Dog mushing is an exhilarating and soulful way to connect to the areas pristine natural world. Aurora Adventure Tour with Hot Pizza Party and Photography Fun. Alaskas big cities are the perfect base for a winter trip, and there are a delightful number of things to do in the biggest city of Anchorage in the winter. If you reach the voicemail, please leave a message and we'll call you back as soon as we finish with the previous caller. Go on a dog sled ride. Snowmobiling, or snowmachining as it is most often referred to in Alaska, is one of the easiest ways to get into the spectacular snowy wilds surrounding Fairbanks. My blog posts likely contain affiliate links, including for the Amazon Associates program.If you click, book, or buy from one of these links, I may earn a commission. The festival typically takes place over the course of several days and features a wide variety of events and activities for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can watch incredible artworks emerge from huge blocks of ice as sculptors work with chain saws and specialized ice carving tools. Some of the events and activities that may be included in Fur Rondy are: Fur Rondy is a great opportunity for visitors to experience the unique culture and traditions of Alaska during the winter season. If you reach the voicemail, please leave a message and we'll call you back as soon as we finish with the previous caller. Bring food for your trip as the closest services are in Healy, 11 miles north of the park entrance. Hardy souls will find great winter camping opportunities, with the wilderness all to themselves. Backcountry skiing and snowboarding in Alaska is considered some of the best in the world, due to the states abundant snowfall, rugged terrain, and remote wilderness areas. Have a rejuvenating soak in a natural outdoor hot spring at the end of an adventure filled day. To make the most of your trip to Fairbanks youll have to rent a car. The Winter Visitor Center is the place to begin your winter visit to Denali. Check. 1. Located in Girdwood, just south of Anchorage, Alyeska Resort is the largest ski resort in Alaska and offers over 1,400 skiable acres and a 2,500-foot vertical drop. Your must-have activity guide + map while in Alaska. And its not too far from Anchorage. There are a lot of tour operators and/or kennels that offer winter excursions that include both riding in the basket and driving your own team. I grew up in the Anchorage area and spent 15 winters there. Look for it in late February to the first weekend in March. Temperatures linger in the 60s but can reach the high 70s, and with an average of about 18 hours of light per day . Many of the hot springs in Alaska are located in remote and wilderness areas, and can be difficult to access. You could also explore the outlying towns if you have enough time. I started this site to share my travel stories and inspiration to help you complete bucket list trips. Some of Denali's summer hiking trails are also good for skiing. Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise from Seward 2023 - Viator Its been a tradition since 1935 and is one of the oldest and most popular winter festivals in the state. Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks - Viator It is recommended to check the specific regulations and availability of each hot spring before planning your visit! Which one is right for you? Keep reading below to find out which destinations are worth visiting in Alaska in February. Both of these majestic places are reached via inspirational drives through extraordinary winter landscapes. And if youre looking to escape the cold, head to one of the states many casinos or resorts. Read more in my Privacy Policy. There are around 35,000 in the city proper and over 100,000 people in the surrounding area. Dexter Cider Mill - Dexter. Hes worried about the cold. Walking Tours Luxury & Special Occasions Food, Wine & Nightlife Air, Helicopter & Balloon Tours Thermal Spas & Hot Springs Special Offers Art Classes Water Tours Holiday & Seasonal Tours Multi-day & Extended Tours Ways to tour Fairbanks Book these experiences for a close-up look at Fairbanks. However, some hot springs are more easily accessible and have developed facilities such as changing rooms and bathrooms. As Ive mentioned, Alaska is cold in the winter, so youll need to bring the right clothing and lots of good winter layers to stay warm. My blog posts likely contain affiliate links, including for the Amazon Associates program.If you click, book, or buy from one of these links, I may earn a commission. The extensive multi-use trails inside Anchorage (and other communities) grow busy with skiers, snow-bikers, joggers, and skijoring enthusiasts. Updated March 2023, Girdwood Travel Guide + 5 Things to do in Girdwood was originally written in February 2020. Of all the Alaska bucket list things to do, this will be one of the most exhilarating and . This is the best way to get between Anchorage and Fairbanks during the winter, and there are lots to do in Fairbanks during the winter if you have the time in your Alaska itinerary. Maarten Duineveld Skiing and snowboarding in Alaska is considered some of the best in the world, due to the state's abundant snowfall and rugged terrain. Address: Carlson Center, 2010 2nd Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701. Even with the short days and chilly temperatures, there is still a lot to do here. Drill down into clear lake ice, which can be up to four feet thick, craft the hole, drop your line and presto! There are plenty of places to stay in downtown Anchorage, but here are a few I recommend to