Best Time to Visit Alaska and Go Offroading
Alaska is a dream bucket list location for so many good reasons. When to visit comes down to what type of adventures you want to have. Mid-June to mid-September offers the best weather for adventures like hiking, kayaking, and ATVing. Late August through April is prime time to see the Northern Lights.
Regardless of when you visit Alaska, there are always great reasons for a vacation! Read on to see the highlights of each season to help you decide when to plan your trip.
Visiting Alaska in Summer
What is the Weather Like?
Summer lasts from June through mid August. Enjoy the prime time for warmer weather and longer days. Summer can see up to 22 hours of functioning daylight and has an average of 16 hour days. While temperatures tend to not exceed the mid 70s, you’ll want to pack your sunscreen!
However, Alaska isn’t just sun all day in the Summer. Expect clouds and rain during your trip, and be sure to pack accordingly! Temperature can be anywhere from 80 to 50 degrees in the Anchorage area depending on the weather.
What to Pack When Visiting in Summer
Since weather in the summertime can be variable, you’ll want to pack some layers along with your shades! Our biggest piece of advice rings true no matter the season: always bring layers.
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What to Do in Alaska in Summer
Summer offers endless adventures and experiences in Alaska. Depending on where you visit, you’ll be able to fill your schedule with some really fun trips. Make the most of the long days and get out into the backcountry!
Visiting Alaska in Fall
What is the Weather Like?
Fall starts in mid August and lasts through October. This short season includes beautiful fall colors and a big chance for snow! Temperatures can range anywhere from the 70s to 20s in the Anchorage area, so be sure to check the weather ahead of time and plan for the cold.
What to Pack When Visiting in Fall
You guessed it, weather in Fall can be unpredictable. That’s what makes Alaska so exciting and beautiful! Be sure to bring those layers and be prepared for snowfall especially if you are visiting in October.
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What to Do in Alaska in Fall
Fall is a great time for those who love to hike and sightsee with less crowds. Have a chance to see the Northern Lights and expect some weather!
Visiting Alaska in Winter
What is the Weather Like?
Lasting from October to late March, winter temperatures vary from mid 30s to single digit (and possibly negative) temps in the Anchorage area. Daylight hours vary from 6 to 12 hours depending on the month. After the winter solstice in late December, the days slowly start to grow longer and the days can become warmer.
Visiting in Winter is an experience if you aren’t used to the cold. We recommend following the packing list, taking plenty of indoor breaks, and eating good meals to help you stay warm and comfortable while visiting. Winter time is so special for those willing to brave the cold!
What to Pack When Visiting in Winter
Wintertime calls for all the cozy, warm layers no matter which outside activities you have planned. Wool or synthetic layers are best – especially for base layers. Cotton just does not keep you as warm, and if it gets wet it can make you much colder.
Make sure you don’t layer up too tight or your body heat will escape through your clothing. Heated vests, socks, and hand warmers can also help you to stay warm while visiting!
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What to Do in Alaska in Winter
Alaska has some of the most unique winter adventures. Travel like a local via snowmachine or dog sled. Catch the Northern Lights dancing overhead late into the night. Play in the snow, explore places only accessible in winter, and embrace the cold!
Visiting Alaska in Spring
What is the Weather Like?
Spring starts in April and lasts through May in Alaska. Much like the fall, this short season calls for variable weather and unique adventures. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and great wildlife viewing. Be prepared for temperatures to range from the 60s to the 30s in the Anchorage area.
What to Pack When Visiting in Spring
Springtime can mean snow, rain, and beautiful sunny days. Be prepared for your trip with the right layers to stay warm!
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What to Do in Alaska in Spring
Spring in Alaska is perfect for those chasing winter sports with longer days, for those looking for wildlife, and for those wanting less crowds on their road trip.
The Best Time To Go ATVing
We love ATVing in the Summer and the Fall! Summer offers perfect trail conditions for water crossings and glacier viewing, while Fall adds in beautiful foliage along the trail. Fall colors are typically best enjoyed within the first two weeks of September. Ride with us for the best way to explore the Alaskan backcountry!
We offer a Half Day Glacier View Tour and Full Day Knik Glacier Tour Both tours give you beautiful mountain views, take you across exciting creeks, and give you a taste of off roading in Alaska.
Our full day tour ensures you get to see the Knik Glacier up close. Ride up to the iceberg lake, opt to try a polar plunge, and enjoy complimentary lunch cooked over a fire. You’ll have plenty of time to explore around the lake before we hop back in our machines for some more adventure! While seeing the glacier is incredibly exciting, we love all aspects of the ride and so will you.
Our tours are perfect for just about anyone. Families, big groups, and experienced riders alike will have so much fun. If you’ve driven ATVs before you can opt for that over a side-by-side, or check out our Uncharted Experience for a rugged good time.
The Best Time To Go Snowmobiling
November through March allows for some incredible snowmobile adventures in the Mat-Su Valley. Snowmobile by day and search for Northern Lights at night! Chase powder in the mountains, visit Boulder Creek, or explore around the Knik Glacier like a local by snowmobile. Our winter tours are a great way to embrace the cold and see some incredible landscapes with ease.
We offer a Half Day Glacier View Winter Tour and Full Day Knik Glacier Winter Tour where you can get glacier and snowy mountain views with riding that is perfect for beginners. Come ride for the full day to see glacier blue ice and ride around on a frozen lake! Explore the icebergs we typically stare out at in the summertime and look for ice caves or slides.
For those who want to get epic mountain views or learn more snowmobile skills, book our Extreme Powder Experience. We’ll find some fresh pow in some of our favorite spots close to home.
You can learn more about choosing between these tours here. These tours are perfect for those looking to embrace Alaska in the wintertime, for families with older kids, and for those who love the thrill of riding.
Come Ride With Us Year Round!
We have adventures that are suitable for everyone! Come explore with us on your trip to get into the backcountry, see a glacier, and have some fun exploring like a local! Alaska is beautiful no matter the season. Plan your trip today and make the most of your adventure in this great state.
More Inspiration for Your Alaska Vacation
The Uncharted Society Visits Alaska
