Denali National Park
Denali National Park is home to the highest mountain in the United States. Mount McKinley towers over the surrounding wilderness, covered in snow in glacial ice. Take Denali Road through the park. This single roadway stretches for more than 90 miles through pristine forest full of wildlife. Hike the numerous trails, and camp overnight in one of the designated wilderness zones for backpackers. Rafting or kayaking along the Nenana River is another popular activity here. You can get up close to massive glaciers as you float along this scenic body of water.
Kachemak Bay State Park
Kachemak Bay State Park was the first state park established in Alaska. Situated along the coast of the Gulf of Alaska, this park encompasses more than 120,000 acres of wilderness. You will have to take a boat or bush plane to get to this island-park off the southern coast of Alaska. The hiking is excellent here, with more than 85 miles of rugged trails for outdoor enthusiasts. You are likely to see some spectacular wildlife, including sea otters, whales, eagles, seals, mountain goats, and a variety of bears. Make sure to visit Grewingk Glacier, one of the most popular attractions at Kachemak Bay State Park.
Bering Land Bridge National Preserve
The Bering Land Bridge National Preserve is located in the northwestern part of Alaska. This wilderness preserve is massive, with more than 2.7 million acres of land near the Seward Peninsula where a land link once existed between Alaska and Asia thousands of years ago during the last ice age. Access the reserve from the town of Nome. Take a boat or bush plane into the wilderness during the summer months. You can also get to the reserve with dog-sleds or cross-country-skis in the winter. Hike and camp in designated areas throughout the reserve. There are more than 100 species of migratory birds here. Visitors will also see brown bears, moose, arctic fox, caribou, and wolverines in their natural habitat. Along the coast, backpackers will encounter seals, walrus, and whales. Visit some of the native villages in the reserve and learn about the traditional way of life practiced by the descendants of Eskimos that still inhabit this region of Alaska.
Article Written By David Thyberg
David Thyberg began his writing career in 2007. He is a professional writer, editor and translator. Thyberg has been published in various newspapers, websites and magazines. He enjoys writing about social issues, travel, music and sports. Thyberg holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh Honors College with a certificate in Spanish and Latin American studies.
