Attractions & Sightseeing on Alaskas: West Coast

Iconic Landmarks

The region's landmarks tell stories of resilience, natural wonder, and historical endeavor. They connect visitors to the spirit of Alaska.

From the historic finish line of a renowned race to wildlife havens, these sites offer a glimpse into the heart of the West Coast.

Must-Visit Sites

Nome - Finish Line of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race: A distinctive arch on Front Street marks the historic end point for "The Last Great Race on Earth."
Nome Gold Rush Sites: Remnants of the turn-of-the-century Gold Rush around Nome, including abandoned dredges and old cabins.
Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum (Nome): A comprehensive look at the history, culture, and natural environment of the Seward Peninsula.
St. Paul Island - Northern Fur Seal Rookeries (Pribilof Islands): Home to the largest northern fur seal breeding colony in the world.

Visitor Information & Tips

Practical Details

Museums/Visitor Centers: Typically open daytime hours, especially in summer. Winter hours may be reduced.
Small admission fees ($5-15) may apply. Always check specific websites or call ahead.
Guided Options: Highly recommended for wilderness or cultural experiences.
Local guides provide safety, access to private lands, and cultural insights.
For the Iditarod, arrive early March and plan for crowds.

Photography & Viewing

Wildlife: Bring high-quality binoculars and a telephoto lens. Patience is beneficial.
Always maintain a safe and respectful distance from animals.
A waterproof camera bag for protection from the elements.
Northern Lights: Best on clear, dark nights from September to April, away from town lights. Use a tripod.

The entire West Coast of Alaska generally has fewer crowds than other Alaskan destinations. Shoulder seasons (May, September) offer more solitude.

Museums & Culture

Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum (Nome): A main resource for Nome's Gold Rush history, Inupiaq culture, and natural history.
Northwest Arctic Heritage Center (Kotzebue): Dive into Inupiaq culture, history, and subsistence lifestyles.
Art Galleries: Small galleries or gift shops in regional hubs may sell local Alaska Native art. Look for authentic works.
Check local schedules for special events, temporary exhibits, or cultural demonstrations.

Historical Sites

Archaeological Sites:
Numerous unexcavated sites reflect thousands of years of habitation. Most are not publicly accessible or marked due to fragility.
Nome Front Street:
Retains some historical buildings dating back to the Gold Rush era, showing its boomtown past.
WWII Sites:
Remnants of World War II airfields and military bases exist in remote areas, generally inaccessible.
Gold Dredges:
Several large, abandoned gold dredges are visible along the Nome roads, colossal reminders of industrial scale.
DEW Line Sites:
Remnants of Distant Early Warning Line radar stations from the Cold War are scattered across the tundra. Access often restricted.

Natural Attractions

The true majesty of Alaska's West Coast rests in its vast, untouched natural landscapes.

Parks & Wildlife Refuges

Bering Land Bridge National Preserve
Remote, undeveloped preserve. Known for geological and archaeological significance, hot springs (Serpentine Hot Springs), and wildlife.
Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge
One of the largest wildlife refuges. A critical breeding ground for millions of migratory birds. Access mainly by boat or small plane.
Togiak National Wildlife Refuge
Located in Bristol Bay. Known for wild salmon runs and exceptional brown bear viewing opportunities.

Nome Roads
Driving offers expansive views of the tundra, opportunities to spot muskox, and coastal scenery.
Pribilof Islands
Dramatic sea cliffs, volcanic landscapes, and vast seabird colonies define these unique islands.
Northern Lights
Spectacular displays are possible on clear, dark nights, mainly from September to April, away from light pollution.

Marine Mammals

Northern Fur Seal Rookeries (St. Paul Island) are prime for observing marine mammals in their natural breeding grounds. Walrus on haulouts along the Bering Sea coast or islands (Round Island, permit required).

Land Wildlife

Brown Bears/Grizzlies are common in Bristol Bay during salmon runs. Caribou (Western Arctic Herd) are seen across northern parts (near Kotzebue) during migrations. Moose along rivers and in southern forested areas. Muskox near Nome.

Birds

Seabird Colonies: The Pribilof Islands (St. Paul, St. George) are world-renowned for millions of nesting seabirds including puffins, kittiwakes, and murres.

Geological Features & Waterways

The landscape holds unique geological formations and vast waterways critical to the region.

Serpentine Hot Springs (Bering Land Bridge National Preserve): A remote natural hot springs.
Permafrost: Evident in the low-lying tundra, influencing the landscape and vegetation.
Bering Sea Coastline: Long, wild, rugged beaches stretch along the coast. Water is too cold for swimming.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the established attractions, Alaska's West Coast holds many less-visited treasures that provide unique insights and experiences.

These off-the-beaten-path locations offer a connection to the region's raw beauty and local life.

Unique Discoveries

Explore remote villages and observe living traditions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Port Clarence (Seward Peninsula): Remote village with historical significance. Access by charter flight or snowmachine.
Remote Fish Camps: Observe traditional subsistence fishing (e.g., Kuskokwim River), often by invitation.
Igloo City (Nome Road): A bizarre, abandoned igloo-shaped hotel structure accessible by road from Nome.

