Alaska In July: Top Places To Visit

Hey guys! Planning a trip to Alaska in July? You're in for a treat! July is prime time for visiting Alaska. The weather is generally mild, the wildlife is super active, and you'll have loads of daylight to explore. Let's dive into some of the best places to visit in Alaska in July, making sure you get the most out of your Alaskan adventure.

1. Denali National Park and Preserve

When it comes to experiencing the Alaskan wilderness, Denali National Park and Preserve is an absolute must-see. July offers some of the best conditions for exploring this vast, six-million-acre park. The key here is the weather: July tends to bring clearer skies, which significantly increases your chances of seeing the majestic Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), North America's highest peak. However, keep in mind that Denali creates its own weather, so be prepared for sudden changes.

There are numerous ways to experience Denali. The park road is the main artery, but most of it is restricted to bus access, which helps preserve the wilderness and minimizes traffic. The narrated bus tours are fantastic; the drivers are knowledgeable and often spot wildlife that you might miss. These tours range in length, allowing you to choose an option that fits your schedule and interests. For the more adventurous, consider taking a shuttle bus and hiking into the backcountry. Just remember to obtain the necessary permits and be prepared for a true wilderness experience. Wildlife viewing in Denali is unparalleled. July is a great time to see grizzly bears, caribou, moose, Dall sheep, and numerous bird species. The active wildlife is one of the main draws during this time. Keep a safe distance from animals, and always carry bear spray as a precaution. Remember, you're in their territory! Hiking trails abound in Denali, ranging from easy strolls near the visitor center to challenging backcountry treks. The Triple Lakes Trail and the Horseshoe Lake Trail are popular choices for day hikes. For serious hikers, backpacking into the backcountry is an unforgettable experience, but requires careful planning and preparation. Consider a flightseeing tour for a different perspective on Denali. These tours offer breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding glaciers. It's a splurge, but many visitors consider it well worth the cost. Book in advance, as these tours are popular.

July is also a busy month in Denali, so booking accommodations and tours well in advance is essential. Whether you choose to camp, stay in a lodge, or opt for a hotel outside the park entrance, secure your reservations early. The park offers several campgrounds, but they fill up quickly. Lodges inside the park provide a more comfortable experience but come at a premium price. Hotels in nearby towns like Healy and Cantwell offer a range of options. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a range of activities, Denali National Park and Preserve is easily one of the best places to visit in Alaska in July. Just remember to plan ahead, be prepared for all types of weather, and respect the wilderness. This park has a rich history and ecological significance, and you are sure to be mesmerized.

2. Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park, located on the Kenai Peninsula, is another incredible destination to visit in Alaska in July. This park is renowned for its stunning glaciers, abundant marine wildlife, and breathtaking coastal scenery. July offers ideal conditions for exploring the fjords, with relatively mild weather and calm seas. The primary way to experience Kenai Fjords is by boat tour. Several companies operate tours from the town of Seward, offering various itineraries that range from a few hours to a full day. These tours take you through the fjords, allowing you to witness the sheer scale of the glaciers and the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.

One of the highlights of a Kenai Fjords boat tour is seeing tidewater glaciers, such as Holgate Glacier and Aialik Glacier. These massive walls of ice calve (break off) into the sea, creating a spectacular display. The sound of the ice cracking and the sight of huge chunks of ice crashing into the water is an unforgettable experience. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife during your boat tour. July is a prime time to see whales, including humpback whales and orcas (killer whales). You'll also likely spot sea otters, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and puffins. Many tours have knowledgeable guides who can provide information about the wildlife and the park's natural history. For a more adventurous experience, consider kayaking in the fjords. Several companies offer guided kayak tours that allow you to get up close and personal with the glaciers and wildlife. Paddling through the calm waters of the fjords is a truly immersive experience. Be prepared for colder temperatures and potential wildlife encounters. Hiking is also an option in Kenai Fjords National Park, although trails are limited compared to Denali. The Exit Glacier area offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous climbs. The Harding Icefield Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes you to the edge of the Harding Icefield, one of the largest icefields in the United States.

Seward is the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park and a charming town worth exploring. Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center to learn more about the marine life of the region. Take a walk along the harbor and watch the fishing boats come and go. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. Accommodation options in Seward range from hotels and lodges to campgrounds and vacation rentals. Book in advance, as Seward is a popular tourist destination in July. Getting to Seward is relatively easy. You can drive from Anchorage, take a train, or fly into the Seward Airport. The drive from Anchorage is scenic and takes about two to three hours. The train journey is also beautiful, offering stunning views of the Chugach Mountains and the coastline. With its breathtaking glaciers, abundant marine wildlife, and diverse range of activities, Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-visit destination in Alaska in July. Whether you choose to take a boat tour, go kayaking, or hike to the Harding Icefield, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

3. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is a unique and awe-inspiring destination in Southeast Alaska, best explored in July. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning glaciers, dramatic fjords, and abundant wildlife. July offers favorable conditions for visiting Glacier Bay, with milder temperatures, increased daylight, and a higher chance of seeing wildlife. The primary way to experience Glacier Bay is by boat. Many cruise ships and smaller tour boats visit the park, offering passengers the opportunity to witness the park's stunning glaciers and wildlife. Some cruise itineraries include naturalist guides who provide informative commentary about the park's natural and cultural history. A highlight of a Glacier Bay boat tour is witnessing glaciers calving into the sea. The sound of the ice cracking and the sight of massive chunks of ice plunging into the water is a breathtaking experience. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins, sea otters, seals, and sea lions. You may also spot brown bears along the shoreline.

