For many of us, going to Alaska is a dream, but sometimes when a dream becomes possible we get a little stuck on how to make the best of it. You’d normally start your trip in Anchorage, but it’s not the cities that are this state’s greatest appeal. This is how to start exploring the Alaskan outdoors without too much commitment:
Walk Out
Make your way by car or bus to the edge of the city and stroll to Chugach State Park. This is a fantastic introduction to Alaskan wildlife with moose, bears, and other arctic critters roaming around the park.
1-Hour Drive
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC) is conveniently located about 50 miles away from Anchorage. It is a sanctuary dedicated to the local wildlife and a place you can visit and observe rescued animals in a natural setting. The species and individual animals are introduced to visitors by experienced guides who tell you all about the rescue stories and might even let you feed the bears!
2-Hour Drive
Still close enough for a day trip is Glacier View, Alaska in the Mat-Su Valley and the Matanuska Glacier. The views are spectacular and you get to experience some arctics activities like glacier treks and ice climbing.
