Blog - Chickery's Travels

Explore the Outer Banks | A Guide for Visitors

If you’re looking for a vacation spot that combines history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, look no further than the Outer Banks in North Carolina. This stretch of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina is the perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. In this article, we’ll explore the geography of the Outer Banks, reveal the most popular and least crowded parts to visit, and highlight the best activities to try out during your stay.

Geography of the Outer Banks

Pier over the ocean at Nags Head in North Carolina's Outer Banks

The Outer Banks is a strip of barrier islands that run along the North Carolina coast from the Virginia border to Cape Lookout. In total, there are 200 miles of islands to explore. Some of the major islands include Bodie Island, Hatteras Island, Ocracoke Island, and Roanoke Island. These islands offer a unique combination of beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and wildlife refuges. When visiting the Outer Banks, it’s important to keep in mind that the geography and weather conditions vary from island to island.

Most Popular and Least Crowded Parts of the Outer Banks

If you’re looking for a lively vacation spot with plenty of attractions, restaurants, and shopping, check out Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, and Nags Head. These towns are located in the central part of the Outer Banks and offer easy access to the beach, as well as boardwalks, fishing piers, and local dining. For a quieter and more secluded experience, head to the southern part of the Outer Banks. Towns like Avon, Frisco, and Hatteras boast undeveloped beaches, wildlife refuges, and natural preserves that are perfect for hiking, fishing, and bird-watching.

Best Activities in the Outer Banks

Beaches in the Outer Banks

Sandy beach and bright blue water in North Carolina's Outer Banks

As you might imagine the Outer Banks is a paradise for beach lovers. From the popular ones with all the amenities to the ones that are not overcrowded, there is bound to be a beach for everyone. Here are just a few favorites (listed geographically from north to south).

Corolla Beach: If you are looking for a beach that isn’t as crowded as most, then Corolla Beach is the one for you. It is located in the northern region of the Outer Banks and is perfect for beachgoers who want to relax and unwind.

Kitty Hawk: Located in the northern part of the islands, Kitty Hawk is one of the most popular beaches in the Outer Banks, thanks to its picturesque views and beautiful beach. As an added bonus, the public beach access points are in close proximity to parking, dining, and family-friendly activities.

Nags Head: Nags Head is one of the oldest towns in the Outer Banks and is known for its charming coastal vibe. From the rolling sand dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park to a fabulous fishing pier, visitors of all ages can enjoy something special. It is also an excellent spot for beachgoers who want to indulge in water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge: This beautiful and tranquil beach is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The beach stretches for miles, and its clean sand and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for shelling and fishing. It also offers hiking and bird-watching opportunities, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic.

Ocracoke Beach: If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, then you must visit Ocracoke Beach. Located on an isolated island, it can only be accessed by ferry. However, it’s worth the trip as it boasts breathtaking views and tranquil waters. It is an excellent spot for swimming and fishing, and you can also rent a bike and explore the island.

Historic Lighthouses in the Outer Banks

Girl looking out at the salt marsh in front of Bodie Lighthouse in North Carolina's Outer Banks

One of the most popular activities in the Outer Banks is visiting one (or all) of the historic lighthouses. There are five lighthouses dotted along the coast: the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse each with its own unique history and breathtaking views.

Bodie Island Lighthouse: The Bodie Island Lighthouse dates back to 1872 and is an architectural marvel, standing tall at 156 feet. After a restoration effort, the lighthouse reopened to visitors in 2013. When visiting Bodie Island Lighthouse, you will be able to walk around the lighthouse and climb up to the top, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as there are 214 steps to climb! There is also a visitor center and museum on the premises to learn more about the history of the lighthouse and its importance to the community.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable lighthouses in the country. It stands at an impressive 198 feet and has been guarding the coast since 1870. The lighthouse has a fascinating history, as it had to be moved back from the shoreline in 1999 due to erosion threatening its foundation. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and take in the panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. There is also a museum that exhibits artifacts related to the construction and operation of the lighthouse.