Photography Opportunities

Capture the raw beauty and unique light of the Arctic landscape.

Capture the Moment

Northern Lights: Capture the dancing aurora on a clear, dark night.
Vast Tundra Landscapes: Expansive, treeless plains offer unique photographic compositions with changing light.
A GoPro Hero 11 Black is useful for rugged environments and action shots.

Local Favorites

These spots are typically known only to residents, offering a truly local perspective.

Local Knowledge

Specific local fishing spots.
Prime berry picking grounds (in season).
Particular viewpoints known only to residents.
Engaging with locals finds these treasures.

Emerging Destinations

Growing interest in cultural tourism and authentic village experiences shape these areas.

Future Opportunities

As communities develop structured tourism programs, these areas gain accessibility.
These initiatives ensure direct economic benefits for local communities.
Continued growth in cultural exchange activities is likely.

Cultural Events & Photo Subjects

Unique Photo Subjects

Unique Ice Formations: In winter, the frozen Bering Sea and rivers create dramatic ice forms.
Close-Up Wildlife: From a safe, respectful distance, capture images of bears, muskox, caribou, and birds.
Alaska Native Cultural Events: If permitted, these are profound and colorful subjects.

Visitor Centers & Refuges

Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center (Bethel): Learn about one of the largest wildlife refuges.
St. Paul Island - Bird Cliffs (Pribilof Islands): Dramatic cliffs host millions of nesting seabirds.
Kotzebue: Views of the Kotzebue Sound and surrounding treeless tundra.

Additional Notes

Embracing the vastness and remoteness defines the sightseeing experience here.

Navigating Remote Areas

Travel to most natural attractions requires small aircraft or specialized tours. Local knowledge makes exploration safer.

Cultural Respect

When visiting Native communities or observing cultural events, show courtesy and seek permission for photography.

Weather Preparedness

Weather changes rapidly. Dress in layers and pack for cold, wet, and windy conditions, even in summer.

Resources for Experiences

Tours & Activities

For various attraction tickets and experiences, check platforms like GetYourGuide, though options for this specific region may be specialized.

Explore Tours on GetYourGuide

Lodging for Access

Some unique attractions are best accessed via specialized lodges, often all-inclusive.

Find Specialized Lodging

Local Contacts

Local tourism offices and Native corporations offer local tour operators and cultural contacts.

Transportation

Bush plane charters are often needed for truly remote natural attractions.

Research Prior

Always research specific attraction details, including permits or access restrictions, before your visit.

Museum Highlights

These centers are repositories of the region's rich history and living cultures.

Cultural Institutions

Katirvik Cultural Center (Bethel): Showcases Yup'ik culture, traditions, and arts.
Art Galleries: Find authentic works like carved ivory, baleen baskets, skin sewing, and Yup'ik masks.
Cultural Centers: Host workshops on traditional crafts, language classes, or traditional drumming and dance.

Natural Wonders

Vast, untouched landscapes are the true majesty of this region.

Scenic Views & Wildlife

Scenic Viewpoints: Expansive views of tundra, opportunities to spot muskox, coastal scenery.
Numerous Lakes and Rivers: Critical for fishing and local transportation.
Coastal Erosion: Dynamic coastline shaped by powerful Bering Sea storms and sea ice.
No formal large parks or public gardens.

Local Travel Advisory

Local guidance is highly recommended for wilderness safety.

For more details on specific tours and activities, visit GetYourGuide.

Planning Your Visit

A memorable journey to Alaska's West Coast involves a spirit of adventure and proper readiness for its unique environment.

Trip Preparation

Essential Steps

Dress in layers for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Plan for limited dining options and consider self-catering.
Research cultural norms and customs for respectful interactions.

Safety in the Wild

The wilderness presents unique challenges; vigilance is recommended.

Wilderness Protocol

Always be bear aware and carry bear spray in wilderness areas.
Inform someone of your itinerary when venturing into remote areas.
Consider a satellite communication device for emergencies beyond cell service.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Respect the pristine environment with responsible tourism practices.

Leave No Trace

Pack out everything you pack in, including all waste.
Stay on durable surfaces to avoid damaging fragile tundra.
Minimize your impact on local flora and fauna.

Your actions contribute to preserving this unique ecosystem.

Connectivity

Stay connected, but expect limitations in remote areas.

Communication Access

Cell phone service is scarce outside major towns.
Wi-Fi may be available in hotels but can be slow or costly.

Embrace the chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.

Financial Planning

Costs are higher than typical destinations; plan your budget accordingly.

Budget Considerations

Expect higher prices for food, accommodation, and transportation.
Bush plane charters significantly increase travel expenses.
Cash may be preferred in smaller villages; bring some for flexibility.

Advance planning helps manage trip costs.

Local Tourism Contacts

Nome Convention & Visitors Bureau

A good starting point for local information, events, and tour operators in Nome.

Alaska Native Corporations

Contact regional Native Corporations for cultural tours and community access information.

Local Guides & Outfitters

For wilderness excursions, contact local guides specializing in fishing, hunting, or wildlife viewing.

Final Recommendation

Embrace the unexpected and the challenges; they are part of the unique adventure on Alaska's West Coast.

Attractions & Sightseeing on Alaskas West Coast