Are you considering a trip to Alaska? A first time visit? I know I am. Been doing a bit of research, itinerary planning, routing, and of course RErouting to be honest with you over on my sister site, 50at60. One of my original maps had me flying into Reno and then driving thru part of Nevada, thru Northern California, into Oregon for a travel conference, then into Washington before making a loop thru Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, before flying out of Salt Lake City, Utah. Yes eight states checked of for the year, but in a 3 week trip, what would I actually absorb in this chaotic and fast paced journey! I actually tired just TYPING this!
Backing up a bit, the ramblings over on my 50at60 site are about my quest to visit all 50 states in one year, the year I turn 60 … 50at60. So anyway, after a rethink about that first map I created (a pretty good map though if I do say so myself!), I rethought things the other night and decided to limit myself to just Oregon and Washington …. with a side trip to Alaska! Figured I was pretty close to it, so might as well get that one checked off, as the month of May seems like a good month to journey there.
Anyway, I headed off to ChatGPT to create a short itinerary with the photographer in mind (as well as some AI created imagery to get motivated) and figured I would share it over here on this site. I know I like to wander and roam, but a 50 state trip in one year I am realizing takes a little bit of advance planning. Ill be sure to leave a little time in there for the nomadic spirit though!
So let’s dive right in and welcome to Alaska!!!
Planning a trip to the majestic landscapes of Alaska in May is an excellent choice. The long daylight hours and the awakening spring landscapes provide a fantastic backdrop for nature lovers and photographers. Here’s a detailed 5-day itinerary that captures the essence of Alaska’s stunning natural beauty:
Day 1: Arrival in Anchorage
- Morning: Arrive at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Pick up your rental car and settle into your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Explore downtown Anchorage. Visit the Anchorage Museum to get a comprehensive understanding of Alaskan culture, history, and art. Stroll around the town to see local art and dine at one of the local seafood restaurants.
- Evening: Drive to Earthquake Park to learn about the 1964 Alaska earthquake. It’s also a great spot for photography, especially during sunset.
This image captures the panoramic beauty of the Seward Highway winding along the stunning Turnagain Arm, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains under a serene blue sky. A perfect representation of Alaska’s rugged landscapes, ideal for scenic drives and photography.
Day 2: Anchorage to Seward – Scenic Drives and Wildlife
- Early Morning: Start your journey to Seward via the Seward Highway, recognized as a National Scenic Byway. The drive offers breathtaking views of Turnagain Arm, mountains, and potentially wildlife.
- Late Morning: Stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center near Girdwood to see Alaska’s native wildlife up close.
- Afternoon: Continue to Seward. Upon arrival, visit the Exit Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska. It’s an excellent location for photography.
- Evening: Explore the quaint town of Seward. Enjoy dinner with views of the harbor.
This breathtaking scene features a day cruise ship in Kenai Fjords National Park with a majestic glacier in the background. The calm, reflective waters, teeming with marine wildlife under the expansive Alaskan sky, create a perfect moment for photography enthusiasts.
Day 3: Kenai Fjords National Park
- Morning to Afternoon: Book a day cruise to explore Kenai Fjords National Park. The cruise offers stunning views of glaciers, marine wildlife, and seabirds. It’s an unparalleled experience for nature photography.
- Late Afternoon: Return to Seward. Spend some time at the Seward Waterfront Park for relaxing views and photography.
- Evening: Consider dining at a local restaurant that offers fresh Alaskan seafood.
Day 4: Seward to Denali National Park
- Early Morning: Begin your journey to Denali National Park. It’s a long drive but filled with scenic landscapes. Make stops along the way to stretch and capture the beauty of Alaska with your camera.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Denali National Park. Visit the Denali Visitor Center to gather information and plan your time in the park.
- Evening: Take a short hike or a scenic drive within the park boundaries. The Savage River Loop Trail offers easy access and stunning views.
A serene landscape showcases Denali National Park with the towering Mt. Denali in the background. The foreground is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and a clear stream meandering through the valley, all under the soft light of the Alaskan summer—perfect for capturing the essence of Alaska’s wilderness.
Day 5: Exploring Denali National Park
- Morning: Embark on a bus tour within Denali National Park. These tours offer deeper access into the park with opportunities to see wildlife and Mt. Denali, North America’s highest peak.
- Afternoon: After the tour, choose a hiking trail that matches your interest and fitness level. The Horseshoe Lake Trail and the Mt. Healy Overlook Trail are excellent for breathtaking views.
- Evening: Return to your accommodation. Reflect on your Alaskan adventure over a hearty meal.
Departure Day: Return to Anchorage
- Morning: Drive back to Anchorage. Depending on your flight time, you might be able to squeeze in a last-minute souvenir shopping session or a quick visit to a local cafe.
