The summers in Alaska can be magical. The ocean is teeming with wildlife, eagles are soaring overhead and everyone you meet seems to have an extra spring in their step. As the days grow longer heading into the summer solstice, the Alaska sun kisses your cheeks and the familiar smell of the Tongass Rainforest fills your lungs. These are just a few of the reasons why people head to Alaska during the Summer but you still may be craving a deeper level of specificity around an answer to: What month should I go to Alaska?

What month should I go to Alaska?

As a wildlife photographer, my guidance is: June or July. Here’s why:

June: In June, you can still see the lingering winter snow on the mountains in the distance. There’s something so powerful about the white outline of a mountaintop against a bright blue sky. The humpback whales are back in the area, upon return from their migration AND I often see orcas feasting on King Salmon. Eagles tend to soar overhead and are especially prevalent around low-tide. The forests have new growth, the skunk cabbage is pretty large and you may catch the end of the purple hues of the lupine. The weather will be warmer than May but since the days are still growing in length, there’s usually a chill still in the air.

July: July tends to feel quite busy. There are many guests who visit during this time as the weather tends to be pretty nice (remember though, Tongass National Rainforest surrounds Juneau so we have many rainy days). July is plentiful - there seems to be ‘more’ of everything. More whales, more orcas, more eagles, more sea lions, etc. While I have zero numbers to back this up, it just ‘feels’ that way. Do not make your travel plans based on ‘feelings’ (ha!), I am trying to provide you guidance.

3 Considerations when Planning Your Summer Trip to Alaska

Alaska Holidays: Another consideration are the holidays that are specific to Alaska such as Sewards day. Small towns in Alaska may celebrate these days so take note as hours of operation may change. As a guiding principle, follow the Memorial Day to Labor Day rule of thumb. In between these two major US holidays, most places are staffed and up and running. The shoulder seasons, while places may still be running, may have a lag in service. Remember, a lot of places rely on summer workers to help deliver their experience.
Ferry: If you’re going to use the ferry, have a back up plan. The ferry is notorious for having boat issues or being off schedule, delayed due to weather or some other kind of challenge.
Alaska Time: We call it ‘Alaska time’. It’s the slowness and often times frustrating experiences that you may feel when you’re operationally efficient. To accommodate, give yourself extra time during your travels.

There are quite a few things to consider when heading to Southeast Alaska during the summer but do not let it intimidate you! Generally, I recommend June and July as the two months to head to Southeast Alaska to give you the best chance at seeing ocean wildlife, having the most enjoyable weather and the smoothest experience with shops / vendors / restaurants.