Located in the north of the USA and separated from Canada, Alaska is the largest US state by area but the 3rd least populous due to its extreme conditions. Although these harsh conditions make Alaska a difficult place to live, with harsh winters and extreme weather conditions, they also make Alaska one of the most naturally beautiful places in the country. Apart from its harsh weather, Alaska is home to its massive glaciers, wild deciduous forest, and North America's tallest peak, Denali.
So, if you're planning a hike in Alaska soon and want to know where to go and what you need to survive the trip, here is what you need, from experience, to successfully trek around that beautiful state.
Eagle River Nature Centre- To venture into the Alaskan wilderness, the Eagle River Nature Centre is a great place to go, as you can see all the wilderness has to offer without the huge mountain hikes. With trails ranging from an easy 45-minute hike to 5-hour trips and even 2- to 3-day hikes such as the Crow Pass Trail Run. The thing that makes this hike in particular special is that it trails through the Alaskan wilderness, which is not manicured, venturing over tree routes an through mud. You will see rivers, streams, wetlands and mountain scenery with opportunities to see local wildlife such as moose and otters.
Overall, the Eagle River Nature Sanctuary is an amazing spot to explore the Alaskan woods and all of its wildlife in a way that you feel immersed, with routes that are made for every type of hiker looking for different types of adventure
Tips and tricks that you need to survive the trip
Non-cotton layering system- with the temperature in Alaska ranging from 15 degrees in the summer and -20 in the winter, meaning that you're wearing the correct layers is essential. Try to avoid cotton material and instead wear insulating synthetic or wool layers and a durable waterproof jacket to protect yourself against wind and cold.
Bear spray- as many know, the Alaskan wilderness is not to be messed with, with bears being a real threat on hikes. This means that if you are hiking, you should also carry some kind of strong bear repellent with you in case the occasion does arise. If you are travelling from outside the country, such as those with British citizenship, then buy this on arrival as it is illegal to carry on planes.
Satellite communicator- when trekking and hiking in such remote places, such as in the Egle River Nature Centre or high up on the exit glacier, it's important that you carry a satellite communicator to transmit coordinates and call for search and rescue in areas with no cell service.
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