Beginner's Guide to Alaska

Alaska State Symbols

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• State Bird: Willow ptarmigan
• State Fish: King salmon
• State Land Mammal: Moose
• State Marine Mammal: Bowhead whale
• State Tree: Sitka spruce
• State Flower: Forget-me-not
• State Gem: Jade
• State Mineral: Gold
• State Sport: Dog sled racing
• State Song: Alaska’s Flag, words by Marie Drake, music by Elinor Dusenbury.

Present Day Alaska

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Alaska is the westernmost extension of the North American Continent. Its east to west span covers 2,000 miles, and from north to south it covers 1,100 miles. The State’s coastline is 33,000 miles in length. In addition to the Aleutian Islands, hundreds of other islands, mostly undeveloped, are found along the northern coast of the Gulf of Alaska, the Alaska Peninsula, and the Bering Sea Coast.
Alaska contains 10 national parks, four national monuments, three national preserves, two dozen national wild rivers, 16 national wildlife refuges, and the Chugach and Tongass National Forests.

Attractions
• Southcentral Alaska: Southcentral Alaska is where the majority of the state’s population calls home and includes the largest city, Anchorage. It spans from Canada to the western shore of Cook Inlet and from the Alaska Range to the Gulf of Alaska. It is a very rugged area, composed of oil fields, farmlands, forests, glaciers, and mountains. Anchorage has a population of over 260,000, and is the state’s cultural, transportation, and medical center. Not only is Anchorage a thriving metropolis, but it also contains lakes and streams that brim with wildlife. Portage Lake and its icebergs, Prince William Sound, a gorgeous area of fjords, glaciers and islands, and the Kenai Peninsula are some of the main attractions in this region of the state. This region also includes the following state and national parks, refuges, and national forests: Kenai Fjords National Park, near Seward; Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, near Valdez, the country’s largest national park; Kenai National Wildlife Refuge; Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge; Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge; Chugach National Forest; and the Chugach and Kachemak Bay state parks.
• Southeastern Alaska: In the areas west of Juneau, glaciers are the big attraction. Whales feed in the area for several months each year. This region also contains the Tongass National Forest, America's northernmost rain forest. There are two parts of the forest that are preserved as national monuments, the Misty Fjords and Admiralty Island. The southeast region of the state also contains four national parks, Glacier Bay and Wrangell-St. Elias (part of which is also located in the southwestern region of the state), Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and Sitka National Historical Park.
• Northern Alaska: The Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve is located in Northern Alaska west of the Dalton Highway. Also in this region is the Kobuk Valley National Park. Most destinations in this region of the state are reached only by determined hikers and airplanes.
• Western Alaska: Katmai National Park and Preserve, on the west side of Cook Inlet is a vacation destination located in this region. Thousands of people each summer visit the park's volcanic valley of 10,000 smokes and to watch grizzly bears grasp salmon out of the Brooks River. Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, on the west side of Cook Inlet in Western Alaska, contains jagged mountains, excellent fishing, and plentiful wildlife, everywhere one looks.

Climate

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Alaska’s climate is incredibly varied. Alaska contains such geographical features as the cold desert tundra in the Arctic, geothermal hot springs, glaciers, fertile river valleys, mountains, forests and the well known Ring of Fire Volcanoes in the Aleutian Islands. The different geographical features throughout Alaska have a significant effect on its climate. In coastal areas summer heating produces average high temperatures in the upper 70’s, Fahrenheit with extreme readings in the 90’s, Fahrenheit. In winter the lack of sunshine leads to lower temperatures, such as minus 50’s, Fahrenheit, and occasionally colder for two or three weeks at a time. Average winter lows in the interior of the state are 20 to 30 degrees below zero, Fahrenheit. Historic temperatures have ranged from 100 degrees Fahrenheit to 80 degrees below zero, Fahrenheit. Precipitation comes in the form of rain in the summer months and snow in the winter months. Accumulations of hundreds of inches of snow in winter are common. Summer sunlight lasts around 20 hours at the June solstice, and at the winter solstice, daylight lasts for around 5 hours.