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse: The Ocracoke Island Lighthouse is the oldest and smallest of the three lighthouses on the Outer Banks. Built in 1823, it stands only 75 feet tall. Unlike Bodie Island and Cape Hatteras, Ocracoke Island Lighthouse is not open for visitors to ascend to the top. However, visitors can enjoy the view of the lighthouse from the nearby beach and learn about its history at the Ocracoke Island Visitor Center.

Outdoor Adventures in the Outer Banks

Man fishing in the ocean in North Carolina's Outer Banks

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Outer Banks offers some of the best kayaking, surfing, biking, and walking opportunities in the country. The islands also host several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Outer Banks Pirate Festival and the Hang Gliding Spectacular.

Kayaking: Kayaking is a great way to explore the peninsula and its diverse habitats. There are many guided tours available, but you can also rent a kayak and venture out on your own. One of the top spots for kayaking in the Outer Banks is the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge boasts over 150,000 acres of pristine habitat, which includes cypress swamps, salt marshes, and pocosins. As you paddle through the refuge’s winding waterways, you’ll see a range of wildlife, including alligators, black bears, and a variety of waterfowl.

Surfing: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then surfing may be the activity for you. With its consistent waves, the Outer Banks offers some of the best surfing on the East Coast. Beginners can take lessons in popular surf towns such as Nags Head or Kitty Hawk. For advanced surfers, the northern beaches such as Corolla and Carova offer great opportunities to catch larger waves.

Parasailing: For a truly unforgettable bird’s eye view of the Outer Banks, try parasailing. A parasailing ride will take you to heights of over 400 feet above the water, where you get a spectacular view of the coastline and numerous landmarks. There are several parasailing companies located on the Outer Banks, including Kitty Hawk Watersports and OBX Parasail.

Hang Gliding: Gusty Atlantic winds and 100-foot-tall sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park create the perfect environment for hang gliding. Kitty Hawk Kites offers classes for hang gliders of all ages and skill levels. Beginner lessons include 30-minute ground school, a 10-15 minute walk up the dunes, and 5 solo flights. They also offer tandem flight packages over the Currituck Sound.

Sand Boarding: Think snowboarding, but on the sand and in wonderful warm weather. That’s what you’ll get at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. This fun activity is available during the off-season, typically Oct 1 – Mar 31 each year. If you think you’re up for it all you need is a permit from the park and a board.

Biking and Nature Walking: For those who enjoy land adventures rather than water ones, the Outer Banks offers 100 miles of bike paths and nature trails. Some of the most popular places to bike or walk include the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Jockey’s Ridge State Park, and Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve. Aside from these spots, you can find many other opportunities to bike or walk along the seashore, sand dunes, and maritime forests throughout the islands.

State and National Park Sites in the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks in North Carolina is not just known for its stunning beaches and towering lighthouses, but also its state park and numerous national park sites that offer visitors an opportunity to experience and explore the natural beauty of this coastal region.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park: Jockey’s Ridge State Park is another highlight of the Outer Banks, known for its massive sand dunes that tower over 80 feet high. The park is located in Nags Head and is perfect for those who love outdoor activities like kiteboarding, hang gliding, and sandboarding. Visitors can also go hiking on the trails that wind through the park’s dunes, which offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Jockey’s Ridge State Park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as kite festivals, live music concerts, and educational programs.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore: Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of the Outer Banks beaches. The national seashore covers more than 70 miles of coastline, stretching from Bodie Island to Ocracoke Island. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or surfing on some of the most pristine and unspoiled beaches in the country. The national seashore also contains three historic lighthouses, which are open for visitation and offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site: Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is another national park site that is steeped in history. The park is located near Manteo and is the site of England’s first attempted colony in the New World, which was established in 1587. Today, visitors to the park can explore the remnants of the lost colony, including the famous “Croatoan Tree” where a message was carved indicating the colonists’ departure to Croatoan Island. The park also hosts live performances of “The Lost Colony,” a play that portrays the story of the settlement and its mysterious disappearance.

