If you’re reading this, chances are you’re dreaming about visiting Alaska — or maybe you’ve already booked your ticket. And why wouldn’t you? With its vast wilderness, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural history, Alaska offers an unparalleled travel experience.
But as with any adventure, safety is key to ensuring your trip is as enjoyable as it is memorable. So, how safe is Alaska to travel as a tourist? Well, the short answer is very safe! But then, as leaders in Anchorage guided tours, you would probably expect us to say that; so let us give you the long answer too.
Scroll down to find out more about safety in Alaska, including local tips and insights that can make your trip even safer. If you have any questions for our team in the meantime, please just get in touch for the answers you need.
Tourist Safety in Alaska’s Urban Areas
Anchorage, Alaska’s largest and most populous city, is where most visitors start their Alaskan adventure. It’s also the place we call home! At Alaskan Sights & Bites, we know this charming city inside out, from its thriving food scene to its incredible access to the great outdoors.
Anchorage is a vibrant city that offers a warm welcome for all visitors. Of course, as a city with a population fast approaching 300,000, crime and homelessness exist here! Like any other destination around the world, our city isn’t perfect. But it’s vital to note that the areas frequented by tourists are among the safest in our city and state. Downtown Anchorage, for example, is well-lit, clean, regularly patrolled, and bustling with locals and tourists alike.
Of course, it’s important to stay alert and follow the same basic safety protocols you would in any new destination. Keep an eye on your belongings, avoid poorly lit areas and bike trails at night, don’t leave valuables in vehicles, and be aware of your surroundings. Anchorage is no different from other cities in this regard.
For even more peace of mind, book tours with local guides. This is where we come in! Our guided food tours in Anchorage provide an insider’s view of our city that enriches your travel experience, all while giving you an extra layer of comfort and confidence.
Whether you’re exploring the city’s culinary scene or enjoying a picturesque walk, having a local guide ensures you’re in safe hands. Plus, we know all the hidden gems that you might miss if you were wandering around on your own!
Our blog Why Choose a Food Tour in Anchorage, Alaska? is filled with even more reasons why Alaskan Sights & Bites excursions deserve a spot on your itinerary!
Tourist Safety in Rural Alaska and Wildlife Encounters
Now, let’s talk about the great Alaskan wilderness — one of the main reasons so many people are drawn to our state. As you venture out of towns and cities and into the bush, the likelihood of crime drops. But crime still occurs in villages and parking at trailheads has its dangers, so it’s important to remain vigilant. With fewer people around, you’ll also need to be more self-reliant, especially when it comes to wildlife encounters and navigating the terrain.
Alaska’s wildlife is as majestic as it is diverse. You might come across moose, bears, and other iconic wildlife, even within Anchorage itself. Moose, in particular, are frequently seen wandering through the city, especially in the winter. While they may seem calm, moose can be unpredictable and dangerous if they feel threatened. If you see a moose, keep a safe distance, avoid making sudden movements, and never get between a cow and her calf.
Bears are another common sight in Alaska, particularly in the summer and fall when they’re foraging for food. Black bears, brown bears, grizzlies, and Kodiak brown bears all inhabit the state, including areas close to Anchorage. Coastal brown bears and grizzlies are two variations of the same species, while the Kodiak brown bears are a third variation on Kodiak Island.
If you’re hiking or camping in bear country, always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising a bear, and if you do encounter one, don’t run. Make loud noises and make yourself as large as possible by standing with friends and/or putting your pack or bag above your head. Then, slowly back away while facing the bear, and if it charges, stand your ground and deploy your bear spray. 99% of the time you will never need your bear spray in Alaska and never use it. But if you do need it, you REALLY, REALLY need it. Spend the $50.
Be sure to check out more safety tips for wildlife spotting from the Alaska Department for Fish and Game!
The further you venture from urban areas, the more limited access to emergency services becomes. This is especially true in remote parts of Alaska where cell service is unreliable and medical facilities are hours away. For this reason, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. Always wear appropriate clothing and carry a map, an emergency beacon, plenty of food and water, and a first-aid kit. If you’re exploring National or State Parks, adhere strictly to posted guidelines, stick to designated trails, and never hike alone. Most importantly, always inform someone of your plans and when you expect to return.
Our own Half-Day Anchorage Wildlife Tour with Lunch is a fantastic way to connect with Alaskan nature in a safe, fun, and informative way. And in addition to soaking up our state’s stunning natural beauty and wildlife, you will also enjoy a unique culinary experience in Girdwood!
Alaska’s Weather and Natural Hazards
If you’ve ever heard someone say that Alaska’s weather is unpredictable, believe them! Our state is known for its extreme weather conditions, which can change rapidly and with little warning. However, with some planning and the right gear, you can manage these challenges and stay safe.
In the summer, temperatures can range from pleasantly warm to downright chilly, especially in the evenings. It’s a good idea to dress in layers, so you can easily adjust to changing conditions. Always carry a waterproof jacket, as rain showers can pop up unexpectedly, particularly in coastal areas. This is just one item we cover in our picks for 10 Alaksa travel trips to enhance your adventure.
Winter in Alaska is an entirely different beast. Temperatures in Anchorage can dip well below freezing, and snowstorms are common. If you’re visiting during the winter months, pack appropriately — think thermal layers, insulated boots, gloves, and a warm hat. Remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing! As long as you don’t underestimate the cold, there are plenty of amazing adventures to enjoy.
If you’re driving, make sure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires, and always check road conditions before setting out. Alaska’s roads can be treacherous in the winter, especially if you’re not used to driving in snow and ice.
Alaska’s natural beauty comes with some natural hazards. Avalanches, particularly in mountainous regions, are a serious risk during the winter. If you’re skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling in the backcountry, always check avalanche reports and never venture into avalanche-prone areas without the proper training and equipment.
For those planning to explore Alaska’s waterways, be mindful of the cold water temperatures, even in summer. Always wear a life jacket when boating, kayaking, or fishing, and be aware of weather conditions that could make the water more dangerous.
Take a deeper dive into this topic by reading our blog What is the Best Season to Visit Alaska?
Book Your Guided Anchorage Tours with Alaskan Sights & Bites
We hope this blog has shown just how safe Alaska is to travel as a tourist. And now comes the fun part — planning your adventure! Browse our full range of Anchorage guided tours and find the perfect fit for you. And if you want something a little more personalized, we also curate tailor-made private tours in Anchorage!
Do you have any questions for us? Please feel free to get in touch for all the information you need.
