Before we get into all the nitty gritty, let's get one thing out of the way; a trip to Alaska in itself is utterly life changing. But once you make your way up to the mighty Last Frontier, you need to dive in to all the epic attractions that you've been dreaming about for your entire life. We are talking about the places that people rave about for the rest of their lifetime after visiting just once. Each and every one of these trips is filled with mind-blowing natural beauty, and we are darn near certain that you'll be itching to visit them in no time at all. Click the caption fields to learn more.
1. Alaska’s Majestic Keystone Canyon – Valdez
Alaska's grandest of all canyons is located in one of the snowiest regions in the last frontier - Valdez. Take a summertime floating trip down the river or spend the day hiking around the canyon and experiencing epic waterfall views.
2. Boat Accessible Getaway to Hidden Halibut Cove – Kachemak Bay
Head to Halibut Cove out of Alaska's 'halibut fishing capital of the world' of Homer and eat at the renowned Saltry Restaurant or time your trip to catch the Halibut Cove Live music series on the most incredible floating amphitheater that you've ever seen.
3. Scenic Drive to Hatcher Pass – Willow
Head to the Mat-Su Valley once the snow clears and spend the day hiking, biking, berry picking, gold panning and more. This outdoor playground is one of Alaska's most sought after destinations for locals and visitors alike.
4. The Quiet Fishing Town That’s Frozen In Time – Cordova
Whether you're visiting to fish the prolific salmon streams of the Copper River or you're just coming to soak in the views, this charming mountain town offers natural beauty that is simply unmatched.
5. The One Destination With The Bluest Water In Alaska – Kenai Lake
This glacier fed lake in Cooper Landing on the Kenai Peninsula is one of the most awe-inspiring sights that you'll ever witness. Get out on the water and spend the day fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, wildlife viewing or birding.
6. Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves – Juneau
It doesn't get more Alaskan than hiking inside some crystal blue/turquoise glacier caves in the middle of the largest national forest in the U.S. This experience takes a bit of a trek to accomplish, but the reward is so worth it once you arrive.
7. The Winter Wonderland Sleigh Ride Tour – Palmer
This is a seasonal delight but it's also an excellent activity to enjoy any month of the year. Load up your sweetheart or your whole family and let the beautiful horses take you out into Alaska's promise lands.
8. The Largest Rainforest In The U.S. – Tongass National Forest
Sweet, pristine southeast Alaska has a hold of our hearts! Spend the day hiking or backpacking overnight in the Tongass and you'll see exactly what we mean.
9. The Most Amazing Winter Park On Earth – Fairbanks
Ice Alaska is a perfect blend of spectacular natural beauty and world-renowned craftsmanship. This is a family friendly event that everyone needs to experience at least once in their life.
10. The Historic Train Ride That Will Lead You To Another Country – Skagway
Hop aboard this historic train ride and get ready to fill your eye-holes full of panoramic views from Alaska all the way into the Yukon.
11. The Most Easily Accessible Glacier Hike In Alaska – Kenai Fjords National Park
Exit Glacier in the town of Seward on the Kenai Peninsula is one of the most popular hikes in the Last Frontier. Just a few miles and you'll be up close and personal with one of the most epic landmasses in the world.
12. The Largest National Park In America – Wrangell St. Elias National Park
Go off the beaten path and experience the raw, rugged natural beauty that Alaska is known for. This highly underrated National Park will blow your mind.
13. Hidden Resort Retreat on Apple Island – Sitka
Reward yourself with an exclusive trip to the private Apple Island and spend your days fishing, eating gourmet cuisine or being massaged while staring out at the open water.
14. The Charming Coastal Town Where You Can Completely Unwind – Seldovia
This idyllic getaway on The Kenai, Alaska's Playground offers lovely restaurants, charming lodging options and tons of outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
15. The Most Unique Arctic Desert In The World – Kobuk Valley National Park
Go far north of the Arctic Circle and experience one of the most unique places in the world. This trip will change your life and all of your perspectives about the Last Frontier.
16. Lost Lake – Chugach National Forest
Located near Seward on the Kenai Peninsula, this 13 mile hike offers so much natural beauty that it is undoubtedly worth the trip. Make it a backpacking excursion and spend the night lakeside underneath the midnight sun.
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17. The Most Charming Ski Town In The World – Girdwood
There is so much to love about Girdwood. It's easily accessible to the largest city in Alaska (Anchorage) plus the town offers gems such as Alyeska Resort, Double Musky, Jack Sprat, The Bake Shop and so much more.
For more incredible trip ideas, check out these 16 amazing places you can go on one tank of gas in Alaska. You might also enjoy this Northern Lights road trip in Alaska that's downright magical.
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