Which month has the fewest tourists in Alaska?

April, October, and November typically have the fewest tourists and lower travel costs.

Can you take an Alaska cruise year-round?

No, most Alaska cruises operate seasonally from May through September due to weather and sea conditions.

Which month is best for wildlife viewing in Alaska?

June through August are the best months for wildlife viewing, including bears, whales, and moose.

Does Alaska have different climate regions?

Yes, Alaska has coastal, interior, and Arctic climate zones, each with distinct weather patterns.

What is the best month for photography in Alaska?

September is excellent for photography due to fall foliage, dramatic lighting, and Northern Lights opportunities.

Does Alaska experience extreme weather?

Yes, Alaska can experience extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and strong winds, particularly during winter months.

Alaska Weather by Month: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Q: What is the best month to visit Alaska?

The best month to visit Alaska depends on your travel goals. June and July are ideal for warm weather and sightseeing, while February–March and September are best for Northern Lights viewing.

Q: What is the warmest month in Alaska?

July is the warmest month in Alaska, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C).

Q: What is the coldest month in Alaska?

January is typically the coldest month in Alaska, especially in interior regions such as Fairbanks.

Q: Does it snow all year in Alaska?

No, Alaska does not have snow year-round. Snow is common from October through April, while summers are generally snow-free.

Q: When can you see the Northern Lights in Alaska?

The Northern Lights are visible from late August through April when nights are dark and skies are clear.

Q: How much daylight does Alaska get in summer?

In June, some parts of Alaska experience nearly 24 hours of daylight due to the Midnight Sun.

Q: How dark does Alaska get in winter?

During December, northern Alaska can have as little as 2 to 4 hours of daylight, with long periods of twilight.

Q: Is Alaska rainy in summer?

Yes, Alaska can be rainy in summer, especially in July and August and in coastal regions like Southeast Alaska.

Q: What should I pack for Alaska weather?

Travelers should pack layers, a waterproof jacket, warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and season-specific gear such as gloves or insect repellent.

Alaska is a land of dramatic seasons, where weather can shape your entire travel experience. From endless summer daylight to snow-covered winter landscapes, understanding Alaska’s weather by month is essential for planning the perfect trip. This guide breaks down what travelers can expect each month, including temperatures, daylight, and the best activities.

Alaska Weather by Month

Month	Avg Temperature (°F)	Avg Temperature (°C)	Daylight Hours	Weather Highlights	Best For
January	-5 to 20	-20 to -6	3–5	Very cold, heavy snow	Northern Lights, dog sledding
February	0 to 25	-18 to -4	6–8	Cold, clearer skies	Aurora viewing, winter festivals
March	10 to 35	-12 to 2	10–12	Cold, sunnier days	Skiing, snowshoeing
April	20 to 45	-6 to 7	14–16	Snow melting, muddy	Budget travel, sightseeing
May	35 to 55	2 to 13	16–18	Cool, dry, spring blooms	Wildlife viewing, cruises
June	45 to 65	7 to 18	18–24	Mild, Midnight Sun	Hiking, fishing, parks
July	50 to 70	10 to 21	18–20	Warmest, some rain	Cruises, outdoor adventures
August	45 to 65	7 to 18	14–16	Cooler, more rain	Fishing, berry picking
September	35 to 55	2 to 13	12–14	Crisp, fall colors	Photography, Northern Lights
October	25 to 45	-4 to 7	8–10	Snow returns, cold	Aurora viewing, quiet travel
November	10 to 30	-12 to -1	5–7	Dark, snowy	Solitude, Northern Lights
December	-5 to 25	-20 to -4	2–4	Cold, deep winter	Winter scenery, auroras

Alaska Weather in January: Deep Winter Wonderland

Average Temperature: -5°F to 20°F (-20°C to -6°C)
Weather: Very cold, heavy snow in many regions
Daylight: As little as 3–5 hours in northern Alaska

January is ideal for winter enthusiasts. Expect frozen rivers, snow-blanketed landscapes, and excellent conditions for dog sledding, snowmobiling, and Northern Lights viewing. Coastal areas like Anchorage are milder than the interior.

Alaska Weather in February: Cold but Brightening

Average Temperature: 0°F to 25°F (-18°C to -4°C)
Weather: Cold and dry
Daylight: Rapidly increasing

February offers clearer skies and longer days, making it one of the best months for aurora hunting. Winter festivals and outdoor activities are still in full swing.

Alaska Weather in March: Transition to Spring

Average Temperature: 10°F to 35°F (-12°C to 2°C)
Weather: Cold but sunnier
Daylight: 10–12 hours

March is a favorite for locals. Snow remains, but days are noticeably longer. It’s perfect for skiing, snowshoeing, and enjoying Alaska’s late-winter light.

Alaska Weather in April: Early Spring Thaw

Average Temperature: 20°F to 45°F (-6°C to 7°C)
Weather: Snow melting, some muddy conditions
Daylight: 14+ hours

April is a shoulder season. Winter activities fade while summer tourism hasn’t fully started. Travelers can enjoy quieter towns and lower prices, though trails may be wet.

