Alaska is like one big, wild, incredibly awesome outdoor playground. Each region differs so greatly from the next that we could literally spend a whole lifetime exploring and never be able to see it all. If you love to get up close and personal with the raw, rugged last frontier - you'll want to check off every item on this bucket list, ASAP.
1. Wet a line on one of Alaska’s world-class fishing lakes and rivers.
The Kenai River, Lake Clark, Alagnak River... the list is seriously endless. Alaska has some of the most spectacular year-round fisheries and we also have the best wild, natural, sustainable salmon in the world. Tight lines, angling addicts!
2. Get the ultimate adrenaline rush on a heli-skiing adventure.
Total Heliski in Haines is known for delivering some of the most awesome heli-skiing trips in the world. This is a side of Alaska that must be experienced to be believed.
3. Ride the longest zipline in the world.
The Zip-rider in Hoonah at Icy Strait Point is like something straight out of an adventure novel. The views go on for days!
4. Explore the largest rainforest in the U.S.
17 million acres make up the Tongass National Forest in Southeast Alaska, and this lush wonderland is totally and completely magical.
5. Go island hopping.
With 2,670 named islands in the last frontier, your possibilities are endless.
6. Hike on top of a glacier.
Matanuska Glacier in off the Glenn Highway northeast of Palmer is just one option. But with 616 named glaciers in the state, you'll have plenty of options to choose from when checking this one off the ol' bucket list.
7. Dance beneath the northern lights.
Because nothing makes Alaska come alive more than the spectacular Aurora Borealis display!
8. Channel your caveman spirit in an ice cave.
For starters, the Mendenhall Ice Caves in Juneau are pretty darn phenomenal.
9. Get muddy on an awesome ATV excursion.
So many trails, so little time. Cover more ground faster on one of these awesome trips into the back-country.
10. The mountains are calling, and you must go.
Because after you see mountains in Alaska, you quickly realize that those things everywhere else in the world are merely 'hills'.
11. Camp on a secluded beach with epic mountain views.
Our coastal water may be a bit chillier than the lower 48, but boy oh boy - the peace and quiet is certainly worth it.
12. Stay up late enough to soak in a life-changing sunset.
There is just something about a 49th state sunset that words cannot fully describe. The brilliant colors, chilly night air and majestic mountains in the distance make for a spectacular experience.
13. Take a flight-seeing tour around the tallest mountain in North America.
Exploring all 20,310 feet of Denali is kind of like falling asleep and having the most mesmerizing dream of your life. In the area there are some very credible adventure guides that can help you check this awesome item off your bucket list.
14. Embrace the state sport by spending the day mushing with some cute fur-friends.
Search for a local musher in your area and fall in love with the Alaska state sport of dog mushing. Or maybe just all the super cute pups that you get to spend time snuggling.
15. Hop in a bush plane and experience raw, rugged Alaska.
Otherwise known as "real" Alaska.
16. Escape the crowds and go hiking in one of Alaska’s eight national parks.
So many millions of acres, so little time. You'd have to be crazy to ever be bored in Alaska!
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17. Beat the winter chill by getting outside and soaking in a natural hot spring.
Chena Hot Springs Resort just north of Fairbanks is probably the best known hot spring, but there are many throughout the state. You will have options to check this off your bucket list no matter which region you are in!
18. No matter where you are in the state, take time to enjoy the majestic wildlife that surrounds you.
Remember, it's their land... we just live here.
If you love the outdoors, you've got to check out these 15 incredible hikes under 5 miles that everyone in Alaska should take. Also, you'll really enjoy these 15 epic outdoorsy things that anyone in Alaska can enjoy. Be safe and have fun out there, adventure hounds!
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