The Top 6 Reasons Why Springtime Is Actually The Best Time To Visit Alaska
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Megan McDonald
Author
Spring in Alaska should not be overlooked. Many people like to visit The Last Frontier during the summer thinking that the warmer months will herald the best weather and sightseeing opportunities. But every native knows that spring is the best time to visit! So many reasons exist for exploring during this shoulder season, and it is a must-do for every traveler. Let’s take a look at this beautiful state this time of year.
1. Warmer Weather
As the temperatures increase and winter melts away, the lovely weather begs you to play outside! It's magical to watch the trees bud and the ice melt. Outdoor activities are begun in earnest as everyone breaks out their favorite kayaks and hiking boots! Many even begin to start camping, even in the early spring.
2. Increased Daylight
Utqiagvik, AK 99723, USA
The Spring Equinox that happens on March 20 heralds 12 hours of daylight. After a long winter of darkness and cold temperatures, the late-night sunshine buoys up more than one Alaskan. The state gains daylight of at least five minutes a day (and up to nine minutes a day in Barrow, now Utqiaġvik), extending our outdoor play much later into the evening.
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3. Animals Coming Out Of Hibernation
Spring is the absolute best time for animal watching. Many of the creatures that hibernated during the cold, dark winter months are now coming out for the fresh spring sprouts and warmer temperatures. You will also see many baby animals as spring brings eggs hatching, moose calving, and the cute little bear cubs that come out of their caves in search of the first berries of the season.
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4. Gray Whale Migration
Seward, AK, USA
The most massive migration on Earth happens right here and those living in Alaska are quite lucky to have this in their own backyards. The gray whales, which overwinter in Baja, Mexico perform their annual migration in early spring. You can head out to Resurrection Bay in Seward, Alaska to witness these majestic creatures. Expect to see plenty of whales, including mothers and their calves. One very impressive sight that only happens during the springtime!
5. Aurora Borealis Or Northern Lights
Utqiagvik, AK 99723, USA
The Northern Lights shine above Bear Lake in this U.S. Air Force photo. Weather permitting, moderate displays will be visible from Utqiaġvik to as far south as Talkeetna and visible low on the horizon as far south as Bethel, Soldotna, and southeast Alaska. Read the Aurora Forecast for dates in March 2024 to see this natural phenomenon.
5. Off-Season Prices
As the state gears up for summer tourists, many of the restaurants, tours, and attractions are already opening up in early spring. As many tourists don't really start visiting until the warmer months, these places offer heavily discounted rates to those who do venture out! On top of that, many also offer discounts for resident Alaskans. Definitely something to look up before you book a tour! You can find some on the Viator website.
6. Smaller Crowds
Because springtime can still dip into below-freezing temperatures, not many travelers brave what they think is cold weather. But we know that the spring snow flurries don't last, and the snow rarely stays on the ground long. The gorgeous long spring daylight melts it up quickly, and we get to see the tulips and daffodils poking out through the snow! If you're willing to brave slightly chillier temperatures, you'll be rewarded with fewer crowds and your first pick of attractions to see!
What’s your favorite part of spring in this gorgeous state? Did we cover it in the article? Let us know in the comments below!
Check out this train-themed restaurant that will make you feel like a kid again. And while you’re on the road, reserve a romantic Vrbo with a breathtaking view.
The 12 Places You Absolutely Must Visit In Alaska This Spring
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More to Explore
Accommodations In Alaska
What are some of the best overnight accommodations in Alaska?
- Alaskan Hotel (Juneau): This oldest operating hotel in Alaska was established in 1913 and was built during the Alaska Gold Rush. Located right downtown, the renovated Victorian building receives many visitors with an interesting history of surviving prohibition and serving as a brothel twice. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and today folks can stay in one of the old-fashioned hotel rooms, grab a drink at the bar, and hobnob with the spirits that reportedly linger about.
- Coldfoot Camp (Fairbanks): If you're looking for an adventure in the great outdoors, this place is located near the Gates of the Arctic National Park and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Located at Mile 175 on the Dalton Highway, this is an oasis for hikers, rafters, and explorers. And during the winter, the view of the Northern Lights is astounding. Try your hand at dog mushing and take a scenic backcountry snowshoe tour with a local guide.
- Smiley's Cabin (Talkeetna): This cozy and modern hand-crafted log cabin sleeps up to two guests in one bedroom. And this unique structure has a sod roof. While it is a rustic-looking space, it is just steps away from downtown Talkeetna's Historic District, offering restaurants, and shopping. The vacation rental is also wheelchair accessible.