Alaska is paradise to adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. This state offers many outdoor activities from heli skiing and horseback riding to kayaking and mountain climbing. If you have finished your first trip and still want to explore more, plan a second trip, and a third. You will never run out of activities to do or scenes to see in this state that is more than twice the size of Texas. If you need ideas on how to get your Alaskan outdoor activities checklist going continue reading this article on the top 7 outdoor activities for your trip to Alaska. It is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Horseback Riding
There are more than 10 miles of horseback riding trails in Anchorage alone. This activity is a great way to explore Alaska because you will have access to places vehicles can’t take you. You are guaranteed to see a lot more in a single day on horseback than if you were to travel on foot and experience the wilderness from a new vantage point. While riding you will gallop across streams and through clearings while you watch all the wildlife Alaska offers. Watch mountain goat trudge through mountain terrain and salmon skip across rivers with your trusty steed.
Heli Skiing
If you are an advanced snowboarder or skier or just looking for a huge rush of adrenaline then you must check out heli skiing Alaska. It is guaranteed to be an extreme winter sports experience. You won’t be jumping from a ski lift with this intense sport. Instead, you will be given a ride to the tops of the slopes by a helicopter before you are able ski the uncharted terrain. Razor-sharp ridges and plunging chutes are to be expected.
Dog Sled Rides
Some Alaskan cruises include dog sled rides through the snow in their itineraries. As one of the top cruise destinations for adventures, you know that this Alaskan outdoor activity will not leave you disappointed. Dog sledding may be one of the most unique ways of traveling across the fields of Alaska. This fast paced activity allows you to explore a small part of the 1,300 mile long Iditarod National Historic Trail.
Whitewater Rafting
Alaska is home to some of the best whitewater rafting sites in the country. If you do choose to participate in this activity then you should do so in Denali, home to Nenana River and Alaska’s top whitewater rafting destination. The Nenana River is the best locations to much of the state’s wildlife such as, moose, Dall sheep, caribou, and grizzly bears. There are rapids tours available for all skill and ability levels.
Visit a Glacier
Most United States glaciers are found in Alaska and you are able to visit them by kayak or seaplane. There is nothing more magical than seeing one of these massive ice sheets up close. Be sure to check into tours that take you over the longest glacier, the Kahiltna Glacier by sea plane.
Go Fishing
If you want the true Alaskan experience then you must go fishing. Give fly fishing a try and hand catch your own salmon. Nothing beats the taste of a fresh caught salmon. Catch an arctic grayling, a coon fish in Alaska that populates many of the waters. If you’re looking for a truly authentic experience, give ice fishing a go. There are guides available to help get an ice fishing experience set up for newbies and travelers.
Visit the Totem Poles
Do you remember making totem poles out of oatmeal canisters in elementary school? Do you remember the history behind it? Ketchikan Alaska is home to over 80 Native American totem poles and they are considered to be the state’s most striking pieces of art and they are an attraction that anyone visiting Alaska should not miss. Visit the totem poles and learn of the history and lore while you appreciate magnificent works of art.