360-degree view of the Alaskan night sky. The temperature dropped down to a freezing -30°F, which made it a true Arctic challenge! But the moment this colossal, vibrant green ribbon of light exploded across the dark horizon, the freezing weather was completely forgotten. Standing out on the snow watching it dance was an absolutely surreal, bucket-list moment. Book a Tour: Having a guided local tour was a lifesaver. Driving up the icy, unpaved mountain roads to Murphy Dome can be incredibly treacherous in the dark. Plus, our tour van provided a warm escape with hot drinks while we waited for the lights to peak. The March Advantage: March is widely considered one of the absolute best months for aurora hunting in Alaska due to clear weather patterns and milder daylight transitions. Surviving -30°F: Standard winter jackets will not cut it! You need a serious base layer, heavy down outerwear, insulated snow boots, and thick mittens over liner gloves. Keep extra hand warmers in your pockets next to your phone/camera batteries so they don't freeze and die instantly! 📍 Location: Fairbanks, Alaska 🗓️ Month: March 🌡️ Weather: -30°F #Fairbanks #Alaska #MurphyDome #NorthernLights #AuroraBorealis #WinterTravel #BucketList

#kindnessontheroad Denali National Park operates on a single, long gravel road that private vehicles can only access for the first 15 miles; beyond that, you must take a bus. I was on the Teklanika River transit bus, about 29 miles into the park, when the driver stopped to let a few hikers off for a backcountry permit pickup. I decided to hop off briefly to photograph a distant grizzly. Big mistake. The temperature was well below freezing, and I hadn't secured my water bottle properly inside my jacket. Within ten minutes, the water had frozen solid into a block of ice. Dehydrated and shivering, I returned to the bus stop, but the next bus wasn't due for hours. A park ranger named Sarah, who was patrolling the area on a snowmobile, pulled up. She immediately noticed my distress. She reached into her sled and pulled out a heavy-duty Nalgene filled with hot tea, telling me to drink slowly. Then, she took my frozen bottle, tucked it inside her own parka against her core, and pedaled her snowmobile in circles for five minutes to generate body heat. She handed it back, slightly slushy but drinkable. She reminded me that in Denali, cotton kills (due to moisture retention) and that "three layers are better than one thick one." Bus tickets must be booked online well in advance, and wildlife sightings are guaranteed if you stay patient. Ever underestimated the power of a ranger's practical wisdom in the wilderness?

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A truly unforgettable day at Hubbard Glacier! 🚢❄️ Cruising through Alaska on the Norwegian Joy brought us face-to-face with this massive, breathtaking wall of ice. The ship stayed at the glacier for about 4–5 hours, giving everyone plenty of time to take in the views. They even opened up the bow so guests could walk right out to the front of the ship for a panoramic perspective! 🏔️✨ However, you don't have to worry about missing out based on your cabin location—the captain turns the ship a full 360 degrees so every angle gets a perfect view. We actually spent part of the time sitting comfortably at the Garden Cafe, eating a delicious lunch while watching the giant blue ice wall and the misty green mountains glide past the windows. 🍔🌲 It was also quite a sight seeing a few other cruise ships navigating the icy waters nearby, all of us looking tiny next to the sheer scale of the glacier. If you are planning an Alaskan cruise, this is an absolute bucket-list experience! 🐋💙 #HubbardGlacier #NorwegianJoy #NCL #AlaskaCruise #CruiseLife #TravelAlaska #TripMoments

Aurora travel is trending these days thanks to 'Does This Love Translate?'. I encountered my first aurora in Alaska, and it was truly magical. Not only did I witness the enchanting aurora in the Arctic Circle, but I also experienced the passage of Earth's time through a glacier tour and embarked on a road trip towards Denali, the highest mountain in North America. Alaska felt like a dream come true, surpassing all my expectations. I highly recommend visiting this incredible destination before more time passes. 🙏 Although Alaska might seem far away, it's actually accessible with just one layover, and flight prices are more reasonable than you might think. 😊 Compared to popular aurora destinations like Iceland, Canada, and Finland, Alaska remains relatively unknown, giving it an air of mystery. I hope more people can experience the charm of this hidden gem. 🙏 ✨ Make sure to witness the aurora in Alaska at least once in your lifetime. 🇺🇸 Alaska Travel Tips ✔️ Recommended travel period: Mid to late September to early to mid-March ✈️ Suggested flight routes: Incheon-Seattle-Anchorage / Incheon-Vancouver-Anchorage ✔️ If you can drive, renting a car for a road trip is highly recommended! ✔️ Must-try experiences: Aurora hunting in the Arctic Circle, Seward Glacier Cruise Tour, Chena Hot Springs, Santa Claus House.

