On a cruise to Alaska you can enjoy the comfort and luxury of your ship in the evenings and traipse into the wilderness for daytime excursions. Activities can be booked in advance or on board through the cruise line, or arrangements can be made with private charters at the ports. The state's vast and wild terrain suits adventurers of every skill level.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Alaska offers plenty of opportunities for thrilling and rugged treks. Visitors can hike on a glacier, bike a mountain trail, take in the view from above in a plane or take a dogsled ride through the snow. The countless rivers, lakes and coastal waters are perfect for guests who want to fish, raft, kayak or speed on a jet boat. Experienced guides are available to provide assistance with the various adventurous endeavors.
It's also possible to enjoy the beauty of Alaska in less-active ways. Taking in the scenery is an activity all its own, with glacier tours and wildlife- or whale-watching excursions as popular options. The historic towns and gold mines provide insight into the rich background of the area. Trips to Inuit villages give locals a chance to showcase tribal dances and storytelling. A ride on the railroad can take you farther inland to see some of the world's most majestic sights.
Alaska has some of the most thriving populations of North American wildlife. Polar bears, bald eagles, wolves, orcas, humpbacked whales and moose are just a small sampling of the animals living in the Great Land.