Experience the vast and wild beauty of the last frontier through our curated guide to Alaska's top 10 natural wonders this summer. From the towering peaks of Denali to the mesmerizing fjords of Kenai and the natural beauty of Chugach State Park, Alaska offers endless adventures for both the novice and the seasoned explorer.

Here's a roundup of Alaska's ten must-see natural wonders this summer.

Denali National Park

 

At the heart of Alaska's interior, Denali National Park and Preserve stand as a testament to nature's grandeur. Encompassing 6 million acres, this park is home to North America's tallest peak, Denali, formerly Mount McKinley, which soars to a staggering 20,310 feet.

Summertime in Denali is a season of perpetual daylight and vibrant life. The park's sole road, the Denali Park Road, meanders through 92 miles of spectacular landscapes, offering breathtaking views of Denali and a wealth of wildlife.

Guided tours provide a wealth of information about the park's ecology and history, and the bus stops at numerous vantage points for photography.

For the more adventurous, Denali also offers opportunities for mountaineering, especially the challenge of conquering Denali itself. However, climbing Denali requires extensive preparation and experience due to the extreme weather conditions and altitude.

Camping in Denali is a beautiful experience, whether you choose a front-country campground or a backcountry adventure. Nothing compares to falling asleep under the midnight sun with the sounds of the wild all around you.

From the awe-inspiring sight of Denali to encounters with iconic wildlife, Denali National Park and Preserve offer an unrivaled journey into the wild heart of Alaska. Its stunning natural beauty and ample opportunities for adventure make it an unforgettable destination for every visitor to Alaska.

Kenai Fjords National Park

 

A gem in the wild Alaskan landscape, Kenai Fjords National Park is a place where the ice age lingers, and mountains merge into the ocean. Spread over an expanse of 607,685 acres, this natural wonderland is a true embodiment of raw, unfiltered wilderness beauty.

The park is home to the Harding Icefield, one of the largest ice fields in the United States, with nearly 40 glaciers. Here, majestic glaciers meet the sea, creating stunning fjords with breathtaking views.

Summers here are a dream. The lush landscape comes alive with a vibrant palette of wildflowers, while the coastal waters thrive with marine life, including seals, otters, and whales. Puffins can be spotted adorning the rocky cliffs while bald eagles soar in the sky.

Whether it's the thrill of a boat tour, a challenging hike to the Harding Icefield, sea kayaking amongst icebergs, or watching a humpback whale breach in the rich waters, Kenai Fjords National Park promises many unforgettable experiences.

Mendenhall Glacier

Mendenhall Glacier, located just a short 12-mile drive from downtown Juneau, is a must-visit destination for anyone touring Alaska. A crown jewel in the Tongass National Forest, this 13- mile-long river of ice is a testament to nature's grandeur.

Begin your journey at the visitor center, where interactive exhibits bring the fascinating formation and history of glaciers to life. The center's huge windows and outdoor viewing platforms offer mesmerizing views of the glacier and Mendenhall Lake.

The adventurous should take advantage of the guided kayak tours or canoe trips across Mendenhall Lake. These experiences bring you closer to the blue-ice behemoth, allowing you to witness its majesty. Paddling amidst icebergs floating in the lake is an experience you won't forget.

For hikers, the West Glacier Trail is a challenging yet rewarding route. It will lead you to an impressive ice cave beneath the glacier. Remember, the caves can be dangerous and are ever-changing due to the glacier's constant movement, so only venture there with a knowledgeable guide. For a more leisurely hike, opt for the Nugget Falls Trail, a two-mile trek leading you to a roaring waterfall near the face of the glacier.

Wildlife enthusiasts can also spot black bears, porcupines, beavers, and various bird species in the area. In the summer, wildflowers bloom, and waterfalls cascade down mountains surrounding the glacier, adding to the breathtaking beauty of the scene.

Mendenhall Glacier is not just an attraction; it's a powerful reminder of the Earth's past and a testament to the ever-evolving nature of our planet.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

 

Encompassing an astonishing 13.2 million acres of untamed wilderness, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States. A vast convergence of four major mountain ranges, the park is a tapestry of some of the tallest peaks in North America, massive glaciers, and wild, scenic rivers.

The park offers incredible hiking trails that range from leisurely walks to multi-day backpacking excursions. The Root Glacier Trail is a popular day hike that guides you to the surreal landscapes of the Root Glacier. Experience the exhilaration of walking on the icy surface, exploring deep crevasses and shimmering blue pools.

