June is one of the best times to explore Alaska. With nearly 24 hours of daylight in some regions, stunning wildlife, open trails, and mild weather, the state transforms into a travel paradise. If you’re planning a trip, here are the Top 10 Places to Visit in Alaska in June, each offering a unique blend of nature, history, and adventure.
1. Denali National Park and Preserve
When you think of Alaska, Denali tops the list. Home to Denali (Mount McKinley) — the tallest peak in North America — the park spans over six million acres of untouched wilderness.
In June, the park is in full bloom. You can spot grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, and wolves. The Denali Park Road is partially or fully accessible depending on the weather, and the shuttle or bus tours provide the best chance to view wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Top activities:
- Wildlife photography
- Hiking the Savage River Loop
- Flightseeing tours over the mountain range
If you’re an adventurer, don’t miss out on backcountry hiking or camping (with permits). June is ideal for scenic views and fewer mosquitoes compared to July and August.
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2. Kenai Fjords National Park
Situated near Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park is where mountains, ice, and ocean meet. June is the perfect month to explore the park, especially via boat tours that navigate around glaciers and sea cliffs.
Expect to see calving glaciers, humpback whales, sea otters, orcas, puffins, and harbor seals. The highlight is the Exit Glacier, one of the few glaciers in Alaska accessible by road.
Things to do:
- Take a boat tour from Seward
- Kayak near tidewater glaciers
- Visit the Exit Glacier Nature Center
- Hike the Harding Icefield Trail for sweeping views
The mild weather in June allows for excellent hiking conditions and fewer rainy days compared to later in the summer.
3. Juneau – Alaska’s Capital City
Though only accessible by boat or plane, Juneau is a bucket-list destination in Alaska. In June, the city is bursting with activity, especially around the Mendenhall Glacier, which offers easy hiking trails and dramatic ice views.
Top experiences:
- Whale-watching tours to see humpbacks and orcas
- Visiting the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center
- Taking the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic views
- Kayaking and fishing in the Gastineau Channel
June also hosts cultural events and music festivals. With over 18 hours of daylight, you’ll have plenty of time to explore.
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4. Ketchikan – The Salmon Capital of the World
Located in Southeast Alaska, Ketchikan is rich in Tlingit heritage, fishing culture, and natural beauty. June is peak salmon-fishing season, drawing anglers from all over the world.
What to do:
- Visit the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bight State Park
- Go on a floatplane tour to Misty Fjords National Monument
- Explore Creek Street, a historic boardwalk over Ketchikan Creek
- Watch salmon jumping upstream at the Salmon Ladder
Ketchikan receives more rainfall than most Alaskan cities, so pack your rain gear — but don’t let it stop you from experiencing this cultural gem.
5. Skagway – Step Back into the Gold Rush Era
Skagway is famous for its rich history tied to the Klondike Gold Rush. June brings dry weather and blooming landscapes, making it a perfect month for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Things to explore:
- Ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
- Hike the historic Chilkoot Trail
- Visit the Skagway Historic District
- Take a scenic drive to Dyea for wildlife spotting
The small-town charm and old-timey streets make Skagway a memorable stop, especially for cruise travelers.
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6. Sitka – Where Nature Meets Heritage
Sitka is often overlooked, but it’s one of Alaska’s most culturally rich towns. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Sitka boasts Tlingit and Russian influences.
Top June activities:
- Walk through Sitka National Historical Park
- View bald eagles at the Alaska Raptor Center
- Take a sea kayaking tour around Sitka Sound
- Explore St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral
In June, Sitka offers mild temperatures and wildlife sightings including sea otters, whales, and eagles.
7. Fairbanks – Experience the Midnight Sun
Located in Alaska’s interior, Fairbanks is known for its incredible summer daylight — up to 22 hours in June. It’s also one of the best places to experience the Midnight Sun Festival, held around June 21.
Highlights:
- Visit the Museum of the North
- Cruise on the Chena River via a sternwheeler
- Explore Pioneer Park
- Take a dip in the Chena Hot Springs
Fairbanks is a great starting point for excursions to the Arctic Circle, and June’s warm weather makes it more accessible.
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8. Seward – Gateway to Kenai Fjords
Seward is a picturesque port town on Resurrection Bay and a prime launch point for Kenai Fjords tours. June brings more sunshine and calmer seas for wildlife viewing.
Top picks:
- Visit the Alaska SeaLife Center
- Walk the coastal Two Lakes Trail
- Charter a fishing boat
- Explore the small-town charm of local art galleries and eateries
You’ll love the laid-back vibe, and the surrounding wilderness is spectacular in early summer.
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9. Hubbard Glacier – A Spectacle of Ice
Accessible mainly by cruise, Hubbard Glacier is one of the most impressive tidewater glaciers in North America. In June, calving activity increases, making it a spectacular time to visit.
What to expect:
- Towering ice walls up to 400 feet tall
- Ice chunks crashing into the water
- Cruise ship deck views or kayak excursions
- Amazing photo ops and surreal scenery
June’s warmer temperatures make glacier cruising more comfortable and enjoyable, especially with blue skies overhead.
10. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve
The largest national park in the U.S., Wrangell-St. Elias is a rugged, remote wilderness perfect for explorers. June is one of the only months when the park is fully accessible.
Things to do:
- Visit the historic Kennecott Mines
- Hike the Root Glacier Trail
- Take a bush plane for aerial views of the volcanoes
- Camp under the midnight sun
It’s less crowded than Denali, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path experience with massive glaciers, rivers, and mountains to explore.
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Why Visit Alaska in June?
- Long daylight hours (up to 24 hours in some regions)
- Best wildlife viewing (moose calves, bear cubs, whales)
- Active glaciers and open trails
- Warm, relatively dry weather
- Full access to parks and tours
Tips for June Travel in Alaska
- Book early – June kicks off peak season.
- Pack layers – days can be warm, nights chilly.
- Use sunscreen – yes, even in Alaska!
- Bring an eye mask – it’s bright nearly all day.
- Keep rain gear handy – occasional showers still happen.
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FAQs – Places to Visit in Alaska in June
Q1: Is June a good time to visit Alaska?
Yes, June offers warm weather, long daylight, and full access to national parks and wildlife tours.
Q2: Can I see whales in Alaska in June?
Absolutely! June is prime time for humpback whale and orca sightings, especially near Juneau, Seward, and Kenai Fjords.
Q3: Are all tourist attractions open in June?
Yes, June marks the official start of Alaska’s summer travel season, so most tours, lodges, and parks are fully operational.
Q4: How is the weather in Alaska in June?
Expect daytime temperatures between 45°F to 75°F, depending on the region, with minimal rainfall compared to other summer months.
Q5: What wildlife can I see in June?
You can spot brown and black bears, moose calves, caribou, bald eagles, puffins, and a variety of whales.
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Final Thoughts: Explore the Best Places to Visit in Alaska in June
If you’re looking for epic scenery, unforgettable wildlife, and a break from the ordinary, Alaska in June is calling. Whether you’re hiking in Denali or cruising past glaciers, every destination offers something magical.
So pack your gear, charge your camera, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the best places to visit in Alaska in June!