🌟 Alaska Aurora Tour | 5 Days 4 Nights Aurora Chasing Guide, Encounter the Aurora Goddess Alaska, the last frontier of the United States, is one of the most favored lands for the Northern Lights. From September to April each year, Fairbanks becomes a pilgrimage site for aurora chasers worldwide—offering over 243 days annually to witness the aurora. With its clear night skies, remote cabins away from light pollution, and vast wilderness, it provides a romantic encounter with the aurora. Beyond the aurora, you can also enjoy the contrasting hot and cold experience at Chena Hot Springs, the fairytale-like Santa Claus House, the breathtaking Arctic Circle landscapes, and winter activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding. This is a magical and heartwarming winter journey. 🗓️【Itinerary】 > 5 Days 4 Nights, Classic Aurora + Unique Experiences, Relaxed Yet Fulfilling Day 1: Arrival in Fairbanks + Cabin Aurora Viewing · Arrive in the afternoon, check into the hotel (check-in available after 3:00 PM) · 10:00 PM: Depart for the aurora cabin, enjoy indoor heating and hot drinks while waiting for the aurora · 2:00 AM: Return to the hotel Day 2: Santa Claus House + Chena Hot Springs + Wilderness Aurora Chasing · 10:30 AM: Visit the Santa Claus House (a fairytale town in the Arctic Village) · Head to Chena Hot Springs to experience soaking in hot springs amidst icy surroundings (optional visit to the Ice Museum at your own expense) · 5:00 PM: Return to the city, 10:00 PM: Depart again for wilderness aurora chasing Day 3: Free Activities + Wilderness Aurora Chasing · Choose your own activities during the day (e.g., snowmobiling, ice fishing) or rest · Continue wilderness aurora chasing in the evening, with guides assisting in aurora photography Day 4: Optional Themed Day Tour · Options include: Land/Fly to Arctic Circle and return by car, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice lake fishing, Denali hiking · No group activities in the evening, free to rest or continue aurora chasing Day 5: Departure · Check out by 11:00 AM, hotel offers free shuttle service to the airport upon reservation · Recommended flights departing after 7:00 AM ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】 | Attraction | Highlights | |------|------| | **Aurora Cabin** | Indoor heating + hot drinks, comfortable aurora viewing, perfect for those who fear the cold | | **Chena Hot Springs** | Experience the contrast of hot and cold, with frozen hair and a warm body, perfect for stunning photos | | **Santa Claus House** | A fairytale town in the Arctic Village, send postcards from the North Pole | | **Ice Museum** | A year-round ice sculpture world, enjoy cocktails in ice glasses (at your own expense) | | **Arctic Circle Sign** | Check-in at the Arctic Circle, receive an adventure certificate, full of ceremonial significance | | **Dog Sledding** | Traditional Alaskan transportation, get up close with huskies | 🍩【Must-Try Foods】 · **Appletini in Ice Glass** (at the Ice Museum): A unique experience of drinking from an ice glass · **Chena Hot Springs Restaurant**: American-style meals, perfect for recharging after a hot spring soak · **Yukon River Camp/Arctic Circle Camp**: Hot meals available during long journeys · **Local Seafood**: If you have free time, try Alaskan king crab and salmon 🏨【Accommodation Guide】 · **Hotel Stay**: Bridgewater Hotel or equivalent · **Includes breakfast**, free Wi-Fi, and airport shuttle service · Bring slippers and toiletries (some hotels do not provide these) 🚌【Transportation Guide】 · **Airport Pickup Service**: Free airport pickup from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM provided by the travel agency (reservation required) · **Hotel Airport Shuttle**: Partner hotels offer 24-hour free airport shuttle service (phone reservation required) · **Tour Transportation**: All transportation provided by business vehicles, with the guide also serving as the driver 💡【Additional Tips】 1. **Aurora is not guaranteed** as it is a natural phenomenon, keep a calm mindset 2. **Bring your own swimwear, towels, and slippers** for the hot springs; lockers in the changing room require a $0.5 coin 3. **Arctic Circle trips are long and without signal**, bring snacks and a power bank 4. **Tipping culture**: Tips are required for guides, drivers, and activity instructors 5. **Clothing recommendations**: Waterproof and non-slip snow boots, down jackets, warm hats, gloves, and hand warmers 6. **Visa and Insurance**: Valid U.S. visa + EVUS registration required, travel insurance recommended 7. **Strict cancellation policy**, book only after confirming your itinerary

