Planning Your Epic Alaska Honeymoon: Adventurous and Romantic

Are you dreaming of an Alaska honeymoon that’s as adventurous and unique as your love story? Well, you’re on the right track in your choice of destination! No matter where you are saying your “I Do’s”, Alaska offers an unforgettable backdrop for your first adventure as a married couple. And hey, if you’re thinking of eloping, why not do it all in one go and plan an epic Alaskan elopement? I happen to know a photographer that can help with that (wink wink, nudge nudge ;))

Alaska has unmatched Natural Beauty

Alaska’s vast landscapes are filled with dramatic mountains, serene lakes, and majestic wildlife, providing endless opportunities for romance and adventure. Imagine cuddling up by a fire in a cozy cabin or waking up to views of towering glaciers. Every corner of this stunning state offers a new scene waiting to be the backdrop of your love story. There are lots of easy drive up locations, and others that involve a hike or a flight to get to, but I promise whatever route you go there will always be something gorgeous to see.

Dreamy Accommodations for your Alaska Honeymoon

There are some truly unique places to stay for your Alaska Honeymoon, from luxurious lodges to charming bed and breakfasts. Whether you’re looking for a rustic retreat or a lavish resort, you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind after your days of adventure. Here are some of my top recommendations for the best honeymoon experience:

1. Borealis Basecamp –

An exquisite choice, offering clear-roofed igloos that provide an unparalleled view of the northern lights and the starry sky, all from the comfort of your bed.

2. Sheldon Chalet –

Experience luxury in the heart of Denali National Park. This exclusive chalet provides breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, perfect for adventurous couples looking for a unique luxury experience.

3. Alyeska Resort –

Nestled in the Chugach Mountain range, Alyeska offers luxury accommodations, fine dining, and access to year-round outdoor activities, making it ideal for honeymooners who enjoy both adventure and relaxation. You can also relax in their Nordic Spa (whether you stay there or not) and get a couples massage, my husband and I have done it and loved it!

But you don’t need to stay at Alyeska Resort to discover the wonders of Girdwood! Check out these other fantastic accommodation options!

• Mountain Cabin on Alyeska with Amazing Valley Views
• Rustic chalet w/ private hot tub & sauna, views, near the slopes
• Chalet w/ private hot tub in quiet location 3 blocks to the resort, dogs welcome
• Chalet w/ private hot tub in quiet location 3 blocks to the resort, dogs welcome

4. Mountain Field Farm –

Located in Palmer, Alaska, the perfect stay for just the two of you. It has all the amenities you’d need, gorgeous views and is close to local shops, restaurants and cafes.

5. Tutka Bay Lodge –

Located at the southern end of Kachemak Bay State Park, this lodge is accessible only by boat or floatplane. They offer an exclusive and secluded escape with gourmet food and beautiful cabin accommodations.

6. The Hotel Captain Cook –

For those who prefer urban comforts, this hotel in downtown Anchorage offers luxury with stunning views of the Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains. It is also close to city amenities and cultural experiences.

8. Chena Hot Springs Resort –

Located outside Fairbanks, this resort is famous for its natural hot springs. It’s perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. It’s also another great spot for viewing the northern lights.

Are you interested in exploring Chena Hot Springs but prefer not to stay at the resort? No worries. Here are some personal favorite accommodation options in the Fairbanks area.

• This memorable stay is anything but ordinary
• It is a tiny home in the treehouse located in the middle of Fairbanks.
• More Fairbanks rentals here!

9. Knik River Lodge –

Offering cozy cabins with breathtaking views of the Knik River and surrounding mountains, this lodge provides a peaceful retreat. Also has easy access to helicopter tours and glacier adventures.

10. Winterlake Lodge –

This remote lodge (you fly out by small plane) on the Iditarod Trail offers luxury in the wilderness. Offering with helicopter adventures, dog sledding, and world-class culinary experiences.

Exciting Activities for Your Alaska Honeymoon

Your Alaska honeymoon can be as laid-back or as adventurous as you’d like, or a perfect mix of both—it’s up to you! Regardless of if you’re envisioning more cozy and low-key adventures or once that will get your heart pumping, Alaska has it all. To help you plan, here are just a few epic activities to consider for your Alaska honeymoon!

• Glacier Tours:

Alaska is home to some of the most awe-inspiring glaciers in the world, and there are many ways to experience them! Whether you want to hike across ancient ice, kayak or paddle board past towering blue walls, or take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view, there’s a glacier adventure perfect for your honeymoon. Since there are so many different glaciers and tour companies to choose from, I’ve put together a guide to help. Check out my blog HOW TO ELOPE ON A GLACIER IN ALASKA: GLACIER ELOPEMENT TIPS for more details.

• Wildlife Viewing:

From majestic brown bears to playful sea otters, Alaska’s wildlife is unparalleled.

• Northern Lights Viewing:

Depending on the timing of your honeymoon, you might catch the ethereal dance of the Aurora Borealis. Follow Vincent Ledvina for all things aurora borealis and to stay up to date on the forecasts.

