If you’re looking to get away from it all and explore some beautiful, isolated terrain, Alaska may be just the place for you. From Misty Fjords National Monument to Denali National Park, the state has plenty of nature to go around. Here are a few of Alaska’s most spectacular national parks and monuments that will give you the break from reality you deserve. You might never want to leave!
Planning your trip to Misty Fjords
If you’re traveling to Misty Fjords National Monument, you’ll have limited options when it comes to lodging. The only hotel located in Misty Fjords is Roosevelt Lodge, owned by Tongass National Forest. This wood-sided lodge is rustic—no TVs or phones—but it offers stunning views of rugged mountains and towering trees.
Gear for your trip
When it comes to packing for an adventure trip, less is more. You won’t be carrying your backpack around on tour boats or zipping through airports, so don’t worry about having all your toiletries with you at all times. Instead, travel light with just what you need to make yourself comfortable along your journey.
Where to stay
Misty Fjords National Monument—home to North America’s tallest trees, almost completely untouched fjords, glaciers, endemic animals and one-of-kind experiences—is accessible via only one road out of Ketchikan. Accessing via boat offers an even more authentic experience.
Other sights to see
If you’re still feeling up to more sightseeing, head south along Turnagain Arm. After an hour or so, you’ll reach Portage, where the highway meets with US-1 (and Mile 1), and continue heading south toward Seward. In another two hours or so (depending on how much time you spend at attractions along US-1), you’ll reach Anchorage—America’s snowiest city!
Hiking trails
Ready to enjoy nature up close? The area’s trails are easy to hike on your own, or they can be part of an organized tour. Look for guided hikes offered by local outfitters, or head out on your own with only maps as guides. Bring along sturdy footwear, warm layers, waterproof jackets and binoculars to take in stunning views from alpine summits.
Wildlife viewing
Misty Fjords National Monument is best known for its astounding natural beauty. Inside, you’ll find towering trees draped with moss, clear blue lakes, rolling hills—and so much more.
Kayaking trails
Kayaking Alaska’s Misty Fjords is a dream come true for most adventure travelers. It has everything you could want from an adventurous vacation—dramatic mountain peaks, blue glacial lakes, lush rain forests, rich wildlife sightings and unforgettable wilderness—and it’s all within reach on kayak tours through Misty Fjords National Monument. These multi-day kayak trips are available throughout late June to early September.
Renting boats
Kayaking and canoeing can be an excellent way to explore some of our country’s most beautiful wilderness areas. If you’re looking for something different than Disneyland, head on over to Alaska. Misty Fjords National Monument is located along Alaskan coast, featuring a wide range of wildlife, including one-of-kind flora, such as native trees, grasses and wildflowers. However, with so much untamed nature comes serious weather patterns.
When to go to Misty Fjords
I recommend going for 2-3 days over long weekend. The most popular time to visit Misty Fjords is from May through September, with June being peak season. If you want to get away from it all, try visiting during late fall or winter when there are fewer tourists.
