Everywhere we went in Alaska in 2017, it became my new favorite. We constantly explored beautiful nature, so it was hard to pick my favorites. Here are the finalists! I hope they inspire you to go to Alaska (highly recommended) or at least get out and explore the closest nature to you!
1. Glacier and Wildlife Viewing on a Kenai Fjords Tour
We somehow lucked out on a beautiful bluebird day (not typical for these cruises unfortunately). Regardless of weather, expect to see amazing untouched scenery and plenty of wildlife (my favorites were sea lions, puffins, sea otters,and whales!) This is by far the most expensive “touristy” thing we did, and I highly recommend it.
2. Biking Polychrome Pass in Denali National Park
I felt lucky to stop and take in the incredible views of Denali National Park as often as I wanted without rushing by in the green school buses shuttling around most tourists each day. Being crammed into a bus simply doesn’t do the scenery justice!
3. Exploring the Alaskan Rain Forest
Mossy green forest everywhere! This was a very easily accessible trail (there was even a wheelchair accessible section) in Girdwood, AK. We went here to pick blueberries but also found some great views!
4. Enjoying a calm morning in the Cook Inlet for halibut fishing
Up at 3 am to be on the water by 5:30 and fishing at 7. We had a beautiful sunrise and a good day of fishing. I am not a morning person but this was worth it!
5. Exploring the Harding Ice Field in Seward, AK
Enjoying the view of miles of snow and ice with a beautiful day hike. We even saw a bear (a small black dot to us) cooling itself on the snow.
6. Going on a 2-day canoe adventure in Resurrection Bay (Seward, AK)
The start of a 2 -day adventure in the bay complete with hiking, exploring an old army fort, berry picking, fishing, some wildlife sightings (my fav was some porpoises) and camping. I found this deal on Groupon for my family (group of 8) and we were happy with our decision!
7. Biking Resurrection Trail from Hope to Cooper Landing, AK
This two-day, 39-mile trail was challenging for my not-so-great mountain biking skills but worth it! A variety of views and great options for camping and fishing. If we planned ahead, we could have even booked a public use cabin along the trail to save some weight on camping equipment.
8. Enjoying the serenity of having an ENTIRE lake to ourselves
How does exploring waterways in a large system of lakes with only the fish and loons for company sound? This was one of our most peaceful weekend adventures at Spruce Lake, part of Swan Lake Canoe Trails.
8. Catching a monster on the famous Kenai River
I couldn’t have a post about Alaska without at least one fish picture! After a long day on the river, Honza is showing off his prize, King Salmon. This is a “small” King Salmon, but it is still pretty epic in my book!
9. Enjoying a sunny day on Lost Lake Trail
Nothing is better than a sunny day after a freezing day of rain and wind while attempting to hike and camp. The views (Resurrection Bay in one direction, mountains in all others, blooming flowers… WOW!) we had the following day made all the misery more than worth it. It also motivated us to buy some waterproof gear and warmer sleeping bags. Lost Lake was one of my favorite hikes. It was doable as a day hike; we just weren’t in any hurry!
10. Skilak Lake near Cooper Landing, AK
This giant lake had a very unique hue of blue to it. We participated in a group hike to get to this viewpoint due to high bear activity in the area.
If those pics don’t make you want to spend time in Alaska, I don’t know what will! For more inspiration, check out this post. I hope you enjoyed and thanks for tuning in!
