8 Animals to Spot on Your Next Alaska Vacation

Alaska is a nature lovers’ paradise. Here you’ll find breathtaking landscapes and an incredible array of wildlife — everything from grizzly bears to playful sea otters.

If you’re planning a luxury Alaska vacation with Blue Ribbon Travel, keep your eyes peeled for these eight incredible animals.

Grizzly Bears

No Alaskan adventure is complete without spotting a grizzly bear. These powerful creatures can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and stand up to 8 feet tall. While they may look intimidating, grizzly bears are generally peaceful animals that prefer to avoid human contact. The best time to spot them is during the summer months when they are actively foraging for food.

Bald Eagles

As the national bird of the United States, bald eagles hold a special place in the hearts of Americans. Alaska is home to the largest population of bald eagles in the world, with an estimated 30,000 birds living in the state. These majestic birds can be spotted soaring through the sky or perched atop trees near rivers and streams.

Moose

Moose are one of the most iconic animals in Alaska — and for a good reason. These massive creatures can stand up to 7 feet tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 1,600 pounds. They are often spotted grazing in marshy areas or along the edges of forests. While they may look docile, it’s important to keep a safe distance as moose can be unpredictable and aggressive if they feel threatened.

Humpback Whales

Alaska’s coastal waters are home to a large population of humpback whales, making it one of the best places in the world to spot these gentle giants. These magnificent creatures can grow up to 60 feet long and weigh up to 40 tons. The best time to see them is during the summer months when they migrate to Alaska’s waters to feed on krill and small fish.

Dall Sheep

Dall sheep are a unique species of wild sheep found only in Alaska and parts of Canada. These sure-footed animals are known for their impressive horns, which can grow up to 4 feet long in males. They are often spotted on rocky cliffs and mountainsides.

Orca (Killer Whales)

Orcas, also known as killer whales, are one of the most recognizable animals in Alaska. These intelligent and social creatures can grow up to 32 feet long and weigh up to 6 tons. They are often spotted in pods, hunting for fish, seals, and even other whales. The best time to see them is during the summer months when they follow their prey into Alaska’s coastal waters.

Caribou

Caribou, also known as reindeer, are a species of deer found in Alaska’s tundra and boreal forests. These animals are known for their impressive antlers, which can grow up to 4 feet long in males. They are often spotted in large herds, grazing on lichens, mosses, and other vegetation.

Sea Otters

Sea otters are one of the most adorable animals in Alaska, known for their playful personalities and dense fur coats. These marine mammals can grow up to 4 feet long and weigh up to 100 pounds. They are often spotted floating on their backs in Alaska’s coastal waters, using rocks to crack open clams and other shellfish.

Book Your Alaska Vacation Today

Now that you know some of the incredible animals you can spot on your next Alaska vacation, it’s time to start planning your trip. 

At Blue Ribbon Travel, our luxury travel advisors are dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences tailored to your unique desires. From luxury cruises to tailor-made tours and once-in-a-lifetime excursions, we’ll help you explore the best of North America in style. 

Contact us today to book your dream Alaska vacation.