When you think about the American state of Alaska, your mind may conjure up images of snow, igloos, and dog sleds slaloming over the white landscape. Those images have been made popular by films and television shows, but they are not a true representation for Alaska.
Whether you want to spend time in the bush or in a major city, Alaska offers variety experiences to travellers. America’s 49th state is packed with outdoor adventure, incredible landscapes, wildlife, and history. In 2019, around 2.26 million visitors travelled to Alaska between the peak tourism months of May to September. Many of these tourists got in touch with the great outdoors and learned about the native cultures of The Last Frontier.
Alaska holds a mystic no other American state possesses. It is true to its nickname of being the last frontier of America and many people go to the state to get away from it all. So, what is the best time to visit Alaska in 2021?
Best time to visit Alaska in 2021 for the weather
Due to Alaska’s cold and harsh winter weather, the best time of the year to visit is between mid-June and mid-September. The summer months see the weather warm and the days grow longer as well. It is a wonderful time of the year as you are able to remain outdoors for long periods of the day.
In the summer, the weather can reach highs of 18°C, or 65°F. The weather is comfortable but it can still get cold at night, dropping as much as double digit degrees when the sun goes down. Alaska’s weather can change on a moment’s notice, even in summertime. Travellers may have excursions cancelled by tour operators due to a change in the weather. Many tour companies stop operating altogether in September as the winter weather begins.
It is best to avoid visiting Alaska in the winter months. If you fancy winter sports or experiencing the Northern Lights, then September to May can be a good time to go. However, the weather can be extremely harsh during the winter months, making a visit uncomfortable, especially if you want to go into the bush.
Mid-June to mid-July offers the best weather window for a trip. You won’t save much money and may not avoid the crowds, but you will have the best outdoor experience thanks to comfortable weather.
Best time to visit Alaska in 2021 for price
The weather really dictates the travel season in Alaska. Therefore, the summer months are peak season for travel to The Last Frontier. If you want to save money but avoid the harshest weather Alaska has to offer, then be sure to book your trip in late spring or early autumn.
May and September are Alaska’s shoulder seasons. You may find day tours and hotels offering discounts of up to 25%. You may not have the glorious weather that summer has to offer, but you may save a significant amount of cash.
Not only is the price lower during May and September, but you should miss the summer crowds. You may come across some of the older RV travellers that visit Alaska from the mainland United States and Canada.
Best time to visit Alaska in 2021: What to explore?
If you are going to Alaska on a holiday, then you are sure to be visiting for the great outdoors. One of the most popular outdoor experiences you shouldn’t miss is the Northern Lights. You may be able to see the Northern Lights beginning in mid-August all the way up to April.
Alaska’s local native cultures host a variety of festivals throughout the year. You can learn more about the great history of the state by attending a festival. If you are an outdoor lover, you will find plenty of great hiking, mountain biking and trail running paths. Trails around Anchorage are possible to hike from mid-May.
Fishing is another popular outdoor activity in Alaska. Salmon and halibut fishing are two popular seasons for fisherman. You can book your trip around the specific fishing season to maximise your vacation.
Best time to visit Alaska in 2021: Conclusion
Alaska is one of the USA’s most unique states. It is an incredible escape that puts you in touch with nature like no other American travel destination. Summertime is the ideal period to visit the 49th state thanks to the warm weather.
You may want to skip the state in winter when the weather can be harsh and cold. If you really want to get a deal and avoid crowds, be sure to book in May or September to experience The Last Frontier.