#hellohalloween #stunningview #GlacierBay #ExploreAlaska #WildFrontiers #UNESCOWorldHeritage #NaturePhotography #ArcticAdventure #CruiseAlaska #NationalParksUSA In the untouched corners of southeastern Alaska lies a place where mountains rise from the sea and ancient glaciers breathe life into the landscape — welcome to Glacier Bay National Park. 🌊❄️ A natural wonder of staggering beauty, this park is a sanctuary of ice, wildlife, and silence that feels like stepping back into the Ice Age. 🏔️💫 Sail through deep-blue fjords lined with towering ice walls, where massive glaciers like Margerie and Johns Hopkins thunderously calve into the ocean. The echo of cracking ice mixes with the calls of eagles overhead and the splash of whales surfacing nearby. 🐋🦅 The air is crisp, the light ethereal, and every view feels painted by nature herself. 🎨🌤️ From kayaking among floating icebergs to spotting sea lions basking on rocky shores, every moment here awakens your sense of wonder. And as the evening sun casts a golden glow over the frozen peaks, you’ll understand why Glacier Bay is one of the most mesmerizing places on Earth. 🌅✨ 💡 Travel Tips: 📍 Location: Near Gustavus, southeastern Alaska, USA 🚢 Best Access: By cruise ship or small boat from Juneau 🐾 Wildlife Highlights: Humpback whales, orcas, puffins, sea otters, mountain goats 📸 Best Time to Visit: June–August for calm seas and vivid scenery ❤️ Why You’ll Love It: Glacier Bay National Park is nature’s theater — dramatic, vast, and alive. 🌎💙 It’s where the planet’s icy past and wild present meet in one breathtaking performance, reminding you of Earth’s raw beauty and endless power. 🌊❄️

