The state of Alaska is located on the northwest extremity of North America, and is one of the western U.S. states. The state borders both the Canadian province of British Columbia and the Yukon territory. If you’re wondering how to visit Alaska, you’ve come to the right place! Explore the natural beauty of this state by taking a cruise or driving. You can even ride the Alaska Railroad!
Traveling by ferry
Visiting Alaska by ferry is a great way to explore the landscape and enjoy the local culture without having to bring a car. Many local tours are available for guests without cars and many ports have bicycle rentals. In addition, many of the towns in the Inside Passage were built before automobiles became common and still retain their small, compact downtown areas.
Ferry trips are an excellent option for families, those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, and those traveling with RVs or vehicles. Those taking this alternative form of transportation may have to adhere to strict rules about quiet hours and cleanliness. However, there are hundreds of families who make camping on ferries a tradition. For this reason, you’ll want to make sure you have prior experience camping in foul weather and pack plenty of duct tape.
Ferry trips are available throughout the year. However, you’ll have to be prepared for some swells while crossing the ocean. The ferry from Bellingham to Ketchikan will travel over three sections of open water. Be aware that even during good weather, you can still expect some swell during this time. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you travel.
If you’re planning a long-term trip to Alaska, traveling by ferry is a great way to explore off-the-beaten-path areas without spending a lot of money. The Alaska Marine Highway System features ferries that are budget-friendly and offer an authentic Alaskan experience. The fleet spans three thousand miles and connects 35 ports. Its route also includes the scenic Inside Passage.
AMHS offers two types of ferries that connect major cities with smaller ports. These two types of ferries offer a more personalized experience and allow you to decide on your own itinerary. For shorter trips, you can opt for the Southeast Route, which serves the scenic communities of the Inside Passage.
Taking a car
Renting a car is a great way to get around Alaska. It allows you to make side trips, stop whenever you please, and explore areas beyond the rail belt. Plus, it allows you more freedom, especially in the shoulder season. Here are some things to keep in mind when renting a car in Alaska.
First of all, make sure your car is in good working order. Your car should have winter tires and chains. You never know when you’ll need to use them. Also, be sure your car receives regular maintenance. Having a mechanic check it before you leave will help you avoid breakdowns.
Another great reason to rent a car in Alaska is the scenic drive. Many of the roads are breathtaking and undeveloped, making them an ideal place for people who love fresh air. Even if you’re not driving, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenic views and get some exercise.
Taking a car to visit Alaska gives you the freedom to choose a route that suits your needs and your budget. You can explore many locations on Alaska’s highways and marine highways, where you can see the scenery and get up close to the wildlife. For instance, if you’re an avid hiker, you can hike to the top of a mountain to see a moose in its natural habitat. You can also get out in the water and take a boat for a daytrip to the remote parts of Alaska.
Riding the Alaska Railroad
Riding the Alaska Railroad is a fun and unique way to explore the state of Alaska. Its scenic route and large windows allow passengers to enjoy the scenery. During the summer, the train features student guides who provide informative commentary and point out wildlife. Riding the train with a guide allows you to enjoy the scenic views and the history of the railroad.
The train travels 350 miles from Anchorage to Fairbanks. The train will make several stops along the way, including a stop in Talkeetna. You will also see sled dogs and a bearded baggageman, Bob Pinder. While waiting for your boarding call, conductor Bob Shake will be busy loading and unloading mail and sled dogs. You can buy a one-way ticket for twenty dollars from a counter near the train’s boarding station.
The Alaska Railroad runs between Seward and Fairbanks, passing through Anchorage, Whittier, and Talkeetna. It also passes through Denali National Park. The railroad has three train routes to suit your needs. The flagship train, the Denali Star, offers GoldStar service. On the journey, you will experience the stunning scenery of the Chugach Mountains, Hurricane Gulch, and Broad Pass. At Broad Pass, you will get panoramic views of the Denali mountain, which rises above the Susitna River.
Riding the Alaska Railroad offers a unique way to explore Alaska. From Fairbanks to Seward, you’ll travel for 470 miles on a rail journey that reveals the scenic beauty of the state. Popular routes include the Denali Star between Fairbanks and Anchorage, and the Coastal Classic between Seward and Anchorage. In addition, the Glacier Discovery makes a round trip from Anchorage to Whittier and Grandview.
Visiting national parks
The state of Alaska is the western U.S. and is located on the far northwest tip of North America. It borders British Columbia and the Yukon territory. The state has some of the most beautiful landscapes in North America, and is a great place for a family vacation. It has a long, rich history and is home to a variety of national parks and other natural areas.
Visitors should also be aware that the climate is changing and is already affecting the use of national parks. The number of visitors to national parks is likely to change, and the seasons may be more intense. This means that park facilities may need to be updated more often, and they may see an increase in the number of people who visit.
Visiting national parks in Alaska is a wonderful way to see the state’s natural beauty. There are a variety of activities available for visitors. The Katmai region, for example, is an ideal place to hike or fly-fish. The park also offers camping and boating. Visiting in the summer will be a great way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the state.
Alaska has two dozen national parks overseen by the National Park Service. If you’re planning to visit one of these parks, it’s important to plan ahead. You’ll want to plan your trip carefully, so that you don’t cause damage to the land or harm to the animals. Be sure to check out the many online resources to make sure you’ll have a great time in this beautiful state.
Glacier Bay National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Alaska. It is often visited by cruise ships, which arrive here daily from May to September. In the summer, however, you can only reach it by plane or boat, and the only way to get here is by plane or boat. The majority of tours depart from Juneau, although you can also get in and out of the park by air from Gustavus.