help narrow your search: There are plenty of other choices too, and a number of vacation rentals, including thiswater view apartmentin a great location (from $127/night,also on Booking.com),this apartmentright near the Coastal Trail and downtown (from $255/night), and thishuge housewhich is gorgeous and has space for up to two families (from $381/night). Im a travel nurse here in Anchorage..I have the next 5 days off starting this coming Thursday..im looking for adventure some of the local nurses gave me ideas but any info from a non local will be great as well Thank you for your time. This article is by Alaskans and from Alaskans, from real world experiences. Trips available from Whittier, Homer, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to exploreNative Land. It is also important to keep in mind that the dogs are working animals and should be treated with respect, and visitors should follow the instructions given by the musher. Watch the Alaskan wilderness awaken on this 6-hour morning cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park from Seward. Destinations to Visit in Alaska in February. You can take a day exploring and finding some of the most beautiful snow covered landscapes in this area. Alaskan winters are changing with global warming, but our winters are still snow-filled winter wonderlands for now. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. February is fantastic for seeing the northern lights, taking winter hikes, going cross country skiing and you'll get to experience our area more like a local than like a tourist. Explore Fairbanks, Alaska | Aurora Borealis, Midnight Sun What to Do in Alaska This February and March Best Things to Do in Anchorage in the Winter, lots to do in Fairbanks during the winter, https://www.valisemag.com/alaska-northern-lights-trip/. Plan your journey with this gorgeous printed map. It gets to about 20 degrees F here, wind chills can be down to zero. Use our calculator to find out, Stay casual, dress in layers, and get proper footwear, View All Southcentral & Interior Towns on a Map, Cruises depart Juneau or Sitka. Its just important to buy the right gear and bundle up if you want to enjoy it anyway! Try fat tire biking on groomed trails through the city. 2. Northern lights viewing means the sights are spectacular even after sundown. This is one of the most fun things to do while in Alaska and its not as expensive as you might think! Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental and Alaska Mountaineering both offer rentals in case, ya know, you dont have snowshoes lying around at home that you want to pack for Alaska. It is also recommended to hire a guide or take a course to learn the proper skills and techniques for backcountry skiing and snowboarding. On my most recent trip, I took a great tour with Alaska Photo Treks, which includes getting some incredible photos of the aurora as souvenirs. Go ice fishing: If youre looking for something fun and adventurous to do in February, try ice fishing! I tried my hand at snowboarding for several winters before the falls and subsequent aches convinced me this isnt my preferred winter sport but if you love to catch some fresh pow, Anchorage is the place to do it in Alaska! In this post, I promote travel to a destination that is the traditional lands of the Denaina Enena and Dnndeh peoples. Backcountry skiing and snowboarding in Alaska can be a thrilling and challenging experience, but it also comes with risks, such as avalanches, crevasses and harsh weather. To help you plan the perfect fun-filled fall weekend or getaway, here are some not-to-be-missed Ann Arbor activities and attractions, including cider mills, scenic routes, coffee houses and more! The long nights provide ample opportunities to witness the mesmerizing northern lights, illuminating the sky with vibrant colors. Theres no shortage of things to do in Fairbanks in the winter, which, in my opinion, are a lot more fun than the activities you can enjoy during the summer. Visitors should come prepared for the cold and check the parks website for the most updated information regarding the event schedule and availability. If you wish to take an overnight trip in the park, you'll need a backcountry permit. A staple of the winter season, skiing is another great activity to keep you entertained during the day. As for precipitations, Anchorage receives 0.5 to 1.0 inches (11 to 26 mm) of rainfall and between 5.5 and 18 inches (14 to 46 cm) of fresh snow in February. As President and co-founder of Alaska-based boutique media agency HuMu Media, she spends her work time writing, photographing, and traveling, and her off time writing, photographing, and traveling. My husband and I are both in our 60s, he is very fit and I am partially disabled. We plan to take a tour based trip to see the Iditarod and there are a lot of things included. It is a season that will be cherished by everyone who experiences it. 21 Alluring Things to do in Alaska - Divergent Travelers If weather permits, still hope to get to Fairbanks to see "Northern Lights". Stretching way beyond my personal comfort zone, Id be remiss if I didnt mention one of the most adventurous winter activities in Anchorage: ice climbing. See Snowy Landscapes. For the intrepid traveler, theres the option of getting a permit to ski, snowshoe, or hike back into the park at your own risk. These trips offer some of the best views of these majestic creatures while also giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the company of your fellow passengers. