Alaska’s majestic landscape, extensive wildlife, and delicious cuisine, like fresh wild Alaskan smoked salmon, make it a popular travel destination. In fact, fitting all the must-do activities into your itinerary is the biggest challenge when visiting the state. To make planning your trip easier, here are three experiences you won’t want to miss out on. 

What to Do During Your Visit to Alaska

1. Explore the Backcountry 

Alaska covers over 663,000 square miles, most of which consists of wild wilderness. As such, it provides plenty of opportunities to explore the backcountry. The state is one of the only U.S. locations allowing guests to hunt large wild game, so you can hunt brown and grizzly bears, mountain goats, and Dall sheep as long as an Alaska-licensed guide accompanies you.

You can also explore the Last Frontier via guided fishing expeditions, which take you to sites that provide access to unique species. Finish an exciting day alongside a crystal-clear river with a cooler full of wild Alaskan smoked salmon.

2. Catch the Northern Lights

As the most northern U.S. state, Alaska is set in a prime location to see the aurora borealis. During this display, the night sky gets blanketed with breathtaking waves of red, green, and blue lights.

When planning your trip to Alaska, keep in mind that the 24-hour sunlight experienced in the summer months prevents you from seeing the Northern Lights. Therefore, you should visit between August and April to experience this natural phenomenon.

3. Go Whale Watching

The Port of Anchorage provides easy access to views of migrating orcas and humpback whales. Beluga species also live nearby. While there are numerous whale-watching tours by boat, there are also kayaking and canoeing options for the more adventurous traveler. 

Like the Northern Lights, you should plan your trip accordingly to spot these majestic creatures. Although some return to Alaska in March, the prime season for whale watching is between April and September.

If you can’t get enough of the Last Frontier, take a taste of Alaska home with the help of Alaska Sausage & Seafood in Anchorage. For over 50 years, this local business has offered a wide selection of high-quality gourmet sausages and wild Alaskan smoked salmon. Browse their impressive inventory online, and call (907) 562-3636 for any questions.