Alaska

7 Reasons You Should Visit Alaska During Winter

August 30, 2024 by Everyday Alaska

”Oh, you don’t want to go there during winter!” “It’s way too cold, isn’t it?” “Is there even any daylight?”

You might be thinking those same thoughts, but have you ever heard about all the fantastic reasons you should visit Alaska during winter? It’s likely that you haven’t since Alaska isn’t necessarily a winter travel hot spot. But, it should be! If you’re wondering why you should visit Alaska during winter check out the reasons below, and start planning your Alaska winter vacation today!

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Moose during winter near Eureka, Alaska. — Moose trotting around on a frosty winter day.

How long is winter in Alaska?

The length of winter in Alaska varies year to year and place to place. Since we’re the largest state (and pretty proud of it!) you can have very different winter experiences based on what region you’re in. For example, in Utqiagvik there is no daylight for a large portion of winter and it’s bitterly cold. If you visit Valdez, you’ll have a bit more daylight but also encounter the largest accumulation of snow.

The short answer, though, is that most of us who have grown up here spent Halloween trick-or-treating in snowsuits and things start feeling springy by April, so basically you can consider the end of October though April to feel wintery.

Will there be enough daylight to enjoy Alaska during winter?

Yes! Although it’s brief in most places (and nonexistent in some) there are still ways to enjoy an Alaskan winter with minimal daylight. The best ways to do this are to plan activities around daylight hours if possible, and invest in a good headlamp! It might sound crazy, but it’s worth it to enjoy winter and get outdoors!

What do I need to wear to stay warm on my Alaska vacation?

Great question! I’ve got some detailed posts you can check out to see exactly what you’ll need to to stay warm and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Here you can find out how to layer for winter weather and the best winter boots to have for your trip that will keep you warm and toasty for all the winter activities.

Early winter walk with our chocolate lab. — Using **HotHands** and layers to stay warm during early winter.

Why should I visit Alaska during winter?

Winter is my second favorite season in Alaska, right behind our (very short) fall, and for very good reasons. The activities, less crowds, the peace, the snow, and more are some of the many reasons I love it so much. But, I know you all came here to find specific reasons to visit Alaska during winter, so I’ll go into detail below, and hopefully I can convince you to visit the beautiful 49th State during one of my favorite times.

Celebrations

When the cabin fever starts to kick in, we start to party! But really, celebrations across Alaska during the winter are great ways for us all to put the winter blues in the backseat and enjoy all that the season has to offer. Fur Rondy in Anchorage is one of the most popular ones, along with the World Ice Art Championships in Fairbanks, but there are many other local celebrations for winter solstice, Christmas, New Years, and more.

Iditarod start in Willow, Alaska. — Join in on the fun at the official Iditarod start.

Activities

Oh what fun it is to do winter activities! You can check out my detailed winter bucket list here, but some winter activities I’d definitely recommend trying on your visit to Alaska would be ice fishing, skiing, sledding, and snowmachining. There are places that do guided tours and rentals for those options, and as for sledding you can always pick up an inexpensive sled or even use a large trash bag as a sled to enjoy the snow!

Ice fishing with our Eskimo tent on the Kenai Peninsula. — Getting ready to spend the evening ice fishing.

Northern Lights

You know how I mentioned the lack of daylight earlier in this post? Well, with that comes something incredibly beautiful: the northern lights. The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is a spectacular sight to see. The variety of colors and intensity makes it the most epic natural light show you’ll ever see. Fairbanks is a popular hot spot to see this, and there are even tours that will help you find the best spots and times to see this beautiful phenomenon.

Hot Springs

Speaking of Fairbanks, what’s better than soaking in some warm water on a frigid day? Head to Chena Hot Springs and experience natural hot springs after a night of aurora watching. You can’t do that just anywhere!

Scenery

Alaska is beautiful year around, but winter really brings out a different kind of beauty. Seeing scenery covered in snow and frost makes you feel like you’re in a winter wonderland straight out of a Christmas movie. Watching snow fall, seeing the frost on the trees, watching moose trek through deep snow, and coming back to a warm cup of hot chocolate are memories you won’t forget.

Frost on the trees during a blue sky day on the Kenai Peninsula. — A bluebird day with beautifully frosted trees.

No Crowds

It. Gets. Crazy. During summers in Alaska. Everyone converges on the Last Frontier to see the midnight sun and all the adventures of summer in Alaska, checking things of their Alaska summer bucket list one by one. I can’t blame them. Summer in Alaska is beautiful, but the busyness of it all makes it a little chaotic sometimes, and I really prefer the peace of winter.

Don’t get me wrong though, there are some times and places where it gets crowded during winter. Alyeska Resort is busy with skiers and snowboarders, any good snowmachine spot is packed after a fresh snowfall, and the Iditarod start gets busy with visitors and locals alike. But, during winter you’ll find there are a lot less crowds and it’s a more relaxed time to visit.

