Thinking about visiting Alaska but not sure when to go? You’ve probably heard that the low season is the worst time to visit. But is it true?
Many people think Alaska practically shuts down between late September and mid-May, with everything closed and nothing to do but watch the snow pile up. While it’s true that some attractions close and the weather can be a little unpredictable, the low season offers a unique and rewarding experience if you’re willing to venture off the beaten path. Imagine fewer crowds, more affordable prices, and a side of Alaska that most people never get to see.
If you’re prepared to take a chance, you can have an unforgettable adventure you’ll be telling everyone about for years to come! To help your planning go smoothly, here’s everything you need to think about when organizing your trip.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).
How to Have an Amazing Time in Alaska in the Low Season
The Best Things About Visiting in the Low Season
There are loads of amazing reasons to visit Alaska in the low season. Here are my top four:
1. It’s Affordable
One of the best things about traveling at this time of year is that it’s budget-friendly! Flights and accommodation are much more affordable in the low season than in the high season. Whether you want to fly first-class and stay in a five-star boutique lodge or travel economy and stay in a family-run inn, you’ll save money.
Tours and activities are cheaper at this time of year, too. The operators that stay open throughout the low season drop their prices to attract the few visitors that are around. This means more adventure for less money!
2. There Are Fewer Visitors
Visiting Alaska in the low season means you won’t have to deal with crowds, long lines, and getting turned away from packed places. Instead, you’ll have the trails, viewpoints, and wildlife sightings almost entirely to yourself.
If you’re after some peace and quiet, this is the best time to go. Alaska’s wild beauty is so much better without the summer crowds. As an added bonus, you’ll also get a more authentic taste of Alaskan life. The locals aren’t in “tourist mode” in the low season, so you can enjoy genuine interactions and see what life is really like up there.
3. You May See the Northern Lights
Winter is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. Head to the Interior, Arctic, or Southcentral part of the state to boost your chances. The longer you’re there, the better the odds, so try to hang around for at least three nights. Prime viewing hours are 10.00 pm-2.00 am, so be prepared to stay up late!
4. Unique Photo Opportunities
My favorite thing about visiting Alaska in the low season is the amazing photos and videos you can capture. Think snow-dusted mountains, frozen lakes, and wildlife in its natural winter habitat.
You don’t have to be an expert photographer. As long as you’ve got your phone handy, you can capture some amazing footage that other visitors won’t have a chance to!
The Worst Things About Visiting in the Low Season
It’s not fair to only mention the positives about visiting Alaska in the low season. There are a few negatives you should keep in mind before planning your trip, too:
1. Some Places Are Closed
Many popular spots throughout Alaska take a break over winter. You may find a few stores, cafes, bars, and restaurants with their lights off, but there are still plenty of cozy places to pick up a cute souvenir, grab a bite to eat, or cozy up with a warm drink. The places that do stay open tend to be more laid-back and welcoming, so take full advantage!
Just because a place is closed when you first stop by doesn’t mean it’s closed for the season. Some establishments have limited hours in the winter. Check the door for the opening hours to see if you’re in luck.
2. Fewer Iconic Activities
Some big-ticket activities, like dog sledding and helicopter rides, may be off the table, depending on which month you visit. But don’t worry — there’s still plenty of adventure to be had! Fun activities like snowshoeing, food tours, winter hikes, museum hopping, and cozy evenings by the fire are available all winter long.
3. Unpredictable Weather
Yes, the weather can be a bit unpredictable in the low season, but that’s part of Alaska’s charm. Just pack smart, embrace the layers, and remember that a little snow never hurt anyone. Daylight hours can also be limited at this time of year. But the long, dark nights are perfect for spotting the Northern Lights or enjoying some cozy downtime after a day of exploring.
4. Limited Transportation
Getting around can be a bit trickier in the winter because there are fewer transportation options. But this is where planning ahead really pays off. If you organize your route in advance, you’ll have plenty of time to work out the best ways of getting from A to B. You could even turn it into a road trip!
Before You Go
The best trips start before you even step foot inside an airport. To help you get the most out of your low-season Alaska adventure, start planning as early as you can.
1. Book Your Flights for September or May
September and May still technically fall under the low season, but only just. There are a lot more places open at this time of year than the months in between. This way you’ll get the best of both worlds — lower prices with plenty of things still to do.
2. Be Realistic
It’s important to have realistic expectations. Alaska in the low season isn’t going to be exactly like it is in the summer. Some spots will be closed and the vibe will be different, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have a good time. Go in with realistic expectations, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what Alaska has to offer at this time of year.
3. Start Planning Early
There are fewer tours and activities in the low season and because of this, the ones that are available fill up fast. The earlier you get organized and book, the better your chances of snagging a spot on the glacier hike or wildlife tour you’ve been dreaming about. Don’t wait until the last minute!
4. Pack for Every Type of Weather
The weather in Alaska is unpredictable, especially in the low season. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s snowing. Make sure you pack layers, waterproof gear, and a mix of warm and cool-weather clothing so you’re ready for anything.
5. Download a Northern Lights App
The opportunity to see the Northern Lights is one of the most exciting parts of visiting Alaska in the low season. For the best chance to spot them, download an app that tracks the Aurora Borealis and sends you notifications when the lights are visible. That way, you’ll be ready to shoot outside as soon as the show starts.
6. Bring a Thermos for Hot Drinks
With temperatures dropping as low as -30°F, it can get seriously cold exploring Alaska in the winter. So you don’t have to end your adventure early, keep a thermos filled with hot tea, coffee, or cocoa with you. It will keep you warm and full of energy, especially when you’re out chasing the Northern Lights or trekking through snowy trails.
