What’s not to love about Alaska?
Our state is known around the world for its stunning, natural beauty. And, perhaps more than any other U.S. state, we have a virtually limitless choice of how we want to travel. It is no wonder our state is home to the happiest people in America.
And while our residents are the happiest people in America, we receive close to two million happy tourists each year as well. Our Alaska attorneys offer some of their favorite ways to travel our state.
Travel the Alaska Marine Highway System
The best-known way to travel Alaska by sea is on a cruise ship. While the scenery from an Alaskan cruise is wonderful, there are many more ways to see our state from the water.
For an experience you will never forget, tour any part of the world-famous Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS). Designated as a National Scenic Byway and All-American Road, the AMHS serves more than 30 unique Alaskan coastal communities, skirting the state’s southeastern coastline.
Ferries — named after famous glaciers — serve communities that have no other access. You can ferry your vehicle of choice right along with you, or spend a few weeks going from port to port on this highly efficient and budget-friendly mode of transportation.
Travel Alaska by Rail
On the Alaska Railroad, you can see famous landmarks including Seward, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park.
Traveling through interior Alaska, the railroad offers day trips as well as excursions, and you can take the train any time of the year. You can customize your itinerary with stopovers wherever you like or, if you would like a little guidance, the railroad has helpful travel consultants to help you plan your journey.
On the Alaska Railroad, the journey is as amazing as the destinations. Gaze out at wildlife, glaciers, and hours of natural forest as you relax in the dining or club cars with gold star dining.
Travel Alaska by Motorhome
With more than 80 campgrounds scattered throughout the state, seeing Alaska by motorhome is one of the best ways to travel.
Some intrepid travelers drive their motorhomes up from the continental U.S. However, it is easier and faster to rent a motorhome once you arrive. Alaska is extremely motorhome-friendly. You can park and spend the night at almost any public property as well as at state and national parks.
You can plan your route in advance to see the landmarks you are most interested in, or follow your whims as you traverse our beautiful state.
Travel Alaska by Car
One of the best ways to travel Alaska by passenger vehicle is to drive from Anchorage or Fairbanks to Denali State Park.
Having a car at Denali is ideal because you are free to see this glorious 325,000-acre park at your leisure. Dramatic mountain peaks, plentiful wildlife, and natural forests await you at Denali.
Of course, you can drive to and enjoy many other destinations throughout our state, particularly during the summer.
Travel Alaska by Motorcycle
Of all the ways to see and enjoy the majesty of our state, traveling Alaska by motorcycle with the wind in your face may be the most freeing.
You can choose from organized tours, like the amazing “Best of Alaska” tour, or you can grab a map and plan your own route.
Every summer, our state hosts dozens of bike rallies, runs, shows, and events. You can check out local event calendars for the next one.
If long-distance motorcycle trips are your thing, an intrepid group visits every summer, riding to Anchorage all the way from St. Augustine, Florida!
Travel Alaska your Way
If you prefer, you can see the highlights of our state through day tours and excursions.
Some of our favorites include rafting tours, flying in to bear watch or touring glaciers by air, sea, or ATV. You can sail, kayak, paddleboard, canoe, or go on horseback. You can take a zipline or catch a fishing charter.
And, of course, what would a trip to Alaska be without a dog sledding adventure?
Staying Safe While You Travel Alaska
Whatever way you choose to travel, stay safe while on our roadways with these invaluable travel tips.
If you are not familiar with some of the wildlife that is native to our state, take a moment to read up on the essentials for traveling in bear country and living in harmony with the plentiful Alaska wildlife.
Stay alert and keep your wits about you on the roadways, to avoid a rollover or a collision with any wildlife. The weather can be harsh, so be prepared by having an emergency kit with you when you drive, bike, or hike. Use common sense around water and keep a close eye on children and pets.
The attorneys of Kelley & Canterbury LLC have worked with clients throughout Alaska since 1975. If you are involved a car, motorcycle, or truck accident, call us today to speak with one of our Anchorage personal injury and accident lawyers: 907-276-8185.
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