Getting around in Alaska – Lonely Planet

Transportation around Alaska can be challenging, but given enough time and planning, provide for massive rewards in the opportunities to get off the beaten path for those wishing to adventure in North America’s “Last Frontier.”

Although most easily explored by vehicle or cruise ship, road trippers or cruise passengers will find the abundance of crowds creating headaches where the plan was to get off exploring rather than looking for parking or space at the buffet. It tends to work in the travelers favor to strap on the backpack and get back to the spirit of adventure meandering around Alaska by numerous other means.

Start exploring in Anchorage

The biggest city in Alaska challenges the notion of where a city of a quarter million turns into a wilderness park. It’s not uncommon to see a moose wandering while you’re out walking downtown, or biking and skiing the hundreds of miles of trails that are part of the city’s heart. Many trails then connect to Chugach State Park, which encompasses nearly a half million acres just outside the city limits.

To get around Anchorage, typical transportation options include taxis, Uber and a well-timed bus system that serves the greater Mat-Su Valley.

Take the Alaska Marine Highway ferry if cruising isn’t for you

The Alaska Marine Highway ferry can be an excellent option for those with time to spare on their initial voyage up from Bellingham, Washington. A walk-on ticket means just that: carrying only what you can.

You don’t necessarily have to book a cabin; instead, grab one of the first-come-first-served spaces on the top deck, where tents are taped down and lawn chairs become valuable real estate, transforming the space into a campground for the three-to-four-day journey to remote communities in southeast Alaska. 

Onward to Whittier, the port that usually serves Anchorage and the Alaska railroad. For those disinclined towards traditional cruise ships, the ferry is a moderately priced way to get north. Booking through the website will take advance planning, but you can bring bikes, kayaks and other large items on board, so it can be an extremely cost-effective way to get larger touring gear up north.

Flying to Alaska…