Popular Alaska Itineraries Using In-State Airlines

Alaska is a remote destination for most travelers, and it can take a considerable amount of time just to get here. You’ll want to get the most out of every moment, especially if you only have a week to 10 days. And while driving from place to place in Alaska allows you to see some phenomenal scenery, covering the distances involved in a car can really cut into the time you can spend at each destination.

Our recommendation is to mix in a few flights to cut down on driving time. Another bonus: the scenery from above can be just as breathtaking! Here are a few sample itineraries highlighting popular Alaska locations that may be on your list already.

Anchorage – Homer – Anchorage

Homer is a 5-hour drive from Anchorage but opting for a flight with Ravn Alaska originating in Anchorage maximizes your time in Homer instead of on the road. Homer is a gorgeous offering world-class fishing, bear-viewing, and outdoor recreation. Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary.

Day 1 – Anchorage to Homer morning flight. Take in beautiful views of the Kenai Peninsula and Cook Inlet on this 40-minute flight. Walk along the Homer Spit, which bustles with activity in the summer. You’ll find charter operators, funky art shops, local seafood, and miles of beachcombing. See our list of Homer attractions and day tours.
Day 2 – Take the day to explore beyond Homer. Enjoy a halibut fishing charter, fly over to Katmai for coastal brown bear viewing, or catch a water taxi across Kachemak Bay to explore Seldovia’s quaint boardwalk.
Day 3 – Your flight back to Anchorage will take 1 hour and 10 minutes. There are a few flights each day, so you can fit in another museum or last walk along the beach if you opt for an afternoon or evening Anchorage.

Anchorage – Valdez – Anchorage

While you can drive to Valdez from Anchorage, it will take about 6.5 hours. The flight takes about 40 minutes on Ravn Alaska. On a clear day, it’s a breathtaking sight of fjords, glaciers, and jagged mountaintops.

Day 1 – Anchorage to Valdez morning flight. On a stroll around town, you’re sure to see some of the town’s ubiquitous downtown residents: feral bunnies (really!).
Days 2 and 3 – In summer, you’ve got lots of options: Cruise Prince William Sound and visit the massive Columbia Glacier, go on a sea kayaking expedition, or rent a car and drive to see waterfalls or the Worthington Glacier. In winter, it’s all about the backcountry. Valdez is a mecca for heli-skiing (and boarding). You can also ice-climb up a waterfall, power through the powder on a snowmobile excursion, or enjoy a quiet cross-country skiing adventure. See our full list of activities in and around Valdez.
Day 4 – Return to Anchorage.

Book in-state flights with Ravn Alaska here!