Wright Brothers National Memorial: Wright Brothers National Memorial is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts as it marks the site where Orville and Wilbur Wright made the first controlled, powered flight in human history. The memorial is located in Kill Devil Hills and contains a museum that showcases the history of aviation. Visitors can also explore the Wright Brothers Memorial Tower, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as kite festivals and historic reenactments.

Where to Camp in the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks offer several lodging options for travelers, ranging from hotels to vacation rentals. However, one of the most popular ways to experience the islands is through camping.

If you don’t want to pitch a tent and don’t have an RV there are still many options available from cabin to RV rentals. On our last trip to the Outer Banks, we got an RV rental for our adult kids through Outdoorsy. The owner delivered it to the campsite and set it up. At the end of our trip, the owner picked it up.

Ad banner for RV rentals in the Outer Banks through Outdoorsy

RV Resorts

There are plenty of RV resorts located throughout the area that offer full hookups, Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and even laundry facilities in addition to their stellar locations. Whether you’re a solo traveler or vacationing with your family or friends, you’ll find plenty to enjoy at these comfortable resorts. Many offer organized activities, beach volleyball, bike rentals, and mini-golf courses.

One of our favorites is the Outer Banks West / Currituck Sound KOA Holiday. As the name implies, it is on the Currituck Sound, west of the Outer Banks. Since it is not on the islands, it is actually very quiet. They have a lot of scheduled activities and when we were there they even had live music. The campground also has five fishing piers, kayak & SUP rentals, nature trails with two fishing ponds, a huge dog park, a very nice playground, and an arcade. They also had a very large camp store that sells food, local beer & wine, and souvenirs.

If you want to be beachfront, the Outer Banks / Cape Hatteras KOA Resort is a fantastic choice! In addition to the full hookup RV and tent campsites with covered picnic areas, they have glamping tents and beach cottages for rent. They have a huge playground with a pirate ship for the kids, a large pool with a hot tub, and a nice dog park. The biggest draw is its central location close to local attractions, historical sites, and dining.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

For a more rustic camping experience, you may want to consider staying at one of the campgrounds at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. There are four campgrounds to choose from for tent and RV camping that provide close access to the beach either by walking through the dunes or on a boardwalk.

Oregon Inlet Campground: Located just south of Nags Head, Oregon Inlet Campground is a great choice for RVs, trailers, and tents. It has 107 campsites, 30 of which are tent-only. Electricity and water hookups are available at 47 of the sites. This campground is the only one that features hot water shower facilities, but they are winterized between the end of November to the first week of April. Open Year Round.

Cape Point Campground: Cape Point Campground is located at the end of the Outer Banks near the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The campground has 202 sites and provides tent and RV camping with no hookups. There are cold water showers and a dump station. The draw here is that the campground is within walking distance of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Hatteras providing easy access to fishing, kayaking, and exploring the beach. Open Seasonally: Early April thru November.

Frisco Campground: Situated south of Buxton, Frisco Campground offers 117 campsites (3 are tent only) with no hookups and no dump station. There are flush toilets, cold shower facilities, and potable water. Nestled between sand dunes and shrub thicket, It boasts a boardwalk that provides easy access to the beach. While you’re at Frisco Campground, be sure to visit the Frisco Native American Museum, which is just a mile away. Open Seasonally: Early April thru November.

Ocracoke Campground: If you’re looking for complete seclusion, then Ocracoke Campground is your ideal destination! This campground is only accessible via ferry, and that makes it somewhat of a lesser-visited location. It has 136 campsites with no hookups but does provide access to potable water, cold water shower facilities, and a dump station. Open Year Round.

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Image of man fishing in the ocean from Kitty Hawk Beach and a girl looking at the Bodie Lighthouse.

