Alaska is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world. With its abundance of natural beauty, from towering mountains to vast glaciers, it is an ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In this article, we will explore some of the best Alaska destinations that you should add to your travel itinerary.
Glacier Bay National Park
If you are looking for a place that truly captures the essence of Alaska’s natural beauty, Glacier Bay National Park should be at the top of your list. The park is located in the south-east of Alaska and covers 3.3 million acres of land, which includes glaciers, fjords, and mountains. Visitors can witness the majesty of glaciers up close and personal, while also enjoying activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The park is also home to a diverse range of marine and land animals, such as whales, sea otters, moose, bears, and wolves.
Denali National Park
Another must-see destination in Alaska is the Denali National Park. The park is located in the central part of Alaska and covers over 6 million acres of land. The star attraction of the park is Mount Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), which is the highest peak in North America. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from hiking and camping to wildlife watching. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, moose, and caribou.
Kenai Fjords National Park
For those who love the ocean, Kenai Fjords National Park is a fantastic destination to explore. The park is located in southern Alaska and covers over 1,000 square miles of land, including the Harding Icefield, which is the source of more than 35 glaciers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, like kayaking, hiking, and fishing. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, such as humpback whales, sea otters, and seals.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is another spectacular destination in Alaska to add to your itinerary. The park is located in the southeastern part of Alaska and spans over 13 million acres of land, making it the largest national park in the United States. The park features some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Alaska, including glaciers, towering mountains, and vast wilderness areas. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou.
Tongass National Forest
If you want to explore some of Alaska’s most beautiful forests, Tongass National Forest should be on your list. The forest is located in southeastern Alaska and is the largest national forest in the United States, covering over 17 million acres of land. The forest is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including old-growth forests, salmon streams, and numerous species of wildlife, such as black bears, moose, and bald eagles. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Lake Clark National Park
Lake Clark National Park is another beautiful destination to visit in Alaska. The park is located in southwestern Alaska and covers over 4 million acres of land, including glaciers, volcanoes, and lakes. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing. The park is also home to a range of wildlife, such as brown bears, moose, and wolves.
Conclusion
Alaska is a destination like no other, with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. From glacier-filled national parks to towering mountains and vast forests, Alaska has something for every traveler. So, add these destinations to your travel itinerary and experience the wonders of Alaska for yourself.