Thinking about visiting Alaska in the fall? You’re in for a serious treat. As the leaves turn golden and the air crisp, the landscapes around Anchorage come alive in a way that’s pure magic. Even better? You don’t have to drive for days to experience it all. Within just three hours of Anchorage, you can cruise past glaciers, ride the rails, soak in a forest spa, meet sled dogs, and even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
After spending two weeks in September exploring this wild and beautiful corner of the world, I learned there are still so many amazing things to do in Alaska. To help you plan your next fall trip North, I’ve put together a list of my favorite Alaska Fall adventures – all tested and traveler-approved.
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Why Visit Alaska in the Fall
When I traveled to Alaska in September, I quickly realized that fall is one of the best times to visit this incredible state. There’s a certain quiet beauty to it. The colors are nothing short of spectacular as the forest shifts into shades of gold and crimson with the changing leaves. It’s not the typical fall foliage experience. It’s uniquely Alaska.
One of the things I loved most was the peace that comes with being in Alaska in the fall. It’s the perfect time to explore without feeling like you’re competing for space. Whether I was hiking trails or cruising fjords, the stillness of the landscape made it feel like I was discovering something all my own. And of course, fall marks the beginning of Aurora season. I was lucky enough to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights several times throughout my trip.
If you’re looking for a trip that combines adventure with peaceful reflection, consider visiting Alaska in September.
12 of the Best Things to do in Alaska
Alaska is full of unforgettable experiences year-round, but there’s something about fall that brings a unique energy to this wild landscape. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or moments of tranquility surrounded by the fiery red and golden colors of autumn, September is a time when the state truly comes alive. From cruising past glaciers to soaking in outdoor spas, I’ve rounded up 12 of the best things to do in Alaska in the fall — all tried, tested, and absolutely worth it.
Ride the Alyeska Tram
If you’re looking for an easy, unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s fall beauty, hop on the Alyeska Aerial Tram in Girdwood. In just minutes, you’ll glide to the top of Mount Alyeska as you enjoy sweeping views of the Chugach Mountains. On a clear day, you can see Turnagain Arm, the surrounding glaciers, and mountain peaks in every direction. Once you’re at the top, yu can hit the trails or just hang out at the observation deck and soak it all in. It’s an easy, accessible way to get those big Alaskan views without needing hiking boots.
Pro Tip: Ride the tram around sunset to catch the golden light spilling over the mountains. To add a little luxury or romance to the evening, book a table at Seven Glaciers. It’s one of only three AAA Four Diamond restaurants in Alaska. Between the food and the views, it’s a dining experience you won’t forget.
See the Bears at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
If seeing Alaska’s wildlife is high on your list (and it should be), head south to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. It’s just under an hour from Anchorage and is the perfect place to safely meet some of Alaska’s most iconic residents and support conservation efforts. Think bears, moose, bison, and even porcupines, all living in huge natural enclosures in a gorgeous setting.
It’s the kind of place that’s great whether you’ve got a few hours or a whole afternoon, and it’s a perfect stop if you’re already heading toward places like Girdwood or Portage. If you’d rather go with a guide, I recommend this half-day wildlife and glacier tour.
Pro Tip: You can drive through but, if you can, I recommend walking so you can take your time watching the animals and capturing awesome photos.
Cruise Prince William Sound with Lazy Otter Charters
For a day that feels straight out of a documentary, book a 26 Glacier Cruise with Lazy Otter Charters in Whittier. Lazy Otter keeps their groups small, which I loved because it made the whole experience feel a lot more personal and adventurous. We cruised past towering tidewater glaciers, watched chunks of ice calve into the water, and even spotted sea otters floating by living their best lives. It’s the kind of day that feels totally epic, and you don’t have to be an experienced boater or hardcore adventurer to enjoy it. Just bundle up and bring your camera.
Pro Tip: Dress in layers — it gets chilly out on the water, even on sunny days. And if you’re traveling with a group, it’s worth looking into a private charter for a more flexible, customized experience.
Soak and Recharge at the Alyeska Nordic Spa
After a few days of adventures, nothing beats a trip to Alyeska Nordic Spa. This adults-only spa is tucked into the Chugach Forest and offers an experience you won’t find in too many places. I spent a good chunk of time moving between the outdoor hot tubs, saunas, and cold plunge pools. The cold plunge is a shock to the system but an oddly satisfying and rejuvenating experience after soaking in the heat. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of relaxing in a warm pool in the chilly mountain air. This spot is 100% a must-do if you like your adventure balanced with a little luxury.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to really treat yourself, they offer spa treatments too, like massages or facials, but honestly, just soaking in the pools and enjoying the peaceful vibe of the place is enough.
