June is when Alaska really comes alive, kicking off its peak travel season with long daylight hours and (relatively) pleasant weather. It’s a popular time to visit, so expect company as you explore national parks, try to spot wildlife, and enjoy the many outdoor activities on offer.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Alaska in June. We’ll cover the pros and cons, the weather you can expect, what activities are best that time of year, the wildlife you might see, and what you should pack.
Whether you’re thinking about a cruise, a land tour, or exploring on your own, this guide will help you plan your Alaskan adventure in June.
Weather in Alaska in June: A Regional Overview
When you’re planning a trip to Alaska in June, keep in mind that the weather can vary widely from one part of the state to another.
Coastal Alaska
In coastal areas, average temperatures range from 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. In Juneau, you can expect around 18 hours of daylight with rain on about 13 days out of the month.
The coastal regions tend to be milder than other parts of Alaska, but the weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers.
Interior Alaska
Inland, you’ll find warmer temperatures, ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Fairbanks enjoys a whopping 21 hours of daylight in June, with only about 7 days of rain.
The interior is generally drier and warmer than the coastal regions.
Arctic Alaska
Up in Arctic Alaska, expect cooler temperatures, ranging from 25 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Utqiagvik, the northernmost community in the U.S., experiences 24 hours of daylight in June, with rain on only about 2 days of the month.
If you’re heading that far north, be prepared for colder temperatures and the possibility of fog.
The Midnight Sun: Why June is Special
June is called the “Land of the Midnight Sun” month in Alaska, and for good reason. The sun barely dips below the horizon, meaning you get incredible daylight hours. In Anchorage, for example, the sun is only out of sight for around four hours a day around the Summer Solstice.
Speaking of the Summer Solstice, that usually happens around June 21st and marks the longest day of the year. That means you have endless time to explore and sightsee!
All that daylight has a big effect on Alaska’s landscape and wildlife. The animals are more active, the plants are growing fast, and you have all the time in the world to experience it.
Activities and Attractions: Making the Most of June in Alaska
With the long days and milder temperatures, June is a fantastic time to experience all that Alaska has to offer. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Denali National Park
Denali National Park usually reopens in June, giving you access to hiking trails and visitor centers. It’s a great time of year for hiking, spotting wildlife, and taking bus tours.
Wildlife Viewing
June is prime time for bear watching, as bears come out of hibernation with their cubs. If you’re really hoping to see bears, consider a fly-in bear viewing trip to Katmai National Park.
Whale watching tours are also popular in June. You might get to see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine mammals. Kenai Fjords National Park is a particularly good spot for whale watching.
Glacier Tours
You can explore glaciers in a number of ways, including boat tours, guided hikes, and flightseeing excursions. Kenai Fjords National Park and Glacier Bay National Park are both popular places to view glaciers.
Fishing
If you’re into fishing, June is a good time to catch halibut and early sockeye salmon. Check out recommended charters for fishing trips that suit your interests.
See Alaska’s Animals in June
June is a great time to see Alaska’s animals because they’re all out and about raising their young. You’ll see plenty of adorable baby animals during this time of year.
If you’re a bird watcher, you’re in luck. Many migratory birds arrive in Alaska in June.
You may also spot moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. If you go for a hike, be sure to follow bear safety guidelines.
Along the coast, you might see whales, seals, sea otters, and puffins.
In short, June is an animal lover’s paradise in Alaska.
Planning Your June Trip: Considerations and Practical Tips
A trip to Alaska in June requires some advance planning, as it’s a popular time to visit.
Booking and Reservations
Book your flights, accommodations, and tours as early as possible. The earlier you book, the better your chances of getting the tours and lodging you want at a decent price.
What to Pack
The weather in Alaska can change quickly, so pack layers of clothing. You’ll want lighter clothes for warmer days, but be sure to bring warmer layers for cooler evenings.
Even in June, rain is possible, so you’ll want to have rain gear handy.
Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable hiking shoes.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are out in force in Alaska in June, particularly in the interior and Arctic regions.
Be sure to bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from bites.
Budgeting
June is peak season in Alaska, so be prepared to pay higher prices for flights, accommodations, and tours.
If you’re looking for a less crowded and more affordable experience, consider visiting in May instead.
Wrapping Up
Alaska in June is a special experience. The state’s natural beauty is on full display, and the wildlife is abundant. The midnight sun gives you even more time to explore.
June is a popular month to visit, so you’ll likely encounter higher prices and bigger crowds. But the long days and mild weather make it worth it.
Careful planning, smart packing, and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions will ensure you have an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re touring national parks, watching wildlife, or hiking through the wilderness, June provides a spectacular introduction to the Alaskan summer. Come prepared for adventure!