- Afternoon: Drop off your rental car and catch your flight back to Seattle, filled with memories and photographs of the stunning Alaskan landscape.
Tips:
- Always check the weather and road conditions as they can change rapidly in Alaska.
- Make sure to book accommodations and tours in advance, especially in popular areas like Denali and Seward.
- Keep your camera ready at all times; wildlife sightings can happen when you least expect them.
Enjoy your Alaskan adventure, and safe travels!
So THAT was fun. Pretty exited to get this year of travel going! Make sure and follow me over here on the site as well as my youtube channel where I am sure I will be sharing the journeys as well!
Happy travels 🙂
Oh, me again …. a quick update to the itinerary. I just booked the Alaska flight this evening and extended the trip a day giving me 5 full days with an arrival day and a departure day. Figured I would share that updated itinerary below for what its worth. I am sure I will adjust as I go along, but this is a great start! Again, travel safe and enjoy! (lets hope ChatGPT did a good job at this 🧐)
Day 1: Arrival in Anchorage – Introduction to Alaska
- Morning: Land at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, pick up your rental car, and head to your accommodation.
- Afternoon: Explore the Anchorage Market & Festival if you arrive on a weekend, or visit the Anchorage Museum to immerse yourself in local art, history, and indigenous cultures.
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant overlooking Cook Inlet, and if time allows, take a stroll along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail to catch a stunning Alaskan sunset.
Day 2: Anchorage to Talkeetna – Gateway to Denali
- Morning: Depart for Talkeetna, a quaint town that serves as a base for Denali expeditions. Stop at Wasilla to visit the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Museum.
- Afternoon: Explore Talkeetna’s charming downtown, known for its historic buildings and local arts scene. Consider a scenic flight tour of Denali for breathtaking aerial views.
- Evening: Dine in one of Talkeetna’s rustic eateries, enjoying the local cuisine and craft beer.
Capturing a vibrant early morning in downtown Talkeetna, this image showcases rustic buildings with the breathtaking backdrop of the Alaska Range, including Denali. The town’s charming, frontier spirit is highlighted by the soft, warm glow of the sunrise, illuminating the streets and mountains, and inviting exploration.
Day 3: Talkeetna to Denali National Park
- Morning: Journey to Denali National Park, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the Parks Highway.
- Afternoon: Visit the Denali Visitor Center, then take a short hike or bus tour into the park to spot wildlife and enjoy the rugged landscape.
- Evening: Relax at your accommodation near the park, preparing for a full day of exploration tomorrow.
Day 4: Denali National Park Exploration
- Full Day: Embark on a Tundra Wilderness Tour for deeper exploration into Denali National Park, with opportunities to see the Big Five: bears, wolves, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and photography opportunities.
- Evening: Share stories of your day’s adventures over dinner, possibly with views of the Alaska Range.
This awe-inspiring view features a Tundra Wilderness Tour bus navigating through the vast, untouched wilderness of Denali National Park. With the iconic Mt. Denali in the distance and the rich, green tundra below, this image encapsulates the majestic and wild heart of Alaska under a clear blue sky.
Day 5: Denali to Seward – Journey to the Fjords
- Early Morning: Depart Denali early for Seward, a scenic drive that offers beautiful vistas and potential wildlife sightings.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Seward and explore the Alaska SeaLife Center, gaining insight into Alaska’s marine ecosystem.
- Evening: Take a leisurely stroll around the Seward Harbor, capturing the picturesque scenery with your camera.
The serene Resurrection Bay is in the foreground with boats gently docked at the marina, offering a peaceful scene that invites onlookers to relax and reflect. The surrounding mountains, softly lit by the fading sunlight, provide a stunning backdrop, highlighting Seward’s unique charm as a gateway to marine adventures in Alaska. This tranquil scene embodies the calming end to an adventurous day, perfect for reflecting on the day’s journeys and the natural beauty encountered.
Day 6: Kenai Fjords National Park
- Morning to Afternoon: Take a day cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park, witnessing glaciers calving, and spotting marine wildlife. It’s an unforgettable experience offering some of the best photographic opportunities in Alaska.
- Evening: Enjoy your last evening in Alaska with a special dinner in Seward, perhaps sampling some fresh, local seafood.
Day 7: Seward to Anchorage – Departure
- Morning: Begin your drive back to Anchorage, leaving ample time for any final stops or souvenir shopping.
- Midday: Arrive in Anchorage, return your rental car, and head to the airport for your departure, filled with memories and photographs of your Alaskan adventure.
This itinerary balances the majesty of Alaska’s natural landscapes with the charm of its towns, providing a comprehensive and memorable experience. Enjoy your trip, and feel free to capture every moment!