• Alaska offers an enchanting backpacking experience with beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and the rich history and unique culture of Alaskan tribes.

• The best time to visit Alaska is July to mid-August, as the weather is pleasant in these months. You can also choose off-season to witness the magic of northern lights.

• Keep your essential gear, enough food supplies, and travel documentation safely with you at all times for a successful trip.

Alaska is a dream destination for many backpackers, as the adventure here is like no other. The country offers unique landscapes, rugged wilderness, and unparalleled opportunities for viewing wildlife. Also known as “The Last Frontier,” Alaska is an untouched natural beauty that provides perfect pathways to those who want to disconnect from the modern world.

The hiking routes are not like the several other trails around the world. Even experienced explorers find it difficult because of the rough trails. But it does not mean that you have to choose the off-beat paths. There are certain routes that are well explored and charted. Just prepare for the trek and get ready to witness the beauty of this country on your own or with the help of a guide.

What’s Unique About Backpacking in Alaska

Backpacking in Alaska will take you to the stretches of uninhabited area that are so immense that you might not meet another human being for days. The Alaska backcountry landscapes are so diverse that you are going to witness mountains, glaciers, dense forests, and pristine lakes. In fact, you can also get the chance to see bears, moose, and other wild animals.

The extreme conditions of this place are really unique from other backpacking hiking trails. The backpackers might need to be extra cautious as the tough terrains are one of the challenges faced by experienced trekkers here. The weather is also very unpredictable.

The native Alaskan heritage also gives you a unique backpacking experience in the country. Certain trails such as Lake Clark National Park and Preserve or Katmai National Park and Preserve pass through the lands with rich cultural history and traditions. Each of these reasons makes this land unique for backpackers and offers a rewarding experience.

Best Time to Go on a Backpacking Trip to Alaska

The best season to explore Alaska is in the summertime, from mid-May to mid-September. However, the peak season is July through mid-August, during which you can have both land and cruise experience. In July, the wildlife is fully active in the country, and all the trails are accessible. The weather is also the warmest at this time of year.

In July, the weather varies in the coastal, interior, and arctic regions of Alaska. May and September are the shoulder seasons for visiting Alaska.
 

If you want to experience winter activities like dog sledding, snowshoeing, and skiing, then you can plan for a winter backpacking trip to Alaska. Another mesmerizing event where you can immerse yourself is the Northern lights or Aurora Borealis.

During its winter seasons, i.e., from December to March, the coldest month in the region is January, with an average temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunset fades by mid-afternoon in the winter.

Popular Backpacking Locations in Alaska

Alaska is huge and is home to the two largest national forests in the United States. From the popular Denali National Park to the Chugach mountains, the country covers the most stunning views and wildlife places.

With several popular backpacking trails, the state is now focusing on creating 500+ miles of trails connecting different terrain and communities of Alaska. The Alaska Long Trail Map covers all the cities that come along the route from Seward to Fairbanks. Along with this trail, there are other popular hiking locations in Alaska. You might not want to miss any of these amazing trails and routes while backpacking in Alaska.

Arctic National Wildlife Refuge

• Area - Consisting of 19.6 million acres

• How to get there - Fly to Fort Yukon, Coldfoot, or Deadhorse, and then you can charter an air taxi to enter ANWR.

• Difficulty Level - Advance

Also called America’s last great wilderness, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is a remote wilderness in remote northeastern Alaska. A backpacking trip to this refuge can be a life-changing experience.

This place is perfect for experienced backpackers, as it is one of the most challenging backpacking destinations. You can cover this refuge within a guided trip in 6-10 days. When planning this trek, take time to have a deep understanding of survival in Alaskan wilderness and carry the required gear and extensive food supplies.

You may also get a chance to encounter iconic wildlife like polar bears, caribou, and wolves during this trek. Hence, strict regulations are there to enter the refuge if you are going for a commercial activity. You can enter without permit as a member of a private recreational group in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Denali National Park

• Area - Consisting of 6.1 million acres

• How to get there - This park is accessible by both car and train. From Anchorage, Denali is 5 and a half hours away, and from Fairbanks, the park is reachable in 2.5 hours by car.

