Here’s Why This Is The Best Month To Visit Alaska

I’ve lived in Alaska my whole life, I’ve seen 20 summers, 30 winters, 15 springs, and maybe 5 Falls. And if those numbers don’t add up to you, you probably don’t call Alaska your home. This state is breathtaking. With bald eagles, Kodiak bears, the northern lights, the midnight sun, glaciers you can walk on, and mountains as far as the eye can see, Alaska is truly wild. But she is difficult to predict. I’ve witnessed two feet of snow in mid-May, 50 degree days in January, and a July where it rained so often I started looking around for the Cullen’s. So, if you are wanting to cross Alaska off your bucket-list, you may want to stick around to make sure you find the best month to visit Alaska.

Winter- December

If you are coming to Alaska in hopes of dog-sleds, northern lights, ice castles (yup, we have one), and the perfect powder for your favorite winter sport, December is your month. Specifically, mid to late December. By that time of the year you’re basically guaranteed to have a good amount of snow on the ground, nights dark enough for nature’s greatest light show, and ice thick enough for skating or fishing. All of this without getting hit with the cold snaps of January and February, which can be as brutal as -20F. So, if you are looking for a winter wonderland book your ticket for December, and bring your parka.

Summer- August

I went back and forth on this one. I was going to recommend a split month, combing the last week of May with the first couple weeks of June. But August beat them out. While the end of May and beginning of June can sometimes turn out the warmest days of summer, it is a risk. If winter has been long and spring late, visitors during this time of year may have to settle for tiny green buds on the trees, rather than the full beauty of dark lush greens. For that reason, August is my vote for the best month to visit Alaska if you love summer weather. It’s almost as warm as June and usually has twice as many dry days than July.

Side note: I can’t understand why everyone comes here in July. You will get rained on. And you will end up with one of the ridiculous ponchos and I will laugh at you. In August, you’ll get to see Alaska in full bloom. The days will be endless, the fish will be running, and the bears will be full which is always a plus.

Whatever month you decide to come to this beautiful state, make the best of it. Alaska is majestic rain, sun, or snow, so book the ticket, take the plane, and explore the last frontier.

What do you think is the best month to visit Alaska? Let us know in the comments below!

Featured image source: weheartit.com