Thinking about visiting Alaska in August? If you do, warm days will likely greet you in the early part of August, by the time late August rolls around, you are likely to see signs of fall, with changing trees and cooler evenings.
From Denali National Park’s majestic Alaska Range to the marine wonders of Kenai Fjords and Glacier Bay, August is a great time for wildlife viewing and immersing yourself in Alaska’s pristine wilderness. Cruise ships busily ply the waters of the Inside Passage, taking guests on an unforgettable Alaskan journey.
If you want to plan your own custom Itinerary, try our Free Alaska Travel Planner.
Exploring Alaska’s Glaciers in August
In August, Alaska’s glaciers offer prime opportunities for exploration and observation. During this late summer period, warm temperatures make it an ideal time to visit these icy formations. Tidewater glaciers in particular are more prone to calving in the warm summer temperatures.
Here are the top 4 glaciers in Alaska to explore in August:
Mendenhall Glacier
The Mendenhall Glacier is located within the Tongass National Forest and can be easily accessed from downtown Juneau. You can reach the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area by either taking a bus for a roundtrip or taking a taxi.
For a scenic view of the glacier, follow the East Glacier Trail, a 3.5-mile loop that offers an elevated perspective. Additionally, a 2-mile round-trip hike to Nugget Falls is recommended for its rewarding views. The nearby visitor center provides educational resources on the glacier’s formation and local ecology, enriching your visit with scientific insights.
Exit Glacier
Exit Glacier, measuring 6.4 kilometers in length, is a highlight of the Kenai Fjords National Park and is uniquely accessible by road. To visit, simply take the Seward Highway to Exit Glacier Road, which leads directly to the parking area.
For hiking enthusiasts, the Harding Icefield Trail offers an extensive network of paths with various vantage points overlooking both Exit Glacier and the Harding Icefield. This challenging trail, stretching 8.4 miles, is renowned for its spectacular views and significant elevation gain, making it a favorite on the Kenai Peninsula.
Guided hikes are available year-round, providing educational insights into glacial processes and intimate encounters with ice formations.
Portage Glacier
To visit Portage Glacier, drive 50 miles south of Anchorage along the Seward Highway until you reach the Chugach National Forest. Although the glacier itself has retreated and is no longer visible from the visitor center’s observation platform, scenic boat cruises on Portage Lake offer close-up experiences of this icy spectacle.
The tours provide opportunities to view the glacier’s stunning blue-hued ice and capture its grandeur up close. For those who prefer land exploration, several hiking trails from the visitor center lead you toward the glacier, offering alternative ways to experience the area’s natural beauty.
Matanuska Glacier
The Matanuska Glacier, stretching 43 kilometers, is a favorite among Alaska’s glaciers for its accessibility and unique adventures. Located an hour north of Anchorage along the Glenn Highway, you can easily reach this natural wonder for a day trip.
Matanuska Glacier is an excellent choice to opt for a guided tour. Guided tours provide all necessary equipment, including crampons, for a more in-depth exploration of this massive glacier.
Additionally, the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site offers camping spots, nature trails, and excellent glacier viewing, providing a comprehensive outdoor experience. The nearby river is perfect for summer river rafting, adding another layer of adventure to your visit.
Wildlife Watching in August
In August, Alaska’s wildlife is particularly active as many species prepare for the upcoming winter. During this time, you can encounter a variety of wildlife, including:
- Marine Wildlife: Look for humpback whales, orca whales, salmon, sea otters, and Steller sea lions in coastal areas and waterways.
- Land Animals: Discover caribou, black bears, brown bears, grizzly bears, and Dall sheep across Alaska’s vast landscapes.
- Bird Life: Spot migratory songbirds, loons, and bald eagles as they make their seasonal movements throughout the state.
These diverse wildlife experiences make August a prime time to explore the natural wonders of Alaska.
Here are 3 major National Parks And Reserves where you can encounter a variety of wildlife in August:
Denali National Park
Denali National Park is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, attracting visitors eager to observe Alaska’s “Big Five”: grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep. Grizzly bears are typically seen on the open tundra, while black bears prefer the park’s forested regions. Moose, caribou, and Dall sheep sightings are frequent, providing thrilling experiences for wildlife enthusiasts.
The park is home to 39 species of mammals, including lynx, Arctic ground squirrels, foxes, and snowshoe hares, alongside 130 bird species, ensuring a diverse and vibrant wildlife experience.
