Alaska is known for its majestic mountains and glaciated landscapes, but what many people don’t know is that the state is also capable of experiencing some of the most dramatic winter weather on Earth.
From deep cold to relentless snowstorms, Alaska in winter can be a challenge for anyone who wants to visit. But with the right preparation and a little luck, those who venture out can experience one of the most awe-inspiring seasons on Earth.
What Does Winter in Alaska Look Like?
During the winter in Alaska, it can be very cold and dark. The days are short, and the nights are long. The climate is also very windy and dry. In Anchorage, the temperature usually ranges from 23 degrees Fahrenheit below zero to 41 degrees Fahrenheit above zero.
In Fairbanks, the temperature usually ranges from 22 degrees Fahrenheit below zero to 43 degrees Fahrenheit above zero. The snow is pristine, the colors are muted, and the landscape is quiet and still.
Snow: How Much Snow Does Alaska Get in Winter?
Alaska receives a lot of snow in winter. Anchorage usually averages around 30 inches of snow, while Fairbanks can get up to 60 inches! The most snowfall recorded in a single winter was 108 inches in 1983-84.
This means that there is plenty of opportunities to go skiing or snowboarding and to make your Christmas present shopping easy – most major retailers have a range of winter gear available for purchase.
Transportation: How Do You Get to Alaska in Winter?
There are a few ways to get to Alaska in winter. Some people fly into Anchorage and then take a bus or plane to the outlying villages. There are also ferries that go between Seward and Whittier, California, which is about halfway between Anchorage and Fairbanks.
The most popular way to get to Alaska in winter is by driving. The road conditions can be very hazardous, but it’s definitely worth it if you’re interested in seeing some of the most stunning scenery on Earth.
Visibility: How Good Is Visibility in Alaska in Winter?
Visibility in Alaska in winter can be quite poor due to the snow and fog. Roads can be blocked by snow drifts, making it difficult or impossible to get around.
Weather conditions can also cause visibility to decline quickly, so it is important to be aware of the conditions when traveling in winter. When visibility is poor, it is important to use caution and avoid driving if possible.
What’s It Like to Ski in Anchorage or Fairbanks in the Winter?
Alaska is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and skiing in Anchorage or Fairbanks in the winter is a must-do activity. Skiing in Alaska is a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
The slopes are often groomed daily and there’s always plenty of ski patrol to help keep you safe. Fairbanks has some of the longest runs in Alaska and Anchorage offers beginner-friendly terrain for all levels of skiers.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an experienced skier; both towns have powder snow that’ll leave you wanting more.
How Locals Deal With Brutal Winters
In the wintertime in Alaska, many locals have to deal with brutally cold temperatures. There are a few things that they do to cope with this harsh climate.
Some people wear layers of clothing and others use heating pads and hot water bottles. Others make snowmen or build igloos. Some people even go out skiing or snowboarding in the cold weather.
Another is to make sure they have plenty of food and water on hand since getting out and about can be incredibly difficult in conditions like these.
And finally, people here often find solace in friends and family, spending time together indoors or outdoors doing whatever they can to stay warm. But, no matter how locals try to cope with the harsh winters, there is always some aspect of it that is tough.
Things to Do in Alaska When It’s Cold as Hell Outside!
You know that feeling when you step out of your warm house and into a cold, winter wonderland? Well, in Alaska, we know that feeling all too well! Here are 8 things to do in Alaska when it’s cold as hell outside. Pro tip: dress warmly and bring a camera!
- Hike the trails at Denali National Park.
- Visit Anchorage for a day and explore the city’s many attractions like the Historical Museum or the Matanuska-Susitna Valley Railroad.
- Take a walk on one of Anchorage’s many frozen lakes.
- Visit Eaglecrest Ski Area for a day of skiing or snowboarding on some of Alaskan’s most pristine slopes.
- Go skiing/snowboarding at Alyeska Resort.
- Visit Fairbanks for some awesome shopping and a visit to the American Legion Memorial Park where you can view the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
- Visit the Polar Bear Plunge at Barrow.
- Go ice fishing in the Matanuska Valley.
Places To Stay in Alaska in Winter
In Alaska, the wintertime can be a bit rough. temperatures can dip below freezing, and snowfall can pile up quickly. But despite the cold, there are places to stay in Alaska in winter that will make your stay comfortable.
Some of the best options for winter lodging in Alaska include ski resorts like Alyeska Resort and Winter Park and hotels like The Fairbanks Club and Inn at Chena Hot Springs. These hotels often have multiple rooms available that can be rented together or individually.
You’ll also want to consider renting a cabin or cottage if you’re looking for a more remote option, as these tend to be less impacted by weather conditions.
If you’re traveling to Alaska during the winter, it’s important to take proper precautions to stay safe and warm.
Alaska in Winter: A Memorable Experience
In conclusion, Alaska in winter can be an adventure, full of surprises and new experiences. Whether you’re skiing the pistes or exploring the vast countryside on your snowmobile, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to bundle up and prepare for the cold weather!