It's Springtime in Alaska

Springtime in Alaska is fast-moving. One day, snow is falling and all the favorite winter activities are still in full swing, and the next, temperatures warm up and residents switch to their rubber boots for the slushy, wet conditions outdoors. 

Also known as ‘Break Up’, spring typically appears in late April or early May (or earlier or later depending on the year), bringing longer daylight hours and the delicate appearance of green grass, budding trees, along with a sense of excitement for the summer ahead. Oh, and slush. And mud. 

Here at Greatland Adventures, we believe in complete transparency concerning the real-life experiences of our guests. Travelers arriving in Alaska from the Lower 48 or other countries where the months between April and June are positively, definitely springlike are often taken aback by Alaska’s somewhat muted seasonal appearance. It’s a bit of a reality check for those who expected lush, green alpine meadows, blue skies, and views of soaring mountains, and instead are faced with snow clinging to roadsides and trails, and low-hanging clouds. We get it, but spring in Alaska is one of the most important transition seasons, and we want our guests to appreciate its every mood. 

So what can you expect if you arrive in Alaska during the months a calendar calls ‘Spring’? We break it all down, below. 

Spring time in Alaska

More daylight. Let’s start with the most positive aspect of springtime in Alaska: the ever-increasing daylight hours. This time of year, Alaska gains between two and five minutes of daylight every day, so visitors arriving on April 1 can expect the sun to rise around 7 a.m., but when they depart a week later, the sun will be up by 6:59 a.m. And sunset? Delightfully, the sun goes down at nearly 9 p.m., offering plenty of time to get outdoors and explore long past the dinner hour. 

Wild weather. It’s safe to say that springtime in Alaska means rain, snow, sunshine, or icy conditions, sometimes all in one day. The savvy visitor will pack accordingly, adding outerwear that is both warm and waterproof, and making sure to bring along gloves, hats, and footwear that protects against slush and mud as well as cold temperatures. It’s also important to remember that tours and activities held outdoors typically go on no matter the weather conditions, so be prepared to bundle up and enjoy a real Alaska experience. ProTip: Bring extra footwear for indoor activities and hotel rooms to protect floors. 

New (wild)life. Alaska’s wild creatures give birth between April and June, so visitors often spot moose calves, bear cubs, and, on wildlife cruises, orca or humpback whale youngsters swimming with their mothers. While it’s never a guarantee that guests will be lucky enough to view baby critters, springtime is definitely the time to try. Fun Facts: There are an estimated 1,600 moose in the greater Anchorage area and between 200 to 300 black bears. Please respect wildlife as wild and never approach them. Ever. 

Uncrowded experiences. The majority of Alaska visitors arrive after Memorial Day in May, so guests traveling to the state before that date can take advantage of fewer crowds. These lower visitor numbers translate into everything from uncrowded whale-watching vessels (and the spring rates that accompany them) to fewer people on popular roadways, trails, and accommodations. Some of our favorite tours during the spring months are the Anchorage Sightseeing Tour, Turnagain Arm Glacier and Wildlife Tour, and Talkeetna Day Tour. 

Hot deals. Most activities and experiences offer ‘early season’ deals and specials that cater to the springtime visitor. From hotel discounts to 2-for-1 offerings, spring is a great time to visit Alaska with the whole family or a group of friends. 

There’s a vintage tune by artist Johnny Horton that most people start humming this time of year, but it’s not exactly accurate. There’s no ‘Forty Below’ around Southcentral Alaska in the springtime, but the song is fun, anyway. Give a listen, and make plans to head up north this spring!