The worst time to visit Alaska is during the winter.
The weather is very cold and the roads are often icy.
If you must travel during the winter be sure to pack warm clothing and be prepared for the possibility of bad weather.
Why Winter Is The Worst Time To Visit Alaska?
There are a few reasons why winter is the worst time to visit Alaska.
First the weather is extremely cold and unpredictable.
It can snow any day of the week and temperatures can drop below freezing at night.
This can make it difficult to get around and can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared.
Second the daylight hours are shorter in the winter.
This means that you’ll have less time to enjoy the outdoors and take in the natural beauty of Alaska.
Lastly winter is the busiest time of year for tourism in Alaska.
This means that hotels and other tourist attractions will be more crowded and expensive.
If you’re looking for a quiet relaxing vacation winter is probably not the best time to visit Alaska.
Precautions To Take When Visiting Alaska During Winter
Alaska is a land of extremes and winter is no exception.
Temperatures can dip well below zero and the state is blanketed in snow and ice.
If you’re planning a trip to Alaska during the winter there are a few things you need to keep in mind to stay safe and comfortable.
First and foremost dress for the weather.
Layering is key – you want to be able to peel off layers if you start to get too warm but you also don’t want to be caught without enough protection from the cold.
A good pair of boots is also essential as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking in snow and ice.
Second be aware of the conditions.
Check the weather forecast before you head out and keep an eye on the conditions while you’re out and about.
If it starts to look like a storm is brewing head for shelter.
Finally be prepared for anything.
Make sure you have a first aid kit and some basic supplies in case you get stranded.
And if you’re heading into remote areas it’s a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
With a little preparation you can enjoy a safe and fun winter trip to Alaska.
How To Visit Alaska During Winter – The Worst Time To Visit?
Alaska is a place of extremes and that includes its weather.
Winter in Alaska can be brutal with temperatures dipping as low as -60°F (-51°C) and snowfall totals in some areas exceeding 20 feet (6 meters).
But it can also be a magical time to visit with the Northern Lights dancing in the sky and the opportunity to see wildlife that’s more active in the colder months.
If you’re thinking of heading to Alaska during winter here are a few things to keep in mind.
First make sure you have the proper gear.
That means layers upon layers of clothes a warm coat hat gloves and waterproof boots.
It’s also a good idea to pack a portable heater for your car or rental cabin.
Second be aware of the dangers of frostbite and hypothermia.
These conditions can occur quickly in extreme cold and can be deadly.
If you start to feel any numbness in your extremities get indoors or into a warm car immediately.
Third winter driving conditions in Alaska can be treacherous.
Roads may be icy and snow-covered visibility can be poor and you may encounter wildlife on the road.
Drive slowly and carefully and be sure to carry tire chains and a shovel in case you get stuck.
Finally remember that many businesses and attractions in Alaska close down during the winter months.
So if you’re planning to visit during this time make sure to do your research in advance and book any tours or activities well in advance.
Despite the challenges winter in Alaska can be an incredible experience.
Just be sure to prepare properly and you’ll be sure to enjoy your time in the Last Frontier.
So, What’s The Best Time To Visit Alaska?
The best time to visit Alaska is from mid-June to mid-September.
This is the warmest and driest time of year, with temperatures in the 60s to low 70s.
June and July are the best months for wildlife sightings, while May is a great value time to visit due to lower rates for hotels and the railroad.
October and November can also be a good time to visit, as it is the shoulder season with some discounts on hotels and excursions, fewer crowds, no bugs, fall colors, and northern lights viewing by mid-September.
March is also a good month for winter travel, with longer days (12 – 15 hrs) and warmer temperatures (20’s and 30’s).
However, April may be the hardest month to visit Alaska due to most of the snow having melted but it being too early for many activities.
Cheapest Time To Visit Alaska
The cheapest time to visit Alaska is usually early October, as this is the shoulder season between April and May, and again in September.
During this time, temperatures are still mild and there are 16-24 hours of daylight.
However, the best time to visit Alaska is during the summer months between May 10 and September 15, when temperatures range from the 60s to low 70s.