I love talking about unique travel opportunities, including getting to experience different extremes, and I think that’s how you ended up here. So you’re thinking about visiting Alaska when it’s all snowy and magical? That’s fantastic! I bet when you picture an Alaskan winter, you immediately think of dog sledding across the frozen wilderness, right? Well, you’re not wrong, and there’s definitely amazing dogsledding to experience here, but oh my goodness, there’s SO much more waiting for you in Alaska during the winter months!
Whether you’re the type who loves getting your heart pumping with outdoor adventures or someone who prefers to take things a bit easier (maybe with a warm cup of cocoa nearby while the fam goes wild), Alaska’s got something special for you. Let me share all the incredible ways you can make your winter trip to AK absolutely unforgettable. And if you need any additional recommendations or have any questions, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more.
Budget Activities for Alaska in the Winter
Flights to Alaska in the winter may be cheap, but there are still a lot of other costs that will start to make your trip more costly. I love finding budget activities to recommend, and we’ve picked some great ones that we really enjoy. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have an amazing time, and some of the best things to do in Alaska in the winter are actually free!
Nordic Skiing – Peace and Quiet on the Trails
Here’s something that surprised us: our kids actually prefer cross-country skiing over downhill! And honestly, I think I’m with them on this one. There’s something incredibly peaceful about gliding through quiet forests, moving at your own pace, taking in the winter wonderland around you. No pressure to bomb down steep slopes because it’s just you, the trails and nature.
Both Anchorage and Fairbanks have fantastic Nordic ski trail networks that’ll make you fall in love with this sport. If you’ve never tried cross-country skiing before, your Alaska winter trip is the perfect excuse to give it a shot. You can rent all the gear you need from REI or local outfitters for about $30-50, which is way cheaper than a lift ticket. Reserve REI Nordic Ski Rentals here!
This is typically something you do on your own (no guide needed), and the trails are usually popular enough that you won’t feel isolated. If you’re a bit nervous about heading out solo, just chat with the rental folks. They’re always happy to recommend trails that match your comfort level and no doubt will point you in the right direction.
Chasing the Northern Lights
I could literally spend hours upon hours sitting in the cold, watching the Aurora Borealis dance across the sky. Some nights, those lights are so bright and active, it’s like nature’s putting on a private light show just for you. Other nights, they’re more subtle, kind of playing peek-a-boo behind the clouds. Either way, witnessing the Northern Lights is one of those bucket-list experiences that’ll make your Alaska winter trip truly special.
Now, you might be wondering “where’s the best spot to see the Aurora?” While Fairbanks gets all the glory (and for good reason, as it sits right under the aurora crown), you can actually catch the lights all across Alaska. The key ingredients are clear skies, minimal light pollution, and Mother Nature being in a show-off mood. You can monitor the KP index during the day to determine how likely the lights will be that night.
NOTE: while a high KP index (6 or higher) is a good indicator of an Aurora Borealis show, we’ve seen the lights when the KP index is just 2 and 3. We always just look at the sky to see what’s happening, and if we’re doing a tour we are patient and just enjoy the whole experience, lights or not.
You’ve got options for having an Aurora Borealis night. You can simply drive outside of town, find a nice dark spot, and wait for the magic to happen, or, if you want the full experience, join an Aurora tour. These tours are pretty cool and they usually come with cozy blankets, comfy outdoor chairs, maybe some special viewing equipment, and often midnight snacks to keep you warm and happy. Some tour operators really go all out to make it special. Book our FAVORITE Aurora Borealis tour in Fairbanks here! (Chena Hot Springs)
Snowshoeing: Winter Hiking Made Easy
There’s truly nothing like that satisfying crunch of stepping into fresh snow! Snowshoeing lets you explore winter trails that would otherwise be inaccessible, and it’s way easier than you might think. Alaska’s parks (both city and state) offer tons of great snowshoeing opportunities, and usually there are trails nearby whatever accommodations you have during your winter visit, even if you’re staying directly in Anchorage or Fairbanks.
You can join guided tours from Anchorage or Fairbanks if you want someone to show you the ropes, but it’s also totally doable on your own (and what we prefer). Many lodges and hotels offer complimentary or cheap snowshoe rentals, or you can rent them from outdoor shops. We’re REI Co-op members, so that’s our go-to, but you’ll find rentals all over, including Palmer and Wasilla. Reserve REI Snowshoe Rentals here!
Pro tip: Bundle up when you start because it’s chilly at first, but don’t overdo it – you’ll warm up quickly once you get moving. Trust me, you’ll be peeling off layers before you know it!
Wildlife Watching in Winter
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean Alaska’s wildlife has all gone into hibernation. Winter wildlife watching can be surprisingly rewarding. We once drove to Denali and spotted nine moose in a single day, which was the total jackpot! I can’t guarantee that every drive will be like that, but there are areas where you’ll likely have good luck watching for wildlife on the moose. The luckiest wildlife watchers may even get to see lynx, foxes and even wolves in the right places.
