Dreaming of epic landscapes and wild adventures? In this post, I’ll share the glacier valleys, wild coastlines, and rugged backcountry of Alaska’s state and national parks—where the last frontier unfolds in raw, breathtaking beauty. Alaska’s parks deliver jaw-dropping mountains, glaciers, and wildlife encounters you’ll never forget.
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Alaska Parks
1. Afognak Island State Park - 1 hour by floatplane from Kodiak
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Location:
Afognak Island State Park, Kodiak Island Borough, AlaskaHighlights:
If you’re craving off-the-grid adventure and untamed wilderness, Afognak Island is your dream come true. Just a short floatplane ride from Kodiak, this vast, protected park offers rugged beauty and unforgettable wildlife encounters.Recommended For:
Backcountry campers, anglers, wildlife lovers, and anyone seeking true Alaskan solitude.What I Love: ♥
Remote and wild terrain, epic salmon streams, rustic cabins, and a chance to see Kodiak brown bears and Roosevelt elk in their natural habitat.- Explore over 75,000 acres of undeveloped land, rich with Sitka spruce forests and salmon-spawning streams.
- Watch for iconic Alaskan wildlife including bears, elk, deer, and the endangered marbled murrelet.
- Stay at one of two public-use Forest Service cabins on Pillar Lake and Laura Lake, or enjoy a more supported stay at the Afognak Wilderness Lodge.
- Activities include hiking, fishing, hunting, photography, and kayaking in breathtaking solitude.
Cost:
Cabin rental fees apply; check with Alaska DNR for current rates.Best time to visit:
Summer and early fall for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.Local tips:
Bring all supplies, including bear-safe food containers and rain gear—services are nonexistent in the park.Distance:
1 hour by floatplane from Kodiak, Alaska.How to Get to Afognak Island State Park:
Fly into Kodiak, Alaska, then charter a floatplane to reach designated drop points near Pillar or Laura Lake. Access is weather-dependent and should be planned in advance with local air services.Address:
Afognak Island State Park, Kodiak Island Borough, Alaska2. Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve - 30 minutes by car from Haines
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Location:
Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, Haines, AKHighlights:
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing bald eagles by the hundreds—or even thousands—this is your spot. Just a short drive from Haines, the preserve is a must-see for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.Recommended For:
Bird watchers, wildlife photographers, families, and anyone interested in experiencing Alaska’s natural beauty up close.What I Love: ♥
The Fall Congregations with thousands of bald eagles, salmon-filled rivers, and stunning alpine backdrops all around.- See the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles, with over 3,000 spotted during the fall months.
- Walk or drive along the Haines Highway between miles 18 and 24 for prime eagle viewing, especially in late fall when salmon attract them in droves.
- Learn about eagle nesting and habitat with over 80 eagle nests documented in the area.
- Explore the river bottoms of the Chilkat, Kleheni, and Tsirku Rivers—protected to support eagle and salmon populations.
Cost:
Free admission; guided tours may have a fee.Best time to visit:
October to early December for the Fall Congregations of bald eagles.Local tips:
Bring binoculars and dress in layers—temperatures drop fast in late fall and winter.Distance:
30 minutes by car from Haines, Alaska.How to Get to Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve:
From Haines, head northwest on Haines Highway. The prime eagle viewing areas are between mile markers 18 and 24. Parking pullouts are available along the way for safe viewing.Address:
Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve,Haines Ranger Station, P.O. Box 430, Haines, AK 99827
Phone: 907-766-2292
3. Baranof Castle Hill State Historic Site - 5-minute walk from downtown Sitka
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Location:
Baranof Castle Hill State Historic Site, Sitka, AKHighlights:
If you’re in Sitka and want incredible views with a side of rich history, this one’s a gem. Just minutes from downtown, Castle Hill packs centuries of Tlingit, Russian, and American heritage into one scenic stop.Recommended For:
History buffs, photographers, casual hikers, and anyone interested in Alaska’s colonial past.What I Love: ♥
Sweeping harbor views, historic significance as the Alaska transfer site, and the blend of Tlingit and Russian stories told through well-placed interpretive panels.- Climb to the summit via stairs or a gentle trail lined with informative signs detailing the site's layered history.
- Stand on the spot where the U.S. took formal possession of Alaska from Russia in 1867—and again where the flag was raised for statehood in 1959.
- Learn about the original Tlingit fort and its later Russian occupation through the hill’s National Historic Landmark designation.