• Difficulty Level - Intermediate to advanced level trail

The most visited land location in Alaska is the Denali National Park. This park has ample space for trail hiking. It has easily approachable trails like the Horseshoe Lake, while extreme trails include the Mount Healy Overlook Trail. You can also enjoy the Roadside bike trail, Meadow View trail, Parks Highway bike trail, etc.

This park is best visited during summer. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for viewing the beautiful sceneries. To avoid crowds, visit during the shoulder season. You require backcountry permits as they are mandatory to enter the area.

Also, have some essential preparations such as bear safety, appropriate gear for unpredictable weather, water purification gear, and ample food.

Kesugi Ridge Trail

• Area - 22 miles

• How to get there - First, reach the Little Coal Creek Trail Parking and then start trekking for Kesugi Ridge Trail.

• Difficulty Level - Challenging

This trail is one of the most difficult trails in the entire Alaska. As an adventure destination, this place provides some excellent and exciting backpacking opportunities. This trail is also a part of Denali State Park and offers beautiful sights. To reach Kesugi, you have to go through rough terrains as the direct route for this trail is still unexplored.

After starting from the Little Coal Creek Trailhead, you can finish the trail at Ermine Hill. If you desire to go further, you can stop at the Upper Troublesome Creek trailhead or at Byers Lake campground.

Depending on the trails taken, this trail may take hikers up to 3 to 4 days of hiking. During this trek, you are likely to experience a variety of terrains, such as forests and tundra. Plan your visit to this trail between the months of July and September.

There is no permission required to have a walk around Kesugi Ridge Trail. But ensure that you only set your camp in the laid down area to avoid drawing any attention to the wildlife. Also, you should be aware of the change in weather and any other calamities that may arise during your trip.

 

Lake Clark National Park

• Area - Covering around 4 million acres.

• How to get there - No road access, reach by water or by air. It is 65 road miles northwest of Homer and 120 air miles southwest of Anchorage.

• Difficulty Level - Advanced and Strenuous

This park in Alaska is rather wild and desolate, but it is ideal for wildlife and other wonderful natural wonders. Here, the intensity of the hike ranges from very easy to strenuous. They range from easy strolling along the lakeshores to really steep and challenging glacial hikes. Some of the popular trails in Lake Clark National Park are Fishtrap Lake to Snipe Lake, Hope Creek, Telaquana, and Upper to Twin Lake.

For backcountry camping in this area, no permit is required to enter; however, certain guidelines and ethics are essential to know how to conduct oneself within these national parks. Since this place is completely off the grid, make sure that you have gone through all the necessary planning and take along the required equipment that is needed for any backpacking adventure.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park

• Area - Covering 13.2 million acres.

• How to get there - First, reach the main park visitor center through McCarthy Road and Nabesna Road.

• Difficulty Level - Moderately Challenging

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest park in America for backpacking. The area of this national park is equal to the combined area of Switzerland, Yosemite National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. You read it right: this park is a massive and remote wilderness offering exceptional opportunities for backpacking.

This park offers the largest volcanoes as well as the greatest concentrations of glaciers in North America. Moreover, this place is also home to a vast diversity of animals.

Here, you can visit some of the favorites, such as Seven Pass Route, Wrangell Ramble, Ice Bay Sea Kayaking Trip, and The Goat Trail. Camping permits are not needed in this area, but there are also a few restrictions for groups of 8 people or more to enter the park. You need to register with the official authorities to enter the park.

Given the remote nature of this trail, it is highly advisable that proper planning and emergency preparedness be used to have a safe and rewarding adventure.

Gates of the Arctic National Park

• Area - Covering 8.4 million acres.

• How to get there - Remote and vast place, only accessible by air.

• Difficulty Level - Challenging

For an exceptional adventure and solitude, you can prefer visiting the Gates of the Arctic National Park for backpacking and camping. The area has no set routes for travelers. You may have to take a bush plane flight to get to the park trailhead.