Ride the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic
If you’re looking for a laid-back way to take in some of Alaska’s most stunning scenery, take a scenic train ride on the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic. The journey from Anchorage down to Seward is jaw-droppingly beautiful in any season but the fall colors make it extra special. Locals tell me this is the most beautiful of all the routes available. I couldn’t get enough of the views as we rolled through some of the most picturesque spots along Turnagain Arm. If you’re visiting Alaska in the fall like I did, the colors are spectacular — the deep greens of the trees mix with golden yellows, and the waters of Turnagain Arm shine in a way that’s hard to describe.
The best part? You’re completely unplugged, just enjoying the landscape with no distractions. The train windows are huge, so you can lean back and take it all in. There are also open viewing areas on the train which is great for taking pictures or just getting some fresh air. You can do a day trip or a few days in Seward exploring — either way, the ride itself is worth the trip.
Pro Tip: Upgrade to Goldstar Service and reserve a seat in one of the double-decker domed rail cars. These tickets come with meal service, soft drinks (including tea, coffee, and hot chocolate), and two adult beverages. I took the morning train to Seward with a Goldstar ticket. I was admittedly skeptical of the food quality but I ended up really enjoying a hearty breakfast in the downstairs dining.
Bike the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
This 11-mile trail is an easy ride, perfect for anyone who loves being outdoors without committing to a hardcore hike. I almost skipped this activity but had some free time on my last day. Since I would be spending several hours sitting on an airplane, I decided to rent a bike and spend a few hours cruising the coastline.
Exploring the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail in Alaska in September was an unexpectedly magical way to experience nature in downtown Anchorage. When the Aspens turn, the winding path feels like a fairytale. You’ll likely see plenty of wildlife along the way, especially birds, and maybe even a moose grazing nearby.
Pro Tip: If endurance is a concern or you’re a little short on time, rent an electric bike for an easier and more relaxing ride.
Explore Independence Mine State Historical Park & Hike Gold Cord Lake
Head up to Hatcher Pass for some of the prettiest fall scenery you’ll find in Alaska— and a bit of Gold Rush history too. Independence Mine is a well-preserved, historic gold mining site. It’s a stunning step back in time — old buildings, mining relics, and a landscape that will blow you away, especially in the fall.
If you have the time (and you definitely should make the time), hike the Gold Cord Lake Trail while you’re there. It’s a short but sweet trail — about a mile each way — and it’s the perfect payoff hike. The trail winds up through rocky hillsides and alpine meadows, and before you know it, you’re standing at this stunning little lake tucked in a basin, surrounded by rugged peaks. It’s not a tough hike, but it’s enough of a climb to feel like you’ve earned those views.
Pro Tip: If you love history, book a 45-minute walking tour with Salmon Berry Travel & Tours to get a more in-depth look into the history of gold mining and the early pioneers of Hatcher Pass.
Take a Knik Glacier Helicopter Tour
If you’re ready to level up your Alaska experience, a helicopter tour over the Knik Glacier is pure bucket-list material. The adventure kicks off the minute you lift off. Within seconds, you’re soaring over braided rivers, deep valleys, and massive ice fields. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you just sit there with your mouth hanging open (and your camera working overtime). The flight itself is incredible, but the best part? You actually land on Knik Glacier. Stepping out onto the ice and being surrounded by nothing but bright blue crevasses and ice formations is next-level amazing.
Pro Tip: Take a water bottle. The guides may take you to a place where you can sample a drink of pure glacier water. Don’t worry, it’s completely safe!
Go Dog Sledding with Dream a Dream Sled Dog Tours
When most people think of dog sledding, they picture deep winter and endless snow but you don’t have to wait for winter to experience dog mushing! In Willow, about an hour and a half north of Anchorage, Dream a Dream Sled Dog Tours offers an authentic look at the world of dog sledding. I got to meet the dogs (who were all so excited to run) and learn a lot about what it takes to train and care for a real team of sled dogs.
After meeting the enthusiastic team (puppy kisses included), you’ll experience the thrill of being pulled through the forest. These aren’t just any dogs either; many of them have raced in serious events like the Iditarod! Vern Halter, the owner and a former Iditarod musher himself, shared incredible stories about life on the trail that made the whole experience even more special. It’s an intimate, behind-the-scenes adventure you won’t find just anywhere.
Pro Tip: Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and shoes you don’t mind getting wet.
Explore Alaska’s Backcountry on an ATV
If you want to crank up the adventure a little, exploring Alaska’s backcountry on an ATV is an absolute blast. I signed up for a guided tour and spent a few hours bumping down rugged trails, splashing through mud puddles, and weaving through the Knik Valley. It’s such a fun way to see a wilder and colorful side of Alaska in the fall — places you just can’t get to with a regular car or even on foot.