Life advice: You must visit Alaska at least once to witness the aurora borealis. The moment you see the aurora with your own eyes, you'll realize that National Geographic photos don't even capture half of its beauty. Indeed! No photo can compare to the awe of experiencing it in person. The green light ribbons flow and swirl across the sky, like a living curtain. · 🌌 Aurora Viewing Time Best Season: Winter (September to April) Prime Hours: 10 PM to 2 AM Recommended Months: November to March (longest nights) ⚡ Influencing Factors Aurora Intensity: Check the KP index (≥3 is ideal) Weather: Clear or partly cloudy skies are necessary Light Pollution: Stay away from city lights; the darker, the better 📱 Useful Apps Aurora Forecast: Predicts KP values and visibility probability My Aurora Forecast & Alerts: Provides forecasts and push notifications Windy: Offers real-time cloud maps and weather forecasts · Alaska's winter offers more than just the aurora; there are plenty of unique experiences: ❄ Hot Springs: Enjoy the "fire and ice" experience at Chena Hot Springs, and you might even see the aurora while soaking! 🎣 Ice Fishing: Try drilling a hole in the ice and fishing; cook your catch on the spot for an incredibly fresh taste. (Remember to stay safe!) 🛷 Dog Sledding: Let adorable sled dogs whisk you across snowy landscapes, feeling the wind rush past your ears. 🏍 Snowmobiling: Speed across the snow and experience the thrill of speed (make sure to wear safety gear). 🥾 Glacier Hiking: Strap on special crampons and explore mysterious blue ice caves, as if you've landed on another planet. 🚁 Helicopter Tours: Get a bird's-eye view of majestic glaciers and even land on the ice fields for a closer look. 🎅 Santa Claus House: Visit Santa in North Pole, Alaska, and send yourself a postcard. 🏛 Polar Museum: For just $12, learn about Alaska's natural wonders and cultural heritage. 🗺 Arctic Circle Check-In: Travel north to reach the Arctic Circle and receive a commemorative certificate. . 📸 Photography Tips Capturing the aurora's brilliance requires some skill 😏 ▶️ Equipment Preparation A camera with manual mode (M mode), a wide-angle lens with a large aperture (e.g., f/2.8), a sturdy tripod, and a remote shutter release (or use the camera's timer function to avoid shake when pressing the shutter). ▶️ Camera Settings Aperture: Set to the widest (e.g., f/2.8) ISO: Adjust based on aurora intensity, typically between 800-3200. Increase ISO for weaker auroras and lower it for stronger ones to improve image quality. Shutter Speed: Experiment between 5-30 seconds. Shorten exposure time (e.g., 4-8 seconds) for fast-moving auroras to capture their shape; lengthen exposure for weaker auroras. Focus: Switch to manual focus (MF) and focus to infinity. ▶️ Composition and Creativity Try incorporating ground elements (like cabins, trees, or mountains) or people as foreground to add depth and storytelling to your photos. For portraits with the aurora, use a flashlight or headlamp to briefly illuminate the subject during exposure.

#AdventureMoment 🏔 Alaska Glacier Cruise: Explore the Ice Kingdom The **Alaska Glacier Cruise** is a special journey that allows you to admire glaciers and the majestic nature of the polar region, formed over thousands of years. The majestic landscape of the sea, mountains, and glaciers creates an overwhelming moment you won't experience anywhere else. Key Attractions 🐋 Whale Watching: The sight of whales breaching the water is truly breathtaking. 🧊 Glacier Viewing: The sight of a glacier collapsing into the sea, known as "kal-geo," is a highlight of any cruise. Travel Tips 🧥 Clothing: Even in summer, it's chilly, so warm clothing and gloves are recommended. 🚢 Reservations: During peak season, reservations sell out quickly, so it's best to book at least six months in advance.

#auroralight Alaska isn’t just a place to spot moose or hike glaciers—it’s also the ultimate destination for witnessing the breathtaking Aurora Borealis. Imagine standing under the crisp, dark skies of Alaska, watching as vibrant greens, purples, and pinks swirl across the sky in a dazzling display that feels otherworldly. It’s like nature’s own light show, and Alaska is one of the best places to experience it. The magic happens from late August to April, when the long, dark nights create the perfect backdrop for the Aurora to shine. Fairbanks, in particular, is renowned for its prime Northern Lights viewing spots, offering a front-row seat to the celestial spectacle. If you’re lucky, the lights will show up as shimmering ribbons that stretch across the sky, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When you’re not chasing the Aurora, Alaska offers plenty of outdoor adventures—from dog sledding and snowshoeing to soaking in the beauty of the rugged wilderness. And let’s not forget the cozy lodges, where you can warm up after a chilly night of stargazing. So, layer up, pack your camera, and get ready for the sky’s most stunning party in Alaska!

#myhiddengems I was in a Grand Loft Suite of the Ovation of the Seas cruise for 7days Alaska trip, The large two-storey room at the back of the ship with a floor-to-ceiling window that opens to a private balcony. The living and dining area is downstairs; the bedroom on a mezzanine floor above. Each level also has its own bathroom and shower. Combined, the room occupies 856 sq ft of living space, which is nearly as big as three double-decker buses. This is just amazing experience and once in a lifetime experience! Just break taking watching the sunset at the private balcony at the back of the giant cruise. #100waysoftravel #alaska #cruise #Ovationoftheseas #travel #sea #coupletravel

#100WaysOfTravel #Alaskacruise #alaska Enjoy Alaska’s unparalleled glaciers, wildlife and more on the Royal Caribbean ship that's right for you, like Ovation of the Seas. We can scope out Alaska’s beauty from the North Star—the world record-holder for the highest viewing deck on a cruise ship. Having a cup of hot nice coffee and enjoying the view of the glacier and seeing wildlife is just a splendid experience. Indeed Once in a lifetime experience.

