Less Is More

We have a saying in Alaska, "Less is more." Don't try to cover too much ground in too little time. Even if you saw a million acres a day, it would still take you more than a year to see all of Alaska. Here are some thoughts as you're starting to plan.

Pick One Or Two Regions To Visit

While every region is distinct, each offers most everything you came to Alaska to do: go flightseeing, bearviewing, fishing, hiking, see glaciers, check out native culture. Getting from region to region can be a time-waster, so unless there's something specific you want to see, stick to one or two regions. For example, if you fly into Anchorage, stay in Southcentral and the Interior; don't feel compelled to fly to Southeast.

Don't Overbook

Even if your first instinct is to rush around and try to see everything, don't. Many of Alaska's best moments aren't ones you can plan for, so leave time and flexibility in your schedule. You'll want the time to pull over and watch a moose amble along the roadway; the time to ponder Denali (Mt. McKinley) and the endless Alaska Range as it peeks through the clouds; the time to chat with locals you meet along the way. Alaska is as much a state of mind as it is a place.

Do Some Homework

Alaska's best-known places aren't the only places worth visiting—that's why we've given you honest assessments of the pros and cons of each place, so you can decide which is right for your interests. Places like Denali and Kenai Fjords seldom disappoint, but part of Alaska's charm is its less well known parks, tiny towns, and off-the-beaten-path treasures.