Getting Around in the Low Season
Transportation is limited in the low season and renting a car gives you the freedom to explore according to your schedule. Just make sure it’s equipped for winter driving and consider taking out extra insurance if you’re not confident driving in the snow.
If you do hire a car, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and hassle by checking the road conditions in advance. Look online to see if any roads are closed and plan your route accordingly.
A car isn’t the only way to get around Alaska in the winter. Some bus, ferry, and train services offer limited schedules throughout the low season. The Alaska Railroad runs year-round, offering scenic routes that connect major cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks.
Ferry services in the Alaska Marine Highway System also operate at this time of year, giving you a fun way to travel between coastal towns. Just be sure to check schedules ahead of time.
The Interior Alaska Bus Line operates all year round — although it only runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. It’s popular among locals wanting to hop between stops in rural Alaska and is a great way to see the countryside.
If you’re planning on moving between cities, small local airlines are a great option. They operate year-round and can get you to places that might be harder to reach by car or ferry. Plus, you’ll get to see Alaska from the sky, which is a view you’ll never forget.
Tips for Finding Activities in the Low Season
Finding fun things to do in Alaska in the low season isn’t as simple as a quick online search. To make the most of your time, follow my tips:
Most popular attractions display their opening dates and hours online. But don’t be disappointed if the website says they’ll be closed during your visit. Send the attraction a message with your dates and ask if they’ll be open then. Some attractions make exceptions — especially if you’re traveling as a group.
A small number of cruise ships dock in Alaska in April and October. Big attractions often open their doors on these dates for cruise guests. If you can plan to be in a city at the same time as a cruise ship docks, you’ll have a greater selection of activities and attractions to choose from. The only downside is that you’ll also have more visitors to contend with.
Most travel websites only show you things to do in Alaska during spring and summer. To find things to do in the low season, you’ll need to dive a little deeper. Check websites like TripAdvisor, Viator, GetYourGuide, and Airbnb Experiences for tours available on your travel dates.
It’s also worth searching for local cultural events, such as small community gatherings and native art exhibits. You can find small-scale events like these by joining local Facebook groups and keeping up with what’s happening.
14 Things To Do in the Low Season
To help you get started here are 14 amazing things to do in Alaska in the low season. These activities are available throughout the state, so they should fit in with your plans wherever you’re visiting:
1. Go Skiing
Hit the slopes at one of Alaska’s ski resorts for some epic downhill skiing. The snow is fresh at this time of year and the views are unbeatable.
2. Seek Out Wildlife
Winter is prime time for spotting moose, caribou, bald eagles, and other wildlife throughout Alaska. These animals are more active in the low season, so you’ll have plenty of chances to snap pictures.
3. Whale Watching
Take a boat tour to spot whales, otters, and seals in their natural habitat. Winter and early spring offer great opportunities to see marine wildlife.
4. Go Food Tasting
Explore Alaska’s food scene by signing up for a local food tour. Smoked salmon, king crab, and wild game are just some of the delicious things you can try in the state.
5. Go Hiking
Get bundled up and explore Alaska’s stunning trails. Winter hikes offer serene, snow-covered landscapes and a peaceful escape that you simply don’t get in the summer.
6. Hop on a Brewery Tour
Keep the chills away by sampling some of Alaska’s finest craft beers on a brewery tour. Many breweries stay open throughout the winter, offering cozy atmospheres and seasonal brews.
7. Go Shopping
Shopping is something you can do at any time of year in Alaska. Explore local stores and markets for unique souvenirs, like beautiful carvings by native artists, caramel-like birch syrup, and sparkling gold nugget jewelry.
8. Join in with Festivals
Alaska doesn’t sleep in the low season — there are plenty of festivals going on during winter. The Shellfish Festival, Sitka WhaleFest, Anchorage International Film Festival, Polar Bear Jump Seward, and the Fur Rendezvous Festival are just some of the fun things happening at this time of year.
9. Explore Glaciers
Winter is the very best time to get up close to Alaska’s majestic glaciers. Whether you decide to hike it alone or hop on a glacier cruise, low season is a fantastic time to see the icy giants.
10. Visit Museums
Dive into Alaska’s rich history and culture while keeping warm by spending a few hours in one of the state’s many museums. From the Alaska Native Heritage Center to the Ice Museum, there are loads of fascinating places to explore.
11. Go Ice Fishing
If you’re looking for something a little different, try ice fishing on one of Alaska’s frozen lakes. It’s an incredible activity that you can only do in certain parts of the world.
12. Sign Up for a Photography Tour
Capture Alaska’s stunning landscapes and wildlife by signing up for a photography tour. You get magical low light in the winter and there will be hardly any people around. It’s the perfect time to snap amazing photos!
13. Explore Abandoned Ghost Towns
Explore one of Alaska’s abandoned ghost towns and see a side of the state that most people miss. Portage, Ukivok, and Fort Egbert all offer a fascinating (if somewhat eerie) glimpse into the past.
14. Go Birdwatching
Grab a pair of binoculars and see how many different types of birds you can spot. In the low season, you’ll have the chance to see bald eagles, three-toed woodpeckers, and puffins, among many others.
Start Planning Your Trip!
The low season isn’t the best time to visit Alaska, but that shouldn’t put you off. If you have realistic expectations and plan ahead, you can have an amazing time (and save a small fortune!) by visiting The Last Frontier in winter.
