11 Top Places To Visit In Alaska This Fall
Have you ever considered a trip to Alaska? Fall might just be the time to do it. From late September to early October, the deciduous trees explode into reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a surreal contrast to the icy blue glaciers, snow-capped mountain ranges, and deep blue fjords. Build your trip around national parks, kayak excursions, scenic drives, fall festivals, family-friendly fairs, and (of course) the Northern Lights, all against a breathtaking backdrop of Alaska's natural beauty and fall colors. Whether you're an avid hiker, a passionate photographer, or a nature enthusiast of any kind, this is the place for you.
Denali National Park
There's no denying that Denali National Park is one of the best places in Alaska to immerse yourself in natural beauty during the fall months. From late September through October, the landscape explodes in a symphony of reds, oranges, and yellows, especially in the tundra regions and along the park's river valleys. Take it in on a leisurely walk around Horseshoe Lake or trek up Mount Healy Overlook Trail. At the top, you'll be rewarded with epic views of snow-capped peaks, an unforgettable backdrop to the warm fall colors below. Keep an eye out for roaming caribous and bears!
If you're willing to spend a few extra bucks, various outfits in and just outside the park offer everything from ziplining to dog sledding to whitewater rafting. If that wasn’t enough, visitors can opt for a flightseeing tour for a birds-eye view of the dramatic landscapes and/or dog sledding with Squid Acres Kennel.
Kenai Fjords National Park
If you find yourself in Alaska this fall, you've got to take a scenic drive through Kenai Fjords National Park. The way autumn's vivid orange and yellow hues reflect off the long, narrow inlet of icy blue water is a site to behold. Hiking in Kanai Fjords is a must-do. Visitors love Harding Icefield Trail, which climbs thousands of feet from the valley floor and provides stunning views of the ice field below. It's a 6-hour hike, so bring a few snacks. If you're looking for a less strenuous adventure, hitch a boat ride to the Rainforest Nature Walk near Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge. While you're there, check out the lodge's catalog of day trips and multi-day vacation packages.
Want to witness the beauty of the park from the water? Embark on a kayak excursion in Resurrection Bay with an expert guide, or hop aboard a full or half-day boating excursion from the nearby town of Seward. Keep your eyes peeled for sea otters and seals as you ogle at the surrounding glaciers. You might even see an orca or humpback whale if you're lucky.
Glacier Bay National Park
Home to winding rivers and lakes, snow-capped mountains, fjords teaming with wildlife, and (as its name suggests) breathtaking glacier views, Glacier Bay National Park is another un-missable fall destination. Enjoy a scenic hike in Bartlette Cove or a boat tour to take it all in. Feeling adventurous? Book a rafting trip down the Tatshenshini River, or consider booking a guided sea kayaking excursion with Glacier Bay Sea Kayaks. You can book single or multi-day excursions (camping involved), depending on your comfort level. Looking for lodging? Consider a stay at Glacier Bay Lodge. Aside from cozy rooms and excellent service, they offer a spectacular 8-hour catamaran tour of Glacier Bay, where you'll learn all about the park's history and ecosystems.
Seward Highway Scenic Drive
Renowned as one of the most scenic drives in America, this 127-mile stretch of highway connecting Anchorage and Seward offers spectacular views of deep blue fjords and majestic snow-capped mountains. While viewing it all from your car window will leave you breathless, visitors should take the time to stop and adventure along the way.
Stretch your legs at one of the many scenic pullouts on the drive. Beluga Point is a particularly magical one that offers views of beautiful fall foliage reflected in the turquoise waters of the Turnagain Arm. You'll also find numerous hiking trails along the way. Glacier View Loop Trail is one of our favorites. The panoramic views of Exit Glacier against the reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees showing off their fall color are a real treat.
Whale Watching in Juneau
If you're visiting Alaska earlier in the fall (~late September), you're just in time to catch the tail end of whale-watching season in Alaska, and Juneau is one of the best places to do it. Book a boat tour or a kayaking excursion to witness majestic humpback and orca whales migrate through the pristine waters of the Inside Passage. Seeing a massive whale tail slap the water just yards away is thrilling as you watch stunning glaciers and coastal scenery slide by.
A knowledgeable guide can make a difference by educating you on migration patterns, whale behaviors, and marine life. Alaska Tales Whale Watching does a great job. Above and Beyond Alaska offers an incredible boat ride to the Channel Islands (a hot feeding spot for the whales) followed by a 1-2 hour kayak paddle from the islands with a knowledgeable guide.
See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks
Don't miss a chance to see the Northern Lights before temperatures plummet. Fairbanks, Alaska, offers one of the best, most reliable (and accessible) views of this remarkable natural event. Drive to Murphy Dome or the Chena Lakes Recreation Area, where light pollution is minimal, or sign up for a guided tour. Some tours even provide heated cabins or tents to keep you warm as you watch an explosion of greens, pinks, and purples dance across the sky.
