Known as the last frontier and purchased from Russia for a cheap two cents per acre, the 49^th state is worth visiting even if you have to endure a long flight. In some parts it is truly the Wild West, and you are transported back in time, and in others you are in instant awe of the size of the mountains surrounding you and the giant Moose walking before you.

1. The natural beauty makes you feel small

Alaska is the kind of place that immediately makes you say, “Yep, there is definitely a God up there.” Whether you are camping next to a salmon-filled river, white water rafting with bald eagles flying overhead or hiking on a huge block of ice that is just a small part of a moving glacier, Alaska puts your life in perspective. It is a place that makes you realize just how small you are compared to the natural wonders that surround you.

2. The fishing and wildlife viewing

If you are an avid fisherman or fisherwoman, Alaska is probably already on your bucket list of places you wish to go fishing. I never had a chance to go salmon fishing, but I have heard it is quite the sport. You must snag the fish in the mouth with your hook because they normally don’t bite. I have however gone halibut fishing, and it gave me a huge amount of respect for the men and women that fish in the Gulf of Alaska as a career. The waters are rough, the wind is cold, and if you don’t have much arm strength like me, reeling up the massive fish can be challenging. It was however one of the best fishing experiences I have had, and I came back with pounds and pounds of fish.

The wildlife viewing in Alaska also cannot be beat. The only way to describe it is that the animals, birds and insects are larger than life. The bald eagles are massive, way bigger than you have ever seen, the bears roam freely and it is not at all uncommon to see two to three moose each day. Not to even mention the magnificent whales, sea lions and orcas you can see on whale-watching tours. It really is a wildlife experience on steroids.

3. Adventurous activities

Have you ever wanted to raft on class V rapids or hike up a giant mountain? What about 4-wheel down riverbeds or snowmobile off the side of cliffs? You can easily do all of these things and more when visiting Alaska. It really is an adventure-seeker’s paradise.

4. The overly fresh seafood

Image Source: www.adventuresportfishing.com

I almost don’t even want to eat salmon now because of how good it was in Alaska. I am officially spoiled. Fresh salmon is red people, not pink, and trust me it tastes so much better as well. The crab, sushi, halibut, rockfish…you name it, is the freshest I have ever tasted. I would probably jump on a plane right now for the seafood if I could.

Do you ever wonder why there are so many TV shows that follow the lives of Alaskans? It is because the things you see there you can’t see anywhere else in the world. Save up now and hop on that plane because those mountains and rivers are waiting for you to explore.