For a more intimate experience of Glacier Bay, consider taking a smaller tour boat or a kayak tour. These tours allow you to get closer to the glaciers and wildlife and explore the park's hidden coves and inlets. Kayaking in Glacier Bay is an unforgettable experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Be aware of the potential for strong currents, cold water, and wildlife encounters. Hiking opportunities in Glacier Bay are limited, but there are a few trails near the park headquarters at Bartlett Cove. The Forest Loop Trail is an easy walk through the rainforest, while the Bartlett River Trail offers views of the river and surrounding mountains. The Glaicer Bay also has a rich cultural history. The Tlingit people have lived in the area for centuries, and their culture is intertwined with the park's natural environment. Visit the Tlingit Tribal House in Bartlett Cove to learn more about their history and traditions. Bartlett Cove is the main visitor area in Glacier Bay National Park. It's home to the park headquarters, a lodge, a restaurant, and a campground. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations, while the campground provides a more rustic experience. Getting to Glacier Bay is primarily by boat or plane. Cruise ships and tour boats depart from several ports in Southeast Alaska, including Juneau, Gustavus, and Sitka. Gustavus is the nearest town to Glacier Bay and has a small airport that offers flights to and from Juneau. With its stunning glaciers, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural history, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is a must-visit destination in Alaska in July. Whether you choose to take a cruise, go kayaking, or explore the trails near Bartlett Cove, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

4. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the largest national park in the United States, is a truly remarkable destination to visit in Alaska in July. This park encompasses a vast and diverse landscape, including towering mountains, massive glaciers, wild rivers, and expansive forests. July offers favorable conditions for exploring Wrangell-St. Elias, with milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and increased accessibility to remote areas. One of the highlights of Wrangell-St. Elias is its stunning mountain scenery. The park is home to some of the tallest peaks in North America, including Mount Wrangell, Mount Blackburn, and Mount Saint Elias. These towering mountains are covered in glaciers and snowfields, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Exploring the park's glaciers is another popular activity. The Nabesna Road offers access to several glaciers, including the Nabesna Glacier and the Chisana Glacier. You can hike on the glaciers (with proper equipment and guidance) or take a flightseeing tour for a bird's-eye view. For a more adventurous experience, consider river rafting or kayaking on one of the park's wild rivers. The Chitina River and the Copper River offer challenging but rewarding rafting opportunities. Be prepared for strong currents and cold water. The park also has a rich mining history. The Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark is a well-preserved copper mining town that offers a glimpse into Alaska's past. Take a guided tour of the town and learn about the lives of the miners and their families. Hiking opportunities abound in Wrangell-St. Elias, ranging from easy day hikes to challenging backpacking trips. The Root Glacier Trail is a popular hike that takes you to the edge of the Root Glacier. The Donoho Lakes Trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Getting to Wrangell-St. Elias can be challenging, as the park is located in a remote area. The main access points are the towns of Copper Center, Glennallen, and McCarthy. You can drive to these towns from Anchorage or Fairbanks. From there, you can take a shuttle, fly, or drive on unpaved roads to reach different parts of the park. With its towering mountains, massive glaciers, wild rivers, and rich history, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is a must-visit destination in Alaska in July. Whether you choose to hike, raft, fly, or explore the Kennecott mines, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

5. Anchorage

No trip to Alaska is complete without spending some time in Anchorage, the state's largest city. July is a fantastic time to visit Anchorage, as the weather is generally mild and there are numerous events and activities taking place. Anchorage offers a blend of urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities. You can explore the city's museums, parks, and restaurants, and then venture out into the surrounding wilderness for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. One of the highlights of Anchorage is its cultural attractions. The Anchorage Museum is a world-class museum that showcases Alaskan art, history, and culture. The Alaska Native Heritage Center offers a glimpse into the traditions and customs of Alaska's indigenous peoples. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues.

Outdoor recreation is another major draw in Anchorage. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is a popular paved trail that offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet and the surrounding mountains. You can walk, bike, or rollerblade along the trail. Chugach State Park is a vast wilderness area located just minutes from downtown Anchorage. The park offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. You can also go fishing, camping, or wildlife viewing in the park. The city also has a thriving culinary scene. You can find a wide range of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Be sure to try some of Alaska's local specialties, such as salmon, halibut, and reindeer sausage. Anchorage is also a great base for exploring other parts of Alaska. You can take day trips to nearby towns and attractions, such as the Portage Glacier, the Matanuska Glacier, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The Portage Glacier is one of the most popular attractions in Southcentral Alaska, the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center has various animals, and the Matanuska Glacier is a glacier that everyone loves. Accommodation options in Anchorage range from hotels and resorts to bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. You can find accommodations to fit every budget and preference. Getting around Anchorage is relatively easy. The city has a good public transportation system, including buses and taxis. You can also rent a car to explore the surrounding area. With its blend of urban amenities, outdoor recreation opportunities, and cultural attractions, Anchorage is a must-visit destination in Alaska in July. Whether you choose to explore the city's museums, hike in Chugach State Park, or take a day trip to a nearby attraction, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

So there you have it, guys! Some of the best places to visit in Alaska in July. Remember to book your accommodations and tours in advance, pack for all types of weather, and be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime. Alaska in July is truly magical, and you're sure to create memories that will last a lifetime!