Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet Earth, and there’s no better way to experience its vast wilderness than from the air. In my personal experience, it’s at the top of my list of adventures that really leave you in awe, making you feel like you’ve stepped into another world!
1. Explore Breaktaking aerial Views
Denali National Park and Reserve is one of North America’s tallest peaks at 20,310 feet. The flight includes a view of the infamous Moose’s Tooth, a rock peak soaring at 10,300 feet, and the entrance to Ruth Gorge. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, there are guided bus tours and hiking or biking trails throughout the Denali National Park. Definitely one of the places to see before you die!
2. The ultimate adventure and grizzly bear experience awaits
At the Lake Clark National Park and Katmai Bear Viewing, which is an adventure you will never forget, I promise! After a breathtaking flight over snow-capped mountains, volcanic landscapes, and shimmering lakes, you’ll land in a remote area to witness majestic grizzly bears in their natural habitat, fishing for salmon, roaming the shores, and interacting in their rugged environment. A personal experience of mine in the Fall was visiting the Redoubt Mountain Lodge, a secluded Alaskan escape offering amazing wildlife viewing, world-class fishing, and stunning views of the majestic Chigmit Mountains. One of my favorites!
3. For a bit of extreme adventure, how about glacier paddleboarding at Knik Glacier
One of the most accessible and picturesque glaciers is located 50 miles northeast of Anchorage. The Knik Glacier Pools are brilliant blue meltwater pools that form on the surface from melting ice and snow. Grand Knik Helicopter Tour flies over spectacular scenery and makes three landings: one alpine, one on an ice wall, and one in the middle of Knik Glacier. I’m ready to book this adventure now!
4. Dog sledding in Alaska
Alaska Icefield Expedition is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Arriving on a helicopter to a remote dog camp perched atop the vast, icy expanse of the Juneau Icefield, a team of enthusiastic Alaskan huskies with their mushers will guide you through the pristine, snow-covered landscape. As I lived in Juneau, this is definitely one of my favorites and especially if you love sled dog puppies!
5. Referred to as “Yosemite of the North”
Misty Fjords National Monument is known for its dramatic landscapes of towering granite cliffs, lush rainforests, and pristine glacial valleys. Spanning over 2.3 million acres within the Tongass National Forest, Misty Fjords signature mist, which often blankets the fjords, creates a mysterious atmosphere and experience from a seaplane.
Whether you’re soaring over towering mountain peaks, gliding above ancient glaciers, or touching down in remote locations inaccessible by road, flightseeing offers a unique perspective of the Last Frontier. From thrilling glacier landings to incredible wildlife encounters, here are five unforgettable flight-seeing adventures that should be on every Alaska traveler’s list.