4:37 pm by Julie Chickery

Explore Great Falls Park, Virginia

If you looking for an exciting outdoor getaway near Washington D.C., then Great Falls Park in Virginia is the perfect destination! Located along the Potomac River near the city of McLean, this remarkable 800-acre park offers spectacular views and incredible scenery. With its iconic cascading falls and dramatic cliffs that drop 80 feet into turbulent rapids, it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Northern Virginia. Whether you’re a local resident or a first-time visitor to the area, there’s something special waiting for everyone at Great Falls Park.

Tree with multicolored fall foliage in front of the Potomac River.

My favorite time to visit is during the fall, as the foliage turns into a sea of vibrant colors and the weather is a little cooler. But any time of year is a great time to visit Great Falls Park in Virginia.

The History of Great Falls Park

The history behind the park is just as impressive as its beautiful landscape. Native Americans were the first to inhabit this area and they held great spiritual significance to the waterfalls. In the early 18th century, Europeans began to explore the Potomac River, but the falls posed a challenge for navigation. In the late 18th century, the Patowmack Canal was built to bypass the falls. Today, you can walk along the Patowmack Canal trail following the remnants of one of the first canals built in the country. The park was established in 1966, and since then, millions of people have visited Great Falls to admire the breathtaking views, learn about its history, and appreciate its natural beauty.

What to Do at Great Falls Park

The park features stunning natural landscapes, scenic waterfalls, and a wide range of thrilling activities that will make your day truly unforgettable. No matter what outdoor activities you enjoy, there is something for everyone at Great Falls Park. From hiking trails and rock climbing to bird watching and whitewater kayaking, the park offers a plethora of activities that cater to all ages and abilities. So, without any further ado, let’s dive into the exciting world of Great Falls Park and find out what it has to offer.

Admire the Majestic Waterfalls

The falls on the Potomac River at Great Falls Park in Virginia

One of the main attractions of Great Falls Park is the majestic waterfalls that flow through the Potomac River. The park features three different overlooks that provide spectacular views of the falls from different angles. Best of all, two of these overlooks are accessible with flat ground and paved areas so that they can be enjoyed by all! There is a wide path running parallel to the river that connects the three overlooks. Make sure to bring your camera as there are plenty of spots where you can capture some breathtaking photos.

Hike and Bike the Trails

Couple sitting on a rock overlooking the Potomac River at Great Falls Park in Virginia

Great Falls Park boasts of over 15 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. If you are a nature lover, then hiking is a must-do activity in the park. The trails wind through forests, meadows, and along the Potomac River. The River Trail is one of the most popular as it runs along the river’s edge. There are many rock outcroppings that are perfect for stopping and taking a break while enjoying the panoramic views of the river and kayakers below.

Five miles of these trails are designated as multi-use for bicycles. This includes the Old Carriage Road, Ridge, and parts of the Difficult Run trails.

Experience the Thrills of Kayaking

Several white water kayaks on the Potomac River at Great Falls Park in Virginia

Kayaking is one of the most popular activities at Great Falls Park and for a good reason. The Potomac River creates exhilarating rapids that make for an exciting kayaking adventure. Due to the geography of the area, the water has a very powerful flow and kayaking here is only for the experienced whitewater paddler.

Rock Climbing Adventures

Group of people preparing to rock climb at Great Falls Park in Virginia

If you are an adrenaline junkie, then rock climbing at Great Falls Park will surely get your heart racing. The park features several climbing routes that range from easy to advanced. Its location provides the opportunity to climb on the cliffs directly above the Potomac River. You’ll have to bring all your own gear and be aware that all climbing at the park is top-rope. No anchors are permitted to be drilled into the rock.

Relax with Some Bird Watching

If you are looking for a more laid-back activity, then birdwatching is a great option. Great Falls Park is home to a wide variety of birds (up to 160 species), including bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, songbirds, woodpeckers, and more. You can take a stroll along the river’s edge or visit the observation platforms to watch these majestic birds in their natural habitat.