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling/snowmachining on the pristine powdery snow provide an adrenaline rush and a chance to explore the backcountry. Focus on Denali & Kenai Fjords. Seeing Wildlife Winter is not the best time to see most of Alaska's iconic animals. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Fairbanks - Tripadvisor Always check local regulations and obtain the proper permits before heading out for ice fishing. Hot springs are formed when underground water is heated by geothermal activity, and the water then rises to the surface. February is freezing cold in Fairbanks, with the average-high hovering around 12F (-11C) and the average lows at -3F (-19C). In this article, weve listed some fun things you can do in Alaska in February. Juneau is perhaps the most interesting state capital in the USA. I was born on the East Coast and currently live in the Midwest but my heart will always be out West. The indoor picnic area has restrooms and a water bottle filling station. Denali National Park is a destination most travelers want to include in their Alaskan trip. There are so many attractions in this city, from the world-famous Denali National Park to charming neighborhoods like east downtown. Like what? To learn more about the peoples who call these lands home, I invite you to exploreNative Land. Alaskas February weather calls for careful preparation when it comes to packing. To give you more specific advice on how I layered to stay warm in the Alaskan winter, heres what Im wearing in both of the photos above: I also had hand and foot warmers that I tucked into my boots and mittens to help keep my fingers and toes warm at night I visited at an especially cold time in February 2020 when the lowest temp we experienced was -35F in Fairbanks! Most people will come to Alaska in the summer, missing out on these great opportunities in our cold and dark months. Still, a few resorts groom the snowy grounds to provide some fine tracks for travelers. Ive got a complete list of winter activities to do in Anchorage, and I recommend giving yourself at least two nights here to enjoy them. Top 10 Things to Do in the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska June 8, 2023 Kevin E Beasley 0 Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Alaska's Kenai Peninsula. It outlines the circle that the aurora travel in. Events & Entertainment | Explore Fairbanks, Alaska Make sure you have adequate winter gear including boots, coats, hats, and gloves. 4. Alaska is situated right within the auroral oval, which is the footprint in the atmosphere of the boundary between the highly stretched field lines of the polar cap and the more normal field lines at lower latitudes. I have really enjoyed reading all of your posts. Dog mushingAlaskas official state sporthits full stride, with extensive wilderness trails and in-town loops. Ski, skate, dog sled or snow bike to get the adrenaline going. Winter in Alaska is a season of adventure, beauty, and wonder. I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge. There are tons of fun things to do in February in Alaska, and each city has unique activities you can enjoy. Go dog sledding or cheer on a musher in a local . 5. Hi, Joanne! The natural hot springs in Alaska are a great way to relax and warm up after a day of winter activities. Visitors can take a tour to the park and stay in one of the nearby accommodations for the best chance to see the northern lights. Ive bundled up many times to head out to enjoy a winter activity in fresh air and sunlight when the sun is up, that is. Some of the activities that may be included in Winterfest are: Winterfest in Denali National Park is a great way to experience the park in the winter and enjoy a variety of activities in the snowy wilderness. Hilltop Ski Area is located in Anchorage and is a great option for those looking for a more intimate ski experience. It will take a little creativity to still achieve all of the items on your Denali National Park bucket list. Having a car will allow you to get out and explore more, though its possible to not need a car if you book an Anchorage winter itinerary that includes only tours that also provide transportation. 51 reviews 50 helpful votes Anchorage in February 14 years ago Save Revising a plan to travel from Anchorage to Fairbanks end of February. Yes, in case youre wondering, youll be driving a lot during your trip to Alaska. Order our Official State of Alaska Vacation Planner and plot your course. Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks - Viator Sail close to sea lion colonies and seabird rookeries, and keep your eyes peeled for whales, sea otters, Dall's porpoises, eagles and mountain goats. 1. Here are a few popular hot springs in Alaska that you can visit: It is important to note that many hot springs in Alaska are on state or city land and may have specific regulations such as permit requirement or usage limits; also consider the impact of your visit on the natural environment. Fairbanks has plenty of ways to engage with Saint Nicks furry friends including walking with these majestic critters through the boreal forest or seeing them in various locations near Fairbanks. The ski resorts may also have different operating schedules due to the weather conditions, and its best to check with the resorts for the most up-to-date information. A ranger is available 9 am to 4 pm daily (except on major holidays). I lived for 15 years in Alaska, as well as four years each in California and Washington. February is a great time to see some wildlife in Alaska, including moose, caribou, and even the occasional wolf. Here's what to do in Anchorage in the winter, plus travel tips for your