You don’t need any ATV experience either — the guides are great about showing you the ropes and making sure you feel comfortable before you get moving. It’s a little bit messy, a little bit wild, and a whole lot of fun — exactly what an Alaska adventure should be.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Alaska in September like me, mornings can be chilly. Most tours include gear like helmets and sometimes even rain jackets and boots, but it’s still smart to wear warm clothes that you don’t mind getting a little muddy. Waterproof pants and shoes, a baselayer, gloves, and a jacket are musts. If they provide gear, you can always leave what you don’t need in your car or locker.
Take a Denali Flightseeing Tour from Talkeetna
If you’re looking for a surreal way to experience Alaska, hop on a flightseeing tour of Denali (Mt. McKinley) with Talkeetna Air Taxi. Denali National Park starts winding down in September and though it’s technically open year-round, much of the road is still closed and tours stop operating. That doesn’t mean you can’t still experience its jaw-dropping beauty from the air. A flightseeing tour out of Talkeetna (about two hours north of Anchorage) offers front row seats to North America’s tallest peak. Seeing Denali’s rugged ridges and massive glaciers, is the kind of moment that sticks with you long after you’re back on the ground.
Their tours range from the classic Southside Explorer, which offers views of Denali’s south face and the Ruth Glacier, to the Grand Denali, a comprehensive 2-hour journey that circles the entire mountain, showcasing both the north and south sides. For those seeking the ultimate adventure, the Summit Tour takes you above 20,000 feet for a high-elevation perspective of Denali and the surrounding peaks.
Pro Tip: Talkeetna is a kitschy little mountain town in the Mat-Su Valley and one of the best places to get an epic view of the mountain on a clear day. However, if you don’t want to drive to Talkeetna, you can also book Denali flightseeing tours that depart from Anchorage.
Chase the Northern Lights
You don’t have to go all the way to Fairbanks to see the lights. You can catch them around Anchorage too. If you’re hoping to get a good show, it’s best to head out of the city and away from the city lights. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can always go solo. Don’t forget to check the aurora forecast so you know when to expect the best conditions. Fall in Alaska is a perfect time to hunt for the aurora, since the nights are chilly but not too cold, and the stars are out in full force.
If you’d prefer to leave the planning to the experts, there are plenty of Northern Lights tours you can join. These tours take you to the best viewing spots, and some even offer extras like warm beverages or cozy gear to keep you comfortable while you wait. Some will even help you with your camera settings to help you get those tricky night photos. Just don’t forget to bundle up — it can get pretty cold waiting for the lights to show up, but once they do, it’s totally worth it.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to photograph the aurora, bring a tripod! The lights move quickly, so you’ll need a stable shot for those long-exposure photos.
A Few Tips for Traveling to Alaska in the Fall
Fall in Alaska is one of the most underrated times to visit, but it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Here’s what you need to know before you go!
- Layer Up! Fall weather can be all over the place — sunny and warm one minute, chilly and rainy the next.
- Book Ahead. Most tours (especially glacier cruises, helicopter rides, and train trips) start winding down in Alaska in September, so grab your spots early.
- Stay Flexible. Weather can change plans, but that’s part of the Alaska adventure!
Quick Packing Checklist for Fall in Alaska
A few wise additions to your suitcase can make all the difference for a smooth and enjoyable fall trip to Alaska. Here’s a quick checklist of things you don’t want to forget. For packing tips that will help lighten your luggage, check out my article about space-saving packing hacks or how to create a travel capsule wardrobe for your trip. If you’re traveling in the winter, I also have some advice on how to minimize your winter travel wardrobe. Nobody wants to carry around more than necessary!
✔️ Waterproof Jacket — A good rain shell is essential for staying dry and layering up.
✔️ Thermal Base Layers — Lightweight but warm for chilly mornings and nights.
✔️ Insulated Vest or Jacket — Great for extra warmth without feeling bulky.
✔️ Sturdy Hiking Boots — Waterproof if possible — trails can get wet and muddy.
✔️ Warm Hat and Gloves — Essential if you’re out at night hunting the Northern Lights.
✔️ Daypack — Perfect for carrying layers, snacks, and your camera on day trips.
✔️ Camera or Smartphone with Night Mode — You’ll want it ready for wildlife and aurora sightings!
✔️ Binoculars — Great for spotting wildlife and glaciers from a distance.
Jenna Walker is a travel writer from Oklahoma who lives with her husband, two children, and three rescue pets. While out and about in the world, she loves spending time outdoors, exploring local culture, and trying new foods. Jenna knows that, often, we overlook our own backyard. You can also find her stories and guides on the website, The Oklahoma Experience.
Hey! I'm Jenna Walker and this is where I share stories and guides about adventure, culture, and good food. I hope this website inspires you to live your best travel life and encourages you to explore the world with an open mind and adventurous spirit.