Enjoy a Picnic for Lunch

Picnic Table under trees at Great Falls Park in Virginia

Of course, no visit to the park is complete without a picnic. There is a large grassy area centrally located in the park for exactly that purpose. There are also many first-come, first-serve grills and picnic tables. But don’t worry if you don’t snag one, you can always find a spot to lay out a blanket and enjoy the scenery while you have your lunch.

Across the River – Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

View of Great Falls Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Just across the Potomac River, you can get another look at the falls from Maryland’s Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. A testament to the rich history of the Potomac River Valley, the C&O Canal was originally constructed in 1828 as a way to transport goods and materials from the Potomac River to inland areas. Over the years, the canal played an integral role in shaping the area’s economy and culture. Today, visitors to the park can explore the remnants of this historic waterway, from the old lock houses to the winding towpath.

Collage of images at Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

The park spans over 184 miles, but one of the most popular attractions is undoubtedly the Great Falls area. This section of the park features breathtaking waterfalls, rocky cliffs, and a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Another highlight of the park is the Great Falls Tavern, which was a popular stopover for canal boat crews during the 1800s. Today, visitors can step back in time and experience life along the canal firsthand by exploring the tavern’s exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, bike or take a leisurely stroll along the dirt-packed towpath. If you’re up for a hike, check out the Billy Goat Trail. Divided into three sections (A, B, and C) by difficulty, this is a must-do hike in this area, offering hikers the chance to traverse along the dramatic Potomac River while taking in stunning views. With its lush greenery and tranquil waterways, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a true treasure of Maryland’s past.

Where to Camp Nearby

KOA has several different types of camping cabins.

The only thing that Great Falls Park is lacking is a campground. However, any one of these locations provides a good option to enhance your trip. Lake Fairfax, a Fairfax County park, has the closest campground to Great Falls and is perfect for those who want to spend their days fishing or exploring the nearby hiking trails. If you’d like to be closer to Washington DC, Greenbelt Park is an urban oasis managed by the National Park Service. It has a 172-site rustic campground. Also in Maryland, Cherry Hill Park in nearby College Park Maryland, is glamping at its finest. And as an added bonus, they have a shuttle to DC. Finally, if you’re able to access military bases, consider our favorite…Fort Belvoir Travel Camp.

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Hike, Bike, or Kayak at Great Falls Park in Northern Virginia.

3:16 pm by Julie Chickery

5 Things You Can’t Miss On Your First Trip To Alaska

If you’ve always dreamed of exploring the wilds of Alaska, now is your chance! There are so many amazing things to do and see in The Last Frontier that it can be overwhelming trying to decide how best to spend your time. But fear not – here we present five must-sees while visiting Alaska that will give you an unforgettable experience and leave you longing for more. From witnessing stunning landscapes and spectacular views of glaciers to seeing wildlife up close, these activities guarantee a unique trip unparalleled by any other. So drop what you’re doing and let’s explore the wonders of this magnificent state together!

Table of Contents

Explore the Wildlife of Denali National Park
See Brown (Grizzly) Bears Up Close and Personal
Float Among Glaciers at Kenai Fjords National Park
Explore Chugach National Forest on Foot
Pan for Gold at a Historic Site
A Note on the Northern Lights
How to Get To Alaska
How to Get Around Alaska

Explore the Wildlife of Denali National Park

Nestled in the heart of Alaska, Denali National Park and Preserve is a true treasure trove of untamed wilderness. Admired by nature enthusiasts from around the world, the sprawling park covers over six million acres, home to diverse ecosystems and wildlife that make the journey worthwhile. Known as “the big five” moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves are among the creatures that roam free in Denali. These magnificent animals, living in their natural habitat, offer visitors an opportunity to witness the beauty and strength of Alaska’s wildlife up close.

