As a photographer, there’s nothing quite like the magic of capturing Alaska’s awe-inspiring beauty. From its towering mountains and expansive glaciers to the deep blues of the ocean and the rich greens of the forests, Alaska offers some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just someone who loves snapping photos, the Last Frontier is full of opportunities to create breathtaking images. If you’re planning to visit this incredible state, here are some of the top scenic spots in Alaska where you’ll want to have your camera ready.
1. Denali National Park
If there’s one place in Alaska that defines grandeur, it’s Denali National Park. Home to the tallest peak in North America—Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley)—this park offers photographers a chance to capture vast, untamed landscapes. The views of the mountain are jaw-dropping, especially when the sun casts its light on the snow-capped peak. The surrounding wilderness, with its alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and dense forests, provides endless opportunities for stunning photographs.
One of the best times to visit Denali for photography is during the late spring and summer months when the wildflowers bloom and wildlife is abundant. Moose, caribou, and grizzly bears roam the landscape, providing fantastic wildlife photography moments. You can also venture on hiking trails for a closer look at the dramatic terrain or take a flightseeing tour to capture aerial shots of the park’s incredible topography.
2. Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an absolute must for photographers. This stunning area, located in Southeast Alaska, is home to enormous glaciers, dramatic icebergs, and diverse wildlife. The park is known for its massive tidewater glaciers, where you can capture the magical moment when chunks of ice calve off and crash into the water below. The contrast of the vibrant blue ice against the rugged, often mist-covered mountains creates a mesmerizing image.
For the best shots, consider taking a boat tour through the park to get up close to the glaciers. The reflections of the ice and mountains in the still waters make for incredibly striking photos. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might even capture some humpback whales or sea otters frolicking in the waters—a perfect way to showcase the rich marine life that thrives here.
3. The Kenai Peninsula
For a coastal experience, the Kenai Peninsula should be on your list. This area is known for its breathtaking coastal scenery, where snow-capped mountains rise dramatically from the ocean, offering a striking contrast of landscapes. Here, you can photograph picturesque seaside cliffs, stunning sunsets over the water, and diverse wildlife including bald eagles, sea otters, and bears.
One of the top spots on the Kenai Peninsula is Seward, where you can take a boat tour to explore the rugged coastline and photograph the impressive Resurrection Bay. If you venture into Kenai Fjords National Park, the glaciers here are just as spectacular, and the wildlife sightings are incredible. Whether you’re photographing the pristine waters or the dramatic landforms, the Kenai Peninsula offers endless opportunities for unforgettable photos.
4. The Northern Lights
If you’re lucky enough to visit Alaska in the winter months, don’t miss the chance to photograph the Northern Lights. The dancing auroras are one of nature’s most magical light shows, and Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see them. Locations like Fairbanks, the Brooks Range, and the Arctic Circle provide some of the most vibrant and dramatic views of the aurora borealis.
For the best shots, you’ll need a clear night and dark skies, so plan to head away from the city lights. A tripod is essential for capturing long exposures, and you’ll want to set your camera to a high ISO setting to bring out the vivid colors of the lights. The Northern Lights are unpredictable, but the effort is well worth it when you get that perfect shot of neon greens and purples lighting up the Alaskan sky.
5. The Inside Passage
If you want to experience the true essence of Alaska’s coastal beauty, you can’t miss the Inside Passage. This stunning waterway, which stretches from Washington State up to Alaska, is dotted with picturesque islands, charming coastal towns, and towering mountains. The best way to explore the Inside Passage is by boat, which gives you some of the coolest photo opportunities. The calm, reflective waters create perfect conditions for capturing mirror-like images of the islands and mountains around you.
Whether you’re photographing the verdant forests of the Tongass National Forest or the brilliant blue waters of the fjords, there’s no shortage of scenic views along this route. Make sure to bring a good zoom lens, as you’ll often have the opportunity to capture wildlife like sea lions, otters, and whales as they frolic in the waters. The peaceful beauty of the Inside Passage offers a completely different perspective of Alaska’s wild landscapes and is ideal for photographers seeking unique shots.
6. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
For those willing to explore a more remote part of Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a photographer’s paradise. As the largest national park in the U.S., this vast wilderness area is filled with jagged peaks, glaciers, and valleys that seem untouched by time. The park is home to the Wrangell and St. Elias mountain ranges, both of which offer sweeping vistas and dramatic views for your camera.
If you’re up for some adventure, consider taking a glacier trek or a flightseeing tour to capture sweeping aerial shots of the park’s glaciers and remote wilderness. The Wrangell-St. Elias mountains are often shrouded in mist, which adds an ethereal quality to the photos and makes for a truly unique Alaskan landscape.
7. The Alaska Highway
If you’re road-tripping through Alaska, the Alaska Highway offers plenty of photographic opportunities. As you drive through the state, you’ll encounter a range of landscapes, from dense forests and rolling hills to expansive fields and towering mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass by pristine lakes, small towns, and expansive views that showcase the raw beauty of Alaska’s wilderness.
Be sure to stop along the way at places like Tok, Delta Junction, and the Kluane National Park for panoramic shots of the landscape. The Alaska Highway provides a different perspective of Alaska, offering a more personal and intimate experience with the land.
Final Thoughts
Alaska is a photographer’s dream, with landscapes so varied and magnificent that they’ll take your breath away. Whether you’re looking to explore glaciers up close, capture wildlife in action, or photograph some of the most stunning natural vistas in the world, Alaska has something for every type of photographer. So pack your camera gear, get ready to explore the stunning wilderness, and prepare to create some unforgettable photos that will forever remind you of your Alaskan adventure.