Imagine this: You’ve just survived six months of intense cold and limited daylight. As spring finally takes hold, the air warms, the sun lingers longer, and people begin to shed their winter layers, emerging with renewed energy. While winter in Alaska offers its own unique charm, May ushers in a palpable sense of excitement. By mid-May, destinations like Anchorage enjoy nearly 17 hours of daylight, truly signaling the arrival of summer and making Alaska trips in May incredibly appealing.
This month represents a significant transition, offering a unique window to experience the state as it awakens. Planning Alaska trips in May means navigating this shift, enjoying the lengthening days, and witnessing the landscape transform from late spring bareness to early summer green. It’s a time when many of the state’s iconic experiences become accessible, often with fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
What to Expect: Weather & Daylight for Alaska Trips In May
May in Alaska is a month of dramatic change. Early May can still feel quite cool, with trees just beginning to bud and temperatures potentially hovering in the upper 40s or low 50s Fahrenheit. However, by the latter half of the month, typically around May 15th, the transformation is well underway.
Foliage bursts forth, temperatures climb closer to the 60s, and the feeling of summer truly settles in. This shift is so significant that many seasonal tour operators specifically target mid-May as their operational start date, making the timing of your Alaska trips in May crucial depending on the activities you prioritize.
Why Consider Alaska Trips In May?
Choosing May for your Alaska adventure offers distinct advantages. It’s often one of the driest months of the year in many regions, potentially meaning less rain compared to June or July. Furthermore, since the peak tourist season hasn’t fully begun, you’ll often find tours and popular spots less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience with the stunning Alaskan wilderness.
The “shoulder season” in early May can also sometimes present opportunities for discounted rates on accommodations and tours, adding value to your Alaska trips in May. However, the trade-off for these benefits is that some tour operators and seasonal businesses may not be open until the second half of the month.
Packing Essentials for Your May Alaska Trip
Layering is key when packing for Alaska trips in May. The weather can be highly variable, even within a single day or location. You’ll want a base layer (like thermal underwear), a mid-layer (fleece or wool), and an outer layer that is both windproof and waterproof.
Discover the Best Overnight Summer Camps in Texas
Your Ultimate Guide to Oktoberfest Los Angeles 2024
Discover the Best Things to See in Sarasota
Mount Drum bathed in spring light during an Alaska trip in May
For early mornings or tours on water or glaciers, having a warmer jacket (like a lightweight puffer), a hat, and light gloves is highly recommended to stay comfortable. Even as temperatures rise later in the month, conditions can change rapidly, particularly in coastal areas or at higher elevations.
Wildlife Encounters on Alaska Trips In May
May is a spectacular time for wildlife viewing, as the natural world awakens from winter dormancy. Bears are emerging from hibernation, and moose are giving birth to their calves, often visible near populated areas.
Migratory birds are making their epic return flights, celebrated by festivals like the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival and the Copper River Shorebird Festival. The ocean also comes alive; Gray whales are typically present from March and April, followed by Orcas and Humpbacks arriving in May and June.
Getting Around: Transportation Options in May
Transportation options for Alaska trips in May expand significantly after the first couple of weeks. Most motorcoach services and the Alaska Railroad typically begin their summer schedules around May 15th. Traveling during this early period can sometimes offer discounts.
If your travel dates fall before mid-May, renting a car is often the most flexible way to explore, allowing you to set your own pace and access areas not yet served by public transport. Always check road conditions, especially for seasonal roads, before heading out.
Where to Stay: Accommodation for Alaska Trips In May
In Alaska’s larger cities such as Anchorage and Fairbanks, hotels generally operate year-round. However, many accommodations in more remote or seasonal areas, like wilderness lodges or fishing camps, open for the summer season starting in May.
Some of these seasonal lodges may offer attractive “shoulder season” rates in early May. When booking, confirm the opening dates of both your accommodation and any tours or activities you plan to do in that specific area to ensure they align with your Alaska trips in May dates. Bear viewing lodges often open towards the end of May or early June.