As renowned for its scenic beauty, the park is free to visit. You do not require any passes to enter the park. You can make your own trail, but you need to be efficient in backpacking and camping. The terrains of this region are challenging and can lead to unpredictable weather, so be prepared in advance and carry all the essentials that are needed for your survival.

The Chugach Mountains

• Area - Encompasses more than 9000 square miles

• How to get there - Easily accessible from Anchorage.

• Difficulty Level - Moderate to Challenging

The next on the list is the most accessible natural area of the Alaskan wilderness - The Chugach Mountains. These offer a diverse backpacking experience from June to August. This route is great for hikers, rafting, biking, fishing, ATVing, and kayaking.

Popular trails include the Glen Alps Trailhead, Flattop Mountain, Arctic Valley, Winner Creek Trail, Bird Ridge Trail, and many more. To explore these beautiful mountains, you need permission and passes for that. This place will lead you to experience the rapidly changing weather, so be prepared in advance with your approved permits, sturdy footwear, necessary gear, and a proper navigation system.
 

Kenai Fjords National Park

• Area - Covering 669,984 acres.

• How to get there - Reach this park through Seward.

• Difficulty Level - Easy to Challenging

This national park only has directly connected trails, such as Exit Glacier Trail, Resurrection Pass Trail and Harding Ice Trail. The Harding Ice Trail in Kenai Fjords is an 8.2-mile round trip, starting from the Exit Glacier Area. This trail is stressful and takes up to 6 to 8 hours. While heading on this trek, make sure to be prepared for any unwanted circumstances. You have to stay prepared for storms, avalanches, high winds, and sudden temperature changes.

Another trail in the Kenai Mountains of Alaska is the Exit Glacier Trail, which is the only area accessible by road. This trail is open all year, but it is better to check the weather first, as sometimes snow makes the road inaccessible to visitors.

To visit Kenai Fjords National Park, you do not require any government passes. You can hike and camp here based on the favorable weather conditions.
 

Kachemak Bay State Park

• Area - Covering 400,000 acres.

• How to get there - Accessible by air or boat

• Difficulty Level - Easy to Difficult

In 1970, Alaska’s very first state park came into existence, covering a huge area of mountains, forests, glaciers, and oceans. Kachemak Bay State Park provides a beautiful backpacking experience with rugged and steep terrain and enchanting views. You can also cover trails such as Alpine Ridge Trail, China Poot Lake Trail, Glacier Lake Trail, Blue Ice Trail, Lagoon Trail, etc.

Visit this park during the summertime to observe a variety of wildlife, including sea otters, seals, moose, black bears, numerous bird species and other wildlife. If you do not want to come in peak season, you can also consider shoulder seasons in May and September.

Permits are required for camping, especially for commercial operators, which are available at designated sites throughout the park. You should also carry essential gear for your safety in this remote area.
 

Best Day Hikes in Alaska

Beyond the long trails, you can also choose day hikes for your adventure in Alaska. They offer a unique and rewarding experience, showcasing the state's stunning natural beauty with its massive glaciers and surrounding mountains. You can pick hiking trails suitable for varying skill levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs.

For one-day hikes, the popular backpacking trails include

• Gold Mint Trail

• East Twin Pass Trail (Eklutna Lake)

• Portage Pass Trail to Portage Glacier and Lake

• Eielson Ridge Trail (Denali National Park).

• Chilkoot Trail
   

Gear for Backpacking Alaska

When it comes to having the right gear for an Alaskan backpacking trip, you need to decide whether you want to buy or rent. If you are a newbie or have done a few treks like twice a year, then renting is a favorable option for you. Consider buying if you are one of those who plan backpacking trips very frequently.

Also, consider the cost of food supplies as well. Only pack what is necessary and try to pick from the local shops so that the food you carry will remain fresh during your journey.

Clothing

Prioritize packing layers of warm and waterproof clothing to handle uncertain weather conditions. Look for rain jackets and rain pants, long-sleeve shirts and T-shirts, hiking shorts and pants, a billed hat, an insulated jacket, fleece gloves, mid-weight fleece jacket or sweater, and underwear according to your personal preference.

