Is mid August a good time?

Question

I know this question is a regular one but reading through posts gives a lot of conflicting information, so maybe the answe depends more on what we are looking to do. So I am hoping if I share some plans someone with experience can give a more accurate answer on wether MID August is a good time or if we should look to visit earlier.

2 adults 1 child cruise followed by land tour probably travelling by train, main things are wildlife, eagles, whales and bears and anything else. Short walks but no real hiking and just exploring town, not currently looking at helicopter excursions but that may change

Thanks in advance for any advice on this

Answer

Mid-August is generally an excellent time to visit Alaska, especially for a cruise followed by a land tour, given your interests in wildlife, short walks, and town exploration. By this time, most of the state has experienced its warmer summer weather, and the days are still long, giving you plenty of daylight for sightseeing and wildlife viewing.

Here are some considerations specific to your plans:

Wildlife Viewing: Mid-August is still a good period for spotting bears, especially along streams and rivers where they may be fishing for salmon. Whale sightings remain strong in coastal areas, though the peak humpback whale season can be a bit earlier, in June and July. Eagles are abundant year-round, but summer is ideal for spotting them actively hunting and feeding.
Weather: Expect relatively mild temperatures for Alaska, typically ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. Rain is always a possibility, but August is generally one of the drier months compared to May–July.
Crowds: Mid-August is still considered peak tourist season, especially along cruise ports and popular towns like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Expect moderate crowds at excursions and popular viewpoints. Booking activities in advance is recommended.
Daylight: You will still have very long days, with sunrise around 5:30–6:00 AM and sunset after 8:30 PM, which is perfect for maximizing sightseeing without being rushed.
Land Tours: Train trips and short walks around towns are comfortable at this time of year. Trails are generally snow-free, making it easier for casual exploration. Helicopter excursions are optional and weather-dependent, but mid-August usually has good flying conditions.

Additional tips for making the most of a mid-August Alaska trip:

Bring layered clothing to accommodate variable weather, including a waterproof jacket.
Binoculars are highly recommended for spotting wildlife from cruise decks or land excursions.
Book popular excursions (whale watching, wildlife tours, and train trips) in advance to ensure availability.
Consider combining cruise ports with short, accessible hikes or boardwalks to see wildlife safely and comfortably with a child.

In summary, mid-August is a solid choice for your cruise and land tour combination. Weather, wildlife, and accessibility are favorable, and with proper planning for excursions and accommodations, you should have an enjoyable and memorable Alaskan experience without the need for strenuous hiking or adventure-focused activities.