See the Real Alaska

I don’t think you can really have the full Alaskan experience without visiting during winter. Local’s are out and about doing tons of recreational activities after a busy summer, everyone is half frozen but out enjoying life, and it’s just a whole different feeling than the hustle and bustle of any other season here. Visiting Alaska during winter is not for the faint of heart, but it will fill your heart and you’ll make amazing memories during your winter visit to the Last Frontier.

An icy winter walk on the beach in Kenai, Alaska. — Beach days look a little different in the winter.

If you have questions about visiting Alaska during winter, or how best to build your winter travel itinerary, feel free to leave a comment below, sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, or send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier, and I hope you enjoy Alaska as much as we do!

Valdez, Alaska Itinerary: The Best Things to Do and See

August 28, 2024 by Everyday Alaska

If you’re looking for the best way to plan a trip to Valdez, Alaska, look no further than this guide. After being born and raised in Valdez, I’ve got the inside scoop on the best things to do and see. This itinerary will be a little different than most you’ve probably seen, however, so let me explain below.

Valdez, Alaska welcome sign — Welcome to beautiful Valdez, Alaska!

What’s the best way to plan a Valdez vacation?

There are a ton of variables when traveling, especially when traveling anywhere in Alaska. Your Valdez, Alaska itinerary will greatly depend on weather, the time of year you’re visiting, how long you’ll be there, your budget, and other factors. These factors will determine what places and activities are open, what you can see, and what types of activities you’ll be able to fit into your time frame and budget. Which leads me to the explain how I’ve organized this itinerary.

How is this Valdez, Alaska itinerary organized?

The seasonality, unpredictable weather, costs, and more of traveling around Alaska can make travel planning a bit difficult. This is why I’ve left this itinerary with no specific schedule, and it’s more of a pick-your-own-adventure type of guide. This will help you be flexible to changes in weather, what fits your budget, what’s open at the time, and more. You can mix and match to fit your needs. For example, maybe it’s too foggy to explore Thompson Pass (pretty common), so you decide to stay in town. Why not check out the museums? Did you want to go on a fishing charter, but they’re all booked up? (To avoid that, check out this post!) Maybe look into fishing at Allison Point depending on the season. Those are just a couple situations you might encounter.

So, without further ado, let’s get to planning! I’ve broken the travel planning up into a few different categories. As you’ll be able to tell, some may overlap. The hatchery is educational and you’ll likely see wildlife. Going on a kayaking adventure is both a great activity and scenic. Fishing is a great activity and you’ll likely see wildlife. Anyway, you get the point, so let’s jump into the ultimate Valdez, Alaska itinerary!

Black bear in Valdez, Alaska at Solomon Gulch Hatchery — A black bear at the Solomon Gulch Hatchery.

Activities and Adventure

There are never ending adventures and activities all across Alaska. Here are a few of my favorite Valdez adventures to add to your travel plans.

Glacier and Wildlife Cruise

Are you looking for one of the most epic activities do to while in Valdez? Check out a glacier and wildlife cruise with Stan Stephen’s Glacier and Wildlife Cruises. Explore beautiful Prince William Sound and get the opportunity to see majestic glaciers and wildlife such as whales, puffins, otters, seals, and more. These cruises are full day excursions, so when planning your itinerary know that this will take up a large portion of your day, and it’s well worth it!

Tip: Are you wondering what to wear and bring with on a glacier and wildlife cruise? Check out our post here!

Prince William Sound on Stan Stephen’s Cruise — Beautiful views from Stan Stephen’s Cruise.

Fishing

Fishing is what many people visit Valdez to do. You can go fishing from the rocks at Allison Point, or drop a line while on a charter. Your fishing experience could last a few hours from the shore, be a half or full day trip on a charter, or you could even overnight on a charter!

The first thing to do when fitting fishing into your plans is to see what species will be available to catch during your visit, determine your budget, and pick the best option that will fit your schedule. Maybe you’re traveling with a large party and a charter is out of your budget? Try out a few hours of fishing at Allison Point. Is catching a halibut a must do on your Alaska bucket list? Splurge on a charter for a chance to get hooked up on the fish of your dreams!

Tip: Don’t go fishing without a derby ticket! Learn all about tickets and what you could win here!

Kayaking

Experience a once in a lifetime paddle around glaciers with guided kayaking tours in Valdez. You can plan your itinerary for this similarly to planning a glacier and wildlife cruise since they both excursions take up a good portion of the day.

Valdez, Alaska harbor — Hop in a kayak for a beautiful paddle.

Hiking

If you want to add exercise with a view to your schedule, check out some local hikes. Whether you want a short little jaunt after lunch, or an afternoon adventure, there’s something for everyone. Check out local hikes here, and don’t forget to be bear aware!

Walking in Thompson Pass near Valdez, Alaska — Walking around picturesque Thompson Pass.