Food and Cooking Supplies

Choose the food and the cooking supplies that are lightweight and require a shorter time to prepare. Think about meal types like dehydrated meals and portable cooking kits. You may also require other accessories such as a cooking stove, fuel, cook set, and utensils for your long-route trek.

Other Must-Have items for Alaska Backpacking Trips

Other than clothing, food, and cooking supplies, make sure to carry a few essential equipment to safely enjoy Alaska's stunning wilderness:

• Personal Locator Beacon - You can have a Personal Locator Beacon to reach out in emergency communication.

• NPS Free Bear Cans - The National Park Service offers free bear cans that are safe to use for holding food, among other things. This will help you to secure your food from wildlife, especially bears.

• Waterproof Sleeping Gear - The unpredictable weather in Alaska demands a waterproof sleeping bag and tent. This will help you to protect against unexpected rains and wet weather conditions.

• Trekking Poles or Sticks - Trekking poles provide much-needed stability and support in long hikes and navigating the Alpine terrain of Alaska.

• First Aid Essentials - It is important to have first aid essentials, especially one with a blister repair kit. Hiking over miles of rugged terrain in Alaska can lead to blisters.

Alaskan Culture and Attractions

The natives of Alaska have occupied the region for thousands of years and have a rich and diverse culture influenced by their geography. Their customs can be seen in the remaining small attractions showcasing languages, rituals, and the bond with their land.

Native Alaskan Heritage

Alaska is a place where ancient traditions and modern adventure meet. The state is home to Native Alaskans who are culturally rich and have fascinating stories. Here, knowing about the local traditions, history, and lifestyle is easy. You can visit the cultural centers or local communities to learn more about the heritage of Alaska.

Here, you can learn from

• The Alaska Native Heritage Center, Anchorage

• Inupiat Heritage Museum, Barrow

• Anchorage Museum, Anchorage

• UA Museum of the North, Fairbanks

• Sheldon Jackson Museum, Sitka

Also, you can make it to Barrow and participate in the Whaling Festival or Fly to a village in Barrow where you can stay, walk the streets, and have conversations with the locals. You may also like the Totem Heritage Center, historical park, and rainforest sanctuary. While in Anchorage or any larger town, you can also shop for ivory and bone carvings and shop for native arts and crafts.

Local Towns and Cities

Apart from the rich culture of Alaska, you can choose cities like Anchorage, Juneau, and Fairbank. These cities are starting points for several backpacking expeditions into the wild.

In these towns, you can have everything you need to prepare for your adventure. From outdoor gear shops to cozy places to stay, you can easily find places here and experience the warm Alaskan hospitality.

Staying Safe in the Bear Country

While Alaska is one of the most awe-inspiring places you can visit for a backpacking trip, it nonetheless comes with a handful of challenges. The uneven boulder fields and permanently frozen soil of the Tundra make it physically taxing to cross. Its dense boreal forests can limit visibility and make navigation tricky. And everyone knows about bear encounters. So, you must follow some protocols to ensure safety while wandering through this country.

 

Bear Safety Protocols

Alaska is a country where all three species of North American bears reside, so there might be a high possibility of encountering them. It is always best to understand what bears need and how they behave to avoid any mishappening on your journey. Learn to recognize signs of bear activity and make noise while hiking so that they know that you are already in the area. Staying quiet and taking them by surprise might make the bears aggressive.

You can also carry bear spray and know how to use it effectively. Also, use proper food storage techniques like using bear cans and hanging food away from the camp. This will help avoid attracting bears to your camp.

River crossings

In Alaska, you will witness several rivers as well, and crossing these rivers requires some special techniques. When you are crossing the river, find the safest crossing point where the water is shallow and moves slowly. Use a strong stick or hiking pole for balancing. Also, unbuckle your backpack for easy removal if you fall.

Glaciers and Snow Fields

Hiking near glaciers requires some special necessary equipment and skills. Consider wearing crampons for a better grip on icy and snowy surfaces and use ice axes for stability and self-arrest if you fall. Also, use ropes and helmets while crossing the glaciers. It is suggested to use extreme caution as there can be crevasses or snow bridges that may be unstable.