Winter birding is especially cool. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic bald eagles, golden eagles (in the interior), various owl species, willow ptarmigan, and spruce grouse. While you probably won’t spot any bears (they’re smart enough to sleep through winter), there’s still plenty of action out there. Plus, the winter landscapes provide stunning backdrops for your wildlife photos! If you don’t want to go out on your own, companies like Salmonberry Tours and Alaska Photo Treks do winter tours for sightseeing and wildlife.
Mid-Budget Winter Activities in Alaska
If you have a bit more to play with in your travel budget, there are lots of really cool guided tours in the winter months. If you are planning a trip for just a few people, you can likely add one or two of these tour options and still keep your overall costs down. When you’re planning for a family of four or more, even the mid-line budget activities start to add up quickly, so pick what’s most important to you and what the most people will enjoy.
Dog Sledding: the Alaska Winter Dream
Alright, let’s talk about those adorable sled dogs that really are why we love dogsledding activities. Dog mushing isn’t just a tourist thing here, it’s a real part of Alaskan culture, and getting to experience it firsthand is absolutely incredible. You’ll find dog sledding opportunities all over Alaska, from Juneau way up to the Arctic Circle. The best part is that there’s a dog sledding experience for everyone! Maybe you just want to hang out with the pups and get some therapeutic puppy cuddles (who doesn’t?) or perhaps you’re ready for a multi-mile adventure into the wilderness. You could even time your visit to catch some of the famous racing events like parts of the Iditarod or the Open North American Dogsled Championships – talk about experiencing authentic Alaska!
When you book a dogsled tour, don’t worry about the mushers going too wild because they keep things at safe speeds which are totally enjoyable, especially if you’re bringing little ones along. Our family absolutely loves it because it hits that sweet spot of excitement without being too scary for the kids (even as they’ve gotten older). Plus, there’s something magical about gliding through the snowy backcountry, powered by these amazing athletes (yes, the dogs are total athletes!). Find a dogsledding adventure here!
Reindeer Activities in Alaska
Did you know that you can actually meet reindeer in Alaska? There are a few great opportunities to spend time with them doing different activities. If you’re winter Alaska trip is taking your to Fairbanks, up at Borealis Basecamp you can do everything from a simple reindeer meet and greet to actually taking reindeer out on a walk through the snow. It’s pretty cool, and is a great option with smaller kids.
For a more cost-conscious option if you’re down in the Anchorage / Palmer area is to visit the Reindeer Farm. It’s more than a reindeer farm with lots of different farm and Alaskan animals. You can meet the reindeer, do photos, and if you’re here in December they do a whole holiday experience. And then if you’re in Palmer, you might as well check out the Skeetawk Resort at Hatcher Pass, as they sometimes have reindeer up on the slopes for photos too. There’s a lot of ways to include reindeer in your Alaska trip.
Hit the Slopes: Yes, Alaska Has Downhill Skiing!
Surprise! Alaska has some fantastic downhill skiing options! Near Anchorage, you’ve got two great choices. The famous one is Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, right along the stunning Seward Highway. It’s definitely the luxury option, complete with a beautiful hotel and fancy spa. The slopes are world-class, but your wallet might feel a bit lighter afterward! If you’re good with the higher end experience, the Alyeska Resort is on most avid skiers’ bucket lists. 2026 Adult Pricing: lift ticket – $77 to $127 USD, ski rental – $55 USD (low end $132, high end $182 per person)
For a more budget-friendly option that’s just as fun, check out Skeetawk Resort in Palmer, right in the Hatcher Pass area. I absolutely love this place! It might not be as massive as those famous Colorado resorts, but it’s perfect for Alaska. You’ll find runs for every skill level, a practice area with a magic carpet for beginners, and a nice ski lift. Plus, they rent all the gear on-site, so you don’t have to lug your equipment from home if you don’t want to. 2026 Adult Pricing: lift ticket – $39 to $44 USD, ski rental – $40 USD (low end $79, high end $84 per person)
Ice Fishing – A Classic Winter Experience
Look, I’m going to be straight with you – everyone should try ice fishing at least once. You’ve seen it in movies and cartoons, so why not experience the real deal? Alaska offers plenty of guided ice fishing opportunities, and trust me, you’ll want a guide. They’ve got all the gear, know the best spots, and most importantly, they have those cozy ice fishing huts!
Here’s my honest take: ice fishing isn’t the most action-packed fishing you’ll do in Alaska. There’s a lot of waiting involved, and even with a wood stove in the hut, it can get chilly. BUT – and this is a big but – there’s something uniquely satisfying about pulling a fish through a hole in the ice. Plus, eating your fresh catch at the end of the day? Totally worth it! It’s one of those experiences where the memories are better than the actual sitting-and-waiting part. Find an Ice Fishing experience here!
