Alaska
Some folks refer to Alaska as “the last frontier.” It’s a lovely turn of phrase – but why does your Alaskan exploration have to come last? Why is it that an enormous percentage of the state’s tourism exists in the form of cruises that emphasize a certain hands-off experience? While it’s never too late to see it for yourself, Alaska is for the young. It’s for rarefied hikes and extra-long bonfires and a litany of adventures that you’ll look back on in your later years and scarcely believe you had the guts to pull off. Alaska is for the bold. We think you can handle it.
Matanuska Glacier
This enormous glacier is one that you can actually hike on year-round, yet it feels more like a visit to another planet than a trail just two hours’ drive from Anchorage.
Jack Sprat
A day of getting after it in Girdwood, whether it’s by hiking, fishing, or skiing, will make a delicious, well-earned meal even tastier. Skip the on-mountain dining at Alyeska in favor of Jack Sprat, a restaurant as rustically beautiful as the valley where it sits.
Whittier
Sometimes camping means working hard for your views. In places like Whittier, they come for free. Post up here for a night of scenic car-camping (and be sure to check the operating hours of the road tunnel you’ll need to take to drive in from Anchorage).
Flying Squirrel
Can’t stand another can of campfire chili? No problem. Pick up pizza from the Flying Squirrel in Talkeetna to fuel your Denali adventures and take a night off from the Coleman stove.
