Plan Your Trip

The main season runs from late May to mid September, with the longest days in June and the biggest salmon runs in July and August. September brings fall color, fewer people and the start of aurora season. Winter suits skiing, dog mushing and northern lights.

Layers, always. A real rain jacket and rain pants, warm insulation even in July, waterproof boots, a head net for mosquitoes and an eye mask for the midnight sun.

Bears live almost everywhere in Alaska. Make noise on the trail, carry bear spray and know how to use it, and store food properly in camp.

Anyone fishing or hunting needs an Alaska license, and many fisheries and hunts carry extra stamps, permits or emergency closures. Check the Alaska Department of Fish and Game before every trip.