Best place for wildlife/hiking in September

Question

So this is a very broad question. I got the okay to plan a short (3-4 day) trip to Alaska the second week of September. My interests include seeing as much wildlife as possible (specifically moose), doing some short hikes (4 miles or less), and scenic driving. I am a photographer and being able to see a moose among the fall foliage will make the whole trip worth it for me. I will be renting a car and am willing to spend time driving. I was originally thinking Fairbanks to visit Denali National Park, but this seems like more of a day trip and from what I read Fairbanks may not have the most incredible scenic views to make it worth 3-4 days. Museums and touring small towns are not my priority this trip. Also note I am extremely aware that wildlife in Alaska can be dangerous and will be taking all precautions necessary to stay safe.

Answer

For a short 3-4 day trip in September focused on wildlife, photography, and short hikes, Alaska offers several excellent options that maximize your chances of seeing moose and other wildlife amidst stunning fall foliage. Since you’re renting a car, prioritizing areas with scenic drives and accessible hikes is ideal.

One strong recommendation is the area around Anchorage, Girdwood, and the Kenai Peninsula. This region combines relatively short travel times, abundant wildlife, and scenic landscapes.

Anchorage to Girdwood/Turnagain Arm: The drive along the Seward Highway (Turnagain Arm) offers breathtaking fall colors and frequent moose sightings, especially in the early morning or late evening. There are several short hikes along the route, such as the Winner Creek Trail or Thunderbird Falls.
Chugach State Park: Just outside Anchorage, Chugach State Park has numerous short hikes with scenic overlooks. Moose are commonly spotted in the lower elevations and along rivers. Trails like the Eagle River Nature Center loop are less than 4 miles and offer excellent photo opportunities.
Kenai Peninsula: Consider driving from Anchorage to Seward or Homer. The Sterling Highway offers multiple pull-offs for wildlife viewing. Short hikes like Exit Glacier Trail (Seward) or the Homer Spit trails provide both scenic landscapes and wildlife opportunities.

Another option is the Denali Highway (between Paxson and Cantwell). While a bit more remote, it’s a prime area for moose sightings and other wildlife in September, with minimal crowds and stunning autumn colors. Some short hikes along lakes and rivers are easily accessible from the highway.

Denali Highway: Drive portions of this gravel highway for moose, caribou, and scenic vistas. Be prepared for rugged conditions, especially if the weather is wet, and bring appropriate gear.
Denali National Park (South Entrance near Healy): September is quieter with fewer tourists, and wildlife including moose, Dall sheep, and bears can still be seen. Shuttle buses can drop you off at trailheads for short hikes under 4 miles.

Practical tips for maximizing wildlife photography and hiking:

Start hikes early in the morning or late afternoon, when wildlife is most active and light is ideal for photography.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens to safely capture moose and other wildlife from a distance.
Dress in layers, as September weather can be chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Stay on marked trails and maintain safe distances from all wildlife.

Overall, for a short trip, basing yourself in Anchorage and making day trips to Girdwood, Turnagain Arm, and the Kenai Peninsula is highly efficient. If you prefer a more remote experience with higher wildlife probability, consider spending a night along the Denali Highway and doing short hikes there, while keeping the drive manageable.