These photos were taken in Valdez, Alaska Valdez in my heart It's really like a fairyland Although it rained continuously during the days I was there But I also saw the beautiful clouds and fog It also gave us the opportunity to slow down our journey And explore the biggest surprise this town has given us Having dinner with bears . As a large 'wildlife reserve', Alaska Seeing bears is definitely a unique experience The scene of seeing brown bears in Katmai national park last July is still vivid I didn't expect to see black bears catching salmon in Valdez in September this year What's different is that in July in Katmai Salmon are desperately swimming upstream from the sea back to their birth streams The brown bears have also been hungry for several months, so they eat a lot But in September, most of the salmon in the streams of Valdez have completed their mission (aka spawning) and are about to go to heaven, or they are the 'weak' ones who can't swim upstream And the bears have been eating a lot these months So you can clearly feel that the bears start to pick and choose Only eat those fish with high fat content We bought sandwiches and sat in the car by the side of the road Listening to the rain and having dinner with the bears In addition to seeing bears, you can also see many sea lions nearby Don't miss it~ . Bear viewing point 📍GPS (61.0847637, -146.2652175) There is a small parking lot next to it Sea lion viewing point 📍 The Solomon Gulch Hatchery Waterfall 📍Horsetail fall

🎃Alaska|𝑨𝒍𝒂𝒔𝒌𝒂 Winter, the fairy tale world of ice and snow, the paradise of the aurora. If you want to experience a different winter trip, follow me and take a look at this Alaska winter travel guide👏 · ⏰Aurora start time: every year from September to April of the following year ⚙️Generally speaking, the best season to watch the aurora in Alaska is from November to March, because the weather is relatively dry, the night is relatively long, the cloud layer is relatively small, which is conducive to observation. · ❓How to go to the aurora in Alaska? Where is the aurora in Alaska? ⭐You can choose to take direct or transfer flights from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and other places to Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. From Anchorage, you can take trains, cars, small planes and other means of transportation to other areas of Alaska, such as Fairbanks, Denali, Talkeetna, etc., which are all popular destinations for watching the aurora. · 📝Alaska winter travel guide 💥①Watch the aurora, the aurora is the biggest highlight of Alaska winter travel, and it is also the experience that many people dream of. Watching the aurora requires some skills and luck, here are some tips: ✨Choose the right place: Generally speaking, the closer to the Arctic Circle, the easier it is to see the aurora. So Fairbanks, Denali, Talkeetna and other places are good choices. In addition, try to stay away from the light pollution of the city, choose open places, such as mountain tops, lakesides, fields, etc. ✨Choose the right time: The aurora generally appears between 10 pm and 3 am, so you need to have enough patience and energy. In addition, pay attention to the changes in the weather, it is best to choose a clear night, avoid cloudy and moonlight. ✨Use the right equipment: When watching the aurora, pay attention to keeping warm, wear thick clothes, hats, gloves, scarves, etc. If you want to shoot the aurora, prepare a SLR camera, wide-angle lens, tripod, shutter line or remote shutter, etc. You can also bring a headlamp or flashlight for operation in the dark. 💥②Play snow activities, the snow scene in Alaska winter is very beautiful, and it is also a paradise for many snow activities. You can experience the following items here: ✨Snowmobile: Snowmobile is a motorcycle driven on snow, you can gallop freely on the snow-covered wilderness, feel the speed and passion. The rental fee is generally 100-200$/hour ✨Dog sled: You can sit on the sled, pulled by a group of well-trained sled dogs, shuttle in the snow, feel the style of ice and snow. The fee is generally around 50-100$/person ✨Skiing: Alaska has many ski resorts suitable for skiers of different levels. You can enjoy the fun of skiing here, and you can also learn skiing skills. The fee is generally around 50-100$/person ✨Ice fishing 💥③Soak in hot springs, in the ice and snow, soaking in hot springs is a very comfortable and cozy enjoyment. Alaska has many natural hot springs, where you can relax and enjoy the surrounding scenery, and you may even see the aurora · 📝Alaska winter wear ✨The temperature in Alaska in winter is relatively low, generally between minus ten to minus thirty degrees. So pay attention to keeping warm, wear multiple layers, choose breathable materials, and avoid catching a cold after sweating. · ✅Anchorage-Fairbanks 7-day 6-night aurora route

