Melissa Trinkl's Insider's Guide to Alaska

Alaska is where nature still feels raw and untamed — in the best possible way. Towering mountains, massive glaciers, and roaming wildlife around every bend make it feel like another world, yet it's surprisingly easy to explore. Whether by cruise, train, or guided tour, the experiences are unforgettable.

This is a destination that works for all kinds of travelers. Multi-gen families bond over whale watching excursions and junior ranger programs, while thrill-seekers chase backcountry adventures or helicopter to remote glaciers. The pace here respects your personal travel style.

And there's more here than just the views — Alaska has a strong cultural heart. You'll find Indigenous heritage centers, historic gold rush towns, and welcoming communities proud to share their stories.

I've put together everything you need to know to plan this trip right. Let's get into it.

Best time to visit: Alaska shines from May to September, when the days are long, the weather is mild, and wildlife is easy to spot. July and August are the busiest months, but May, June, and early September offer fewer crowds with equally great conditions. Want to see the northern lights? Head to Fairbanks between November and April.

Ideal length of stay: 7–10 days or more gives you the full Alaskan experience at a relaxed pace. If your itinerary allows, bookend your trip with a stop in Seattle or Vancouver depending on your port of choice.

Getting there: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is the main hub, with direct flights from New York, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles. If you're cruising, departure points include Seattle (SEA) and Vancouver (YVR). Note: if your cruise departs from Vancouver, you'll need a passport — double-check those requirements early.

A few practical notes:

• Popular hotels, cruises, and tours book up fast. Planning at least a year out is strongly recommended — 2026 bookings are already open.
• If you're hiking in bear country (which is most of Alaska), carry bear spray. It's a necessity, not a suggestion.
• Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially if your itinerary includes remote areas or regional flights on small planes.
• If you plan to fish, get your license in advance — it's easier and usually cheaper than buying on arrival.
• Tread lightly. Alaska takes its natural beauty seriously, and staying eco-conscious isn't just appreciated — it's expected.

Alaska's lodging options range from remote eco-lodges to full-service mountain resorts. Here's what I recommend across different travel styles:

Stillpoint Lodge — This peaceful, all-inclusive eco-lodge sits across the bay from Homer and offers a quiet escape into nature. Guests stay in cozy private cabins, enjoy chef-prepared meals, and can spend their days kayaking, fishing, or exploring nearby glaciers and national parks. Wellness is a big focus here too, with yoga, massage, and forest trails right on site. Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Tutka Bay Lodge – Within The Wild — A remote, family-run lodge at the edge of Kachemak Bay with an intimate, off-the-grid experience. With just a few cabins, the vibe is personal and peaceful — perfect for diving into Alaska's coastal wilderness without giving up comfort. Days can include kayaking, bear viewing, or even foraging with the chef. Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Alyeska Resort — Set in the mountain town of Girdwood, roughly an hour from Anchorage, this full-service resort is great for travelers who want easy access to adventure with a touch of upscale polish. It's a year-round spot — great for skiing in winter or hiking and glacier tours in summer. Guests love the spacious rooms, saltwater pool, and mountaintop dining.

Sheldon Chalet – Matanuska-Susitna — Set on a remote glacier deep in Denali's backcountry, this five-room chalet is one of Alaska's most exclusive stays. It's equal parts adventure and luxury, offering front-row views of Denali, private glacier treks, and helicopter-accessed excursions. Despite the wild setting, the experience is fully hosted and beautifully curated.

The Hotel Captain Cook — This downtown Anchorage hotel offers a comfortable, classic experience with great views of the mountains, inlet, and city skyline. Locally owned, it features multiple dining spots, a full athletic club, and an old-school vibe — all within walking distance of shops, trails, and museums.

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge — Set on a ridge just outside of town with stunning views of Denali and the Alaska Range. Think stone fireplaces, viewing decks, and local dining options — that cozy log cabin feel with just the right amount of polish.

Cruising is one of the most comfortable and scenic ways to explore Alaska's vast coastline and remote towns. With cruise-only or full cruise-tour options available, you'll glide past glaciers and rugged wilderness with the option to add inland adventures to places like Denali. Here's how the major lines stack up:

Holland America Line — A great choice for travelers seeking a classic, relaxed exploration of Alaska. Their Land+Sea Journeys combine coastal cruising with inland stays at properties like The Hotel Captain Cook or Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge. Onboard, expect spacious ships, Glacier Bay access, and enriching extras like talks from Park Rangers. Fora Perks: up to $100 onboard credit, complimentary Music of Denali dinner theatre if doing a land tour.

Princess Cruises — A solid go-to for couples, families, and first-time Alaska cruisers. From cruise-only routes to full cruise tours that include stays near Denali or Fairbanks, it's easy to mix coast and backcountry. Fora Perks: up to $100 onboard credit.

Royal Caribbean — A great pick for travelers who want big adventure and bold amenities. Think sky-high glacier views from the North Star or chilling in the panoramic Two70 lounge between ports. Ideal for families, groups, or anyone who wants a modern, high-energy spin on the classic Alaska cruise. Fora Perks: complimentary specialty dining for 2 and a spa treatment for 1.

