While Alaska may be America's 49th state, its vast terrain remains largely untouched. Most of its largest cities lie along the coast, with the exception of Fairbanks deep in the interior, leaving the rest of the state in its purest form. There are deep forests lining sparkling waterways, snow-capped mountains, ancient glaciers, and coasts lined with fjords and icebergs. Wide-open plains contrast all this, making Alaska a place you have to see to believe.
The views themselves are remarkable, but the wildlife that lives within - and around - Alaska is incredible. From large land mammals to whales and birds of prey, the animal life is as diverse as the land itself. Thanks to the iconic Alaska Railroad and our collection of escorted and independent tours to Alaska, these wild scenes are more accessible than ever.
Traveling into the Alaskan Wilderness in the Summer
A year-round destination, Alaska the Greatland has something new for every season. Traveling in the summer allows you to explore when Alaska is at its most colorful. The state's far-north positioning means the daylight hours are long during the summer months, and the weather is ideal for being out in nature. This puts a range of experiences within reach, from cruises through waterways and the surrounding ocean without ice blocking the course to railway journeys that showcase the state without snow cover.
Experience Alaska by Day, traveling into the state's most renowned national parks to see an astonishing variety of wildlife. Kenai Fjords National Park is perhaps the most unique, with much of the park accessible only by plane or boat. Visiting on an escorted or independent vacation allows you to embrace this hidden beauty as you cruise through the water with an expert guide, surrounded by glaciers, coastal rainforests and, of course, marine life. Keep an eye out for:
- Seals
- Porpoises
- Sea otters
- Orcas
- Whales, including humpback, minke, and fin whales
- Puffins
- Sea birds
Your tour might also venture into Denali National Park in the "Golden Heart" of Alaska. Home to North America's highest peak, Denali, this park encompasses more than six million acres - larger than the state of New Hampshire! - with only one main road, leaving the vast majority of the park completely untouched. This, naturally, makes the land a haven for wildlife. While on an Alaska Wilderness Tour, a guided excursion in this natural wonderland can reveal varied bird life, such as bald and golden eagles, and up to 39 species of mammals, including Alaska's "Big Five":
- Bear
- Moose
- Caribou
- Wolves
- Dall Sheep
Both black bears and grizzly bears roam these lands, while mountain goats cling to the mountainsides. While there are plenty of large animals to behold, there are also small critters skittering about, including marmots, pika and arctic ground squirrels, that give you plenty to see, no matter where you look.
Experiencing the Wonders of an Alaskan Winter
There is such a magical feel to Alaska in the wintertime. The land takes on an ethereal feel, with frozen waterways and snow-clad landscapes setting the backdrop for truly memorable experiences. The days are short at this time of year, with long nights and inky skies offering a perfect canvas for the Northern Lights. Even with limited hours of daylight, there are endless ways to enjoy winter in Alaska, from a ride on the Alaska Railroad to traditional dogsledding expeditions through the snowy terrain. While wildlife is not as prominent at this time of year, there is still plenty to see as you explore.
The Alaska Railroad's Aurora Winter train is the premier way to travel from Anchorage to Fairbanks during the coldest months, exchanging views of lush backcountry for pristine winter scenery. This journey weaves through some of Alaska's most remote stretches to give travelers a front-row seat to exclusive views and wildlife-viewing opportunities. From the warm comfort of the train, you might see:
- Mountain goats
- Caribou Moose
- Ptarmigan
- Pika
- Lynx
If you do not want to leave wildlife viewing to chance, select a tour featuring the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, located outside of Anchorage. This center stretches over more than 200 acres and is a refuge for many of Alaska's most notable and interesting creatures. The majority of these animals were orphaned or injured in the wild, so during their time here, they are rehabilitated and allowed to thrive in a semi-wild setting. Just like in nature, animal viewing opportunities vary by season; however, during a visit, you could witness:
- Porcupines
- Wood bison
- Muskox
- Elk
- Wolves
- Coyotes
- Moose
With winter white shrouding the landscape, some animals, such as moose, are more visible, while others, like lynx, blend in with the views, making them hard to spot. Make your winter animal-spotting adventure successful by bringing along binoculars and/or a camera with a good zoom function. You will want to have a camera on hand to photograph Alaska's animal and marine life, and plenty of layers of warm clothing to keep you safe for whatever your Alaska vacation may bring.
Find your perfect wildlife adventure in any season by booking an escorted or independent Alaskan tour today. In a land as limitless as Alaska, there is something new to discover at every turn. Book online, or contact a Rail Specialist for expert guidance on your once-in-a-lifetime expedition.
