If you’re drawn to places bursting with extraordinary landscapes, rich cultures, and wildlife encounters that will make your heart skip a beat, look no further than the breathtaking territories of Canada and Alaska. They’re beautiful all year round, but there’s something incredibly special about the summer months. Join our travel expert, Leah, as she unravels the magic that unfolds in the warmer seasons in these majestic lands and find out the best time to visit Canada and Alaska.
Best time to visit Canada and Alaska
Nestled in the north-western corner of North America, Alaska shares a border and a similar climate with its neighbouring country, Canada. Both offer distinct charms throughout the year. The winter months plunge into icy realms, creating a wonderland perfect for adrenaline-fueled winter sports. But as the snow thaws and summer comes around, a remarkable transformation occurs.
The best time to visit the Canadian Rockies and Alaska is during the window from May to August. During this time, both destinations bask in a comfortable climate with relatively low rainfall. Canada holidays invite you to enjoy diverse inland and coastal terrains, often relishing in extended daylight hours and slightly higher temperatures.
Landscape and Natural Beauty
As summer unfolds, Canada and Alaska seem to emerge from a cocoon, transforming into an exhibition of natural grandeur that leaves visitors awestruck. It’s as if these regions don their finest attire, showcasing landscapes that are a spectacle of brilliant wildflowers blooming under the radiant sun, casting a vibrant palette across the terrains.
The rich green tapestry of lush forests and national parks is another element that accentuates the summer beauty of Canada and Alaska. Majestic conifers tower skyward, their branches swaying gently in the warm breeze, while deciduous trees flaunt their broad, verdant leaves. The forests seem almost endless, extending as far as the eye can see, providing a serene backdrop to the colourful wildflower displays.
Summer in the far north also brings the phenomenon of extended daylight hours, often referred to as the ‘midnight sun.’ This is not just a unique spectacle but also allows more time for exploration and outdoor activities, providing both recreational and practical benefits for travellers. The summer temperatures, which are comfortably warm without being oppressive, encourage outdoor exploration.
Top Tip: Although the ‘midnight sun’ means more time to explore the beauty of the region, it can also sometimes disrupt your beauty sleep. Consider bringing an eye mask for sleeping so you can properly recharge each evening
Adventures and Experiences
When it comes to activities, holidays in Canada and Alaska serve up a banquet of unforgettable experiences. Summer in Canada could mean navigating the bustling shopping districts of Toronto, embarking on a picturesque train journey through the formidable Rockies, or capturing the majesty of whales in eastern Québec.
Alaska holidays, on the other hand, cater to the adventurous spirit with the world’s longest zipline and exhilarating kayak trips through icy fjords. One of the unique summer spectacles in Alaska is the sight of glaciers calving – a process where chunks of ice break off and crash into the sea. This natural event, spurred on by the warmer temperatures, is a dramatic display of Mother Nature’s incredible power.
Top Tip: Summer is the high season for tourism in Canada and Alaska, so popular accommodations, activities, and attractions can sell out quickly. Be sure to book early to secure your preferred itinerary.
Wildlife Encounters
The vast expanses of untouched wilderness in Canada and Alaska are sanctuaries for an incredible variety of wildlife. Summer months offer some of the best whale watching opportunities globally, with a dazzling array of species to spot. Alaskan waters are frequented by minke, grey and humpback whales, whereas Québec’s waters are home to thousands of beluga whales.
Summer also signals the end of hibernation for many animals. Witness the stirring of life as bears emerge from their winter slumbers, foraging for food near gushing rivers and streams. If a bear-watching shore excursion is on your bucket list, late June to early July is your best bet for spotting these magnificent grizzly bears and their adorable cubs.
Top Tip: Of course, you must always be aware of your surroundings and know how to respond if you encounter wildlife. In particular, learn about bear safety if you plan to hike or camp in bear country.
Discover More
Are you captivated by the enchanting possibilities of a summer trip to Canada and Alaska? Get in touch with one of our travel agents today. Our team of seasoned travel experts are eager to guide you on an adventure you’ll treasure for a lifetime and plan the perfect itinerary to suit your needs.
