Alaska

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Flying is the most common and convenient way to reach Alaska. Major international airports in Alaska include Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport in Anchorage and Fairbanks International Airport in Fairbanks.

Here’s how to get to Alaska by air:

• From the Continental United States: Travelers from the contiguous United States can find direct flights to Alaska from major cities like Seattle, Denver, and Minneapolis. Airlines like Alaska Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines operate these routes. On average, direct flights from the West Coast to major Alaskan cities take approximately 5 to 7 hours, while flights from the East Coast may take 8 to 10 hours.
• From Canada: Canadian travelers can find direct flights from cities like Vancouver and Calgary to Alaska. Airlines like Air Canada and WestJet offer these flights. Flight durations can vary based on your departure location in Canada but typically range from 3 to 5 hours.
• From Europe and Asia: Travelers from Europe and Asia can reach Alaska with connecting flights through major U.S. cities. For those traveling from Asia, cities like Tokyo and Seoul serve as common departure points for connecting flights to Alaska.

How Long Is the Flight to Alaska?

The average flight time to Alaska, specifically to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, can vary depending on the departure city, airline, and route. Here are approximate flight times from some of the most common origins:

• Seattle, USA: Around 3 to 3.5 hours
• Los Angeles, USA: Approximately 5 to 6 hours
• New York, USA: About 8 hours (usually with a stopover)
• Tokyo, Japan: Approximately 7 to 8 hours
• London, UK: About 9 to 11 hours (usually with a stopover)
• Chicago, USA: Around 6 hours (usually with a stopover)
• Frankfurt, Germany: Approximately 9 to 10 hours (usually with a stopover)
• Sydney, Australia: About 14 to 16 hours (usually with a stopover)

These are estimated times and actual flight durations may vary based on the specific route, stopovers, and other factors. Direct flights might not be available from all locations, necessitating connections through major U.S. or international hubs.

Reaching Alaska by road involves driving through Canada via the Alaska Highway (Alcan Highway). The Alaska Highway connects the contiguous United States to Alaska, starting in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, and ending in Delta Junction, Alaska. This scenic highway offers breathtaking views of the Canadian and Alaskan wilderness. Travelers should be prepared for varying road conditions and ensure they have the necessary travel documents, such as passports and visas for crossing the U.S.-Canada border.

The Alaska Railroad is a passenger and freight rail service that offers scenic journeys through Alaska. The rail route travels from Seward on the coast, through Anchorage and Denali National Park, to Fairbanks in the interior. Travelers can enjoy picturesque views of Alaska’s landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. The Alaska Railroad provides a unique and relaxing way to explore the state.

Alaska’s extensive coastline and maritime accessibility make traveling to the state by water a unique and exciting option. Here are some ways to reach Alaska by sea:

• Cruise Ships: Alaska is a popular cruise destination, attracting numerous cruise lines from around the world. The most common cruise itineraries depart from cities like Seattle, Vancouver, and San Francisco. These cruises take passengers along Alaska’s stunning coastline, providing opportunities to witness glaciers, wildlife, and the natural beauty of the state. Ports of call typically include cities such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Be sure to book your cruise well in advance to secure your preferred dates and routes.
• Ferry Services: The Alaska Marine Highway System operates a network of ferry routes along the Alaskan coast. This extensive ferry system connects many coastal communities and provides a more flexible and affordable way to explore the state by sea. Travelers can embark on a journey through the Inside Passage or venture to remote locations not accessible by road.