Discover the Beautiful Scenery, Wildlife and Culture of Anchorage
Anchorage, located in South Central Alaska, is called the ideal “base camp” for Alaskan adventures and vacations. Visitors can enjoy day trips to various locations, such as Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, along the Cook Inlet or Prince William Sound, or travel to Spencer Glacier, among many other Alaskan adventures.
Alaskan Railroad Day Trips
Take a day trip called Denali in a Day upon the Alaskan Railroad. Ride in one of the double-decked dome cars from Anchorage to Talkeetna. As the train winds its way through the forests and mountains of the reserve, listen to tour guides give information and history of the area. Once at the park, visitors can hike around the park trails, or see the area from above on a flight around Mt. McKinley. The flight tours glaciers and the Alaska Range. Another option, is to take the “Talkeetna Queen”, a jet boat adventure on the Talkeetna River. Spot moose along the riverbanks, as Mt. McKinley looms above.
Visitors can also take a day trip onboard the Alaskan Railroad to Spencer Glacier. The Glacier Discovery Train takes passengers from Anchorage to the glacier. From there, take a float tour among icebergs at Spencer Lake and down the Placer River. Experience the massive glacier up close. Make sure to wear warm clothing.
Attractions in Anchorage
Anchorage is situated as a place to stay while exploring all of South Central Alaska. Make sure to take advantage of the many delightful attractions the city has to offer. Visit the Alaska Wildberry Park, where visitors can see the giant Rock Man or meet a reindeer. Tour the chocolate factory and chocolate fall fountain. Watch the Iditarod Experience Sled Dog Show, as mushers show guests how sled dogs are raised and trained. The show demonstrates the Iditarod events and history. Anchorage is also home to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, where visitors learn of native Alaskan traditions. Visitors to the center can imagine life in a native Alaskan village, as five permanent villages are exhibited.
Summer temperatures in Anchorage are mild, ranging from 60 to 80 degrees. Outdoor activities in Anchorage are abundantly participated in, such as trail hiking. Anchorage’s trail system includes 128 miles of paved paths and 300 unpaved hiking trails. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, follows the Cook Inlet coast from Anchorage to Kincaid Park. While hiking make sure to look for wildlife. As nearly 1,600 moose live in the city, visitors are almost guaranteed to see one. At Potter Marsh, view Canada geese and migrating trumpeter swan. Other wildlife include Dall sheep, black and brown bear, grizzlies, lynx, fox, coyote, beluga whales, eagles and wolves, not to mentions many species of birds.
Anchorage features an abundance of natural beauty, city attractions and amazing wildlife viewing.
Originally published by Suite101.com on July 25, 2007