Sights and Wildlife

Wherever you look in Valdez you’ll have spectacular views (as long as it’s not too foggy!). Below is a list of some specific places to see the most beautiful sights Valdez has to offer, along with some great wildlife spotting areas! You can also check out my detailed guide to the sights and wildlife of Valdez here.

Valdez Boat Harbor

The boat harbor is one of my favorite places to wander around in Valdez. It’s so peaceful and the perfect spot to walk around with a warm drink on a chilly morning, or check out the views on a sunny day. I love to see the creative names on the boats, and you might also see an otter or two if you’re lucky!

Keystone Canyon

If you didn’t stop on your drive in, check out Keystone Canyon. Horsetail and Bridal Veil Falls are just a couple of the majestic waterfalls you’ll see, and they make for great photo opportunities. This stop is a must add to your Valdez itinerary!

Valdez and Worthington Glaciers

If you’re out viewing the falls in Keystone Canyon, you might as well add a trip up to Worthington Glacier in Thompson Pass to your plans for the day. Not only are there great walking trails with lots of informative signage, but the scenery is stunning! If you want to stay in town though, check out Valdez Glacier via a kayaking tour!

Worthing Glacier, Alaska — Worthington Glacier.

Dayville Road/Allison Point

If you’re looking for wildlife, here’s your spot! Cruise down Dayville Road and keep your eyes peeled for bears! Depending on the time of year, once you get closer to the water around the hatchery and Allison Point you may get the opportunity to see bears, sea lions, otters, seals, and tons of fish, which is what bring all the other animals into the area. Here’s a great pair of binoculars in case you want to get a closer look at them from a safe distance. And, once again, be bear aware.

Tip: As large and in charge as bears are, they are also fantastic at hiding out. If you want to get a photo of one from your vehicle, have your camera out and ready as you drive the road because as soon as you see one, it can disappear into the trees in a flash!

A brown bear in Valdez, Alaska along Dayville Road. — A brown bear along Dayville Road; I didn’t have my camera ready so we only got phone photos!

History and Education

If you’re visiting a new place it’s always nice to hear some of the backstory of how it got to where it is today, right? Well, Valdez has quite the history and many wonderful places to learn about it that I’ll explain more about below. Also, there’s a lot to learn about the area’s wildlife as well, so don’t miss out on that, either!

Valdez Museum

The Valdez Museum has two educational and unique locations. I highly suggest visiting both locations and learning about the gold rush, 1964 earthquake, oil spill, and more. The artifacts, movies, and displays are very well set up, and it’s a great way to learn about the town. Museum visits are great rainy day activities to add to your itinerary and you could spend an afternoon at the two Valdez Museum locations.

Old Town

After learning a bit about Valdez history, head out to Old Town Valdez, the original Valdez townsite. You won’t see a bunch of historical buildings there (you’ll learn about why at the museums), but there are signs posted with information about Valdez before the earthquake and tsunami, and it will give you an idea of what the town was like before it was moved.

Maxine and Jesse Whitney Museum

If you want to see one of the biggest and most interesting collections of Alaska Native art and Alaska wildlife mounts, visit the Maxine and Jesse Whitney Museum. The artifacts there are beautiful and fascinating to see. This would be another great rainy day activity that you could spend an hour or so at.

Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery

Visit the hatchery, learn how it runs, and learn about its purpose on a self guided tour. This tour is not only informative, but also has beautiful views and, depending on the time of year, very good chances of seeing a lot of the wildlife in the sections above. Last summer we spent a whole afternoon there walking around and watching wildlife, but you could probably plan for around an hour if you were short on time.

Sea lions in Valdez, Alaska at Solomon Gulch Hatchery. — A sea lion getting salmon at the hatchery.

Crooked Creek

If you’re staying in town and up for a little walk, you could stroll on over to Crooked Creek. There’s a salmon viewing area, waterfall, and a cute cabin that you can visit to learn more about local wildlife, salmon cycles, native plant species, and more.

Tip: Just watch for bears here too, because where there’s fish there’s usually bears.

Crooked Creek information site and cabin in Valdez, Alaska. — Crooked Creek information site.

Okay, now that you’ve got the scoop on some of the best things to do and see in Valdez, Alaska, it’s time to compile your Valdez itinerary! Will you stick with the adventurous activities, spend some time indoors at the museums, go sightseeing in Thompson Pass, or a little combination of everything? Let me know in the comments!

If you have questions about traveling to Alaska, or how best to build your Valdez itinerary, feel free to leave a comment below, sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, or send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier and I hope you enjoy Alaska as much as we do!

11 Things You Must Have on a Summer Vacation in Alaska

January 25, 2024 by Everyday Alaska

So you’re planning a vacation to Alaska; what an exciting time! Second only to the actual visit, planning is one of my favorite parts of travel. It can be tricky when it comes to planning what to pack, though. One of the things you may be wondering about is what you should bring on your Alaska vacation. Don’t fret, I’ve got a list of eleven must have things you‘ll need on your summer vacation in Alaska!

