The most prominent international airports where flights to Alaska can touch down are Ted Stevens Anchorage International, Fairbanks International, Ketchikan International and Juneau International. Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines are among the many airlines that handle flights to Alaska from domestic and international locations. Alaska Airlines and regional airlines also operate jet travel to smaller communities throughout the state, and air travel is generally one of the most convenient methods of transportation in Alaska. You may also encounter bush planes and turboprop planes on your intra-Alaska flights.

Alaska Weather

"The Great Land" is the coolest state in the Unites States, with the average summer temperature in Anchorage hovering around 65F and winter temperatures around 21F. The Alaska interior region experiences short, cool summers and cold winters, while Juneau and the southeast area have relatively milder winters and more rainfall. Snow is prevalent throughout the state during winter months, often shutting down Alaska flights and roads, so visitors should be sure to check road conditions and flight statuses. Daylight hours are long in summer, and it's a popular time for backpacking tours, hiking, wildlife viewing, rafting, and other outdoor recreation. During winter, the day shortens but many still come to see the Northern Lights and enjoy winter sports such as dog sledding. May and September are great off-season times for cheap air ticket prices and bargain lodging deals.

Getting Around Alaska

Car and RV rentals are a popular way to traverse the scenic and wild Alaskan roads. Well-known national parks such as Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, and Kenai Fjords are easily accessible by driving, with grocery stores, gas stations, dining spots, and accommodations found along all the main routes. Some Alaskan cities and towns, including Juneau, are only accessible by air or by water. Ferries abound in the coastal areas and along river networks and carry both passengers and vehicles down the Alaska Marine Highway. Cruise ships are also a popular way to see Alaska's water-bound cities and natural wonders. Due to the state's immense size, domestic flights are plentiful and convenient for visitors wanting to cover widespread attractions.

Alaska Attractions

Tourists flock to Alaska for its rugged landscapes, impressive vistas, wildlife, and great outdoor adventures. The state's indigenous culture and history are on display at the Anchorage Museum and the Native Heritage Center, or taste local award-winning brews at Alaskan Brewing Company. Here are some more Alaska attractions:

• Denali National Park, home to the country's highest mountain Mt. McKinley and abundant in wildlife, birdlife, lakes, and scenic beauty.
• Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, a famous 975-mile sled dog race from Anchorage to Nome taking place annually in March.
• Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis), an electromagnetic light phenomenon appearing in the winter months and generally best viewed in Fairbanks.
• Juneau, Alaska's vibrant capital city originally founded in 1880 as a gold-mining camp.
• Glacier Bay National Park, a wilderness park comprising 3.3 million acres of coastlines, mountains, and glaciers packed with outdoor recreation.