Tips for Hiking in Alaska
Alaska is one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the country. With so many different landscapes to take in, the state is a veritable Disneyland for hiking aficionados. While hiking in Alaska can be a wonderful experience, it can also be rather dangerous for those who do not prepare properly. Fortunately, there are a variety of things you can do in order to increase your chances of having an enjoyable, safe experience in the Alaskan wilderness.
Plot Your Adventure
Hiking through Alaska without any preplanned course of action can actually be quite dangerous, especially given the fact that it’s so easy to get lost on a hike. Those who are new to hiking in Alaska should stick to easy day hikes that are located near Anchorage. For example, the Eagle River Valley trails not only offer some of the most beautiful views in the state, but are well-mapped and easy to follow. If you are uncomfortable plotting a hike on your own, you might want to enlist the help of a professional guide.
Watch for Bears
Many people don’t realize just how much of a problem bears can be when hiking in Alaska. Bears are omnipresent in the state, and can be extremely dangerous when encountered. When setting up a campsite, avoid leaving any food out, which can easily attract bears towards your area. If you do encounter a bear, remember to stay calm; do not make any sudden movements, which can startle the bear and cause it to attack.
Dress Right
Alaska can be extremely cold, and under-dressing for the weather is a surefire way to ruin your hike. As a result, you should strive to wear the warmest clothes possible on your hike. Even if you feel as if you don’t need extra layers while moving around, it’s a good idea to bring them just in case.