What are the must have items for a summer vacation in Alaska?

Alrighty, let’s hop into our list of items you’ll want to have on your vacation in Alaska!

Sunscreen

It’s Alaska, the land of glaciers, snow, and freezing temperatures, right? Well, that’s not quite all correct in the summertime. Although we have an immense amount of glaciers, it can get pretty toasty here in the summer, especially with the midnight sun shining down. So, don’t forget to purchase sunscreen, and reapply as directed. You definitely don’t want to get burnt on your vacation, and if you do your friends may think you traveled to Mexico and not Alaska!

Kayaking on the Kenai Peninsula. — Hat, sunscreen, and sunshine!

Sunglasses

While we’re on the topic of sunshine, don’t forget to bring your sunglasses! The sun can be very direct and bright, so protect your eyes with some good sunglasses.

Hat

Continuing on that same topic, make sure you bring or purchase a hat(s) for your vacation. There are plenty of places to purchase them while you’re here, too. This will provide additional protection from the sun, and keep it out of your eyes and off your noggin.

Sleep Mask

Okay, I promise this is the last sun-related item! With the amazing amount of daylight Alaska gets during the summer, it’s sometimes hard to fall asleep if you don’t have the right items. I’d like to think that the places you’ll be staying will have blackout curtains, but on the chance that they don’t, I’d suggest getting a sleep mask. This will help you fall asleep even if there’s daylight still streaming into the room, or if you need a little midday nap after a day of Alaskan adventures.

Summer sunset on the Kenai Peninsula. — A late night sunset on the Kenai Peninsula.

Camera Batteries

Make sure you have enough camera batteries and keep them charged on your travels. The last thing you want to do is come upon a clear view of Denali and have your camera batteries die!

Binoculars

Whether you’ll be RVing through Alaska, taking a cruise, or making a short trip, binoculars are a must have Alaska vacation item. These will help you spot Alaska’s abundant wildlife, and check some wildlife sighting off your bucket list. We use Vortex binoculars for spotting sheep, goats, moose, bears, and more.

Spotting sheep on the mountains along the Seward Highway.

Bug Spray

You may have heard that mosquitos are our state bird, and that’s pretty accurate. They can get pretty vicious in the summertime, so grabbing some bug spray is essential.

Bug Net

It’s definitely not a fashion statement, but a bug net is a game changer! These bug nets, and nets with hats, are my go-to and have saved me from many bites. But, if you do happen to get bit, check out my remedies for mosquito bite relief!

Extra Suitcase

If you’re like me, you’ll be purchasing some souvenirs on your vacation. Take along an extra bag that fits in a bigger suitcase to bring your treasures back in. And, if you’re wondering what the best, authentic Alaskan souvenirs are and where to buy them, check out my post here!

Nomar bags made in Homer, Alaska. — Purchase a souvenir AND a suitcase in one with Alaska made Nomar bags.

Cash

I know the card has really taken over, but cash is still a good thing to have on hand. It’s convenient to have cash for tips on charters, some more remote stops may not accept cards, and on the off chance a system is down and businesses are only taking cash it’s important to have some accessible to you.

Good Attitude

I’m sure you knew I’d mention it, but one of the most important things to have on a summer vacation in Alaska is a good attitude! Be flexible, have some patience, create backup plans for times when rainy weather interrupts your plans, and enjoy your time in the Last Frontier!

Where can I find these must have Alaska travel items?

Lastly, I’ll give a short run down of where you can find these items. Some things you may want to bring with you if you already have them, and others you can purchase online to pack with you. You can also buy some of the less travel friendly items (e.g. sunscreen) when you arrive in Alaska, and yet other things (e.g. patience) will hopefully come with you for your whole vacation. See what suits you and your travel needs best, and purchase when and where it’s most convenient for you.

I hope this Alaska vacation packing list has helped you determine what you’ll need to enjoy your vacation to the fullest! If you have questions about traveling to Alaska feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email.

You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!

An Alaskan’s Guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy

January 13, 2024 by Everyday Alaska

If you’re reading this, I’m assuming you’re either planning a trip to Alaska to experience the Iditarod and the Fur Rendezvous, or you’re curious what all the hubbub over these celebrations is about. After going to theses events many times over the years, I can tell you attending the Iditarod starts (more about the two starts later), and the Fur Rendezvous events are worth the hype. Below, I’ll give you the inside scoop on the events and activities, and let you know what to wear and what to expect at these events. So, let’s sled on into an Alaskan’s guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy!

What is the Iditarod and Fur Rondy?

First things first, let’s go over what the Iditarod and Fur Rendezvous (Fur Rondy) are. These are two separate events that occur at the same time, and help all of us Alaskan’s get through the last part of the dark winter days because spring is near (or nearish!) when Fur Rondy is here!

