7 best general alaska travel guides

General Alaska travel guides are comprehensive books or resources that provide information, tips, and recommendations for travelers interested in visiting the state of Alaska in the United States. These guides cover a wide range of topics related to Alaska, including its geography, culture, wildlife, outdoor activities, and tourist attractions. Here are some key points about general Alaska travel guides:

  1. Destination Overview: General Alaska travel guides typically begin with an overview of the state, its size, and its unique geographical features. Alaska is known for its vast wilderness, stunning landscapes, and extreme climate, all of which are important aspects for travelers to understand.

  2. Regions and Cities: Alaska is a large state with diverse regions and cities. Travel guides often provide details about major cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and others, as well as information about different regions such as the Inside Passage, Southcentral Alaska, and the Interior.

  3. Outdoor Activities: Alaska is renowned for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, kayaking, and more. Travel guides offer insights into popular outdoor activities, recommended gear, and safety tips for those exploring the state's wilderness.

  4. Wildlife and Nature: Alaska is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, eagles, and whales. Travel guides provide information on where and when to observe these animals in their natural habitats and often include photography tips.

  5. Cultural Insights: Alaska has a rich cultural heritage, with indigenous communities and a diverse population. Travel guides may include information on cultural events, museums, and opportunities to learn about Alaska's native cultures.

  6. Transportation: Navigating Alaska can be challenging due to its vast size and rugged terrain. Guides often cover transportation options, including air travel, ferries, and road networks.

  7. Accommodations and Dining: Information on lodging options, from hotels to cabins and campgrounds, is typically included. Dining recommendations may also be provided, showcasing local cuisine and seafood.

  8. Weather and Seasons: Alaska experiences extreme seasonal variations, from long summer days with midnight sun to harsh winter conditions. Travel guides offer insights into the best times to visit, what to pack, and how to prepare for changing weather.

  9. Maps and Itineraries: Many travel guides include maps and suggested itineraries to help travelers plan their trips efficiently and make the most of their time in Alaska.

  10. Safety and Regulations: Travelers need to be aware of safety precautions, regulations for outdoor activities, and wildlife encounters. Travel guides often include important safety information to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

These general Alaska travel guides serve as valuable resources for individuals and families planning a trip to this unique and picturesque state.They help travelers make informed decisions, create memorable itineraries, and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness of Alaska.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best general alaska travel guides on the market
  

Moon Anchorage, Denali & the Kenai Peninsula (Travel Guide)

Moon Travel

Based on 103 reviews Check latest price

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Get Inspired

Moon’s local authors share the best things to do, see, and eat for a variety of travelers, so you’ll find your bliss whether you’re a beach bum, a history buff, a foodie, or still figuring it out

Plan Your Adventure

Travel your way with customizable itineraries and strategic lists that highlight all of your must-sees, as well as hidden gems you’ll love

Travel with Confidence

Moon provides everything you need, including helpful background, insider tips, and detailed maps, to experience your perfect trip

Fodor's Alaska (Full-color Travel Guide)

Fodor's Travel

Based on 209 reviews Check latest price

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HELPFUL PLANNING ADVICE

Find what you need faster with color-coded category icons and easier-to-read two-column text.

GORGEOUS COLOR PHOTOS

Beautiful photos packed throughout will fuel your wanderlust.

ITINERARIES AND MAPS

Itineraries, maps, travel tips, and neighborhood guides will acquaint you with Alaska and help you maximize your time.

IN-DEPTH FEATURES AND EXPLANATIONS

Learn about history, culture, and more with in-depth spotlight features

The MILEPOST 2020: Alaska Travel Planner

Milepost

Based on 706 reviews Check latest price

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Since 1949, the bible of North Country Travel

Construction of the world famous Alaska Highway sparked creation of the first edition of The MILEPOST in 1949. Today, this legendary three-pound 700+ page guidebook is the longest running, most detailed and most comprehensive source for travel in Alaska and Western Canada. The MILEPOST is a guide for travel planning and inspiration, as well as an essential tool for navigating on the road. Coined, “the bible of North Country travel,” and ranked the best-selling guide to Alaska by Publisher’s Weekly, this guidebook has a dedicated community of travelers and locals that don’t leave home without a dog-eared, well-loved copy of The MILEPOST on their dashboard.

90 Scenic Routes

Centered around the world famous Alaska Highway, the MILEPOST logs 30 major routes and 60 side trips in Alaska and Western Canada.

100+ Maps

The MILEPOST includes 100+ maps of routes and communities as well as a large 31-inch by 21-inch pull-out “Plan-A-Trip” map.

Mile-By-Mile Highway Logs

A team of experienced field editors update attractions, activities and services along 15,000+ miles of highway annually to keep information current and accurate.

Access to the Digital Edition

The same pages that fill the print edition are included as a mobile option, available in iOS and Android as an eBook.

Fodor's Pacific Northwest: Portland, Seattle, Vancouver, & the Best of Oregon and Washington (Full-color Travel Guide)

Fodor's Travel

Based on 52 reviews Check latest price

Moon Alaska: Scenic Drives, National Parks, Best Hikes (Travel Guide)

Moon Travel

Based on 49 reviews Check latest price

Product features

Get Inspired

Moon’s local authors share the best things to do, see, and eat for a variety of travelers, so you’ll find your bliss whether you’re a beach bum, a history buff, a foodie, or still figuring it out

Plan Your Adventure

Travel your way with customizable itineraries and strategic lists that highlight all of your must-sees, as well as hidden gems you’ll love

Travel with Confidence

Moon provides everything you need, including helpful background, insider tips, and detailed maps, to experience your perfect trip

Northern Lights: A Practical Travel Guide (Bradt Travel Guide)

Bradt Travel Guides

Based on 43 reviews Check latest price

Lonely Planet Alaska (Regional Guide)

Lonely Planet

Based on 114 reviews Check latest price

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Welcome to Alaska

Bears larger than bison, national parks the size of nations, and glaciers bigger than other US states. The word ‘epic’

barely does Alaska justice.

For savvy repeat visitors, the real joys of Alaska are the ones you least expect: ginormous vegetables, epic bus rides, half-forgotten Russian cemeteries, friendly, hassle-free airports, and dive bars where no one’s rethought their hairstyle since 1984. Welcome to a state with as many offbeat attractions as off-the beaten track locations.

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