You don’t need to venture deep into the wilderness to see these creatures; the park offers accessible viewing opportunities for all visitors. Narrated bus tours provide some of the best chances to observe wildlife in their natural environment.
Check all the information about Denali National Park here…
Kenai Fjords National Park
Kenai Fjords National Park is a wildlife hotspot, attracting visitors eager for both land and marine animal sightings. The park’s nutrient-rich waters host humpback whales, gray whales, orcas, minke whales, and fin whales. Other marine life includes Dall’s porpoises, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and sea otters, offering abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing.
On land, keep an eye out for black and brown bears, mountain goats, moose, lynx, wolverines, porcupines, and marmots thriving in the park’s diverse habitats. Birdwatchers will appreciate the over 190 bird species present, including tufted and horned puffins, bald eagles, common murres, cormorants, pigeon guillemots, and kittiwakes.
Boat tours provide an immersive way to explore these ecosystems, engaging with the vibrant biodiversity of the Kenai Peninsula.
Check all the information about Kenai Fjords National Park here…
Katmai National Park
Katmai National Park is famous for its crucial habitat for salmon and brown bears. Although bear activity at Brooks Camp may diminish in August, opportunities to see them fishing in the Brooks River remain.
In late August, spawning salmon attract bears back to the Brooks River as they feast on available remains, offering prime viewing prospects. Bear watchers in August may occasionally be rewarded with sightings of known bears, such as bear 489, also called Ted, distinguished by a scar on his left side.
Fat Bear Week in Katmai National Park: https://www.bellsalaska.com/fat-bear-week-alaska/
Hiking and Backpacking
August is considered one of the best months to visit and hike in Alaska. It often features the warmest weather conditions of the year, contributing to a comfortable hiking experience. Additionally, this month typically sees fewer insects compared to earlier in the summer.
Savage River Loop
To visit the Savage River Loop Trail in Denali National Park, drive your own car or take the free shuttle 15 miles along the park road to the Savage River check station. The 2.25-mile trail follows the river, making it suitable for families and perfect for spotting Dall sheep, caribou, and marmots.
If you explore off-trail to the north, you might encounter different animals, such as marmots, picas, hares, and ground squirrels. Look for alpine flowers like azaleas or moss campion. Be cautious of alder thickets, and make noise to avoid surprising bears, which are common in the area.
Harding Icefield Trail
The Harding Icefield Trail offers a challenging trek that ascends 3,000 feet alongside Exit Glacier. As you hike, you’ll pass through multiple climatic zones, each offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep an eye out for mountain goats, black bears, and marmots, which are common in this area.
Water Adventures in August
In August, Alaska offers ideal conditions for a variety of water adventures. Kayaking in Prince William Sound allows you to experience the stunning beauty of glaciers up close and observe diverse marine life. Check out Lazy Otter Charters out of Whittier.
The Kenai River is a hotspot for fishing. The king salmon runs in the Kenai River are legendary and attract anglers from around the state and the world.
For thrill-seekers, rafting in the Chugach State Park, on Sixmile Creek presents an exhilarating challenge as you navigate rapids, combining adrenaline with awe-inspiring views of the Alaskan wilderness.
Cultural Experiences in August
Alaska in August is not just about its awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Alaska Native heritage. Across the state, you can engage with indigenous communities that offer insights into centuries-old traditions and the vibrant cultural practices that continue today.
Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage offers a dynamic exploration of the cultural heritage of Alaska’s eleven major Native groups. Visitors can engage with authentic experiences, such as traditional dancing, storytelling, and demonstrations, within the Center’s renowned Hall of Cultures.
The center also features life-sized village sites, allowing a glimpse into traditional Alaska Native life. Onsite, the Ch’k’iqadi Gallery provides an opportunity to support Alaska Native artists, while the D’eschin Café offers local delicacies. Located in Anchorage, off the Glenn Highway at 8800 Heritage Center Drive, the center provides an educational experience that is enriching for all ages.
Also, there are other cultural centers you can explore:
Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre
The Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre offers tours and interpretive programs that celebrate the traditional and contemporary life of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in, also known as the Han Hwëch’in or River People. Located along the Yukon River, the center serves as a gateway into the heritage of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in community. Visitors can enjoy galleries and a 14-minute welcome film that detail the history and vibrant culture of the area. The knowledgeable staff is available to answer questions about life before the gold rush, traditional survival skills, and the community’s ongoing strength.