The Iditarod start in Willow, Alaska. — The Iditarod starting line in Willow.

What to Expect at Fur Rondy

Fur Rondy events occur from the end of February to the beginning of March. This is a winter festival held in Anchorage that is comprised of a variety of entertaining and exciting events! It started in 1935 and continues to bring joy to Alaskan’s and visitors ever since. You can expect to see some unique events at this “only in Alaska” style celebration. Those include a snow sculpture contest, a winter carnival with rides, food, and more, blanket toss, a parade, fireworks, fur auctions, an outhouse race, running of the reindeer, and more!

My favorite Fur Rondy event is the Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market. This event is held at the Dimond Center Mall and features Alaska Native artists. You’ll be able to speak with the artists and purchase their handcrafted items such as masks, fur hats and gloves, ivory carvings, jewelry, beadwork, baskets, paintings, and more. As you can tell, there’s really a lot happening at this Alaskan celebration, so you can check out the events calendar here!

Alaska Native made artwork at Fur Rondy Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market. — Artwork at the market.

Iditarod History and the Two Starts

If you’ve ever watched Balto or Togo you probably know of the importance of sled dog teams in Alaska. The famous pups that made the serum trek to Nome saved many lives, and dog teams have been an integral part of transportation in Alaska. The Iditarod, “The Last Great Race”, keeps the spirit of mushing alive and well by having mushers from around the globe gather in Alaska and race from Willow to Nome.

The ceremonial Iditarod start in Anchorage, Alaska. — These sled dogs are ready to run at the Anchorage Iditarod start.

The Iditarod starts occur at the beginning of March. There are two options to see the start of the Iditarod. The first “start” is in downtown Anchorage. It’s a ceremonial start and runs through part of the city. You can view it right from the starting line downtown, or choose a place along the route to watch from. Many visitors choose to watch from downtown, while locals watch from the starting line or one of the many places along the route though Anchorage.

I’ve only watched the ceremonial start from downtown, and it’s fun to be a part of the hustle and bustle and excitement of it all. Plus, you get a first hand look at how the sled dogs (who I first thought would be big, fluffy huskies, but are actually sleek, smaller, and very enthusiastic pups), handlers, and mushers work together, and can feel the anticipation for the real start the following day.

The Iditarod’s real start is in Willow, which is about ninety minutes or so from Anchorage. Many Alaskan’s attend this event, and send the mushers and their furry teammates off with Alaskan hospitality. It’s one big, fun celebration. For as much as I love the downtown ceremonial start, I love the restart even more. Everyone is bundled up and sipping warm drinks while the adventurers mush off onto the trail of “The Last Great Race” and begin their journey.

DeeDee Jonrowe at the Iditarod start in Willow, Alaska. — DeeDee Jonrowe at the Willow start.

What should I wear to the Iditarod start and Fur Rondy?

While we’re on the subject of bundling up and sipping warm drinks, I figured I’d touch on what you should wear to stay warm and comfortable at these events. First off, you’ll want to check the weather and take that into consideration. Secondly, take into account what weather you’re acclimated to, and plan accordingly. Some year’s the weather is warm enough to wear jeans and a base layer, and other years you want to wear a full snowsuit with a face mask to protect you from the wind! The weather can be so unpredictable that, as with any other activity in Alaska, it’s best to layer. For details on the best gear and ways to layer for winter weather, check out my winter clothing post here!

What activities are there at these events?

As I listed above, there are so many fun events and activities to participate in during Fur Rondy and the Iditarod. Below, I’ll recap some of my favorites!

Alaska State Snow Sculpture Championship

The only type of snow sculpture I can create is a snowman, so seeing the talent of these snow sculptors is amazing to me! This event is located close to the ceremonial Iditarod start in downtown Anchorage, and showcases a variety of creative snow sculptures that are a must see.

Snow sculptures in Anchorage, Alaska. — By the time we saw it the snow had melted a bit, but this pineapple was one of my favorites!

Fur Rondy Carnival

Also located downtown, this carnival is a winter treat for everyone. I think it’s so fun to see all the carnival rides and lights during winter, and it’s a really neat experience for visitors as well, since not often do you get to have a carnival in winter.

Fur Rondy winter carnival in Anchorage, Alaska. — Bundle up for some rides!

The Fur Auction

The fur auction is a really interesting event to see. It’s fun to watch people bid on items, see how much things go for, and check out the furs everyone wears to these events, which are held in downtown Anchorage.

The Fur Rondy Fur Auction in Anchorage, Alaska. — A busy, bluebird day at the Fur Auction.

Charlotte Jensen Native Arts Market

I can’t say enough good things about this market. It’s really a must visit event. Seeing the art is one thing, but getting to meet the artists really is the cherry on top! Plus, you know you’re getting authentic Alaskan items, which are often hard to come by. For more information on great Alaska items to purchase and where to buy them, check out my post here!