- Enjoy panoramic views over Sitka Harbor and Mount Edgecumbe from the 60-foot bluff.
Cost:
Free admission.Best time to visit:
Spring through fall for clear views and walkable weather.Local tips:
Bring a camera—sunsets from the hilltop are especially stunning!Distance:
5-minute walk from downtown Sitka, Alaska.How to Get to Baranof Castle Hill:
From downtown Sitka, walk or drive to Lincoln Street and follow signs to the Castle Hill parking area. A short trail or stairway leads directly to the top.Address:
Baranof Castle Hill State Historic Site,Sitka, AK 99835
Romantic Alaska Parks
4. Big Delta State Historical Parks - 15-minute drive from Delta Junction
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Location:
Big Delta State Historical Park, Delta Junction, AKHighlights:
If you’re up for a fascinating step back in time, this is a stop worth making. Just 15 minutes from Delta Junction, it’s like walking into a living history book along the old Valdez-Fairbanks Trail.Recommended For:
History lovers, families, road trippers, and anyone interested in pioneer-era Alaska.What I Love: ♥
Rika’s beautifully preserved roadhouse, hands-on artifacts, and a peaceful riverside setting steeped in frontier stories.- Tour the historic Rika’s Roadhouse and surrounding outbuildings that once served travelers, miners, and military personnel.
- Discover pioneer-era artifacts inside the sod-roofed cabin and Swedish-style barn, all preserved with care by the local community.
- Explore the WAMCATS station, part of Alaska’s early military telegraph system.
- Enjoy guided tours in season, offering deeper insights into daily life on the Valdez-Fairbanks Trail.
Cost:
$5 day-use parking fee; guided tour fees may vary by season.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall when buildings are open and tours are available.Local tips:
Bring snacks and water—facilities are limited and seasonal. Don’t miss the interpretive signs along the river!Distance:
15-minute drive from Delta Junction, Alaska.How to Get to Big Delta State Historical Park:
From Delta Junction, drive north on the Richardson Highway to Milepost 275. Follow signs to the entrance near the Tanana River.Address:
Big Delta State Historical Park,Milepost 275 Richardson Highway, Delta Junction, AK
5. Birch Lake State Recreation Site - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Fairbanks
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Location:
Birch Lake State Recreation Site, Salcha, AKHighlights:
If you’re looking for a quiet lake escape with great fishing and easy access, Birch Lake is a local favorite. Just an hour southeast of Fairbanks, it’s perfect for a spontaneous day trip or relaxed weekend getaway.Recommended For:
Anglers, families, ice fishers, campers, and anyone wanting a peaceful lakeside retreat.What I Love: ♥
Year-round fishing, the cozy public-use cabin, and the serene, lily pad-dotted lake in summer.- Fish for Arctic char, rainbow trout, Arctic grayling, Chinook, and coho salmon—excellent all seasons.
- Camp at one of five rustic sites with picnic tables, fireplaces, and access to clean restrooms and drinking water.
- Explore the surrounding wetlands and enjoy water activities like kayaking or swimming during warmer months.
- Stay warm with a winter ice fishing hut rental or cozy up in the public-use cabin.
Cost:
$15 overnight camping; cabin rental and ice hut fees vary by season.Best time to visit:
Summer for boating and fishing; winter for ice fishing and snow-covered serenity.Local tips:
Bring bug spray in summer and check fishing regulations before you cast—species limits vary.Distance:
1 hour and 15 minutes from Fairbanks, Alaska.How to Get to Birch Lake:
From Fairbanks, drive southeast on the Richardson Highway for approximately 60 miles. Look for signage and the Birch Lake pull-off near the Air Force recreation area.Address:
Birch Lake State Recreation Site,Birch Lake Pull Off, Salcha, AK 99714
Phone: 907-269-8400
6. Chilkat State Park - 20-minute drive from Haines
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Location:
Chilkat State Park, Haines, AKHighlights:
If you’re craving glacier views, peaceful trails, and a shot at spotting whales, Chilkat is the place. Just a quick drive south of Haines, this park delivers classic Alaska scenery and serene coastal vibes.Recommended For:
Hikers, nature photographers, boaters, families, and anyone seeking stunning glacier-and-sea views.What I Love: ♥
Epic vistas of Rainbow and Davidson Glaciers, trails that hug the coast, and prime wildlife viewing right from the visitor center.- Hike through lush mixed forest on trails like the 7-mile Seduction Point Trail, offering a gentle path between woods and beach.
