Take the Beauty of Alaska to Your Backyard

If you want to take the beauty of Alaska home, you will find plenty of ways to do so. Alaska is a land of breathtaking scenery that is difficult to capture with words. If you prefer to sit back and soak in the beauty, you can do so in an awe-inspiring Alaska landscape. Alternatively, there are endless options if you’re more into sports and activities. Hiking, biking, fishing, rafting, and sea kayaking are all popular warm-weather pastimes that are perfect for soaking up Mother Nature’s splendor.

Anchorage

A visit to Anchorage will give you a taste of the state’s pristine nature. Anchorage is located in the center of the state and is surrounded by majestic mountains and spectacular wilderness. Situated at the end of an idyllic inlet, Anchorage is sheltered from the icy waters of the Gulf of Alaska by the Kenai Peninsula. In addition, the city is home to some of the state’s most beautiful lakes and glistening glaciers.

Located near the world’s most famous natural wonders, Anchorage has many outdoor activities for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking to spend the day fishing, hiking, or exploring the wildlife and culture, you’ll find something to suit your interests. Listed below are just a few of the activities available in the area. Here are some fun ideas for you to consider. And remember: Anchorage is a great place to live if you’re looking for a vacation home.

Ketchikan

Known as the salmon capital of the world, Ketchikan is located at the southernmost tip of the state. Its pristine waters are home to countless fish species. So whether you’re looking for fresh salmon or other freshwater fish, Ketchikan has it all. The city is nestled in the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the country. Please take advantage of its scenic beauty by exploring the surrounding area by bicycle, foot, or horseback.

A visit to Ketchikan’s Tongass National Forest is a must! This 17-million-acre park is home to wildlife and over 700 miles of trails. The Perseverance Lake Trail is a popular hiking trail. The Southeast Alaska Discovery Center provides information about the Tongass National Forest and offers guided walks.

Portage Valley

If you’ve ever visited Alaska, you know that the state is gorgeous. But did you know that there are several ways to see it? First, head to Portage Valley. Located southeast of Anchorage on the head of Turnagain Arm, the valley is home to wildlife, hiking trails, and the potential to spot an iceberg. While there, take in the natural history visitor center, which features interactive displays about the local ecosystem. It’s like an outdoor Disneyland.

The Byron Glacier Trail takes hikers to the glacier and is less than a mile long. Hikers of all abilities can enjoy this short trail. There’s also the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. If you’re a history buff, you can ride the Alaska Railroad and take in the scenery. The ride is relaxing, and you’ll see some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.

Kenai Fjords National Park

For those who love the outdoors, the beauty of the Alaska landscape is right in your backyard, in the shape of the Kenai Fjords National Park. The park is on the Kenai Peninsula and is home to over 669,984 acres. First protected in 1978, the park was given full national park status in 1982. Today, it is one of the most popular parks in Alaska, with over 350,000 visitors each year.

In Seward, you can enjoy a scenic helicopter or fixed-wing plane tour. Helicopter tours allow you to get a bird’s eye view of the park’s majestic landscapes. Helicopter tours will enable you to fly over glaciers and Resurrection Bay and land on them. Seward, the base for the garden, is an ideal location to book a helicopter tour.

Chugach Mountains

The Chugach Mountains are a protected wilderness area in western Alaska. They are home to glaciers, alpine lakes, rivers, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can enjoy activities like rock climbing, hiking, and ice fishing. Chugach State Park protects this area. In 1867, the US government purchased the site. The Chugach Mountains have three main divisions: the Seward Plateau, the Copper River Valley, and the Chugach National Forest.

The Chugach State Park borders Anchorage’s large residential areas but features numerous hiking trails that connect to national forest boundaries. You can hike or bike along the Chugach Front for easy access to several smaller peaks. Since most courses are under 5,000 feet, you can take a cab to the trailheads. One of the best trails in the area is Glen Alps, located near upper Toilsome Hill Drive.