Alaska Accommodations Overview

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Alaska draws visitors from around the world to see its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife. Vacationers can choose from many kinds of vacations. Many different types of lodging are available to visitors within Alaska. The selection of accommodations includes bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, hotels, motels, lodges, condos, resorts, inns, fishing resorts, cabins, and cottages.

Many national chain commercial hotels, such as Marriott, Holiday Inn, Ramada, Westmark, Best Western and Comfort are available in a good number of the larger towns in the state. Most of these hotels offer a variety of guest services such as fitness centers, swimming pools, laundry and valet services, banquet rooms and exhibit halls. Prices range from around $60 to $120 but do not include corporate, government, military, AAA, AARP, or senior discounts that could apply. Smaller towns throughout the state feature locally owned hotels and motels as well. Free or low-cost bus service is often provided to the airport or train station by commercial hotels and motels, and taxi service is also available.

Lodges, resorts and cabins are very popular throughout Alaska, due to the attraction of fishing, hunting, skiing, and other outdoor activities in more remote areas of the state. Cabins and lodges allow vacationers to stay in these more remote locations without the busyness and distraction of city life. Many cities and towns have a great selection of relaxing lodges that have amenities such as comfortable rooms, private baths, and access to numerous outdoor activities such as fishing, skiing, wildlife viewing and more. Rates for these accommodations can be quite expensive due to the fact that most are package deals; often including meals, guided tours for fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing or hiking, and consecutive night’s stays.

Camping in Alaska is perhaps one of the best ways to experience the state’s stunning scenery. It can be as easy as pulling off the side of the road and stopping in at one of the state’s many campgrounds along the Alaska highway system. Most of Alaska’s state and national parks allow public camping as well. Nightly camping fees are $10-$15 in state parks and $10-$20 in national parks. Additional fees exist for tour buses and guides. Be prepared before camping in Alaska, have the necessary skills and equipment for a safe and fun trip. File a trip plan, plan for weather changes, and beware of wildlife.

