A Very Adventurous Guide To Wellness Travel In Alaska: National Parks, Lodges, Local Food & More

For those who want to unplug and dive into everything the Alaskan wilderness has to offer, we rounded up some of our favorite places to sleep, eat, and hang for an unforgettable stay. 

Whether you're looking to stay near Denali National Park or the small seaside city of Homer, we've got some seriously cool places to unwind and rest your head. This includes a couple of favorites that have major old-school summer camp vibes for a unique, more authentic experience that won't insulate you from nature.

This lodging is not for the faint of heart, but if you're looking to immerse yourself in Alaska's natural beauty and cultural heritage, then Camp Denali is the place for you. Nineteen guest cabins are situated in the beautiful tundra for an immersive experience unlike any other. Though they don't have showers, sinks, or toilets, you can walk a short distance to an outhouse or a little farther to the main cabin, where you can shower, eat, or read while taking in views you could only get from inside a national park. Be sure to check out the Special Emphasis Series, which features a roving trove of guest experts that host learning excursions from conservation efforts to poetry. 

For activity seekers venturing to Alaska during the summer months (May 1 through September 30), this homestay offers a summer camp feel filled with exciting excursions and a thoughtful community. Instead of simply booking a room, you book an entire experience that comes with transportation via float plane or water taxi, a private cabin, and a personalized itinerary customized to suit your personal preferences. This itinerary could include everything from cooking classes to hiking trips to yoga.

If you're looking for a resort experience near some slopes that are not too far from Anchorage, then this is the place for you. Forty miles south of Alaska's largest city with over 300 rooms and amenities such as spa treatments and fine-dining restaurants, this luxurious hotel is great for those who prioritize comfort and convenience over a more traditional Alaskan experience. That's not to say it's without its native touches! Common areas feature pieces from native artists Larry Ahvakana and Percy Avugiak, while guest rooms house images from Alaskan photographer Edward Curtis. At Alyeska Resort, you really can have it all.

There are so many beautiful sights to see and outdoorsy fun to have, but there are a few activities that stand out from the rest:

You can spend the day hiking, hop on a bus tour around the park, or stay the night at one of the six campgrounds. No matter how you decide to take in Denali National Park, just make sure you have a camera handy.

For those visiting in the summer months (especially July and early August), you won't want to miss one of Alaska's most beloved residents. You may see a couple while visiting Denali National Park, but the real hot spot is Brooks River Falls, Wolverine Creek, or Katmai National Park. There are a lot of great options for bear viewing all around the great state of Alaska where you can spend a few hours tracking bears or multiple days and nights, depending on your preference and budget.

Break up your active adventures with a little treat-yourself spa day at the Homer Inn and Spa. This refreshing coastal escape features breathtaking views alongside all kinds of treatments from oxygen therapy to hydrotherapy and facials. You can even stay overnight in an oceanfront room if you really aren't ready to break away from the seaside escape.

If you find yourself farther east, we recommend checking out the 2.5-hour excursion on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad. This historic gold rush train climbs over 20 miles up to bring you to cliffside vistas that seem too beautiful to be real.

Some areas of the state are better than others for catching a glimpse (namely, the Fairbanks area in central Alaska is the most famous), and visibility can vary depending on the weather (they have trackers you can use to keep an eye on it). However, we recommend booking a tour, especially if this is your first time so experts can lead the way.

There's no better way to experience local culture than through some local cuisine. Pop into one of these favorite hot spots to enjoy a meal that's as fresh as it is tasty.

229 Parks Restaurant & Tavern is a bit of a drive (and only accessible by car), but if you're a foodie who cherishes a meal as much as mountaintop views, then it's worth the time. Two-time James Beard nominee and Top Chef contestant chef Laura Cole creates an ever-changing seasonal menu that highlights Alaska's offerings thanks to sustainable ingredients from regional farmers, fishermen, and ranchers.

With so much coastline and a thriving fishing industry, seafood is a must-try while in Alaska. The state's capital of Juneau has a lot of great options, but this local staple has been a favorite for over a decade. The port-side restaurant serves Alaskan king crab legs fresh off the boat for a casual yet delicious meal that's perfect for a lunchtime hang.

Not far from Anchorage (and really close to Alyeska Resort), Jack Sprat is all about providing quality meat for meat-eaters and delicious plant-based dishes for vegans and vegetarians alike so no one has to sacrifice taste for preference.

Make sure you're prepared for the weather and everything that it brings with a few must-have items you won't regret making room for in your suitcase.