#wheretogo When visiting Alaska, do not miss taking a trip out to the amazing Hubbard Glacier, which is an unforgettable sight. It is Alaska’s largest tidewater glacier, and watching the glacier calving (process whereby pieces of ice break away from the glacier) right before my eyes made for an incredibly spectacular and breathtaking experience! This is truly an attraction not to be missed! My rating of this attraction: 5 ⭐️ out of 5!

Driving through Whittier Tunnel is one of the coolest things to do in Alaska. Sure, it isn’t an amusement park or a grizzly-filled wilderness preserve, but it has a kind of fun, everyday entertainment value that’s worth the cost of admission. Also known as Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, Whittier Tunnel is the longest bimodal highway tunnel in North America, and it’s a one-way passage into the city that’s shared by cars and trains. To get there, you’ll drive to its mountain and pass both through and underneath it, your view turning dark and eerie as you enter the underground cavern and drive for several miles before reaching the other side. There’s a schedule for moving through the tunnel since the cars need to avoid the trains, so make sure to call ahead and plan your trip accordingly. Whittier Tunnel might not be the craziest of Alaska’s attractions, but it can add a little excitement to your road trip, and it can become a fun memory to share with others if you snap some creepy selfies along the way. If you’re aiming for outside-of-the-box tourist destinations, this one is a bullseye. Address: Portage Glacier Rd, Chugach National Forest, Whittier, AK 99693, United States

With a small population located on a remote, self-sufficient island, Little Diomede Island might just be one of the most unusual destinations in the world. For starters, it’s inhabited by Native Americans who have lived in the same place for thousands of years, and most of them still have a traditional hunting-and-gathering lifestyle. They’re self-sufficient, needing only the occasional supply drop via helicopter to make it through the harsher winters. That’s the other thing: the island is only accessible by boat or air, so while visitors aren’t forbidden, it’s rare for people to care enough to make the trip. Last but not least, the island is only a stone’s throw away from the slightly larger Big Diomede Island, but that land is claimed by Russia and marked by a different time zone. Since it’s 21 hours behind its bigger cousin, Little Diomede Island is sometimes known as “Yesterday Island.” If you’re intrigued by Little Diomede Island, feel free to arrange a visit or even just a site seeing trip to the border of the nearby town. It isn’t much, but it has an awesome story, and it’ll be a unique pit stop on your greater Alaskan journey. Address: Alaska, United States

Are you traveling to Alaska on a budget? Don’t worry; you don’t have to spend big bucks to have a good time. In fact, there are many free things to do that won’t cost a dime, including a drive down the Seward Scenic Highway. Covering more than 125 miles in total, the Seward Scenic Highway runs from Seward to Anchorage, and it passes all kinds of astounding sights. You’ll be able to marvel at towering cliffs, rushing rivers, snow-topped trees, saltwater bays and more. Additionally, since it’s a self-guided drive, you can take your time and explore the area without being rushed. You can even stop and pull over whenever you see something worthy of further exploration! These side trips will be the only thing with a potential cost since the highway itself is toll- and admission-free. When money is tight, it’s a good idea to find budget-friendly places to go in Alaska. Hit the road with the Seward Scenic Highway for an amazing travel experience that won’t break the bank! Address: Alaska, United States

The Kuskulana River Bridge used to be one of the most hair-raising bridges in the world. It stretched over a deep, jagged and rock-lined gorge more than 230 feet below, and its extremely narrow pathway didn’t have guard rails or any other modern safety features, so people took their covered wagons and walked as slowly as possible to the other side. When the bridge was snowy or slippery, it was even more treacherous. The bridge still stands today, but it’s been outfitted with wooden planks to make it wider, and a metal rail has been erected on other side to prevent falls. It isn’t quite as dangerous, so it isn’t quite as thrilling. That said, it’s still fun to cross the Kuskulana River Bridge. The views of the gorge are amazing, and even though it’s safer now than it used to be, there’s still an element of peril in its old-fashioned construction. If you’re thinking about what to do in Alaska to get the adrenaline flowing, this could be a good way to test yourself and your nerve. Address: McCarthy Rd, Chitina, AK 99566, United States