The gift shop at the center offers the largest selection of handmade beaded footwear in Dawson, as well as a variety of northern and First Nation-inspired gifts, many of which are exclusive to the shop. Open during the summer season and by appointment in the winter, the center provides tickets valid for two-day admission, allowing flexibility in scheduling visits. Located at 1131 Front Street, the center can be contacted at 867-993-7100 ext. 500 for more information.
Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre
The Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre (KDCC) celebrates the rich heritage and contemporary culture of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation. Located along the Yukon River, the center offers cultural and historical exhibits and programming aimed at preserving and demonstrating the traditional practices, languages, and artistry of the Kwanlin Dün people. Visitors can engage with a variety of exhibits, participate in events, and enjoy programming that showcases Kwanlin Dün stories, art, music, and traditional foods.
KDCC serves as a cultural hub for both Kwanlin Dün citizens and people from around the world, welcoming all to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the community. The center is open Monday to Friday, inviting visitors to explore and connect with the Kwanlin Dün’s rich legacy. Visit us at 1171 Front Street or contact us at 867-456-5322 for more information.
Klondike National Historic Sites
Dawson City, once known as the “Paris of the North,” offers a unique blend of Klondike Gold Rush history and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in cultural traditions. Parks Canada provides various programs for visitors to explore this fascinating region, including tours of historic buildings and vessels.
At the Dawson Historical Complex and S.S. Keno National Historic Site, visitors can explore the waterfront and board the S.S. Keno, a vessel representing the cultural connections to the Yukon River. Inside historic buildings, costumed guides share stories of the town’s past residents. The Commissioner’s Residence hosts discussions on the Klondike Gold Rush’s impact on the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in, offering a comprehensive view of the area’s shared history.
Visitors may also try escape rooms set in Dawson’s historic buildings or explore the Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre to learn about Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in stories and traditions. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of Dawson City’s cultural and historical landscape.
Festivals and Events
Visiting Alaska in August ensures a chance to experience lively cultural festivals that celebrate the state’s rich heritage. One highlight is the Alaska State Fair, held in the Mat-Su Valley about an hour north of Anchorage. Whether enjoying a festival in a state park or attending a community event on the Kenai Peninsula, August is an optimal time to immerse yourself in Alaska’s vibrant cultural life, set against the backdrop of its stunning natural beauty.
Alaska State Fair
The Palmer Fairgrounds host Alaska’s largest state fair during the last two weeks of August, featuring craft booths, live entertainment, and exhibitions of record-setting giant vegetables and flower gardens. Attendees can enjoy diverse events, including trade shows, horse shows, concerts, and a dedicated kid zone, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
Seward Silver Salmon Derby
The Seward Silver Salmon Derby takes place on the second Saturday in August and lasts for nine days, making it one of the largest single sporting events in Alaska. This event draws thousands of anglers, both local and visiting, competing to catch the largest Coho (Silver) Salmon and specially tagged fish with substantial prizes, including tags worth up to $50,000. The Derby offers a wide range of prize categories, including special awards for children.
Practical Travel Tips
Weather and Daylight
In August, Alaska enjoys some of its best weather, with warmer temperatures making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Average temperatures range from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, though they can vary depending on the region. The long daylight hours mean you can expect up to 16-18 hours of daylight, especially in the first half of August, allowing plenty of time for exploration. While sunny days are plentiful, be prepared for occasional rain showers, common during this time of year.
Accommodations and Travel Options
Given the peak season for tourism, it’s wise to book accommodations in advance, especially in popular areas like Denali National Park and the Kenai Peninsula. Options range from cozy lodges to campsites, depending on your preference for comfort or nature immersion. Traveling through Alaska can be an adventure in itself; consider using the Alaska Railroad for scenic journeys or renting a car for more flexibility. Cruise lines operating through the Inside Passage and Prince William Sound offer another unique way to see the expansive beauty of the state.
Packing Essentials
Packing for an Alaskan adventure in August requires layers to accommodate shifting temperatures and weather conditions. Include warm clothing like fleece jackets, waterproof gear like raincoats or ponchos, and sturdy hiking boots for treks across rugged terrains. Don’t forget essentials like insect repellent, particularly near rivers or forests, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters. By being prepared, you ensure a comfortable and unforgettable Alaskan experience.