Accommodations by Region

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• Interior Alaska: Travelers visiting Denali National Park can stay at the Denali Backcountry Lodge, located deep within the park. Choose from one of 38 cabins, all of which have private baths. Amenities include a full-service restaurant, lounge, two double beds, and tour transportation to and from the Denali Park entrance. Daily activities include naturalist-led programs, guided hikes and walks, mountain biking, optional flight seeing and gold panning. Rates are around $500 per night and include all meals and activities. For travelers on a tighter budget, there is the Denali Bluffs Hotel, located one mile north of the park. Amenities include 112 Alaskan themed rooms, large stone fireplace, full private bath, satellite TV, telephone, coffee maker, refrigerator, gift shop, coin operated guest laundry, and shuttle service. Located in the hotel is the Mountaineer Café, where hikers can pick up box lunches for their outings. Rates range from $160 to $220. In Fairbanks, visitors can stay at the very reasonable Fairbanks Princess Lodge which overlooks the Chena River. Amenities include two double beds, private bath, cable TV, telephone, exercise facility, steam rooms, coin operated guest laundry, and airport shuttle. Rates are from $99 to $199 for one guest per night.
• Southwestern Alaska: On Kodiak Island, stay at one of the numerous bed and breakfasts or hunting lodges. The Eider House B&B has comfortable rooms with grand views with rates around $120 per night. In the Aleutian Range, stop by and visit Katmai National Park. This park is famous for its brown bears as well as the Valley of 10,000 Smokes which was created after a volcano eruption in 1912. Campers can camp just about anywhere in the park except within five miles of Brooks Camp, and they are expected to practice bear safety. Lodging is also available at the Brooks Lodge. Amenities include spacious rooms, restaurant, lake views, and abundant wildlife. Prices range from $826 for a double occupancy and include round trip air transportation between Anchorage and Brooks, all park fees, taxes and lodging. Transportation in Western Alaska is often by air due to the lack of roads between towns.
• Southcentral Alaska: Southcentral Alaska's accommodations vary greatly from bed and breakfasts to upscale hotels in downtown Anchorage and Girdwood. There are also numerous hostels throughout the city and resorts and lodges are available in the more remote areas of this region. There are also many locally owned hotels and motels throughout the southcentral region. Several of the hotels and motels in Anchorage are located in downtown Anchorage and near the Anchorage International Airport. The Hotel Captain Cook is a popular place to stay in Anchorage. This luxurious hotel has 540 rooms and is located in downtown Anchorage. Amenities include childcare, laundry services, telephone, cable television, coffee shop, sauna, indoor and outdoor pools, and health club, among others. Rates begin at $105 per night and go up to more than $170 per night. A half-hour's drive south of Anchorage is Girdwood. The most luxurious stay in Girdwood is at the Alyeska Prince Resort, a year-round ski resort that handles conventions and has a tram that takes sightseers high up Mount Alyeska. At the top, there's a magnificent view of Turnagain Arm and the ski trails that plunge down the mountain to nearly sea level. Rates range from $150 to $250 per night. The town also has bed and breakfasts such as the quaint Gingerbread House which offers luxurious accommodations such as a fireplace, private bath, and gourmet breakfast. Rates range from $125 to $250 for a double occupancy room. On the Kenai Peninsula, many motels, B&B’s and lodges are geared toward visitors that are interested in fishing and the outdoors. Kenai Landing is a resort community that has a lot to offer the traveler. Arts and entertainment thrive within its historic waterfront, which features a restaurant, theater, boat launch, outdoor pavilion, and an indoor warehouse market with many shops showcasing local arts, crafts, and clothing, in addition to its lodging. Also located at the resort are numerous nature trails, meeting facilities and outdoor activities. Rates range from $60 to $150 in the winter to $90 to $200 in the summer. Daniel’s Lake Lodge Bed and Breakfast, located 21 miles north of Kenai, is a quaint, private place for travelers to stay that features wildlife viewing and great fishing opportunities. Accommodations include a hot tub, fully stocked kitchen, barbeques, and boat rentals. Rates average $125 per night.
• Southeastern Alaska: National hotel and motel chains, world-class hotels, remote lodges and Bed & Breakfasts can all be found in and around Alaska’s capital city, Juneau. At the Pearson Pond Luxury Hotel guests can enjoy ice skating, nature preserves and hiking trails, animal watching, live entertainment and amenities including a fireplace, kitchenette, guest laundry services and many others. Rates are around $200 per night. Also in Juneau is the Silverbow Inn. Prices start at $120 and amenities include a health club, restaurant, meeting and banquet facilities, and cable television. Sitka, Alaska’s first capital, is situated on an island in the state’s panhandle and features a sleeping volcano and opportunities for whale-viewing and bird-watching. Visitors can stay at one of the numerous parks located on the island, at the United Methodist Youth Hostel, or even at the privately owned Rockwell Lighthouse.

Due to the remoteness of many of the state’s towns, availability may be limited. Also, be sure to check seasonal rate differences and closings and other details regarding your stay. No matter which region of the state you choose to visit, there is a wide array of accommodations available. From pitching a tent in the backcountry to staying at a luxury ski resort, Alaska has something for everyone.

Alaska's Restaurants and Activities Overview

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Not only is Alaska well known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures, but it is also very well known, around the world, for its incredible seafood. No matter what town or city you find yourself in, great food and fun is sure to find you.

Restaurants

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Dining in Alaska is as varied as the landscape. Restaurants of every type can be found in most of the state’s cities, making it easy for travelers to find what they are looking for.

