Hi Frugalistas! If anyone is planning on a trip to Alaska this year, good for you! This raw and mesmerising corner of the world has been a honeypot for adventure-seekers, curious travelers and even scientists. It’s wild, it’s feral and it’s quite unlike anywhere else.
And in its vast wilderness there’s plenty to be discovered! From staggering wildlife to soaring peaks, snow-capped mountains and once-in-a-lifetime activities, Alaska’s calling! And here are just a few things you can enjoy whilst you’re there.
Where to visit
Forget bustling cities and man-made experiences, Alaska is all about immersing yourself into nature and enjoying it in its purest form. Up first is the Mendenhall Glacier in the city of Juneau. The Juneau Icefield is almost half a mile wide and is simply breath-taking on a sunny day with the mountains in the background.
In Alaska’s Northeast corner is the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Also known as the ‘Serengeti of the North’, you can expect grizzly bears, musk, ox and polar bears on its vast plains. Alaska is also home to the largest national forest in the US. Almost the size of Ireland, Tongass National Forest is a lush mixture of wetlands, ice and high mountain terrain.
Wildlife
Alaska boasts plenty of impressive residents. This is where giant bears roam the forests undisturbed, where bison withstand extreme weather conditions and where humpback whales make surprise appearances. Indeed, many of them you won’t see elsewhere.
Of course, visitors must take extra care around these creatures. If you find yourself (literally) off the beaten path during a hike or outdoor activity, keep your wits about you. Most of the time, however, these creatures will accept you peacefully if you don’t create too much of a disturbance.
The activities
Alaska is not for the faint hearted. Here, home comforts are sacrificed in the name of adventure. So, grab the chance and fill your adventure vacation with hair-raising activities!
Join the pack and go dog sledding. This most unique of activities that is only available in a small number of locations around the world, is truly an unforgettable experience. Go where no human has gone before and travel at eyewatering speeds as the dogs pull you through Alaska’s most staggering landscapes.
Adrenaline not pumping yet? How about a rafting trip down one of the country’s fiercest rivers, or a trek across a glacier with an official tour? With some glaciers bigger than some US States, there’s certainly plenty to explore!
If, however, you don’t want your vacation to be packed with death-defying activities, you could always go fishing in any of Alaska’s crystal-clear lakes or rivers. You won’t be jostling for a spot you can be sure.