Norwegian Cruise Line — For travelers who like to keep things flexible and fun. With freestyle dining, lively entertainment, and plenty of big-ship perks, it's a relaxed way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Fora Perks: up to $300 onboard credit.

National Geographic x Lindblad — For a more immersive and educational take on Alaska. These small-ship expeditions focus on wildlife, photography, and hands-on exploration — ideal for curious travelers who want to get closer to nature with guidance from experts. Fora Perks: up to $200 onboard credit.

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) — Perfect for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and photographers. These small expedition ships get you closer to glaciers, remote islands, and off-the-beaten-path towns like Wrangell and Petersburg. With onboard naturalists, guided hikes, and kayak trips, it's all about education and exploration. Fora Perks: up to $100 onboard credit.

Silversea — An upscale excursion in the wilds of Alaska, with all-suite accommodations, butler service, and memorable dining experiences. These intimate voyages pair indulgence with enriching shore activities led by knowledgeable local guides.

Regent Seven Seas — A fully all-inclusive way to cruise Alaska, with spacious suites, gourmet dining, and a long list of included shore excursions. Everything is taken care of — from glacier adventures to evening cocktails.

Viking — For adults who want a quieter, more refined experience. Expect included excursions, thoughtful enrichment, and all-veranda staterooms for those glacier views, without the crowds.

Not sure which line is the right fit for your travel style? I can help you figure that out.

Long before it became the 49th US state in 1959, Alaska was home to Indigenous peoples — including the Tlingit, Haida, Iñupiat, and Yup'ik — whose traditions, spiritual beliefs, and storytelling still shape local life today. You'll also find echoes of the Gold Rush era (1897–1907), especially in towns like Skagway, where saloons and old wooden storefronts bring the wild frontier spirit to life.

Cultural rituals are woven into everyday life, from Native dance performances to totem carving in the Southeast to blanket tosses and whaling festivals in the Arctic. Sacred landmarks like Totem Bight State Park in Ketchikan and the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage offer a window into the region's rich heritage.

Cultural events worth planning around:

• World Ice Art Championships – Fairbanks (late February to March): One of the largest ice sculpting competitions in the world. Go at night to see the sculptures glow.
• Midnight Sun Festival – Fairbanks (weekend closest to June 21): Celebrate the endless summer solstice sunlight with outdoor music, street food, and events lasting well into the early morning.
• Golden Days Festival – Fairbanks (July): Parades, period costumes, and gold-panning competitions celebrating Alaska's Gold Rush history. Especially fun for families.
• Blueberry Festival – Ketchikan (August): Live music, pie-eating contests, and handmade crafts in classic small-town Alaska style.
• National Park Ranger Programs – All Summer: Denali, Glacier Bay, and Kenai Fjords all offer seasonal ranger-led hikes, talks, and kids' activities throughout the summer.

Alaska delivers the wow factor at every turn. A few experiences I'd put on every itinerary:

• Take a private helicopter tour — Stunning glacier views from above, complete with a glacier landing and guided trek. Worth every penny.
• Kayak or packraft — Paddle at your own pace through glacier lakes and fjords in the Kenai Peninsula or Prince William Sound.
• Hike with a guide — Discover hidden trails in places like the Talkeetna Mountains or Hatcher Pass. The tundra and boreal forests are unlike anything else.
• Summer dog sledding — Mush across the snow atop a glacier. A helicopter ride leads you to stunning views and furry friends.
• Photography excursions — Guide-led, photography-focused trips for capturing the aurora borealis, wildlife, or rugged landscapes.
• Flightseeing over Denali — Soar above Denali or the Wrangell Mountains for jaw-dropping aerial views.
• Foraging with a naturalist — Identify wild berries, mushrooms, and plants scattered throughout wild forests and tundra.
• Northern Lights — Best from September through April. Venture outside of town for the best views.
• Anchorage Museum — A modern take on Alaska's history, combining art, history, and science in downtown Anchorage.
• Alaska Native Heritage Center — Thoughtfully dive into Alaska's Indigenous cultures through storytelling, dance, and hands-on exhibits in a beautiful lakeside setting.

Alaska's food scene is anchored in what the land and sea provide — and it's exceptional. Don't leave without trying:

• King crab legs — Sweet, tender, and served simply with drawn butter or lemon
• Halibut cheeks — A local delicacy, often pan-seared and paired with seasonal vegetables
• Smoked salmon spread — Creamy and rich, served with crackers or on warm sourdough
• Reindeer sausage — Smoky and savory, popular in everything from breakfast scrambles to street food
• Salmon banh mi — A fusion favorite in Anchorage, blending Alaska's signature fish with Vietnamese flavors
• Fireweed honey and goat cheese — A uniquely Alaskan pairing that celebrates local flora and farms

Alaska's intense weather calls for functionality. Think weatherproof jackets, cozy knits, and versatile base layers. In town, smart-casual wear — jeans, sweaters, comfortable boots — works well. For nature excursions, waterproof rain gear and solid walking shoes are non-negotiable. And if you're heading into bear country: bear spray.

Alaska is one of those rare destinations that leaves a lasting impression — and it's more accessible than most people think. Whether you're drawn to a luxury expedition cruise, a remote eco-lodge, or a multi-gen family adventure through the national parks, I can help you build the trip that's right for you.

Start planning your Alaska trip →