Anchorage

For many people it’s the easiest way to travel above the 60th parallel, by simply visiting Alaska’s largest city (with about 300,000 residents). At higher latitudes, the summer days are longer – just like the winter nights. However, the scenic beauty of this state is somewhat larger than life – especially for anyone who hasn’t had much time in the great-outdoors.  The mountains are big, the sky is big, the wildlife is big, pretty much everything is big … except the population.

The ‘Anchorage Bowl’ at sunset – from the vantage of my hotel room.

For some, a cruise is the preferred way to visit Alaska – just like my parents did some years ago.  For me, I like to get out on the road and drive out past the city limits, past the semi-rural homes and lifestyle farms, to see what the country really looks like.  I have spent lots of time out in remote mountains, and was truly invigorated by mysterious lure of the Alaskan mountains … and warrants a much longer visit than what I was able to tack onto my work trip.

Mysterious mountains cloaked in translucent clouds

Winters are cold but manageable for the well prepared.  The spring brings new life after the dark winter, but almost certainly is noted by snowmelt runoff and resultant mud.  Summers are very pleasant, with long days to enjoy to the full.  However, I visited when the autumn leaves were turning, and the snow capped mountains were adorned with green and yellow.

Geographic layers can be clearly seen on the side of this waterfront mountain

Dad’s Recommendation:
Alaska is too big to adequately capture in a few photos.  I suggest that you go and see it for yourself – and take a drive out into the truly great outdoors.