The historic Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark is another must-see. Take a guided tour through the old mill town and explore the abandoned copper mines. You can even try your hand at gold panning.

For bird enthusiasts, the park is a paradise where trumpeter swans, bald eagles, and other bird species can be observed. The park's rich wildlife includes moose, caribou, and grizzly bears.

In summer, you can fish in some of the state's cleanest, most serene waters. With rustic cabins and campsites available, spending a night under the starry Alaskan sky becomes a magical experience. You can even take a flightseeing tour for an awe-inspiring aerial view of the park's vast landscapes.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park offers a taste of Alaska's rugged, untamed beauty. Its colossal mountains, ice-blue glaciers, and abundant wildlife make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a bucket-list destination for those who seek to immerse themselves in nature's magnificence.

Glacier Bay National Park

 

Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an iconic showcase of nature's grandeur and a testament to the transformative power of glaciation. Comprising 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforests, and deep fjords, the park is an unparalleled sanctuary for adventure and reflection.

Summer offers a spectacular show of life in Glacier Bay. The humpback whales return to the bay's waters, providing excellent opportunities for whale watching. You might also spot sea otters, seals, and birds frolicking in the water.

Cruising the bay is a popular activity and for a good reason. Majestic glaciers such as the Margerie and Johns Hopkins glaciers tower over the water, occasionally calving, creating thunderous splashes and icebergs.

For those with a spirit of adventure, sea kayaking provides an intimate way to explore the bay's nooks and crannies—paddle amidst icebergs, towering fjords, and near the feet of mighty glaciers. Seeing a glacier calving while you're in a kayak nearby is the experience of a lifetime.

Hiking is another way to immerse yourself in the park's beauty. Trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes, taking you through lush rainforests, past serene beaches, and even onto glaciers.

Birdwatchers are in for a treat, with puffins, gulls, and bald eagles commonly seen. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot brown and black bears, moose, and wolves in the park's vast wilderness.

Cap off a day of exploration by camping under the star-studded Alaskan sky. The park's remote wilderness campgrounds provide a serene environment where the only sounds you hear are the distant rumble of glaciers and the gentle lapping of waves.

Glacier Bay National Park truly epitomizes the essence of Alaska's wild beauty. Its awe-inspiring landscapes and abundant wildlife promise unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Chugach State Park

 

Just a stone's throw from Anchorage, Chugach State Park offers a welcome escape into the wilderness. The park covers 495,000 acres and offers a mix of alpine landscapes, sprawling forests, rugged peaks, and crystal-clear lakes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

During the summer months, Chugach transforms into a vibrant playground. Over 280 miles of trails offer countless hiking opportunities, ranging from leisurely walks to more strenuous climbs. One of the must-do hikes is the trail to Flattop Mountain, the most climbed mountain in Alaska, offering panoramic views of Anchorage and the Cook Inlet.

Chugach State Park is also a dream destination for anglers. The park's many rivers and lakes are full of fish, including salmon and trout, making it a prime spot for freshwater fishing. Remember to follow all state fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release to preserve the area's natural resources.

With dozens of glaciers within its borders, Chugach State Park offers unique glacier viewing and exploring opportunities. Eklutna Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the park and a popular spot for an unforgettable day trip.

Chugach State Park is not just a destination; it's an adventure waiting to happen. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking for your next challenge or a nature lover seeking serenity, Chugach State Park is a must-visit spot on your Alaskan journey.

Tongass National Forest

In summer, the forest comes alive, with sunlight streaming through the dense canopy of towering Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and red cedar trees. The forest is also home to an extensive system of freshwater and saltwater bodies, making it a hotspot for kayaking and fishing.

One of the prime attractions in Tongass is the Mendenhall Glacier. Venture on a guided kayak tour or embark on a hiking trail leading to a magnificent ice cave for an unforgettable ice experience.

The forest boasts an incredible array of wildlife. Sightings of bald eagles, brown and black bears, wolves, and Sitka black-tailed deer are common. The forest's waterways are full of salmon, making bear viewing especially popular during the salmon run.

With its stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and fascinating cultural history, Tongass National Forest offers an authentic Alaskan experience that combines adventure and awe. Whether hiking its scenic trails, ziplining, fishing in its abundant waters, or soaking in the wilderness, Tongass National Forest promises a memorable and meaningful journey into the heart of Alaska's natural splendor.

