Best Time to Visit Alaska
There are many legends about the climate and weather in Alaska. Even though some of these stories may be partly true (yes - our winters can be pretty harsh; yes - it rarely gets dark in the summer; yes - climate change significantly impacts our state), many turn out to be exaggerated. Hey, we still live here, so it can’t be that bad, right?
Taking in the views in Denali
In this article, you will find out what to expect during different seasons in Alaska. This can help you choose the best time to plan your big adventure to our state. And remember - the best time to visit Alaska is whenever you’re available! Alaska is amazing no matter when you come.
Keep in mind that Alaska is a huge state. And I mean huuuuge! It is the biggest state in the country (twice as big as Texas), and if Alaska were a country, it would rank as the 33rd largest on the planet. Therefore, there is no easy way to discuss its climate or weather. In Southeast Alaska, you might encounter more rain in the winter, while at the same time, in Southcentral Alaska, you might be stuck at home because of heavy snowfall. In the summer, the temperatures also depend on where you are. The Interior of Alaska often experiences temperatures of 75F while the North Slope usually won’t exceed 40 degrees.
Families skating on Westchester Lagoon in Anchorage
To keep things as simple as possible, we will focus on Southcentral Alaska, the most visited region in our state, by those traveling by car or train. That includes the Anchorage area, the Kenai Peninsula, and some of the most beautiful roads in Alaska.
Please remember that in recent years the weather has been more unpredictable. You can experience long periods of hot, dry weather or constant rain. In 2019 and 2022, temperatures in May and June were so hot that they had major impacts on travel. The Summer of 2021 and July and August 2022 were relatively cool, with many rainy days. Winter can also sometimes surprise us. In 2016 and 2017, there wasn’t enough snow to run one of the most prestigious dog sledding races - the legendary Iditarod.
Clients experiencing warm May weather in Valdez
What’s the conclusion? Whether sunny, rainy, snowy, hot, or cold, we genuinely believe you can and should enjoy Alaska in all seasons!
Read more about what clothes to pack for your trip to Alaska.
Summer in Alaska
Summer is a prime time for the Alaska travel industry and is the best time to visit Alaska for the first time. During the summer, animals are most active, trails are clear of ice and snow, and nature is in full bloom. Only in summer can you take advantage of some of the best activities, including whale watching, bear viewing, or visiting Denali National Park. The summer season in Alaska runs between June and the end of August. You should expect the highest prices during these three months. Remember that visiting Alaska in the summer requires planning your trip and making reservations well in advance.
During the summer, the weather is very pleasant. At least, that’s what Alaskans think.
Summer views in Alaska
In the summer, the temperature usually ranges between the 50s and 60s, but when the sun hits you, it feels much warmer than that. You will see many locals wearing T-shirts and shorts (some even wear shorts in the winter!). Remember that we may feel temperatures differently than people from warmer climates. For visitors, we recommend bringing a few warmer layers. A light-down jacket will come in handy for cooler evenings, whale watching, kayaking, or glacier dog sledding. And always carry a good rain jacket with you!
Summer at Clam Gulch. Light down jackets are always useful!
Each summer month in Alaska is very different. You can read more about specific months in our other articles:
Local Tip: If you are not limited to the three summer months, you should consider visiting Alaska in the should season. May is historically the driest month in Alaska, and the weather is generally good throughout most of the state. In May, you can also enjoy lower prices and fewer visitors. The downside is that there will still be snow on many mountain trails, and some activities may not be available yet.
Summer in Homer Alaska
Winter in Alaska
It should come as no surprise that winters in Alaska can be harsh. But they can also be very rewarding if you visit with the right mindset!
Heavy snowfall in Southcentral Alaska can be expected between December and March. In the winter, you should be prepared for the cold. The temperature regularly drops to 0 degrees or less. In the Interior (Denali, Fairbanks), you may even experience -20 or even -30… Brrrr.
Winter walks on Powerline Pass
Despite the cold temperatures, a lot is happening in Alaska in the winter. Locals and visitors enjoy cross-country skiing, fat biking, downhill skiing, ice skating, dog sledding, flightseeing, or snowshoeing. And don’t forget about Alaska's biggest star of winter - the Aurora Borealis.
Read more about why you should visit Alaska in the winter.
Local Tip: If you dream of a real, white, magical adventure in Alaska, we recommend visiting in February or early March. There should be plenty of snow, and the daylight hours are long enough to see more than just Anchorage. If you choose wisely, you can participate in some of the most exciting winter events, such as Fur Rendezvous.
Read more about the Fur Rendezvous Festival in Alaska.
Powerline Pass in winter
Spring in Alaska
Springtime in Alaska is short, and to be honest, sometimes we miss it! Starting in April, days become much longer, and the snow disappears rapidly in the city but remains on most hiking trails. Spring is a quiet season with very few visitors. Everything is in transition, and many locals are preparing for summer. We spend lots of time planning our adventures so we are ready when summer arrives. No one wants to waste the precious days of warm weather!
Spring is rain boot season in Alaska
Spring is rain boot season, not because of high precipitation but because of melting snow. It is an odd time for everyone as the ski trails are no longer available, but it’s too soon to switch to hiking. We just have to be patient.
Autumn in Alaska
Like spring, autumn can be very short in Alaska, especially if you dream of experiencing golden colors. However, if you manage to be here at the right time, you won’t regret it. In the fall, Alaska is absolutely beautiful, memorable, and hard to beat.
Late summer hiking in Denali State Park
Autumn usually begins in September, with the first snow in the high mountains, called Termination Dust (to mark the termination of summer). We typically experience the most beautiful colors in mid-September. This is a prime time for photographers to visit the Glenn Highway, Denali National Park, Kenai Peninsula, or even the Anchorage area.
Temperatures in the fall in Alaska are cooler than in the summer. At night, in many parts of the state, the temperature can drop to 30 to 40 degrees, but the days are usually pleasant for any activity. You should know that it can be very rainy this time of year. However, with a good rain jacket and a pair of rain boots, you should be able to visit all the important places in Alaska and enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds.
Photographing moose in autumn on Powerline Pass
Local Tip: Autumn can be a great time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. The roads are still clear of ice and snow, so you can easily reach any location without needing an organized guided tour. The high number of rainy days in September and October may be problematic, so seeing the Aurora Borealis should always be considered a bonus, not a requirement.
When is the best time to visit Alaska?
The “classic” season for a trip to Alaska starts in June and lasts until the end of August. During these months, the weather is the most stable and pleasant, and all attractions are available to visitors. You should also expect the highest prices and even some difficulty finding available accommodation and activities as this is the peak travel season in Alaska. If you plan ahead, you will have an amazing time in Alaska no matter which month you choose.
Summer hiking in Girdwood
For most people planning a trip to Alaska, summer is the best choice. If you want to hike, focus on July and August. If you plan to drive and want to catch the northern lights, consider visiting in September. Those who wish to watch brown bears at Brooks Falls should consider visiting in July or September. And early summer is best for whale watching! Fishing is great all summer in Alaska, but the locations will vary. If you are not a hiker, don’t like crowds, and want to save money, consider mid-May. To take advantage of the real Alaska winter, February and early March will be your best choice.
Brown bear catching fish on Brooks Falls
And remember that the best time for a trip to Alaska is the time that you have!
Ready to visit? Let us help you plan your trip to Alaska!