You’ll often spot moose around the visitor center. If you’re up for a short hike, Horseshoe Lake is a prime viewing spot for moose since they love the water. It’s a short walk of 2 – 4 miles depending on where you start.

A great way to spot some of the other wildlife is by taking the bus tour, known as the Tundra Wilderness Tour. It is a 6-hour narrated bus ride that stops at all wildlife sightings. On our trip, we saw three grizzlies, a large group of Dall sheep, and countless caribou and ptarmigans (Alaska state bird).

The first view of Denali Mountain is also on the bus route at mile 9. It is important to note that due to the location of the Alaskan mountain range, Denali is often shrouded in clouds. In fact, only about 30% of visitors ever see it!

Most people visit the park Denali during their summer season (late May to mid-September) when the buses operate and the lodges are open. We stayed at the Denali Bluffs hotel and loved it! The view from our room was fantastic, the staff was wonderful, and the food was terrific as well. I also hiked by the campground nearest to the visitor’s center and it looked great.

See Brown (Grizzly) Bears Up Close and Personal

Alaskan brown bear in front of mountains

A trip to Alaska would be incomplete without a close encounter with one of North America’s most iconic creatures, the brown bear or grizzly, at one of two National Parks: Lake Clark or Katmai.

Fun fact: Grizzly and brown are just the common names for the same species, Ursus arctos. Instead, geographic location is what they use to define them here as it affects diet, size, and behavior. Alaskan brown bears live in coastal areas of Alaska and the smaller grizzly bears with limited or no access to marine-derived food sources live inland.

Lake Clark is a great option the entire summer and Katmai is best in July and September when the salmon are running in the steams. Neither park is accessible by motor vehicle, but there are other options such as small plane tours and water taxis.

On our trip, we chose to take a flight-seeing tour to Lake Clark National Park. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the coastal brown bears in their natural habitat. We were able to see the bears from the plane and then landed right on the beach. I was surprised by how close you can safely get. As you explore the park, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and lakes that make the perfect backdrop for your bear-watching adventure. Our tour operator was Alaska Air Service and we highly recommend them! Jordan, our pilot and tour guide, was wonderful. He even flew us to another area away from the bears for a wonderful picnic lunch.

Katmai National Park is home to one of North America’s largest concentrations of brown bears. These majestic creatures can weigh up to 1,500 pounds and can be viewed fishing for salmon in the streams, playing with their cubs, or simply lounging in the sun. The best time to see these amazing sights is July and September. To get there from Anchorage, you can drive to Homer and take a tour from Sasquatch Alaska Adventures. You can also fly Alaska Air to King Salmon, AK, and take a boat taxi to Brooks Camp.

Float Among Glaciers at Kenai Fjords National Park

Image of Alyeska Glacier from the water. Foreground has floating chunks of ice.

Experience the beauty of nature like never before with a boat tour in Kenai Fjords National Park. The tours leave from Seward and make their way through the bay towards tidal glaciers that tower above the water. Driving is one way of several ways to get from Anchorage to Seward. On the roughly 2.5-hour trip out, you’ll be awe-struck by the stunning landscapes around you as you make your way past remote Alaskan islands and through waters inhabited by whales, sea lions, sea otters, and more. Once you reach the glacier, the boat will stop for about 30 minutes to really take it in. You’ll witness the awe-inspiring sight of glacier calving, where large chunks of ice break off the glaciers and crash into the sea below. the floating pieces of ice soon become rafts for harbor seals. Then you’ll be treated to another 2.5-hour boat ride back to Seward where you’ll experience more of nature’s beauty, as well as bald eagles and puffins. This is a truly unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Our tour was with the Alaska Collection and we thought they did a wonderful job! The staff was friendly and professional. The boat’s captain stopped to let us view wildlife and pointed out items of interest.

Once you’ve made it back to the dock, if you’re ready for some exercise, you can head out to Exit Glacier. This is the one glacier easily accessible on foot. You can take the short trek to the main viewing area or opt for a longer hike on the Harding Ice Field.