• Western Alaska: In Kodiak, visit the Eagle’s Nest Restaurant, which is known for its pasta, seafood, and steaks. Prices range from $12 to $20 and dress is casual. Also in Kodiak is the 2nd Floor. This eatery is popular for its Japanese and American food, prices range from $20 to $30, and dress is casual.
• Kenai Peninsula: Paradiso's Restaurant offers Italian, Greek and Mexican fare for its patrons and prices are around $12 to $20 per person. Also in Kenai are the Old Town Village or Louie's Steak and Seafood, both of which serve American cuisine and seafood.
• Interior Alaska: Many restaurants including most national chains are available for diners in and around Fairbanks. Diners can also choose from one of three restaurants along the Chena River; Pike's Landing, Chena's Fine Dining & Deck at the River's Edge Resort, and the Chena Pump House. Downtown Fairbanks has several restaurants, among them Gambardella's Italian Café and the Pizza Bella restaurant. Average prices for these restaurants range from $8 to $10 for lunch and $20 to $30 for dinner. Dress is casual.
• Southcentral Alaska: In Anchorage, dine at Simon and Seaforts Saloon and Grill where they serve up American cuisine, with their specialty being seafood. Average cost is between $20 and $30, dress is casual. Also in Anchorage are the popular upscale eateries Club Paris and Marx Brothers Café both which have average ticket prices of $40 or more. Or visit the Villa Nova Restaurant which serves a mixture of European, Italian and Greek cuisine, with ticket prices starting at around $12.
• Southeastern Alaska: In Juneau, diners can choose from Tabby's Restaurant, Grubstake Restaurant, Rick's Café, Fiddlehead Restaurant, or the Breakwater Inn. Cuisines are mostly American or seafood and prices range from $12 to around $20 per person.

Activities in Alaska

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Alaska is known as the Last Frontier. It covers 570,373 square miles of land in addition to 45,000 square miles of water. It is the largest state in the country. Being 2.3 times the size of Texas, it covers 20 percent of the total United States area. Alaska contains many natural wonders including Mount McKinley, North America’s tallest mountain. It is found in the Alaska Range in Denali National Park and is 20,320 feet high. Another natural wonder is the aurora borealis, or the northern lights. These can best be seen in the winter months at night. These and many other distinctive features make Alaska perfect for a vacation. Although Alaska is mostly known for its fishing and wildlife viewing, travelers can take part in countless other activities, ranging from kayaking to hiking and glacier viewing to dog sledding. With unlimited opportunities to choose from, Alaska is the vacation destination for anyone wanting to get a taste of the outdoors as only the Last Frontier can offer.

• Wildlife Viewing: Alaska is a very exceptional state and one of the things that make it so unique is its abundance of wildlife, many species of which are not found anywhere is the rest of the United States. Some of these are species that thrive in Alaska, but are actually endangered in the lower 48 states, such as bald eagles. Visitors to Alaska can view moose and dall sheep along the Denali Park Road in the state’s interior or see humpback, beluga or orca whales from an excursion boat off of the coast. Other wildlife that make their home in Alaska include bears (brown/grizzly, black and polar bears), eagles (bald, golden and Steller sea eagles), caribou, wolves, sea otters, musk oxen, puffins, loons and ptarmigan. Whether or not bear watching or bird watching is your main reason to visit the state, wildlife viewing will more than likely be a part of your stay.
• Fishing: Fishing in Alaska is like a dream come true for anglers. Alaska’s streams, lakes, and seas are home to 21 different species of sport fish. These include halibut, rainbow trout, arctic grayling, and five types of wild Pacific salmon; king, silver, red, pink, and chum. Fishing is available all across the state of Alaska, from the southernmost tip to the Arctic streams of the north and west. Most fishing in the Anchorage area of south-central Alaska and most parts of the Interior near Fairbanks are accessible by road. Boats, air taxis and charter services provide access to fishing locations that are more remote.
• Kayaking: Kayaking allows the vacationer to experience Alaska from a very distinctive point of view, with the opportunity to see ocean life and wildlife up close in their natural habitats. Most coastal cities offer an array of kayaking opportunities including guided trips.
• Camping: Camping in Alaska is another way to experience the natural beauty of the state. Many campsites are available throughout the state of Alaska, especially near the national and state parks and in many places, such as the Tongass and Chugach National Forests. Most cities and towns have nearby campsites as well. Amenities include showers, stores, and electricity hook-ups.
• Dogsled Rides: Legendary mushers and sled dogs are the driving force behind the popularity of these rides. Visitors can get a taste of what it takes to make your way across glaciers and Alaska’s bush country. Glacier dog-sled tours are available in the summer at Juneau, Skagway, and Seward. In the winter months, expeditions are offered at lodges in the Susitna River Valley, north of Anchorage, and around Denali National Park and the Alaska Range.
• Cruising: Cruises along Alaska’s magnificent coast draws visitors from around the world. Travelers are joined onboard magnificent ships by experts on wildlife and nature and together they observe some of the state’s most spectacular attractions such as glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. On board, vacationers can enjoy many amenities including restaurants, casinos, lounges, comfortable cabins, and more. Due to the type of adventure, these expeditions can cost as much as $1000 per day.
• Hunting: Alaska is well known for its large game throughout the world, making it a popular destination for hunters. The state requires hunters to have licenses, as well as guides for out of state visitors, and has many strict regulations in place to protect the game. Some of the species that are hunted in the state include bison, black bears, black-tailed deer, brown bears, grizzly bears, caribou, dall sheep, ducks, elk, geese, moose, mountain goats, musk oxen, wolf, and wolverine.
• Hiking: The numerous natural wonders in Alaska make it ideal for hikers and backpackers. Choose from ancient glaciers, rugged mountains, or nature trails. Alaska contains trail systems for people of all abilities, from disabled accessible nature paths, to guide hikes along maintained trails, to backcountry hikes that are more strenuous. There are several trails for hikers of all skill levels.

