Alaska Winter Activities
Can you handle the cold and short daylight hours for a bit of that Alaskan grandeur? If so, you are in for some exclusive exploration. Since Alaska has far fewer visitors in winter than in summer, you are sure to enjoy a more private experience. (Alaska Public Media) We’ve traversed the cold for you and have gathered a list of the top winter activities to do in Alaska. Follow along as we explore a world of fewer crowds, cold temperatures, cozy accommodations, and epic experiences.
Snowshoeing
Imagine waking up with a hot beverage to head out onto untouched powder fields. All is quiet and serene, and you have time to take in all the small details. Snowshoeing provides the perfect space for peace and tranquility. You can spot wildlife, take time to capture beautiful photos, and enjoy the quiet of softly stepping through fresh snow.
Snowshoeing is a great family winter activity and works on a variety of terrains and snow conditions. This winter activity doesn’t take long to learn and is a great way for people of all ages and experience levels to get out there and enjoy Alaska in the winter. (REI)
Snowmobiling
Taking a snowmobile out into Alaska’s tundra is a great way to cover a lot of ground and catch stunning views. In the Matanuska Valley, you can even take a snowmobile tour to the glacier for a trek around towering walls of blue ice. Or, you can cruise across the nearby mountains. Options and trips suit everyone, from novices to experts.
There are tons of recreation trails to explore as well and plenty of snowfields to bound through. Snow machine tours are available throughout the state and often provide gear if needed. (Snow Sleighers) Snowmobiling can be a great way to travel and connect your winter destinations. At the same time, this activity lets you explore the less-seen sides of Alaska quickly.
Skiing
It’s no secret: Alaska is home to some of the best powder stashes and untouched snowfields in the continental U.S. (Snow Magazine) So, skiing out here can be out of this world, whether it’s alpine, Nordic, or backcountry skiing. Hundreds of thousands of acres of public land are accessible for those who want fresh lines. (DNR)
Areas like Hatcher Pass, Chugach State Park, and recreation park areas are great spaces for both Nordic skiing and backcountry skiing. Heading into national parks like Denali is a great way to explore Alaska’s hallmarks in the snowy season. All of these places are not too far from Anchorage and fairly easy to get to.
If you want excellent views from a chairlift, not far down the road, Alyeska Resort in Girdwood is a great option. Get in bounds skiing without the crowds. And it’s right on the way to the coast for some spectacular views of mountains, ice, and the ocean on clear days. If tram access isn’t enough, you can always look into helicopter skiing with a local outfitter.
Explore a Glacier
Glaciers in Alaska can often be very busy and crowded during the summer months. (Discover Alaska)However, during the winter, the crowds dissipate, and you have more space to explore all to yourself. Ice features change in winter, and you can explore structures you cannot access in summer because of meltwater. (NPS)
Accessing a glacier in the winter can provide a more private experience than what you would normally find. Because winter offers a different kind of glacier landscape to explore, some companies offer exclusive trips.
Helicopter Tours
Hop in for an epic heli-skiing opportunity, a drop-off on a glacier, or just an epic view of the wintry wonders of the last frontier. Taking a helicopter ride is a great way to see some of the most breathtaking views around. This winter activity is great for solo travelers and small groups. And maybe even that romantic getaway you’ve been dreaming of.
Local outfitters just outside Glacier View now offer helicopter trips that take you to a secluded glacier cave on the Matanuska Glacier. Or, you can get dropped off to explore a picturesque glacier canyon and trek around. Professional guides accompany you the whole way so that you can find the best features and make the most of those daylight hours.
Dog Sledding
One of Alaska’s more well-known activities is dog sledding. The sport has a rich history, and many festivals support the community. Most of them happen in the summer, like the Iditarod. Do not fret, though; there are many areas that offer dog sledding tours in the winter as well.
Meet the dogs, see where they live and what their days are like, and maybe you’ll get to learn a thing or two about mushing even. It’s like a rollercoaster across snow and icefields powered by dogs. This is a great activity for adventure seekers and animal lovers.
Winter in Alaska
Sure, winter in Alaska can be a bit brisk. And as some folks say, “there’s no bad weather, just not the right gear”, so bundle up and pack your warmest layers. Daylight hours are short, and that creates the longest golden hour. (AK Climate)Alaska gets lots of snow and plenty of it, so be sure to be aware of the dangers of avalanches and wilderness settings that are beyond your limits.
Cozy up for the long nights and light shows across the sky created by the Northern Lights. And get out there for an Alaskan winter adventure. How you enjoy your time out there is up to you.