Alaska winter itinerary. Want to know more? It is recommended to hire a guide or take a class to learn the proper techniques and safety precautions for ice fishing. Common Winter Activities: Skiing, Biking, Snowshoeing. Visiting the Alaska Zoo and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center can be a great way to see Alaskan animals in their thick winter coats. By the end of the month, the days will have lengthened to almost 10.5 hours from sunrise to sunset. Frigid snaps deliver stunning blue-sky conditions that last for days. Most people who visit the glacier do so in the summer months. Certain areas of the park are closed to off-road vehicles, including snowmobiles, but other areas open when snow cover is sufficient. It allows you to explore the remote and snowy wilderness of Alaska while enjoying the speed and excitement of riding a snow machine. Visitors can take a tour to the nearby Chugach Mountains, where the lights can often be seen dancing above the peaks. Winter is not the best time to see most of Alaskas iconic animals. You need to make sure your rental car can "plug in". Start here. These months are usually snowy and cold across Alaska, just like youd expect, with more snow in coastal mountains and deeper cold in interior valleys. 1. more information on current conditions Leave No Trace principles and backcountry snowsports. Play tag or freeze tag outside at Joe Young Park in Anchorage. Fairbanks, Alaska. Required fields are marked *. you can rent gear and head out on your own. But to have a much better chance at seeing something so amazing, it might be worth the extra expense to go with a guided group. The Arctic Circle is 195 miles (315 Km) north of Fairbanks and Denali is 120 miles (193 Km) to the south. Highlights plus less visited destinations. If you plan to travel in areas that present avalanche hazards, please have proper training and equipment. Hello I really enjoyed your vlog Thank you! Visitors can also take a snowmobile or dog sled tour to explore the wilderness and possibly spot some animals. There are many places you can find to see the Aurora near Anchorage. This festival, which takes place in late February, features a variety of events including ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, as well as a chili cook-off and a parade. Anchorage is another popular spot for viewing the northern lights. Unlike Anchorage, where the best activities are connected on public transit, Fairbanks doesnt offer shuttles, public transit, and tour pick-ups/drop-offs. Most of the park road is closed in mid-winter. You can go Alpine skiing, commonly known as downhill skiing, at Alyeska Resort, or cross-country skiing at Kincaid Park. Find how many days you need based on what you want to see and do in Alaska. Like in summer, the way to visit Anchorage in the winter is by plane: Alaska Airlines offers flights year-round from destinations in the Lower 48. Kenai Fjords National Park. Planning a trip to Alaska between November and March? Awesome, Alia! This coastal ski town with hippy vibes set in a picturesque valley just an hour's drive south of Anchorage is a favorite getaway for locals and tourists alike. Our picks for the best tours and experiences during your Alaska Cruise. Kachemak Bay State Park Source: Jesse Hasup / shutterstock Kachemak Bay State Park This expansive park is only accessible by boat or sea plane, there are no roads which means you are really in the middle of the wilderness when you get here. By the end, youll understand how to fill your time and take advantage of the natural wonderland that surrounds Anchorage each winter. Head out on a whale-watching expedition. Imagine yourself here and use this top ten list to plan an unforgettable winter expedition to our dazzling land of ice and snow. In this post, Ill share everything you need to know if youve already decided to plan an adventure and visit Alaska in February. Snowmachining in Alaska during the winter can be a thrilling and unique experience. The tradeoff? Skiers and snowboarders should be prepared for the colder temperatures and the potential for extreme weather. Things To Do in Alaska Alaska is the land of superlatives: largest national park, highest peak, longest coastline, biggest state, longest day and night. Here are some affordable activities to try in February: If youre looking for a fun-filled month of February, here are some of the top festivals to attend in Alaska. This is our complete guide along with some of our experiences and what some of our friends have done here in Alaska. A ranger is available 9 am to 4 pm daily (except on major holidays). This year is February 17 March 17, 2023. Yes, you heard that rightgo inside a glacier. Just remember to bundle up! For those who want to get away from the light pollution of cities, there are remote locations such as the Arctic Circle, where the northern lights can be seen in their full glory. Ski time. However, it can also be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. It was particularly cold during my visit, so I recommend buyinga box of hand and foot warmersonce you arrive in Alaska to keep your extremities comfortable. It is also recommended to go with a guided tour or local expert who knows the area well. But what about visiting the glacier in winter or specifically in February? Its not easy talking about the weather in Alaska as the temperature and climate vary considerably depending on the geography. Its dinnertime! Watch the northern lights, or get up in the sky yourself for an unforgettable view of Alaska. Car, train, or group tour.
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