Big Ticket Winter Alaska Things to Do
I love when we get to do something grand, luxurious or just so very much adventure oriented. All day excursions, flightseeing and unique adventures are wonderful to be able to add to an winter trip to Alaska. If these things to do can fit into your budget, you’ll love every minute of them!
Winter ATV Adventures – Choose Your Own Thrill Level!
Not everyone’s idea of fun is the same, and that’s where winter ATV tours really shine. These adventures can be as mellow or as adventurous as you want them to be. Imagine cruising through snow-covered landscapes, away from icy roads and winter traffic, exploring places you’d never reach otherwise. ATVs are really awesome in any season, but they’re extra fun in the winter.
I personally find ATVing a bit more manageable than snowmobiling. It feels more stable and less intimidating since it’s enclosed (for most winter tours) and you’re not going as fast. For tours you can choose quick jaunts to spot wildlife or enjoy scenic views, or go all-in with full-day expeditions covering miles of pristine backcountry.
Worried about freezing your toes off? Don’t be! Most tour guides have full winter gear available to loan, so you’ll stay toasty warm. And here’s something cool: these tours often use side-by-side vehicles (like the Polaris Rangers) instead of the 4×4 off road contraptions, which means you get more protection from the elements than traditional four-wheelers. Perfect for those of us who want adventure without turning into human popsicles. Book Alaska Backcountry Adventure Winter ATV tour here!
Snowmobiling – Feel the Need for Speed (Or Not!)
Quick language lesson: Alaskans often call them “snow machines” instead of snowmobiles, but they’re the same thing. Our family is totally split on how we enjoy snowmobiling, with half of us loving zooming across frozen lakes at 50 mph, while the other half (including me) preferring a more leisurely pace to enjoy the scenery. I am just a more nervous person I guess.
The great thing about guided snowmobile tours is that your guide will work with you to create the experience YOU want. Want to go fast? They’ve got you covered. Prefer a scenic cruise? That’s totally fine too. I’m perfectly happy being the slowpoke at the back of the group, taking in all the views while my speed-demon family members zoom ahead.
For safety reasons, definitely stick with guided tours rather than renting on your own, especially if you’re new to snowmobiling. These machines can access tighter trails than ATVs, but they also require more skill to navigate safely. Find a snowmobile tour in the Anchorage or Fairbanks areas!
Flightseeing – Splurge for Unforgettable Views
I know, flightseeing is definitely a splurge item on most travel budgets. But if you can swing it, winter flightseeing in Alaska is absolutely mind-blowing and really shows off the amazing landscapes Alaska is known for! While you won’t have the seaplane-landing-on-alpine-lakes option like in summer, helicopter flights and ski plane adventures offer their own special magic. Helicopters are a fascinating experience in how they just lift along cliffs and through valleys, which is an incredible sight in winter. Check out Outbound Heli Adventures for an AMAZING glacier helicopter tour from Palmer!
If you’re nervous about small aircraft (I used to be), I’ve found that chatting with the pilot and being able to see everything they’re doing actually makes it less scary than commercial flights or larger small planes. Winter flightseeing gives you access to incredible spots like Denali and various glaciers, all dressed in their winter finest. All of those jagged, snow-covered peaks from above are absolutely breathtaking! If you book flightseeing with K2 Aviation or Rust’s Air Service, use our code 2Traveldads and receive 10% off!
The Alaska Railroad Winter Aurora Route
Okay, so most people know the Alaska Railroad as that scenic train cruise passengers take during summer, but here’s a little secret: it runs all year long, and the winter experience is absolutely magical. We’ve taken our kids on this trip, the Aurora Route as it’s called, and they still talked about it months later.
During winter, you’ll be riding the Aurora Winter Route, which connects Anchorage and Fairbanks. It’s a full day (around 12 hours) of pure scenic bliss! The train makes these charming whistle stops along the way, including quick breaks in Talkeetna and at Denali National Park, which break up the continual motion. Trust me, after sitting for a while, those few minutes on solid ground feel pretty darn good.
What really blows me away about this winter train journey is how many surprises pop up along the way. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, and if you’re lucky you’ll get to see Denali towering in the distance. And get this: you’ll spot way more wildlife than you’d expect from a cozy train car. Even the food onboard is surprisingly delicious (no sad train sandwiches here). If you’re planning a winter Alaska trip, this train ride is going to be one of those experiences you’ll be telling stories about for years to come.
Ready for Your Alaska Winter Adventure? I told you there was way more to Alaska in winter than just dog sledding and now you’ve got ideas for all budget levels. Whether you’re seeking heart-pumping adventures or peaceful moments in nature, whether you’re traveling solo or bringing the whole family, Alaska’s winter wonderland has something special waiting for you with so many cool things to do. When you’re ready, grab your warmest jacket, pack your sense of adventure, and have the best experience in Alaska in winter. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
If you have any questions about the activities we’ve suggested or need additional recommendations, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more or look over an itinerary you’ve made to see if we can be helpful. Happy travels, and stay warm!