- Watch for seals, water birds, and even whales from the scenic shorelines or the visitor center’s spotting scopes.
- Launch a boat into Chilkat Inlet for a closer look at glaciers—or hit the king salmon run in early June.
- Relax with beach access and quiet natural surroundings just minutes outside of town.
Cost:
$5 day-use fee; other permits may apply for overnight stays or boat launch use.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for trail access, salmon runs, and wildlife sightings.Local tips:
Bring binoculars—glacier and wildlife views are better than any screen saver!Distance:
20-minute drive from Haines, Alaska.How to Get to Chilkat State Park:
From Haines, take Mud Bay Road south along the Chilkat Peninsula. Follow signs to the park entrance and visitor center near the end of the road.Address:
Chilkat State Park,Haines, AK 99827
Phone: 800-458-3579
Alaska Parks for Families
7. Chugach State Park - 20 minutes from Anchorage
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Location:
Chugach State Park, Anchorage, AKHighlights:
If you’re in Anchorage and craving adventure, Chugach is your go-to wilderness escape. Just minutes from downtown, it’s where Alaskans go to hike, fish, ski, and reconnect with nature across nearly 500,000 acres.Recommended For:
Outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, backpackers, and weekend warriors of all experience levels.What I Love: ♥
The easy access from Anchorage, jaw-dropping glacier and alpine views, and an endless list of outdoor activities year-round.- Hike or bike more than 110 trails across nearly 280 miles, from gentle nature walks to steep alpine climbs.
- Explore nine distinct ecosystems, including alpine tundra, spruce forests, riparian zones, and coastal wetlands.
- Watch for 45+ species of mammals, including moose, Dall sheep, mountain goats, bears, lynx, and even wolves.
- Enjoy year-round recreation like kayaking, berry picking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, glacier-viewing, and gold panning.
Cost:
$5 day-use parking fee; annual passes available.Best time to visit:
Summer for hiking and glacier views; winter for snow sports and wildlife tracking.Local tips:
Start early to beat the crowds and bring bear spray—this is true Alaska wilderness!Distance:
20 minutes from Anchorage, Alaska.How to Get to Chugach State Park:
Take the Seward Highway south from Anchorage. Multiple trailheads start within 20–30 minutes of downtown; Glen Alps, Eagle River, and Eklutna Lake are among the most popular access points.Address:
Chugach State ParkMile 115 Seward Highway, Girdwood, Anchorage, AK 99587
8. Denali State Park - 2 hours and 45 minutes from Anchorage
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Location:
Denali State Park, Trapper Creek, AKHighlights:
If you want Denali-level views without the crowds of the national park, this is your spot. Just under 3 hours from Anchorage, Denali State Park offers epic wilderness, stellar hiking, and some of the best unobstructed views of the tallest peak in North America.Recommended For:
Campers, hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventurers looking for a raw, less-developed Alaskan experience.What I Love: ♥
Clear views of both Denali summits, abundant wildlife, peaceful campgrounds, and wild rivers perfect for fishing or rafting.- Camp in scenic forest or tundra settings—campgrounds are well-spaced and less crowded than the neighboring national park.
- Spot moose, bears, red foxes, beavers, marmots, and more across diverse habitats from forested valleys to alpine tundra.
- Fish in the Susitna and Chulitna Rivers for Arctic grayling, Dolly Varden, trout, and all five species of Pacific salmon.
- Hike trails with panoramic views of Denali, rising 20,310 feet—north and south summits are visible from key lookouts.
Cost:
$5 day-use parking fee; camping and backcountry fees vary by site and season.Best time to visit:
June through early September for clear views, accessible trails, and best wildlife activity.Local tips:
Weather changes fast—pack layers and binoculars, and start your hikes early for the best chance of seeing Denali cloud-free.Distance:
2 hours and 45 minutes from Anchorage, Alaska.How to Get to Denali State Park:
From Anchorage, drive north on the George Parks Highway (AK-3) for about 147 miles. The park is located on both sides of the highway before you reach the entrance to Denali National Park.Address:
Denali State Park,George Parks Highway, Trapper Creek, AK 99683
9. Denali National Park - 4 hours and 15 minutes from Anchorage
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Location:
Denali National Park, Denali Park, AKHighlights:
If you want to experience Alaska’s wild heart, this is the place to go. Just over four hours from Anchorage, Denali offers six million acres of rugged wilderness crowned by North America’s tallest peak.Recommended For:
Adventurers, photographers, hikers, campers, and anyone looking to explore true Alaskan backcountry.What I Love: ♥
The ever-changing scenery along Denali Park Road, the wildlife-rich valleys, and the awe of seeing Denali rise above it all.- Drive the first 15 miles of Denali Park Road to Savage River in your own car; take a park shuttle or narrated bus beyond that point for access deeper into the park.