Top Activities & Tours for Alaska Trips In May
The availability of tours and activities is perhaps the biggest consideration when planning Alaska trips in May. Flightseeing tours are generally available year-round, making scenic flights a good option even in early May. Day cruises, particularly those exploring coastal waters and fjords, are often among the first summer activities to become fully operational.
After the pivotal May 15th date, the vast majority of summer tours and activities become available, ranging from glacier walks to river rafting (depending on conditions). Planning for the latter half of May offers the widest range of experiences.
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Fishing, & More in May
Hiking in May requires careful planning, especially in mountainous areas. Many higher elevation trails may still be covered in snow, slush, or be very muddy. Opting for south-facing trails or those at lower elevations is often a better choice in early May.
Savage River thawing in Denali National Park during an Alaska trip in May
Be extra vigilant for bears, as they are just emerging from hibernation and can be groggy and protective, especially with cubs. For prime mountain hiking experiences, June or July are generally better months. Fishing opportunities begin to ramp up; ocean charters for halibut are available, and king salmon fishing season often starts in May.
Camping for Your Alaska Trips In May
Many public campgrounds in Alaska aim to be open by the U.S. Memorial Day weekend (the last weekend in May), but their actual opening dates are heavily dependent on the amount of snow accumulated during the winter and how quickly it melts. Alaska State Parks often provides updates on campground statuses. Some private campgrounds and RV parks may open earlier in the month.
Navigating Seasonal Roads in May
Certain scenic roads, such as the Denali Highway and McCarthy Road, are not maintained during the winter months and typically open up to traffic by the middle of May. These roads offer access to remote areas and unique perspectives.
If your Alaska trips in May include plans to travel these routes, it is essential to check the latest road conditions and opening dates before you depart, as conditions can vary year to year based on snowfall and spring thaw.
Considering Alaska Cruises in May
For those interested in cruising the Inside Passage, the Alaska cruise season typically begins in late April. Opting for a cruise in May means you’ll experience the beginning of the season.
Be prepared for cooler temperatures compared to mid-summer voyages, but you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and potentially more readily available wildlife sightings as animals become active after the winter.
Bugs: What About Mosquitoes in May?
Good news for early May travelers: mosquitoes are generally minimal at the very beginning of the month. However, as temperatures rise and the landscape greens, their numbers do increase as May progresses, especially in areas near standing water like ponds or marshy trails. Bringing insect repellent is advisable, particularly if you plan on hiking or spending time outdoors later in the month.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alaska Trips In May
What is the weather like in Alaska in May?
May weather in Alaska is transitional. Early May can be cool (40s-50s°F) with bare trees, while late May warms up (closer to 60s°F) with significantly more foliage and longer daylight hours. It is typically one of the drier months.
Is May a good time to see wildlife in Alaska?
Yes, May is excellent for seeing wildlife awaken. Bears emerge from hibernation (with cubs visible later in the month), moose calve, and migratory birds return. Whale sightings (Gray, Orca, Humpback) also become more frequent.
Are tours and activities open in Alaska in May?
Many tours and activities, especially seasonal ones, begin operating around May 15th. Flightseeing and some day cruises may be available earlier. The latter half of May offers a wider range of options.
What should I pack for an Alaska trip in May?
Packing layers is crucial. Include a lightweight puffer jacket, hat, and gloves for cooler mornings or water tours. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential due to variable weather.
Can I go hiking in Alaska in May?
Lower elevation or south-facing trails are generally more accessible in May, as mountain trails may still have snow and mud. Be cautious of emerging bears on trails. Prime mountain hiking is usually better in June/July.
When do seasonal roads like Denali Highway open in May?
Roads not maintained in winter, such as the Denali Highway and McCarthy Road, typically open by mid-May, but it’s important to check current conditions via resources like the DOT 511 website as openings can vary.
Conclusion
Choosing May for your Alaska trip offers a fantastic blend of awakening nature, increasing daylight, and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. While the first half of the month sees the state shaking off winter, the latter half truly embraces the start of summer with expanding tour availability and warmer temperatures. By understanding the nuances of May in Alaska, from wildlife patterns to seasonal openings, you can plan an unforgettable adventure that captures the essence of this incredible destination as it bursts into life.