From dining at an upscale restaurant in one of the state’s coastal cities, to viewing whales on the Prince William Sound, Alaska has something to offer everyone that takes the time to journey there. Numerous opportunities exist for all vacationers that visit the Last Frontier. Once you do, you are sure to return.

Sources

www.alaska.com

www.alaskatravel.com

www.dinesite.com

Alaska Vacations - One Week Overview

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A week in the Last Frontier is enough to make a vacationer want to come back again and again. With its breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, numerous attractions and unique style, Alaska is a spectacular place to visit. Before setting out, be prepared. Plan to fly, and make airline reservations early. Many of the state’s attractions are not accessible by public transportation, and most locations are only accessible by plane. Research your stay through internet sites and guide books. Check weather predictions and pack appropriate clothing. Make hotel, campsite, or lodge reservations in advance and be certain to get good directions to and from your destinations.

For an unforgettable week-long vacation, plan on spending it on an Alaskan cruise. This very popular type of vacation offers tourists a view of some of the state’s most amazing natural wonders and attractions, including massive glaciers, abundant wildlife, beautiful scenery, as well as allowing you to take part in activities on board the cruise ship. There is sure to be something for everyone. Alaska cruises represent a great value, most combine your transportation, meals, entertainment and sightseeing expenses into one reasonable fare. One of the most well-liked cruises available is a Gulf of Alaska cruise offered by Princess Cruises. These week-long cruises travel between Anchorage and Vancouver, British Columbia, with you choice of a north bound or south bound itinerary. Highlights of the Princess Cruise include Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord in Prince William Sound, and visits to interesting port towns like Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan. Shore outings are available in each port. These fabulous ships are often called "floating cities", with features like restaurants, lounges, Broadway style entertainment, casinos, fitness centers, cinemas, libraries, and more. Ship amenities aboard the Princess line include: an art gallery and fine art auctions, beauty salon and barber shop, boutiques, business center with internet access, casino, children's and teens' programs, day spa, drug store, educational programs, fitness center, golf simulator, laundry services, library, movie theatre, nightclub, personal choice dining, restaurants and lounges, swimming pools and whirlpools, tour office, 24-hour room service, and all cabins feature telephone, color TV, refrigerator, clock radio and safe-deposit box.

Example Itinerary

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Day One: Begin your vacation by exploring the city of Vancouver. Vancouver is a stunning city surrounded by snow-capped mountains and several islands. While you are there, be sure to visit other points of interest such as Kitsilano, a beach-side neighborhood on the south shore of English Bay, or Vancouver's Granville Island, well known for its public market and galleries. Vancouver’s location offers a wide selection of outdoor recreation opportunities including beaches, forests, and mountains, making it even more attractive to visitors. Choose from many outdoor activities, such as walking or cycling in one of the city’s many parks or swimming at one of 11 beaches that are open from late May to early September. Before the day is through, board the cruise ship, unpack, and settle in for a relaxing evening.

