The One Bucket List Everyone In Alaska Should Try To Accomplish

Discover the ultimate Alaska bucket list with must-do activities and experiences across the state.

There are thousands of things to do in Alaska, from zip-lining through the forest to enjoying a brew at the Alaskan Brewing Co. We understand it's hard to decide which of the awesome, and seemingly endless, attractions to tackle when you're here; so, to make it easier on you, we put together this ultimate Alaska bucket list of things you've got to do at least once while you're in Alaska.

1) Fur Rondy, Anchorage.

Watch world championship sled dog races OR the famous out house races. We don't care as long as you enjoy Fur Rondy at least ONCE while you live in Alaska. It's quite possibly the best festival ever held, and definitely one of the best things to do in Alaska.

2) Hike all over for ultimate wildlife viewing!

The more you hike, the more you'll see in Alaska. From glorious mountain ranges to bears and moose, it never gets boring in the last frontier.

3) Visit Denali National Park & Preserve

If you never make the trip to Denali (something I find hard to imagine) you'll regret it 100%. Some of Alaska's most beautiful sights are witnessed in the shadow of Denali!

4) Stay in a Forest Service Cabin.

It's one of the ultimate Alaskan experiences - trekking in and staying at one of the many Forest Service Cabins around the state. This one is on Peterson Lake.

5) Seward on the 4th of July.

So what if it takes forever for night to fall? The 4th of July Celebration in Seward is ALWAYS epic and one that you should definitely cross off your list.

6) Climb Flat Top.

Live near Anchorage? Get your butt to the top of Flat Top Mountain. Often called the "most climbed mountain in Alaska." This trail deserves the top spot on your "places to see in Alaska" list!

7) Sea kayaking!

Do this at least once in your lifetime. Whale watch or paddle up to get a closer look at looming glaciers. Sea kayaking is an absolute must.

8) Stand on a glacier.

Glaciers are hard to come by these days, so make an effort to stand on one sometime soon.

9) Ice cave exploration!

Speaking of glaciers, since you've already explored around on top of them, it's time to get under them. Go see the nearest ice cave today, you will be stunned into silence.

10) Ride the rails.

See all sorts of sights from the comfort of a train car. Enjoy a long or short trip, but at least plan one train ride while you're in the state. Alaska Railroad will help you pursue all of your adventures in Alaska! Book a ticket for anywhere along the rail lines and you won’t be disappointed.

11) Northern Lights.

You can't say you've lived in Alaska and haven't seen the Northern Lights. That's just not very Alaskan of you.

12) Moose's Tooth!

Enjoy a slice and fill your growler the next time you're in Anchorage at the Moose's Tooth Pub!

13) Summer camping!

While you're in Alaska, you've got to take the time to go camping in the summer months for a week or so. Experience the long summer days and warm temps while camped out at your favorite spot!

14) Winter camping!

Speaking of camping, you might as well go winter camping, too! Pack a bag and hike into the storm because waking up to feet of fresh new snow is a truly once in a life time experience.

15) Drive the Alaskan Highway.

Even if you only drive part of the Alaskan Highway, or all of it on your move up here, you will see some of the coolest sights along the way. You can't beat driving the Alaskan Highway! This is an important item on the Alaska bucket list.

16) Go to Tracy's King Crab Shack in Juneau.

You have to get down and dirty at Tracy's King Crab Shack in Juneau at least once while you're here.

17) Here fishy, fishy.

Here's a no brainer - if you're from Alaska, then you've got to go fishing just once. Bare minimum.

18) Slide on the snow!

Whether it's in the back country or in your backyard, you've got to spend some time in the powder when you live in Alaska.

19) Chena Hot Springs

You actually have to cross this off your bucket list twice. Once for visiting during the gorgeous summer months and a second time for visiting during the frosty, winter months. It's so worth the trips.

20) Bar hop under the Midnight Sun!

There is nothing like spending hours out with your friends, bar hoping and meeting other Alaskans like you under the Midnight Sun. Enjoy those brews outside on the back deck under the warm sun... Did we mention it's like 1 am?

Have you been to any of these places? What else would you add to this Alaska bucket list? Is there anything else truly Alaskan that should get a spot? Let us know in the comments below!

If you’re looking for a season specific list, check out 26 Activities To Add To Your Alaska Bucket List This Summer!

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