Five unique things to do in Alaska

When visiting Alaska, you'll never be short of adventure. If anything, deciding exactly which things to do in Alaska might present more of a challenge, so we've enlisted the help of both local Alaskans as well as the Princess crew who spend a lot of time in the beautiful landscape to see how they recommend visitors spend their time to ensure you get the most out of your time in the stunning North American state. Here are their can’t-miss unique things to do in Alaska...

According to Laura Buchheit, who's been a US National Park ranger since 1993 and currently works in Glacier Bay, the national parks in Alaska are a must-visit. "One of the most amazing things about Alaska national parks is their expansiveness. As it’s a designated wilderness with minimal development, you can’t help but feel connected to nature. Our setting is ideal for families too, as Glacier Bay’s unique wilderness means families can see wildlife and experience moments that happen once in a lifetime – these stories can be passed down through generations,” she says.

Kenneth White, from Ketchikan, has been a Tlingit artist and totem pole carver for more than 10 years. He often demonstrates his craft onboard Princess cruises in Alaska and was enamored by the town of Sitka when he spent time working there. "For anyone visiting Alaska, I thoroughly recommend a visit to Sitka. The history of the Russians and Tlingit in the area has always fascinated me and to have museums dedicated to telling that history is wonderful. When I first started carving, I had an opportunity to spend a month in Sitka to help carve a totem pole located in the national park there. Spending time with the people was a highlight and watching the herring fishing take place was intriguing," he says.

Libby Riddles is an American dog musher and the first woman to win the Iditarod, an annual long-distance dog-sled race across Alaska. She is keen for visitors to see the unique culture of the area. “The wilderness here is more vast than in other places, which gives you a real sense of freedom. Plus, the mountains, glaciers and wild animals create a completely unique experience. It makes the perfect backdrop to embrace traditions you’ll only find in Alaska – like dog mushing. Try the Princess dog sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier excursion in Juneau or the dog sledding and glacier helicopter flightseeing excursion in Skagway. Tours like these are well known but are still the most fun, in my opinion. Or visit Tagish Lake Kennels near Skagway, run by Yukon Quest racer Michelle Phillips. They offer a winter dog sledding adventure through the Southern Lakes, as well as a summer Tutshi Lake experience with cart rides, a musher’s presentation, and a chance to meet the puppies.

"The hiking in Alaska is unforgettable and the hike to the Upper Dewey Lake in the port of Skagway is a must. The trail starts about half a mile from where the ship docks and ascends 3,100 feet through a beautiful forest and ends at the stunning lake where there are picnic and barbecue facilities. At the beginning of the season, this hike will have you waist-deep in snow, yet two months later it is warm enough to swim in the ice cold water of the lake. I pack a few Alaskan Amber beers and a couple of halibut tacos in my backpack. It is quite a strenuous hike so by the time you reach the top you truly deserve it!" says Willem. "Alaska has no equal when it comes to natural beauty and for me, the best part of cruising through Alaska is the views. From majestic snow-capped mountains to glaciers that thunder when they calve, these are memories that last a lifetime," he adds.

You can’t go wrong with Alaska glaciers. For those seeking adventure, the Laughton Glacier Hike & White Pass Rail Adventure combines a scenic train ride with an exhilarating trek. Start with a breathtaking journey aboard the historic White Pass Railway, traveling through rugged mountain landscapes. After disembarking, set out on a guided hike through the wilderness, following glacial streams and alpine terrain to reach a stunning glacier. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife like moose and mountain goats. This unforgettable experience blends history, adventure, and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Why just read about these incredible experiences when you can live them aboard a Princess cruise? From glaciers to grizzlies, you’ll be checking off unique things to do in Alaska from your bucket list faster than you can say “Denali!” Let us take care of the details while you sit back, relax, and soak in the breathtaking beauty of Alaska. Discover for yourself why Princess is the #1 rated Alaska cruise line, and learn about our Alaska cruise experiences. Adventure, wildlife and unforgettable memories are waiting.