Alaska Native made fur hats the the Native Arts Market. — Beautiful Native-made fur hats at the market.

The Iditarod Starts

Don’t miss the Iditarod start! Whether you make it to the start or the restart (or even both!), you’re in for a great time and a real Alaskan experience!

I hope this guide to the Iditarod and Fur Rondy has helped you in your Alaska activity and travel planning. These are all events that I love and enjoy, and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

If you have questions about traveling to Alaska, or the Iditarod and Fur Rondy, feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. I’m happy to help you get the most out of your time in our beautiful Last Frontier!

How to Layer Clothes for Winter Weather

January 9, 2024 by Everyday Alaska

We’re deep into winter here in Alaska and I figured what better time than now to share some tips and gear we use to stay warm all winter long. Whether you’re looking for gear to buy now to warm you up, searching for clothes for the coming winter, or are just trying to figure out the best way to layer clothes for winter weather we’ve got you covered from hat to snow boots!

Why is it important to layer for winter weather?

Alaska is the land of layering. Summer, winter, spring, and fall, we’re always layering. If you’re wondering why that is, the answer is weather. The weather here is unpredictable, and you have to be prepared for the every changing conditions during any season. Truly, layering is a really great way of dressing for the variable weather. No matter what weather comes your way, you’ll find yourself prepared and comfortable since you’ll have a variety of layers to choose from.

Layering for winter weather always includes a hat. — Never forget to bring a warm hat! (And a fun snow dog!)

How do I layer my clothes for winter weather, and what is the best winter gear?

Obviously, the number of layers and type of layers you’ll wear will depend on the climate in your area and what activities you’ll be doing. You’ll also want to consider material options. Steer away from cotton items, especially if you’ll be getting wet or sweating, and consider wool and waterproof fabrics to wick moisture away or keep it from penetrating your other layers.

Let’s start from the top and work our way down through the various sets of layers you’ll want to consider wearing this winter. Below, I’ll list my favorite winter clothes and the various layering options you can use to stay toasty warm this winter.

Hats, Headbands, and Neck Gaiters

Keeping your noggin toast warm is essential to staying comfortable in winter weather. You’ll see many people wearing this hat, which comes in a variety of colors and sizes for men, women, and kids. It’s one of my favorite hats and keeps my ears nice and warm. Merino wool hats are also a great lightweight, warm, and odor-resistant option as well. If you want to keep your ears warm without covering your whole head, consider using a headband. I’d suggest fleece or Marino lined ones.

Next, well move on to neck gaiters, not to be confused with leg gaiters which we’ll talk more about below. Neck gaiters are something you don’t think you need till you really need it! When your nose starts to get chilled and ice is building up on your hair, you’ll be wishing you had a cozy neck gaiter to pull up over your face. Trust me, this year has really convinced me that gaiters are a winter layer necessity!

Base Layers, Mid Layers, Vests, and Jackets

We’re moving on down to the core. Let’s start with base layers here. If you’re looking for base layers at a great price point, check out ColdPruf. I purchased three different sets of these in a pack years ago, and they have held up very well. They aren’t the warmest layers on the market, but they do the trick and are priced very reasonably.

If you have more room in your budget for base layers, the warmest ones I’ve tried are by North Face. These layers are very fitted and hold up well, along with being incredibly toasty. You can check them out here, or check outlet malls for a great bargain.

As for mid layers, this can really vary. Depending on the weather and what activities we’ll be doing, I’ll wear a regular sweatshirt over my long sleeve base layer, or something like this Mountain Hardware half zip. On warmer winter days that is often enough, and I’ll end up brining my jacket but not wearing it. Other times I’ll skip this layer and wear a heavier jacket if I’m just running errands. The mid layer gives you a lot of flexibility as weather changes throughout the day, and can give you that perfect amount of warmth as the day cools off, or cool you off if you need to shed your jacket during winter activities.

A great in between option is a vest. I have a lighter weight one for wearing over a mid layer on winter walks, and very poofy down Canada Goose vest that’s great for single digit and below zero temperatures. Adding a vest to your collection winter clothes is a very versatile option.

We’ve made it to jackets! I love this jacket. It’s fitted, comes in great colors, and is very comfortable. The hood is an added bonus when you forget your hat or just need some extra warmth. This isn’t the jacket for snowmaching in fresh powder or sitting by the bonfire (you don’t want to burn a hole in it!), but it’s great for winter walks, skiing, snowshoeing, running errands, and activities when the temps are above zero. Many people are also choosing to have knee length jackets for more leisurely outdoor activities as well, and although I don’t have one I think they’d be quite warm.

When things get really cold, wet, and miserable you’ll want to break out the down or another heavily insulated jacket. Making sure your outer layer is water and wind proof is in important aspect. Trust me, once you get wet it wont be much fun to be outside, so invest in a good outer layer if you plan on spending a lot of time outside on frigid winter days.