Located in the tiny town of Eklutna, the Burial Spirit Houses represent something far greater than themselves. It all started with Russian Orthodox missionaries who came to the area in the early 1800s. They formed a bond with the local Athabascan and Danaina people of the Native American tribes, and over time, their cultures started to mingle. One of these mergings resulted in burial spirit boxes. Whenever someone died, their loved ones would create a colorful, dollhouse-style burial box to place over the grave, and they’d leave it there to slowly decay as part of the natural processes of the world. If you’re exploring Alaska and wondering what to do that isn’t listed in a glossy travel brochure, consider a trip to see the Burial Spirit Houses. They’re the result of an utterly unique community with equally unique cultural practices in one of the least-traveled regions of the world. It doesn’t get more offbeat than that! Address: 26339 Eklutna Village Rd, Anchorage, AK 99567, United States

Made famous by the Discovery Channel series Deadliest Catch, this vessel stunned viewers when it was rocked and rolled onto its side thanks to a rogue wave crashing into its belly. Thankfully, it was righted again, and it’s now enjoying a second life as one of Alaska’s top tourist attractions. Visitors can climb aboard the same ship that they saw on TV and enjoy a live fishing and crabbing experience with the crew. It isn’t quite the deadly adventure that was depicted on the show, but it isn’t a leisurely cruise, either. You’ll get a real and authentic taste of what it’s like to be a fisherman in the frigid waters of the north. Of the many things to do in Alaska, it’s hard to top something that left viewers all around the world gasping in shock. If you’re looking for awesome vacation experiences, book a tour with the Bering Sea Crab. Address: 316 Icehouse Ln, Ketchikan, AK 99901, United States

One of Alaska’s nicknames is “The Last Frontier,” and when you’re standing on the edge of a 15,000-foot cliff and gazing at the massive, ice-covered glaciers below, you’ll realize why the explorers of the past felt so strongly that they had reached the end of the world. It isn’t easy to climb the mountains of the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Their terrain is difficult, and their weather is unpredictable. Some mountaineering expeditions can take a month or more. If you have the time, however, or if you’re just interested in views unlike any other, the Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve will provide an incredible experience for those who are adventurous enough to take it on. Address: Alaska, United States

Known as a “cluckin’ good time,” the Chickenstock Festival is one of Alaska’s funniest and most irreverent events. It’s officially advertised as a musical festival, but music is only part of its appeal. Those who make the pilgrimage to the Chickenstock Festival can enjoy an entire weekend of food, music, games, competitions and general revelry. There are outdoor concerts; there are food trucks and craft stalls; there are 5K “chicken leg” marathons. The crowning glory of the event is when a helicopter flies overhead and drops 1,500 marshmallow Peeps onto the cheering crowds below! Forget Woodstock. In Alaska, it’s all about Chickenstock. If you’ll be visiting during the summertime, you won’t want to miss this incredible festival and all of the fun that it brings! Address: Alaska, United States

The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes are another one of those vacation spots that you wouldn’t expect to see in Alaska. They look like they’re straight out of the Sahara Desert, but they’re surrounded by the alpine forests and snow-covered mountains of the Arctic Circle. They were formed because of a natural phenomenon millions of years ago. When their glaciers started to shift, the massive pressure of the ice acted as a grinding agent for the rocks below, eventually turning them into nothing more than a sandy dust. Today, you can explore the dunes as part of Kobuk Valley National Park. You’ll need to take an air taxi since there are no roads or trails leading into the wild. Because of its inaccessibility, this park is one of the least-visited national parks in the entire country, but it’s worth making the trip for the story alone. The desert in the middle of a winter wonderland is just a bonus! Address: Alaska, United States #nationalpark