Alaska Weather in May: Spring Awakens

Average Temperature: 35°F to 55°F (2°C to 13°C)
Weather: Cool, relatively dry
Daylight: Up to 18 hours

May marks the beginning of cruise season. Wildlife becomes more active, flowers bloom, and hiking starts to open up. It’s a great month for budget travelers.

Alaska Weather in June: Start of Peak Summer

Average Temperature: 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C)
Weather: Mild and pleasant
Daylight: Nearly 24 hours in some regions

June offers Alaska’s famous Midnight Sun. This is one of the best months for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and national park visits.

Alaska Weather in July: Warmest Month

Average Temperature: 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C)
Weather: Warmest and sometimes rainy
Daylight: 18–20 hours

July is peak tourist season. Expect lush landscapes, active wildlife, and excellent conditions for cruises and outdoor adventures. Mosquitoes can be strong—pack repellent.

Alaska Weather in August: Late Summer & Early Fall

Average Temperature: 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C)
Weather: Cooler, more rain
Daylight: Gradually decreasing

August is fantastic for berry picking, fishing, and early fall colors. Toward the end of the month, Northern Lights may begin to reappear in darker skies.

Alaska Weather in September: Fall Colors & Aurora Season

Average Temperature: 35°F to 55°F (2°C to 13°C)
Weather: Cool and crisp
Daylight: 12–14 hours

September is a favorite for photographers. Fall foliage peaks, crowds thin out, and aurora viewing improves—especially in the interior.

Alaska Weather in October: Winter Returns

Average Temperature: 25°F to 45°F (-4°C to 7°C)
Weather: Snow begins, colder nights
Daylight: Rapidly decreasing

October is a quiet month. Roads and services may start to close, but it’s a good time for Northern Lights and early winter scenery.

Alaska Weather in November: Dark & Cold

Average Temperature: 10°F to 30°F (-12°C to -1°C)
Weather: Snowy and cold
Daylight: Very limited

November is not ideal for general sightseeing, but it’s excellent for travelers seeking solitude and strong aurora activity.

Alaska Weather in December: Arctic Winter Magic

Average Temperature: -5°F to 25°F (-20°C to -4°C)
Weather: Cold, snowy
Daylight: As little as 2–4 hours in the north

December brings festive winter charm. Despite limited daylight, travelers can enjoy holiday events, Northern Lights, and iconic winter experiences.

Best Time to Visit Alaska (Quick Summary)

Best for Warm Weather & Sightseeing: June – July
Best for Budget Travel: May & September
Best for Northern Lights: February – March & September – November
Best for Winter Adventures: December – March

Alaska Weather FAQs

1. What is the best month to visit Alaska?

The best month depends on your interests. June and July are best for warm weather and sightseeing, while February–March and September are ideal for Northern Lights.

2. What is the warmest month in Alaska?

July is typically the warmest month, with average temperatures between 50°F and 70°F (10°C–21°C).

3. What is the coldest month in Alaska?

January is usually the coldest month, especially in interior regions like Fairbanks.

4. Does it snow all year in Alaska?

No. Snow is common from October through April, but summer months usually have little to no snowfall.

5. When can you see the Northern Lights in Alaska?

Northern Lights are best seen from late August through April, when nights are dark and skies are clear.

6. How much daylight does Alaska get in summer?

During June, some areas experience up to 24 hours of daylight due to the Midnight Sun.

7. How dark does Alaska get in winter?

In December, northern Alaska can have as little as 2–4 hours of daylight, with extended twilight.

8. Is Alaska rainy in summer?

Yes, July and August can be rainy, especially in coastal areas like Southeast Alaska.

9. What should I pack for Alaska weather?

Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and seasonal gear like gloves or mosquito repellent.

10. Which month has the least tourists in Alaska?

April, October, and November are considered shoulder or low seasons with fewer visitors.

11. Is May a good time to visit Alaska?

Yes. May offers longer daylight, fewer crowds, lower prices, and emerging wildlife.

12. Is September too cold to visit Alaska?

No. September is cool but comfortable and offers fall colors and aurora viewing.

13. Can you cruise to Alaska year-round?

No. Most Alaska cruises operate from May through September.

14. Which month is best for wildlife viewing?

June through August are best for spotting bears, whales, and other wildlife.

15. Are mosquitoes bad in Alaska?

Mosquitoes can be heavy in June and July, especially near lakes and wetlands.

16. Does Alaska have different climates?

Yes. Alaska has coastal, interior, and Arctic climates, which vary significantly by region.

17. Is winter travel in Alaska safe?

Yes, with proper preparation. Winter travel requires cold-weather gear and planning.

18. What month is best for photography in Alaska?

September is excellent for photography due to fall colors and dramatic lighting.

19. Does Alaska have extreme weather?

Alaska can experience extreme cold, heavy snow, and strong winds, particularly in winter.

20. When is the cheapest time to visit Alaska?

The cheapest times are April, early May, and October, outside peak tourist season.

Final Tips for Travelers

Always pack layers, regardless of season.
Weather varies greatly between coastal, interior, and northern Alaska.
Check daylight hours carefully when planning activities.

No matter when you visit, Alaska’s weather adds to its wild beauty. With the right planning, every month offers something unforgettable.