Weather

The weather in Alaska is known to be unpredictable. There are high chances to face whiteout conditions, making it difficult to distinguish the horizon and terrain. This can happen suddenly, especially in glacial areas.

It is best to stay calm and rely on a map and compass for navigation, as GPS devices may not be reliable in such conditions. Be flexible with your plans, as transportation services may be subject to weather conditions.

Drinking water

Alaska is rich in natural water sources, including rivers, streams, and glacial meltwater. Many of these sources are clean and safe to drink from, particularly those that are fast-moving and ice-cold.

However, the risk of contamination still exists, especially near areas with heavy wildlife activity. Human and animal waste can introduce harmful bacteria. You may use portable water filters or purification tablets to get clean water. These will allow the sourcing of safe drinking water from streams or lakes.

Mosquitos

Mosquitoes and other stinging insects can be quite a nuisance and a great cause of annoyance, especially while hiking around the Alaskan forests. Therefore, it is suggested that you cover your lower half with pants and your upper half with long sleeves. You can also try wearing insect repellent and placing mosquito nets around your sleeping areas.

Tips for Your First Alaskan Backpacking Trip

Backpacking in Alaska is a dream for many travelers, but hiking on the rugged terrains of this country might not be suitable for everyone. You need to be well prepared for the breathtaking experiences as well as the unique challenges offered by this country. Since the trails here are rough and include wildlife, there are a few things that you can do to make the most of your adventure.

Take a Guided Backpacking Trip

The first-time backpacker in Alaska should look into joining a guided backpacking tour rather than going solo. Local and experienced guides will provide information on the environment, animals, and safety measures. It can also make first-time Alaska backpacking a more enjoyable and safe experience.

Wildlife Preparedness

Alaska is home to a variety of wildlife, such as bears and moose. Therefore, know the etiquette of wildlife and protect the natural habitat. Also, carry topographic maps and compasses since GPS may not function in some regions. Sketch out the route on the map beforehand so that if you lose signal while on the trek, you can still find your way through.

Leave No Trace Policy

Many tourists bring back rocks from Alaska. In national parks, wildlife refuges, and other protected areas, it is generally illegal to remove natural resources, including rocks, minerals, and plants. This is to preserve the natural environment and maintain the integrity of these ecosystems. For example, Kenai Fjords National Park and Glacier Bay National Park have strict regulations against collecting rocks or any natural materials.

Take all the trash with you since it will negatively affect the environment and its inhabitants. Also, measures to reduce the effects of the campfire must be a priority. This, in turn, helps to retain the beauty of the ecosystem for the next generations.

Travel Insurance for Alaska

Finally, when you are backpacking in a foreign land, it may be wise to buy backpacking travel insurance. Given Alaska's remote locations, having coverage for medical emergencies is particularly important. Insurance plans that include trip cancellation or cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage can also be beneficial if you need to change your travel plans due to bad weather conditions or personal reasons.

FAQs for Backpacking in Alaska

1. What are the common medical emergencies in the Alaskan backcountry?

Common medical emergencies in Alaska include hypothermia, frostbite, altitude sickness, dehydration, injuries from fall, or unexpected weather-related illnesses.

2. What are the best ways to stay warm and dry in Alaska's wet conditions?

While staying in Alaska, you may consider layering your clothing, investing in quality rain gear, and keeping your feet dry. When needed, make sure that you dry your gear regularly.

3. How do I find reliable information on current trail conditions and weather forecasts?

You need to check with the National Weather Service in Alaska, local ranger stations, check on reliable apps or websites, and online backpacking communities.

4. What emergency number should I contact if I need help while backpacking in Alaska?

Dial 911 in case of any emergency in Alaska. But remember that cell service is limited while hiking, so carry a satellite communication device or personal locator beacon.

5. Is it safe to sleep in a tent in Alaska?

Yes, only if you are prepared and careful. You may choose a sturdy tent, secure it properly, practice bear safety, and stay aware of your surroundings.
Also Read: Backpacking, Solo Backpacking, How to plan Backpacking, Backpacking adventure, Backpacking Food, Backpacking USA, Backpacking Travel Insurance