Katmai National Park 

 

Katmai National Park and Preserve is a compelling mix of vibrant ecosystems and active volcanic landscapes on the Alaska Peninsula across from Kodiak Island. Spread over 4 million acres, this park is a haven for wildlife, particularly for brown bears.

Katmai comes alive in summer, offering a stunning spectacle of its most famous inhabitants - brown bears. Brooks Falls is one of the best places in the world to observe bears as they fish for salmon, leaping up the waterfall. Witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is an experience of a lifetime.

Katmai offers a range of hiking options. You can explore the unique geology of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a vast ash-filled valley and a remnant of the 1912 Novarupta eruption.

Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in world-class sportfishing in the park's pristine waters, teeming with various fish, including five species of salmon.

The park also provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, and camping. Whether navigating the park's lakes and rivers or camping under the Alaskan sky, Katmai guarantees an immersive wilderness experience.

Imposing volcanoes, an abundant population of brown bears, a rich tapestry of fish and bird species, and an arresting landscape that's both haunting and beautiful – Katmai National Park and Preserve is more than just a place to visit; it's a place to truly experience Alaska's raw and rugged beauty.

Prince William Sound

 

Nestled in the Gulf of Alaska, Prince William Sound is a stunning maritime sanctuary filled with glaciated mountains, lush temperate rainforests, and a staggering array of wildlife; this natural haven is a mosaic of deep fjords, tranquil bays, and over 150 glaciers.

The Sound truly comes to life in summer. Majestic glaciers, like the Columbia and Meares glaciers, calve gigantic chunks of ice into the sea, creating a dramatic awe-inspiring performance.

The waters of Prince William Sound are teeming with a rich diversity of marine life. Take a day cruise, and you'll likely spot playful sea otters, harbor seals, and Dall's porpoises riding the bow wave of your boat. Birdwatchers will be delighted with sightings of bald eagles, puffins, and other seabirds nesting on the rugged cliffs. The Sound is also a hotspot for whale watching, with orcas and humpback whales.

Kayaking is another popular activity, providing an intimate way to explore the Sound's breathtaking coastline. Paddle through calm, protected waters, past tidewater glaciers, and share a moment with a curious sea otter or a frolicking seal.

Prince William Sound is not just a place of mesmerizing beauty but also a place of rich history. Discover evidence of early Alutiiq settlements and learn about the Sound's role in the 1964 Great Alaska Earthquake at the local museums and heritage centers.

Undeniably, Prince William Sound offers an authentic slice of the Alaskan wilderness. Its spectacular glaciers, vibrant marine life, and lush, mountainous landscapes make it a compelling destination for any nature lover or outdoor adventurer.

Lake Clark National Park

 

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is a gem hidden in plain sight. Situated in southwestern Alaska, this park spans over four million acres. It offers a stunning array of landscapes - from the turquoise waters of Lake Clark and the lowlands' lush forests to the Chigmit Mountains' rugged peaks.

In the summer, Lake Clark National Park comes alive. The park's vast wilderness, free from roads and crowds, offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor pursuits.

Visitors can explore Lake Clark, the park's namesake, which stretches over 40 miles. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for kayaking, fishing, and even swimming for those who don't mind the chill. Boat tours offer a chance to experience the lake's serene beauty and spot wildlife along the shores.

The park is also a hiker's dream, with trails that cater to all abilities. The Tanalian Trails, for instance, provide various hiking experiences, from strolling through forests to challenging climbs with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the park is home to a diverse range of animals. Look out for brown and black bears, moose, wolves, and birds. The park is also one of the best places in Alaska to observe wild salmon, especially during summer spawning.

The park's backcountry offers rustic camping opportunities. Whether you camp along the lake's edge or amidst the high alpine tundra, you'll wake up to some of the most stunning views in Alaska.

Lake Clark National Park is also a place of rich cultural heritage. Native Dena'ina people have called this area home for centuries, and the park is filled with archaeological sites and historic cabins that speak of a vibrant history.

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve is an adventurer's paradise. Its untouched wilderness, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for outdoor pursuits make it a must-see on any Alaskan journey.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our journey through Alaska's must-see natural wonders, it's clear that this northern paradise offers amazing locations.

The vastness of its landscapes, the richness of its wildlife, and the raw beauty of its wilderness all converge to create a symphony of experiences that leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those who visit.

Whether you're yearning for an epic hiking adventure, a kayak ride, or a peaceful moment amidst breathtaking scenery, Alaska's summer awaits to unfold its magic before your eyes.

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