Day Two: Cruise along the Inside Passage. On board naturalists will discuss the plentiful, native, marine life surrounding you along the Gulf Coast. Watch for whales, seals, otters, porpoises, and others as you explore. Enjoy lunch and dinner at one of the ships many restaurants and take in a show or two before hitting the onboard casinos.

Day Three: Spend the morning touring the first port of call, Ketchikan. Ketchikan is known as Alaska's Native Cultural Center and Sport fishing capital. Ketchikan is the fourth largest city in Alaska, and provides access for travelers headed to Prince of Wales Island, Metlakatla, Hyder, Wrangell, Petersburg and the spectacular Misty Fjords National Monument. Native art and culture abound in Ketchikan due to the large population of Native Alaskans, represented by three indigenous tribes: the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. Ketchikan has the largest collection of totem poles in the world, and has been recognized as one of the top 100 arts communities in America. After re-boarding the ship, spend the evening enjoying some of the on board amenities, such as the day spa, cinema, or swimming pools.

Day Four: After breakfast on board, explore beautiful Juneau. Built on a relatively narrow shelf between the towering Mt. Juneau and the Gastineau Channel, Juneau is the Inside Passage's largest city, Alaska's state capital and a great place to view glaciers. Mendenhall Glacier is only 13 miles from downtown Juneau and is one of 38 glaciers extending from the Juneau ice field. At its widest point, Mendenhall glacier is more than one and a half miles wide, with ice ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet deep. The glacier stretches 12 miles back up the valley to its starting point in the ice field. Juneau Icefield, a spectacular expanse of mountains and glaciations, is the source of all the glaciers in the area, including Mendenhall, Taku, Eagle, Herbert and 38 other glaciers within a 1,500 square mile radius.

Day Five: Enjoy the quaint town of Skagway, which is rich in Gold Rush history. Skagway is home to the origin of the Chilkoot and White Pass trails, Gold Rush Cemetery, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, Trail of '98 Museum, White Pass and Yukon Route narrow-gauge railroad and the Skagway Historic District. The Historic District is known as the heart of downtown Skagway. Walking tours and interpretive programs of the historic area are available at the visitor center. The district and other local attractions are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Day Six: Today you will be cruising around the edges of the 3.3 million acre Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Just 200 years ago, the area was covered with ice. The park is part of 24 million acre block (37,500 square miles) of protected land, a World Heritage Site, that includes Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (the nation's largest) and Canada's Tatsenshini-Alsek Park and Canada's Kluane National Park. Glacier Bay National Park, Wilderness and Preserve sits at the northern end of the Alaska Panhandle. Some of the park’s most incredible attractions include glaciers, orcas, bears, eagles, sea lions, seals, sea otters, millions of birds. Kayaking and river rafting are some of the parks most popular activities.

Day Seven: Today, you'll travel around the spectacular Prince William Sound, situated at the top of the Gulf of Alaska. Deep within the Sound lies the beautiful College Fjord, home of 16 glaciers named for the Ivy League colleges that sponsored the Harriman Expedition in 1899. After a day spent on the decks, have some fun in the ship’s interior. Enjoy your last evening onboard at one of the Broadway style shows or in the nightclub.

Day Eight: This morning, you'll disembark the ship in the quaint seaside town of Whittier, 60 miles south of Anchorage. There are a number of restaurants and shops along the Whittier waterfront for visitors to enjoy before heading on to Anchorage. Before catching your flight home, take some time to get acquainted with Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city. Anchorage is a modern city in a beautiful setting. It is positioned between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet, and within sight of Mount McKinley, the continent's tallest peak. Attractions include the start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, abundant and nature in its purest form, from the mountains to the coast. Check out the shops, museums and cultural centers, and don't miss the salmon fishing downtown.

With all that Alaska has to offer, there is more than enough to make it a memorable vacation destination. A cruise around its coasts is a great way to see some of its most magnificent scenery and attractions. The memories will keep you and your family looking forward to coming back.

Sources

www.alaska.com
www.alaskatravel.com
www.travelalaska.com