Alaska is somewhere that’s consistently been on my radar since I started travelling.
For years, I’ve been dreaming of its natural beauty, wildlife and adventure. I adore rugged mountains, getting outdoors whatever the weather and the contrast of different seasons – which means there are so many reasons why I think Alaska would be the perfect trip for me.
Here are some reasons why I want to visit Alaska – and, if you’re anything like me, reasons why you’ll probably want to go too!
Diverse natural landscapes
I’m always enchanted by pictures of Alaska. And, when you take a look at its landscapes and terrain, it’s easy to see why so many people have been charmed by its nature throughout history.
It’s a state of mountains and tundra, of glaciers and jagged coastline.
Denali, North America’s highest peak, soars above expansive forests and tundra, while glaciers like Mendenhall slowly carve their way through valleys.
The state offers an unspoiled variety of natural environments, including temperate rainforests in the southeast, rolling tundra in the interior and rugged coastlines along its vast perimeter.
From the fjords of Kenai or the remote wilderness of Gates of the Arctic National Park, it seems like the scenery remains vast and untamed.
And I’ve heard that the sheer scale of these areas means you can explore without the crowds found in more accessible destinations.
Wildlife in its natural habitat
Alaska is known for its abundant wildlife, and it seems that the opportunities to see animals in their natural settings are unparalleled.
Although I’m a bit wary of the creatures, I’ve heard that brown bears roam the forests and streams, especially in Katmai National Park, where they gather to catch salmon.
Whale watching is popular along the coast, with orca and humpback whales often seen on organised tours.
Bald eagles soar over many regions, and moose are common sightings near both urban and remote areas.
Alaska’s wildlife experiences aren’t confined to reserves, making every journey a chance to spot these iconic species in the wild.
While cruising is one of the best ways to see marine wildlife, you can do excursions to see on-land animals as well. Celebrity Cruises offer bucket-list cruises to Alaska, with three different vessels and a range of itineraries. Book your cruise for 2025 and make it a year to remember!
Northern lights
One of my favourite things I’ve done on my travels is see the Northern Lights.
I’ve been lucky enough to witness them in Iceland (and very faintly in Norway) and I’d love to see them more in other places I travel to.
Away from the light pollution of cities, the vibrant greens, purples, and pinks of the lights often dance across the sky.
Thanks to its northern location, Alaska is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights in the world – with prime viewing opportunities from late autumn to early spring.
Fairbanks, known for its clear, dark skies, is a top destination for those hoping to catch the aurora borealis.
The Brooks Range and remote regions like Coldfoot also offer excellent viewing conditions.
Outdoor activities year-round
I love the outdoors, especially getting out and about in the cooler months. And Alaska looks perfect for this!
From my research, it seems that here are just some of the things you can do here:
- In summer, the state’s extensive trails attract hikers, while kayakers explore the glacier-fed rivers and coastal waters.
- Glacier trekking and flightseeing provide unique ways to experience the scale of Alaska’s icy landscapes.
- Winter transforms the state into a playground for snow-based activities like dog sledging and snowshoeing, while skiers and snowboarders can take advantage of the snow-covered slopes.
Indigenous cultures
Alaska’s indigenous cultures are deeply rooted in the state’s history – there are over 20 native groups living here including the Tlingit, Inupiat and Athabascan peoples.
I always try to learn about indigenous cultures wherever I visit, and it seems that there are plenty of heritage centres and opportunities throughout the state.
One such is the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage which allows visitors to learn about the traditions, art, and stories that define these communities, including traditional crafts (like totem carving and beadwork).
Plus, I’ve read that many villages offer tours where you can experience native ways of life, from storytelling to subsistence activities.
Seasonal extremes
Thanks to Alaska’s northerly position, it feels the seasons acutely.
In summer, nearly 24 hours of daylight means much more time to explore – the Midnight Sun allows for late-night hikes and fishing trips. I’ve never experienced the Midnight Sun and would love to!
But winter brings long, dark nights. While many avoid Alaska in winter, I have been to both Iceland and Norway in the dark period and found it to be the cosiest time to visit – with ample opportunities for northern lights viewing!
Dog sledging, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also popular in this season.
Glaciers and fjords
Very few places have glaciers and fjords as impressive as Alaska, and I’ve had a few places pinpointed on my bucket list for years.
Kenai Fjords National Park offers a chance to see tidewater glaciers meeting the sea, where the massive ice formations calve into the water with dramatic splashes.
Boat tours through the park reveal towering cliffs, icy blue waters and marine wildlife, including sea otters and seals.
In Glacier Bay, visitors can take cruises to witness more of these monumental glaciers up close.
Many of these areas are only accessible by water or air.
Off-the-beaten-path national parks
Alaska’s national parks echo isolation – which is rarely found in more accessible destinations.
Parks like Wrangell-St. Elias, the largest in the US, are vast, with few visitors and an abundance of untouched wilderness.
Here, you’ll find snow-capped peaks, remote valleys and plenty of opportunities for solitude.
Small towns like Talkeetna and Sitka serve as gateways to these areas, offering a local perspective and access to outdoor adventures without the crowds.
Rich gold rush history
I’m a big history fan, so I’m always looking for backstories of places when I travel – and Alaska’s 19th century Gold Rush history sounds fascinating.
Towns like Skagway, once bustling with prospectors, now preserve this history with well-maintained historic districts and museums such as the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.
You can walk through these old frontier towns, visit preserved buildings and learn about the harsh realities of those who ventured north in search of wealth.
This was one of the most defined periods of Alaska’s development – and many guided tours and interpretive trails help bring this era to life.
Fishing and sustainable seafood
I don’t personally eat fish, but I know this is a big reason why my partner would like to visit the northernmost American state.
Alaska’s coastal waters are renowned for their rich marine life and it’s top destination for fishing enthusiasts.
The state’s fishing industry is also one of the most sustainable in the world, with strict regulations to preserve fish populations and ecosystems.
From sport fishing for salmon and halibut to crabbing in places like Kodiak, there are plenty of opportunities to taste their local seafood – from markets to restaurants, you’ll find something to chow down on here!
Is Alaska on your bucket list?
Visiting Alaska, particularly on a cruise, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s firmly on my bucket list. Is it on yours, or are you planning a trip there after reading these reasons to visit? Let me know!