Some nights, the lights just won't show up because the skies aren't clear enough, so make sure you give yourself a few nights to look at them. You've got the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights between the hours of 10 pm and 3 am. So you might have to pull a couple of all-nighters, but it's worth it. Afterward, you can head back into town and stay at one of many hotels, such as the Holiday Inn Express Northern Lights Inn or Sophie Station Suites.
Chena Hotsprings Resort
Take your Northern Lights viewing to the next level at Chena Hotsprings Resort. Book a stay in one of their luxurious cabins or lodge rooms, or take a day trip via shuttle (or dog sled!). The resort is home to an expansive outdoor sand-bottomed "wading lake" hotspring as well as an indoor pool and hot tub, all heated by 165°F mineral water gushing from a natural hot spring below.
The wading lake at Chena Resort is an incredible place to view the aurora borealis in the fall (or really any time of the year). Outside of the hot springs, one can grab a bite at Aurora Cafe, a 24/7 cafe within the hotel premises with delicious soup, sandwiches, ice cream, and more. If you have time, book a kennel tour. You'll meet a slew of Alaskan Huskies and learn all about dog mushing!
Alyeska Resort
For those of you who want to experience epic views of the Alaskan landscape but don't quite have it in you to hike up to the tallest lookout points, Alyeska Resort is the place to be. A ride on Alyeska Resort's Aerial Tramway is exactly what you need. Look out the window as the tram clicks up to Mt. Alyeska's observation deck, 2,300 feet above sea level. It's one of the most incredible ways to experience views of the region's stunning mountain ranges, winding rivers, and hanging glaciers. Follow it up with a trip to the resort's Nordic spa and a meal at one of their several top-notch restaurants. If you book your stay during Thanksgiving, don't miss their 3-mile Turkey Trot, followed by their renowned family-friendly Thanksgiving Buffet.
Fall Festivals in Mat-Su Valley
Fall is a special time in Mat-Su Valley, Alaska. Not only do the deciduous trees turn every shade of gold, but the region also puts on several fall festivals and events that make it a hotspot for individuals and families looking for some good, clean seasonal fun.
Experience the corn maze at Pyrah's Pioneer Peak Farm's Fall Harvest Festival, take a wagon ride, hang out with Reindeer at Williams Reindeer Farm, and/or harvest your potatoes at Rebarchek Harvest Day. You could also leave the kids behind and check out Oxtoberfest at Musk Ox Farm, where you'll feast on locally grown and produced foods, ciders, and beers while enjoying music, dancing, and good company.
Alaska Railroad
Grab the family and grab a seat on the Alaska Railroad. Whether you choose the Denali Star route through Denali National Park, the Coastal Classic near the Kenai Fjords National Park, or the Glacier Discovery route, you won't be able to take your eyes off the window. Watch as majestic mountains, rivers, and lush forests popping with reds, oranges, and yellows slide past, and keep an eye out for moose and caribou! The railroad allows guests to hop off and explore natural wonders along the way. Just in case you and the kiddos need to get your wiggles out.
For a luxury experience, visitors should look into Alaska Railroad's GoldStar Service. Glass domed ceilings, tour guide narration of your trip, inclusive dining, and complimentary adult beverages are all part of the package. If you have a few extra bucks to spend, this is a great way to do it.
Running Reindeer Ranch
If you're an animal lover, you can't miss a visit to Running Reindeer Ranch. Enjoy a 1-hour walk through the boreal forests outside of Fairbanks alongside (you guessed it) real live reindeer. You'll learn all about these magical furry creatures as you watch them play and dance through the beautiful fall foliage. Tours wrap up with hot cocoa, cookies, and more fun reindeer facts with your knowledgeable guide, Jane, a life-long Alaskan and the owner and founder of Running Reindeer Ranch.
Be sure to book your visit in advance, as tours are by appointment only. This really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience the whole family can enjoy! Visiting during warmer months? Be sure to ask the ranch about their Reindeer Yoga!
Conclusion
Fall in Alaska presents a unique opportunity to witness nature's colorful transformation against the region's dramatic landscapes. The vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red juxtaposed with the stunning backdrops of towering mountains, glistening glaciers, and serene waterways are nothing short of magical.
From scenic drives through the iconic national parks to family-friendly festivals celebrating the season's harvest, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy. Adventurous travelers can indulge in everything from hiking to kayaking. At the same time, those seeking a slower pace can enjoy cozy cabins, luxurious hot springs, and unique resorts amidst awe-inspiring views of nature. So what are you waiting for? Book a trip and make some memories.