- Hike from established trailheads or off-trail into the wilderness—most of the park is undeveloped and open for exploration.
- Camp at one of six scenic campgrounds, surrounded by taiga forests, alpine tundra, or glacial rivers.
- See moose, bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and possibly wolves along the road, especially early or late in the day.
Cost:
$15 per person park entry; bus tickets and campground reservations additional.Best time to visit:
Mid-June through early September when buses operate and trails are clear of snow.Local tips:
Book buses and campsites early—they fill up fast! Bring layers and bug spray, and don't count on cell service.Distance:
4 hours and 15 minutes from Anchorage, Alaska.How to Get to Denali National Park:
From Anchorage, take the George Parks Highway (AK-3) north for about 240 miles. The main park entrance is well-marked and leads to the Denali Visitor Center and Park Road.Address:
Denali National ParkPO Box 9, Denali Park, AK 99755
Phone: 907-683-9532
Recommended Tours in Denali National Park, Alaska:
- Denali In A Day Sightseeing Tour – Discover the breathtaking beauty of Denali National Park and the surrounding area on this 8-hour sightseeing tour package. Price: From $200 per person.
- Denali: 5-Hour Guided Wilderness Hiking Tour – Embark on a hike in the Denali wilderness accompanied by a licensed guide. Price: From $180 per person.
- Denali National Park: Helicopter and Hike Adventure – Explore remote areas of the Alaskan backcountry that are normally unreachable in a day on this helicopter and hike adventure. Price: From $529 per person.
10. Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park - 15-minute drive from downtown Kodiak
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Location:
Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park, Kodiak, AKHighlights:
If you’re in Kodiak and want history and ocean views in one gorgeous place, this is it. Just 15 minutes from town, Fort Abercrombie offers peaceful trails, WWII ruins, and sweeping coastal scenery.Recommended For:
History buffs, campers, photographers, and hikers looking for a quiet oceanside escape.What I Love: ♥
Mossy spruce forests, cliffside views, blooming meadows, and the fascinating remains of WWII coastal defenses.- Explore remnants of a 1941 military fort including underground magazines, gun emplacements, and concrete foundations.
- Hike peaceful trails winding through dense forest and along dramatic coastal bluffs.
- Camp at tent-friendly sites nestled in the trees or book the group camping area for a secluded retreat.
- Relax at picnic areas with sweeping views of the Pacific, surrounded by wildflowers in spring and summer.
Cost:
$5 day-use parking fee; additional fees apply for camping and group use.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for wildflowers, clearer trails, and better weather.Local tips:
Bring a flashlight if you’re exploring bunkers and wear layers—it gets breezy along the bluffs!Distance:
15-minute drive from downtown Kodiak, Alaska.How to Get to Fort Abercrombie:
From Kodiak, head north on Rezanof Drive East, then turn right on Abercrombie Drive and follow it to the end of Miller Point Road. The park entrance is clearly marked with signs.Address:
Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park,Miller Point, Kodiak, AK 99615
If you are interested in Alaskan adventure, watch this unique video about collecting glacier ice.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What makes Alaskan state and national parks special?
- Alaskan state and national parks are full of incredible natural beauty.
- Many of these parks are among the last remaining areas of pristine, untouched wilderness in the country.
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Why do adventurers and explorers visit Alaska?
- Alaska’s landscape is remote and separate from the rest of the country.
- Its vast wilderness continues to entice adventurers and explorers, daring them to face its unique challenges.
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What is the purpose of Alaska's state and national parks?
- The parks help protect Alaska’s incredible beauty, including its plants and animals.
- They also serve to showcase Alaska’s landscapes to the world in all their glory.
Best Time to Visit Alaska State & National Parks
- June to August – Warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and prime wildlife viewing.
- May & September – Shoulder seasons with fewer crowds, cooler temps, and stunning scenery.
- December to March – Cold and snowy, perfect for northern lights, dog sledding, and skiing.
- April & October – Transition months with unpredictable weather but unique landscapes.
- Late June – Peak period for vibrant greenery, wildlife, and mild summer conditions.
Map:
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