Alaska itinerary in August

Question

Hi..this is our itinerary for our upcoming Alaska trip at the end of August with a 20month old. Any better suggestions or things to add/remove? Also what to wear?Will it be too rainy and cold?

Day 1:

Fly to Anchorage from Seattle

Shop groceries

Kincaid Park

Stay in Anchorage

Day 2:

Beluga Point

Turnagain Arm

Byron Glacier Trail (2 hours)- 2.2 mi

Portage Pass Overlook

Scenic View of Portage Lake viewpoint

Stay in Seward

Day 3:

Kenai Fjords National Park cruise

Day 4:

Exit Glacier (1.5 hour) 2.2 mi

Alaska wildlife conservation center

Stay in Palmer

Day 5:

Matanuska Glacier View(drive only)

Glacier landing Heli touring (booked)

Stay in Talkeetna

Day 6:

Day to just relax and see around (skipping Denali national Park because of toddler and long drive)

Denali state park

Stay in Talkeetna

Day 7:

Alyeska Tram

Portage Glacier - Whittier cruise

Stay in Anchorage

Day 8:

Eklutna Lake

Fly back to Seattle

Answer

Your Alaska itinerary looks well-paced, especially with a 20-month-old, and balances sightseeing with toddler-friendly activities. Late August is generally a good time for weather, but it can be unpredictable, so layering and waterproof gear are essential.

Weather and clothing:

Expect daytime temperatures in Anchorage and coastal areas around 55–65°F (13–18°C). Interior areas like Talkeetna and Palmer can be slightly warmer, up to 70°F (21°C).
Rain is possible any day; a lightweight, waterproof jacket and waterproof shoes are recommended.
Layering is key: long-sleeve shirts, fleece or wool mid-layers, and a warm hat for mornings/evenings.
For the toddler: bring a warm, waterproof jacket, hat, and extra layers. Footwear should be sturdy for short walks and easy trails.

Day-by-day considerations:

Day 1 – Anchorage: Shopping groceries and Kincaid Park is perfect for adjusting to Alaska and letting your toddler stretch. Kincaid Park has short trails suitable for strollers or toddlers.
Day 2 – Turnagain Arm & Seward area: Beluga Point and Turnagain Arm offer scenic stops; Byron Glacier Trail is toddler-friendly but keep pace slow and carry necessary snacks/water. Portage Pass Overlook and Portage Lake viewpoints are short stops, easy with a small child.
Day 3 – Kenai Fjords Cruise: Cruises are family-friendly, but check if your toddler can handle the full duration on a boat. Bring snacks, warm layers, and motion-sickness remedies if needed.
Day 4 – Exit Glacier & Wildlife Center: Short trail at Exit Glacier is manageable. Wildlife Center is excellent for toddlers and allows close-up animal viewing safely.
Day 5 – Matanuska Glacier & Heli tour: Drive-by viewing is easy. Heli tour is exciting but ensure the operator allows toddlers and check safety requirements.
Day 6 – Talkeetna relaxation: Skipping Denali is wise with a toddler. Denali State Park has scenic viewpoints and short easy trails; a relaxed day is ideal.
Day 7 – Alyeska Tram & Portage Glacier/Whittier cruise: Tram is toddler-friendly. Portage Glacier cruise is short, making it suitable for little ones. Keep a flexible pace.
Day 8 – Eklutna Lake: Short hikes or picnics are ideal. Consider stroller-friendly paths and bring layers in case of wind or rain.

Additional tips:

Plan for frequent breaks and snack times for the toddler.
Use a child carrier backpack for trails with uneven terrain.
Have flexible timing for activities in case the toddler needs naps or downtime.
Check local visitor centers for updated weather and trail conditions.

Overall, this itinerary is ambitious but realistic with a toddler if you maintain a flexible pace, focus on scenic stops, and allow for rest. Layered clothing, rain gear, and toddler-friendly equipment will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Alaska itinerary in August

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