Explore Chugach National Forest on Foot

America’s northernmost national forest stretches across south-central Alaska. It covers an area about the size of New Hampshire and stretches from the snow-covered peaks of Prince William Sound to the beautiful streams of the Kenai Peninsula.

Portage Lake, Alaska with mountains in the background.

One of the best ways to experience this area is on a hike or nature trail. Lace up your hiking boots and tackle the Portage Pass Trail, a 4.5-mile trek that offers views of glaciers and towering mountain peaks. Another fantastic option is the Winner Creek Trail, where you can cross a hand tram over a rushing river and view lush greenery as far as the eye can see. Finally, be sure to take time to enjoy the short 1/2 mile Virgin Creek Falls Trail to a stunning waterfall.

A quick note on bear spray: The TSA prohibits it on planes (in carry-on and checked baggage), so if you are flying you will have to purchase it in Alaska.

Pan for Gold at a Historic Site

Image of man panning for gold in a creek in Alaska.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines the beauty of nature with a hint of history, then head to the Crow Creek Mine, where you can pan for gold just like the prospectors of the past. After a panning tutorial (with some guaranteed gold for each paying customer), you can make your way down to the creek and choose a spot. They provide all the gear, you only need to bring your sense of wonder. You can also opt for a 3-hour tour of the mine. In addition to panning demonstrations, you’ll learn more about the life of prospectors in the past.

A Note on the Northern Lights

Image of the northern lights over a snowy field in Fairbanks Alaska

We’ve been asked many times if we saw the northern lights, so I thought I’d add a note here. The best time to see them in Alaska is between late August and April when there is both a high likelihood of clear skies and enough darkness to fully appreciate the vivid display. Unfortunately, that timing was not compatible with all the other activities we wanted to do on this trip (especially for bear viewing), so we had to prioritize.

We definitely plan to return. I see imagine us standing on a snow-covered field with our gaze fixed on the starry night sky. Suddenly, a breathtaking display of vibrant colors begins to dance before our eyes– it’s the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights. This awe-inspiring phenomenon can only be witnessed in a handful of places around the world, but Fairbanks is widely regarded as the best location to experience it. And Fairbanks also provides the best access to two additional national parks: Gates of the Arctic and Kobuck Valley.

If you’re going to be there at the right time, you can join a tour from town that will take you to the best viewing spots allowing you to experience the display from a heated cabin. A more deluxe option is booking a stay in a remote lodge far from city light pollution. These stays typically include wake-up service when the Aurora is active, dog sledding, hot springs, and more!

How to Get To Alaska

You can create the opportunity to see these sights regardless of how you make your way to Alaska: air, cruise ship, or road trip.

The simplest mode of transportation to Alaska from just about any destination is by plane. Major carriers like Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American, British Airways, Delta, and United all fly into the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.

Another very common way to get to Alaska is on a cruise ship. Many of them offer land packages so that you can explore the incredible sites we’ll share with you here. In addition, one-way cruises are also popular. That means you can cruise to Alaska and fly home or vice versa.

Finally, driving to Alaska can be part of an epic road trip. Obviously, it is a very long drive from the lower 48 of the United States, as well as much of Canada. That makes this an especially popular option for RV travelers who have time to stay and explore. If you are electing to drive, don’t forget to get a copy of The Milepost, a guide to all of the accommodations, camping, gas stops, restaurants, and services found along the highways and byways of Alaska and western Canada.

How to Get Around Alaska

If you didn’t drive to Alaska, you might be wondering how you’ll get around. Again, there are many options. We recommend renting a car for at least part of your trip as it will give you more flexibility. We rented our car through National and were very happy with it. The Alaska Railroad travels over miles between Fairbanks and Seward with numerous stops in between, including Anchorage. They offer many tour packages as well. For many of the national parks, you have to take a boat or plane tour for those that aren’t accessible by land.

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