Whether you first came up on a cruise, or to see Denali, or to watch bears fish for salmon, or to see the northern lights, Alaska has a way of enticing you back for more. Here's our advice to help you craft the best experience on your second time around in Alaska.
Spend More Time in Fewer Places
The first trip is like a tasting menu. A little of this, a little of that. When you come back again pick just a few destinations to dive into. Check out this sample Anchorage-based itinerary to get an idea of what all you could do while staying in one location.
Explore by Car
Now that you have a better lay of the land, take your time enjoying Alaska's scenic byways. Stop at viewpoints, visit coffee huts, swing through little villages and marvel at big landscapes. A car is also key to getting a bit off the beaten path.
Go Farther
Most first-time visitors to Alaska either take a cruise or stick to iconic sites to see along from Seward to Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali Park, and Fairbanks. On your second trip, plan to visit destinations that take a little more time to get to. Think beautiful coastal locales like Homer and Valdez, wild and remote McCarthy, and the seemingly endless tundra above the Arctic Circle.
Try Something New
Like to hike but usually go out on your own? Take a guided trek instead. Not so sure about kayaking, but really want to see coastline up close? Try out a mellow guided paddle out of Homer. Enjoy taking wildlife photos? Put that eye toward aerial photography on a glacier helicopter tour. You've made the long trip back to Alaska. Embrace the adventure while you're here!
Inspired? Let's get planning.
At Alaska Tour & Travel, we specialize in building custom trips for every timeline, personality, and budget. If you'd like to have an Alaskan plan your Alaska trip, give us a call at 800-208-0200.
Posted in: Best Things to Do