Waterproof gloves on a winter day. — Waterproof layers always come in handy.

Gloves and Mittens

If you’re like me, your fingers get chilled fast in winter weather. If you’re wondering how to avoid that, there are some great ways you can layer your gloves and have your digits stay comfortably warm. First things first, you’re going to want some HotHands. These little packets of warmth are a game changer!

Once you’ve got your HotHands warmers set, it’s time to get on your glove base layer. You’ll want a pair of thinner gloves, such as these, to layer under your mittens. This will give you dexterity but also keep your hands warm when you take your mittens off. They great for wearing alone when the winter weather is milder, too.

Next, you’ll want mittens. I have two varieties that are my favorite. One type is wool on the outside and fleece on the inside. They’re made of repurposed wool sweaters, and are incredibly cozy and cute. You can likely find them at craft fairs and probably Etsy, too. Or, you can make some yourself with patterns on Pinterest!

Another great option is the North Face Montana Mitt. They’re waterproof and well insulated to keep you comfortable during your winter outings. These are more for activities such a skiing, snowboarding, snowmachining, or winter adventures where you may be playing in the snow more.

Layering up for a mild winter day. — Layered up and ready for adventure! (I promise he loves to be outside, he just looks grumpy in all these pictures!)

Base Layers, Mid Layers, Snowpants, and Bibs

Now we’ve made it to lower layers. The same goes for base layer bottoms as tops. ColdPruf base layers are great if you want to purchase something more budget friendly, and North Face layers will keep you warmer for a bit higher of a price tag, which is well worth it if you’ll be outside a lot. Just remember to check out the materials so you purchase base layers that have moisture wicking fabrics to keep you warm and dry.

As for mid layer pants, I think fleece pants are the way to go. Honestly, if I need a mid layer pant I just wear sweatpants! And, if the weather is nice enough, that’s sometimes the only other layer I’ll wear for some activities. But, for more hardcore outings and weather, a really solid pair of fleece pants is great to have. I’m hoping to try the made in the USA Versa fleece pants sometime soon, and when I do I’ll be sure to post a review!

Next up, you’ve got to decide if you’re a snowpants, bib, or even snowsuit person. I wear snowpants. The reason being is that I have short legs and a long torso. I don’t think anyone particularly enjoys having a wedgie, and I definitely don’t, so snowpants are usually my only option. Plus, it makes things much easier when you have to use the restroom, so that’s something to consider! I currently have a pair of MooseJaw ones I’ve used for one season, and they work pretty well. Whether you’re shopping for snowpants, bibs, or a snowsuit, check into the insulation, and look for reinforced knees and cuffs, waterproofing, and pockets.

Socks, Boots, and Gaiters

Head, shoulders, knees, and now were onto toes! First things first, grab some HotHands toe and/or foot warmers. These will help your feet stay warmer, along with Darn Tough socks. I highly recommend Darn Tough. These American made socks are comfortable, durable, and warm, and are guaranteed for life!

Next, we’re onto boots. I have an entire post dedicated to the five best winter boots, which will give you an idea of which type of winter boot is best for the activities you’ll be doing. Lastly, don’t forget about gaiters! T&K makes lifetime guaranteed gaiters right here in America which will help keep snow out of your boots and keep your feet warm, dry, and comfortable.

Snowshoes and HotHands toe warmers for a winter adventure. — Getting warmers ready for a bit of snowshoeing.

Well, I think that about wraps up our lesson on how to layer clothes for winter weather! If you have questions about layering, winter in Alaska, or anything at all about Alaska feel free to leave a comment below, or sign up for the Everyday Alaska newsletter, and send me an email. You can also join the Everyday Alaska Travel Tips, Information, and Advice group, and/or our New to Alaska Tips, Information, and Advice group to ask any questions you may have. Stay warm, stay dry, and have fun out there!

6 Mistakes to Avoid when Visiting Alaska for the First Time

November 18, 2023 by Everyday Alaska

You’ve saved and saved, and now you’re planning your dream trip to the majestic wilderness of Alaska. Road trips through waterfall walled canyons, plentiful moose sightings, and hikes through untouched mountains fill your mind. But, to truly enjoy your time in the breathtaking Last Frontier, there are a few mistakes you’ll want avoid making.

One of the many waterfalls in Keystone Canyon.

What should I avoid when visiting Alaska?

There are a few things you should avoid or account for when visiting Alaska. Don’t worry, though, these aren’t trip ruining mistakes. With the right attitude, no trip to my home state can truly be bad. These are just some suggestions and guidelines to help you enjoy Alaska to the fullest.

I want your dream vacation to become one of your favorite memories. It’s my favorite place to be, and I’m hoping it will become one of your’s, too. So without further ado, here are a list of mistakes to avoid when visiting Alaska.

