Setting off from Vancouver on our Alaskan adventure, I had no idea that the next week would be filled with humpback whales, striking glaciers, history-filled gold rush towns, the most scenic railway in the world, husky puppies and a chance late-night experience of the aurora borealis (northern lights).
The untouched beauty of Alaska put on a magnificent show from onboard the Holland America ship, Koningsdam, looking out to Glacier Bay. After making my way through the northern-most US state, these are my official must-see destinations in Alaska.
Top 5 Places To Visit In Alaska
Learn from my experience…
The Capital, Juneau
After leaving port in Vancouver, my sister and I had a full day at sea before our adventure began in Juneau, the capital of Alaska. The city is so remote it’s only accessible by boat or plane. Nestled between mountains and the sea, Juneau is a gateway to incredible natural wonders and has a rich history.
We visited the Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls before taking a whale-watching cruise where we spotted humpbacks and their calves frolicking in the waters. After birthing in Hawaii, the mammals were migrating back to feast on salmon.
We also saw plenty of sea lions and America’s national bird – the bald eagle – soaring across the sky.
The Gold Rush Town Of Skagway
Next, we ventured to Skagway, a town straight out of a gold rush movie set.
It abounds with stories of the fortune seekers who flocked here in the 1800s, and its historic buildings are still painted in distinctive, identifying colours (originally to help gold prospectors who couldn’t read signs).
Traversing the rugged terrain between Skagway, Alaska, and Whitehorse, Canada, is the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, dubbed “the scenic railway of the world” and a marvel of engineering. Built during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898, this narrow-gauge railroad climbs nearly 1000 metres in 32 kilometres, with breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, gorges and waterfalls. We were transported back in time as we passed through tunnels and over trestle bridges while hearing tales of the intrepid gold rush stampeders.
Historic Ketchikan
Home to the second-largest temperate rainforest in the world, Ketchikan sees rain more often than not, contributing to the lush landscape. Here, brown bears outnumber humans three to one, especially during salmon season when the bears emerge from hibernation.
We explored the rich Tlingit indigenous culture, visiting traditional cedar houses where the main clans – Eagles and Ravens – gather together. We met local artisans making totem poles, and dancers in traditional costume. The architecture and customs all offer glimpses into the lives of the people who have called this land home for thousands of years.
Incredible Glacier Bay
The day spent viewing Glacier Bay National Park from the bow of our ship was simply spectacular. It’s impossible not to be in awe of the deep fjords and massive glaciers that slowly carve down the mountains into the sea. The stillness of the bay mirrored the stunning scenery. We were fortunate enough to witness three instances of glaciers “calving” (where huge chunks of ice break off and plunge into the water) with a thunderous roar.
See The Aurora Borealis
After a day at sea taking in everything Glacier Bay had to offer, we were woken around midnight by the crew telling us the northern lights were putting on a show. We rugged up and rushed out to see the beautiful dancing ribbons of blue and green light.
Our seven-day Inside Passage adventure was just the tip of the iceberg – an experience so incredible it left us awestruck. Alaska is a destination like no other.
This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
