My Trip to Alaska: Glaciers, Wild Nature, and What You Should Know Before You Go
Dreaming of traveling to Alaska? Join me as I explore its scenic highways, get up close to massive glaciers, and share my honest tips for planning your own trip.
TRAVEL GUIDES
Annette Ghan
9/19/20263 min read
Alaska in Real Life: Glaciers, Bears, and What No One Tells You About the Far North
If there was one destination that made me feel a little intimidated before I went, it was Alaska. I had always imagined it as an inaccessible block of ice, a place reserved for extreme explorers or documentary filmmakers. But being there, feeling the freezing air on my face and seeing mountains that seem to stretch endlessly, completely changed my perspective.
Alaska isn't just about cold and snow; it's nature on such a massive, wild scale that it makes you feel tiny—in the best possible way. Here's what my journey through this remote corner of the world was like, from ancient glaciers to coastal towns filled with stories.
1. Anchorage and the Legendary Road to Seward
My starting point was Anchorage, and although it is Alaska's largest city, the truly spectacular scenery begins as soon as you hit the road: the Seward Highway.
The highway: It is considered one of the most scenic routes in the world, and for good reason. On one side, you have rugged mountains; on the other, the waters of Turnagain Arm.
The unforgettable moment: Stopping along the way to watch the tides and, if you're lucky (I was!), spotting beluga whales in the distance or mountain goats perched on the cliffs.
Travel tip: If you're driving through Alaska, don't plan your trip based solely on the distance in miles. Unexpected stops to take photos or simply admire the scenery can easily double the travel time, so take it slow and enjoy the journey.
2. National Parks: The Thunder of the Glaciers
Standing in front of Exit Glacier or taking a boat tour through Kenai Fjords National Park was, without a doubt, the highlight of the trip.
Sailing among the ice: Taking a small boat close to the towering blue walls of ice is an incredible experience. The sound of a piece of glacier breaking off and crashing into the water sounds like thunder.
Wildlife in its purest form: In a single day, I saw sea lions resting on the rocks, sea otters floating on their backs, and orcas swimming close to the boat.
3. Talkeetna and the Shadow of Denali
Heading inland, I arrived in Talkeetna, a tiny town with an incredibly authentic Gold Rush-era feel and a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere.
The view of the giant: From here, if the sky is clear, you can see the silhouette of Denali, the highest mountain in North America. Its sheer scale is so enormous that it almost looks like a drawing on the horizon.
The local experience: Have a locally brewed beer at a cozy wooden pub and chat with the people who live there. Everyone seems to have incredible stories about how they survive the winter.
Travel Tips from a Friend for Visiting Alaska
The layering rule: The weather can change within minutes. The key isn't to wear one huge, uncomfortable coat, but to dress in layers: a thermal base layer, a fleece, and a waterproof, windproof jacket on top.
Respect the wildlife: You're in bear country, home to both black and brown bears. If you're going hiking, always carry a bear bell or make noise as you walk so you don't surprise one, and carry bear spray for safety.
The hours of daylight: In summer, the days are almost endless (the famous "midnight sun"), giving you plenty of time to explore. But bring an eye mask for sleeping, because at 11:00 PM it can still look like late afternoon.