The 6 Most Colorful Places You Can Find in Alaska

Alaska is known for its breathtaking beauty. Everywhere you look in the Last Frontier, you’ll be inspired and awestruck. From its massive glaciers and gorgeous coastline to its delightful architecture and stunning night skies, Alaska’s beauty is something you don’t forget. With such vast and varied landscapes and scenery, there is so much to see—so much color to experience. The following are not only six of my favorite views in the Last Frontier, but also the most colorful places in Alaska. I believe each one deserves a spot on your bucket list. 

1. Mendenhall Glacier

There are many glaciers I could add to this list, but Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most stunning—and one of the most accessible. Here, you can see bright blue ice caves, thick green trees, rugged grey rock walls, and snow-capped mountain peaks in the distance. Hike, kayak, or just drive up to the views. This is one Alaska destination you don’t want to skip over.

2. Fairbanks

There are so many things to love about Fairbanks, but for a splash of color, plan a visit to watch the Northern Lights dance across the night sky. Fairbanks is one of the best places in Alaska to admire the aurora borealis, with peak viewing season stretching from early fall through spring. You can always take a guided tour to prime viewing spots or consider booking an Airbnb outside of town. There’s something delightful about snuggling up with your pajamas on, watching the colorful nighttime performance above you.

3. Brooks Range 

There are some truly gorgeous mountain ranges in Alaska, but one of the most colorful is the Brooks Range. This impressive range stretches 700 miles and is believed to be more than 126 million years old. There are some communities scattered throughout the range, but the majority is untouched wilderness. Hike, backpack, fish—this is an outdoor lover's paradise. And while there are views all year that will impress you, fall is when this mountain range truly comes alive in color. The vibrant fall foliage is striking—it's absolutely stunning.  

4. Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a popular tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why. This gorgeous community, nestled within the Inside Passage, has a rich history, numerous claims to fame, and natural beauty on all sides. This may be one of the most colorful communities in Alaska, as the exteriors of its many shops and restaurants feature bright colors, and as you walk around, you'll discover totem poles of all sizes and colors. Fun fact: Ketchikan is home to the largest collection of standing totem poles in the world.

5. Hatcher Pass 

Hatcher Pass is one destination that’s at the top of my bucket list. This incredible area, situated in the Talkeetna Mountains, is home to gold mine ruins from the 1930s, countless outdoor activities, and breathtaking views. Every season is mesmerizing in this area, but if color is what you are after, there’s something extraordinary about the summer when Hatcher Pass becomes a sea of vibrant wildflowers or in the fall when autumn’s palette covers the trees and grasses. 

6. Homer Spit

Homer Spit is a bucket list destination for many people, and rightfully so. This area is known for its gorgeous mountains, glaciers, and vast views. Here, the colors stand out along the coast, the beaches, and the forest, but our favorite colorful view? The skies. Both the sunrises and the sunsets on the Homer Spit are inspiring, vibrant, and bold. You’ll want the colorful displays to last as long as possible and time to stand still. 

It’s easy to find colorful places in Alaska—this is one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. after all. The above destinations are just six of my favorite vibrant spots in the Last Frontier. Let me know which places you love by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear from you. 

And if you are feeling inspired, make sure to plan your own Alaska adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.