Underestimating the Size

Don’t underestimate the truly vast size of Alaska. It’s the largest of the United States, coming in at over 2.5 times the size of Texas! This is a very important fact to keep in mind when visiting Alaska, especially if you plan on doing a bit of traveling around the state.

It may sound fun to travel from Anchorage down to the Kenai Peninsula, and then make a quick drive to Denali National Park and Fairbanks during a five day trip. It doesn’t look too bad on the map, right? Well, maps can be a bit deceiving. That would be like driving through multiple states, and when you factor in construction season, weather, road closures, and extra traffic from visitors (learn more about those variables here), it’s quite the trek. Most of that time would be spent viewing Alaska from the inside of a vehicle, and although the drives here are extraordinary that’s not what you want to spend your vacation doing. So, all said and done, consider the size of Alaska and plan accordingly with the amount of time you’ll be visiting.

Mile 123 of the Denali Highway. Plan extra time for more remote roads as they are not usually paved.

Forgetting Layers

As I’m sure you’ve heard, weather in Alaska is unpredictable, so layering is your best friend when packing for your Alaska vacation. Having a variety of layers will help you stay comfortable no matter what weather you encounter or what season you visit during. This will help ensure that you can enjoy the activities you’ve dreamed of without being too hot, cold, or wet.

Downtown Anchorage during the Iditarod Start. Time to put those layers on!

Being Unprepared for the Season

This ties into a couple other points, but it’s important to be prepared for the season you’re visiting in. If you show up in the summer, expect road construction. If you visit during the summer through early fall, be prepared for mosquitoes. If you visit during the winter, know that daylight hours are lean. This goes for clothing as well, as I stated above, and also time on the road.

The time it takes to go from town to town will change per season as well. Things slow down in winter with the snow and ice. Fall is a more normal pace, but still has some construction. Summertime can be a mixed bag. Because of the midnight sun you can travel in the light a majority of the day, but all of the visitor traffic can often make road trips slow going. Those are just a few things to think about for the different periods you may be traveling during.

Expecting Public Transportation

Alaska is not known for its public transportation system. Surprisingly, many people think it’s easy to hop a bus and head to the next town a couple hundred miles away. There are so many other visitors heading in that direction, so of course there’s a bus right? Nope. You won’t be seeing any Graylines here.

Although there may be tour buses and some shuttles, there are no major buses that will take you around the state at scheduled times. There are, however, Ubers, taxis, rental cars and RVs (the most popular options), the ferry, the Alaska Railroad, and some city buses. Not all of those are consistent and reliable options, though, and some are very seasonal so check into schedules when planning your trip.

Not Making Reservations

Skipping over making reservations and not planning early can leave you in the lurch for some of the bucket list activities you may want to enjoy. If you’re set on doing an aurora tour, jet skiing around glaciers, zip lining, going on a fishing charter or day cruise, or mushing with sled dogs, you may want to look into getting a reservation. The same goes for lodging and rental cars/RVs as well.

Although there are things you can schedule last minute, it’s best to call ahead of time and check. We get an immense amount of visitors here every year who likely want to do the same activities you do and stay at the same places you want to stay. Thus, things book up quickly and reservations are out over a year in advance sometimes.

Fishing trips book up quickly. Book in advance to make sure you get a spot!

But, if your trip is coming up soon and you haven’t made any reservations, or if you’re just winging it day by day, don’t fret! You can sometimes book activities and other reservations on short notice and also check for cancellations. If an activity or place you wanted to experience doesn’t work out, don’t worry! Alaska has a plethora of beautiful places and epic activities to enjoy, so pivot and find a new experience you may not have thought of otherwise!

Thinking You’re the Only Ones

Alaska is a bucket list destination, so naturally there is a large number of people that travel here. But the thing is, as large as our state is it’s just not built for a lot of people. We have a small road system. Our towns aren’t built for populations to double and triple over the summer. We don’t always have the workforce to fill the positions needed to accommodate visitors.

Some visitors get frustrated with long lines and slow food service. Others can’t believe the traffic would be so slow, or that places would run out of food or rooms. And it’s not that we’re not happy you’re here! We really are (most of the time 😉 ) happy to have people come enjoy the beautiful 49th state. Who wouldn’t want to visit Alaska, after all? It’s just hard to prepare for such an influx of people when there really isn’t the infrastructure or workforce to support that. It also takes time for supplies to get here, and things are often late to arrive. Even if business are prepared, other things may be running late. So, if things are slow try your best to go with the flow. That’s what we do. You’ll have a much happier trip overall.

In summertime you’ll see traffic backed up even in “the middle of nowhere”.

These mistakes to avoid when visiting Alaska are suggestions that I feel will help make your dream vacation go as smooth as possible. Many travelers only make it to Alaska once, and I want your trip to be all you hoped it would be. Although no trip is exactly “perfect”, a vacation to Alaska is about as close as you can get, and I hope you have a wonderful time visiting the Last Frontier.