• Get out on the water:

Dive into Alaska’s favorite pastimes to truly connect with the natural world around you. Take a Fishing Charter or Sailboat ride. Whittier, Seward, Kenai and Homer are all places you can go(from mainland) for Deep Sea Fishing. You can check with Miller’s Landing for tours out of Seward! Resurrection Bay Sailing is a great option for Sailboats out of Seward!

• Glacial Paddle Boarding:

If you’re up for a one-of-a-kind adventure, you’ve got to check out Outbound’s Glacier Paddle Boarding! Picture yourself gliding across icy blue waters, surrounded by towering glaciers—it’s an experience you won’t forget. If you’re looking to add a little thrill to your Alaska honeymoon, this is definitely the way to do it!

• Dog Sledding:

Experience the thrill of dog sledding and connect with some amazing sled dogs on an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. For a true winter wonderland experience, Snowhook Adventure Guides offers incredible tours through the snow. Visiting in the summer? You can still experience the magic with a Glacier Dog Sledding tour—where you’ll fly up to a remote glacier and mush across the ice for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

• Glacier Jetskiing:

This is so fun I’ve done it TWICE personally and HIGHLY recommend it if you love adventure and aren’t afraid of deep water or sealife. It’s incredible!

Exploring Alaska’s National Parks

If you’ve made it this far into the blog, I’m guessing you’re the kind of couple who loves the great outdoors and probably already has a pair of hiking boots ready to go! One of the best ways to soak in the beauty of Alaska while honeymooning is by hitting the trails in some of the state’s most breathtaking national parks. Whether you’re looking for an easy, scenic stroll or a challenging hike with panoramic views, Alaska has something for every type of adventurer. Not sure where to start? Check out my top hiking recommendations below to find the perfect trail for your post-wedding adventure!

1. Denali National Park and Preserve:

• When to Go: The best time to hike in Denali is from June to early September when the weather is most favorable and the snow’s melted off.

• What to Do: Tackle trails like the Horseshoe Lake Trail for an easy hike with views of beaver activity and a quiet lake, or the Savage River Loop for a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the rugged terrain. For a more challenging hike, Mount Healy Overlook Trail offers breathtaking vistas.

2. Kenai Fjords National Park:

• When to Go: Visit from late May through September for ideal hiking conditions.

• What to Do: Explore the Exit Glacier area where you can hike alongside this iconic glacier and learn about glacial retreat. The Harding Icefield Trail, although more strenuous, offers stunning views of the vast icefield that feeds the park’s glaciers.

3. Glacier Bay National Park:

• When to Go: The best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to August.

• What to Do: While much of Glacier Bay is accessible only by boat, the Bartlett Cove area offers some wonderful trails, like the Forest Loop Trail and the more demanding Bartlett Lake Trail, both featuring incredible views and wildlife opportunities.

4. Katmai National Park:

• When to Go: The optimal time for hiking and bear viewing is from late June through September.

• What to Do: While Katmai is famed for its brown bears, especially around Brooks Falls, there are also several hiking trails like the Dumpling Mountain Trail, which offers panoramic views of the valley and Brooks River.

Each of these hikes offers its unique charm, from glacier walks and wildlife spotting to dramatic mountain and fjord views. Hiking in these parks not only allows you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Alaska but also provides quiet moments of reflection and connection with nature, making it a perfect romantic activity for a honeymoon.

If you’re going to specifically be in the Anchorage area(and nearby), I recommend checking out Unstoppable Stacey’s blog for more things to do on your Alaska honeymoon.

Let’s Plan a Session

Whether you’re tucked away in a remote fly-out lodge or cozying up in a B&B closer to town, capturing your honeymoon is truly something extraordinary. Adventuring in the great outdoors or opting for something a bit more intimate, I’ll tailor the experience to fit your dream. Here’s a peek at a session I did in Oregon last year—just imagine recreating this magic in Alaska with you and your sweetheart. Let’s make your honeymoon as unforgettable as your love story!

If you’re dreaming of an Alaska honeymoon that’s as breathtaking as your love story with photos to match, don’t hesitate to get in touch! I’d be thrilled to help you and your sweetheart plan the perfect couples session. Let’s chat about your vision and bring it to life together!

Still Planning our Wedding…Think about Eloping!

And if you’re still on the fence about how to tie the knot, let me throw this idea out there: an Alaskan elopement. There’s something incredibly romantic about exchanging vows in the wild, surrounded by the beauty of nature. As an experienced elopement photographer based right here in Alaska, I’m ready to help you plan and capture your perfect, intimate wedding. Imagine the stories you’ll tell, framed by the stunning Alaskan landscapes that I know and love!

So, what do you say? Ready to adventure together in the breathtaking expanses of Alaska? Whether it’s for your elopement or your honeymoon, reach out, and let’s start planning something exciting.

XOXO,

Donna

Looking for more information on traveling to Alaska? Check out my TRAVEL TO ALASKA: KICKSTART YOUR TRAVEL PLANNING BLOG.

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