Visiting Alaska in the Fall: What to Expect and How to Plan Your Trip

Most people dream of a summer visit to Alaska. But if you want something a little different, come discover Southcentral Alaska in the fall months.

Alaska transforms in the fall, and it’s honestly one of the best times to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed, intimate experience. The weather cools down, the crowds thin out, and everything just feels a bit more peaceful. Plus, you can score some great travel deals since fall is considered “shoulder season” — which basically means less people and lower prices.

Sure, you’ll miss out on long days of sunshine and a few places may be closed for the season, but I think what you get instead more than makes up for that.

During the early months of autumn (late August to early October) you’ll find moderate temperatures and enough daylight to enjoy long days outside. The aspen and birch trees are showing off as their leaves turn to yellow and gold.

As the leaves start dropping, you’ll enjoy expanded views and hiking trails blanketed with leaves. As October creeps towards November, you’ll experience cooler temperatures and shorter days. Snow appears on mountain peaks but the valley floor will remain snow free for another few weeks. Days are clear and bright and nights are dark enough for a chance to see the Northern Lights.

So what is there to do in Southcentral Alaska in the fall months? Read on to discover this magical season.

Fall Colors – Short but Sweet

Fall in Alaska is short, but stunning. Picture golden yellows, fiery reds, and all those colors that make you want to take a million photos. The Mat-Su Valley boasts some of the best spots to see fall foliage. Hatcher Pass and the Knik River Valley are just a short drive from Palmer. If you’re up for a drive, head north to Talkeetna or Denali National Park for stunning views. And with fewer tourists around, you’ll have more space to enjoy the views without fighting for a picture-perfect moment.

Moose in Wasilla — Wildlife are easier to spot as the leaves thin out

Blueberry Picking - Tangle Lakes — Blueberry picking is a favorite fall activity in late August and early September

Fall Colors in Arctic Valley — Blue skies are a welcome sight in the fall months

And for you photographers, the fall colors transform the mountains and familiar landscapes with yellows, gold and red, making for stunning images.

Here is a list of local Photography tours – some offer tours year round and a few specialize in capturing fall colors.

Aurora Borealis Viewing

Fall is the perfect time to see the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. The nights are dark again and the weather is more temperate – making a night under the stars a bit more comfortable (but don’t get me wrong – it will still be chilly!)

aurora borealis with camper — Wasilla, Alaska

The lights can be seen from just about anywhere in Alaska; however, city lights make viewing more difficult if you stay in town.

Knik River Valley, Hatcher Pass, Palmer Hay Flats, all just a short drive from Palmer and Wasilla are good places to view the aurora.

The farther north you go, the better your chances. You’ll find many aurora tours are located in the Fairbanks area.

You may want to download an aurora prediction app which will give you an idea of your chances of seeing the lights on any given night. My favorite is My Aurora Forecast, available for both Apple and Google.

And remember, if it is a cloudy night, you won’t see the aurora even if they are active.

Get more information on Aurora Borealis viewing and a list of tour companies if you want a little more guidance.

Hiking, Horseback Riding and Four-Wheeling

With cooler temps and quieter trails, fall is ideal for exploring Alaska on foot, by horseback or ATV. Favorite summer trails provide a completely different experience in the fall. Trails are covered with falling leaves, and views that were blocked with trees in the summer months suddenly open up, showcasing the surrounding mountains and valleys.

With so many trails to choose from, it can be hard to decide. Check out our ten favorite family friendly hikes near Wasilla and Palmer.

These companies offer tours in the fall months.

Fishing

The salmon runs are over but rainbow trout, arctic grayling and dolly varden are plentiful this time of year. With the cooler weather, fish become more active and feed in shallower water. Check the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for fall fishing tips and to find which lakes are stocked. These are some popular Mat-Su Valley Fishing Spots.

Phantom River Charters offer trips through October.

Glacier Tours

Fall is a great time to experience the glaciers of Alaska. Fewer tourists may mean it is just you and your guide. Glaciers can be experienced from the water, land, or air.

Many glacier excursions are offered only in the summer months but several extend through September. And there are a few options to see glaciers in the later fall months.

This article provides a list of glacier tours and their seasonal availability. Flightseeing glacier tours offer the most availability in the fall months. See below for a list of flight and helicopter tours.

Take to the Skies

Helicopter and flight-seeing tours both provide amazing views of the autumn landscape. Get a unique perspective on glaciers, wildlife and fall colors.

How to Pack for Fall in Alaska

Fall weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, so packing clothing that can be layered is your best option. September tends to be the rainiest month in Alaska so be sure to pack a raincoat and waterproof boots. High temperatures are usually in the 50s in September and 40s in October.

Don’t rely solely on the weather report – temps and precipitation can change quickly. If you are headed out for the day, prepare for rain and sunshine, packing a few extra layers. Often, a day may start out gloomy but the afternoon will be gorgeous with blue skies and sunshine.

Here is the list I provide to guests coming for a visit in the fall months.

Packing List for Alaska

Layers (fleece or a light jacket for day, heavier coat for evening)
Raincoat
Comfortable pants or leggings. Throw in a pair of water-resistant pants if you have them.
Waterproof boots and/or shoes that can get muddy
A beanie or hat and mittens/gloves
Sunglasses
Backpack for day use

Save More, Enjoy More: Fall Travel Deals

Here’s another perk of visiting Alaska in the fall: It’s cheaper! Since it’s shoulder season, flights, accommodations and car rentals tend to be way more affordable than in the summer. You can find discounted tours and often get upgrades just because there’s more availability. And if you book directly with local businesses, you’ll save even more by skipping the extra fees from third-party platforms.

If you’re looking for an Alaska experience that’s less about the crowds and more about the adventure, fall is your season. You’ll get the stunning landscapes, the wildlife, and the adventures you came for, but with a more relaxed vibe. So pack your layers, grab your camera, and get ready to see a side of Alaska that most visitors miss.

And hey, if you need a place to stay while you’re here, you know where to find us. Book your fall getaway at The Greenhouse, and we’ll make sure you have everything you need for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Book direct here on our website and save the booking fees.