July is a great month to visit Alaska. In fact, it’s my favorite of all the summer months.
When I think of Alaska in July, I can picture the warm weather, long days, abundant wildlife and lots of summer activities.
But being in the middle of the summer season, it’s also the busiest time to visit Alaska. You may experience a lot of crowds (on an Alaska scale), which isn’t ideal for everyone.
If you’re considering a trip to Alaska during peak season, this guide will tell you everything you need to know to decide if this is a good time to visit.
I’ve included information about the weather, daylight hours, events, what to pack and wear, and some of my favorite things to do in July.
5 Reasons to Visit Alaska in July
- The weather is warm. July is the warmest month of the year. Average highs in July is in the mid-60s, with plenty of sunshine.
- Everything is green. By July, all of the snow on the ground has melted and the leaves have emerged.
- Long daylight hours. Even though summer solstice has passed, the sun in many areas of Alaska doesn’t set until after 10 p.m.!
- Abundant wildlife. It’s a great time to see some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, such as bears, moose, whales, and salmon.
- Everything is in full swing. Unlike during the winter months, you’ll find Alaska cruises running and most tours operating.
Weather in Alaska in July
Daylight in July
Even with summer solstice taking place in June, you can still expect long daylight hours in Alaska in July. Anchorage sees about 21.5 hours of daylight and Seward gets about 18 hours and 45 minutes of daylight. Fairbanks will still have 24/7 daylight until late July, which is great if you want to experience the midnight sun!
Aurora viewing in Alaska in July
Even though the aurora borealis can happen all year round, your chances of seeing the northern lights in Alaska in July are unlikely. There is just too much daylight to be able to see them in the night. Visit Alaska at a different time of year if you want to see the aurora as northern lights viewing usually begins in late August.
Does it rain in Alaska in July?
July is the second driest month of the year. Seward is one of the rainiest places in Alaska and will only get about 3.5 inches of rain this month. You can still expect to have some rainy days during your visit.
Temperature in July
In my opinion, July has the best weather in Alaska! It’s the hottest month of the year with average temperatures in Southcentral Alaska in the mid-60s F and in the mid-70 degrees Fahrenheit in the Interior. I’ve experienced way hotter temps in July, but each year is different. Keep in mind that you may still see snow, especially in higher elevations.
Here’s what you can expect in different cities around the state:
- Average temperature in Anchorage, Alaska in July: 65°F (18°C)
- Average temperature in Fairbanks, Alaska in July: 72°F (22°C)
- Average temperature in Valdez, Alaska in July: 62°F (17°C)
Best Things to Do in Alaska in July
July days stretch into the evening as the sun doesn’t set until well after 10 p.m. in most cities around the state. With all of this daylight, here are some fun things to do in Alaska in July.
Visit Alaska National Parks
Alaska has eight national parks and summer is the prime time to visit all of them. Denali National Park is the most popular national park to visit. If you want to see brown bears then plan a trip to Katmai National Park and Lake Clark National Park in southwest Alaska.
Whale Watching
July is a one of the best months to see whales in Alaska. I love taking a cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park to go whale watching. You can see humpback whales, gray whales, killer whales, and other marine mammals, like sea otters and Steller sea lions. For other wildlife viewing opportunities, I recommend driving the Seward Highway to spot dall sheep and bald eagles.
Salmon and Halibut Fishing
July is a popular time for fishing in Alaska because of the salmon runs. In Alaska, you can fish for King salmon, sockeye salmon, halibut, rockfish, and even rainbow trout. One of the best places to fish in Alaska is on the Kenai Peninsula. There are lots of rivers and you can also book a charter service if you want to go deep sea fishing.
Drive the Seward Highway
The Seward Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the world. If you want to plan a road trip with unparalleled views of snow-capped mountains and the sea, then drive from Anchorage to Seward.
Plan a Hike
July is the perfect month to go hiking in Alaska. With the long days and warm weather, the trails are in great condition. Here are some of my favorite hikes in Anchorage.
Get On the Water
Alaska has a ton of lakes and rivers to play on. One of my favorite kayaking tours last year was a day trip out to Bear Glacier in Seward. It was so cool to see hundred of icebergs floating on the lake.
Book an Alaska Cruise
July is the middle of cruise season in Alaska. Most visitors choose to explore the Inside Passage in Southeast Alaska and visit Glacier Bay National Park. During your cruise in Alaska, you’ll get to see stunning scenery, including glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and a ton of wildlife.
Festivals and Events in Alaska in July
There are plenty of summer festivals and events to attend in July in Alaska, especially if you want to celebrate The Fourth of July or Independence Day.
Here is a list of some of the best events in Alaska to add to your July itinerary:
- Homer Peony Celebration (July 1-30, Homer)
- Kachemak Bay Highland Games (July 1, Homer)
- Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival (July 2-28, Fairbanks)
- 4th of July Celebrations (July 3-4, Statewide)
- Fourth of July Car Launch (July 4, Glacier View)
- Mount Marathon Race (July 4, Seward)
- Girdwood Forest Fair (July 5-7, Girdwood)
- Anchorage Chamber Music Festival (July 5-15, Anchorage)
- Rock’n the Ranch at the RustyRavin (July 7-8, Kenai)
- Alaska Yoga Fest (July 8, Fairbanks)
- World Eskimo-Indian Olympics (July 12-15, Fairbanks)
- Bear Paw Festival (July 12-16, Eagle River)
- Copper River Salmon Jam (July 14-15, Cordova)
- Fairbanks Summer Arts Festivals (July 14-28, Fairbanks)
- Golden Days (July 15, Fairbanks)
- Alpine Adventure Run (July 15, Sitka)
- Fly By Festival (July 15, Anchorage)
- Skinny Raven Half Marathon & 10K (July 16, Anchorage)
- Deltana Fair (July 21-23, Delta Junction)
- 7th Annual Blues, Brews and BBQ (July 22, Skagway)
- Back to Bluegrass Festival (July 22-23, McGrath)
- Bearfest (July 24-28, Wrangell)
- Southeast Alaska State Fair (July 27-30, Haines)
- Tanana Valley State Fair (July 28-August 6, Fairbanks)
- Valdez Gold Rush Days (July 31-August 4, Valdez)
What to Pack For Alaska in July
Even though July is the warmest month in Alaska, you still want to be prepared for all kinds of weather, including sun, rain and even snow.
Alaska is a very casual place and most outfits are acceptable in most places, including your summer hiking outfit.
No matter what your plans are, here’s what to pack for Alaska in July:
- Rain jacket
- Rain pants
- Rain boots
- Hiking boots
- Light gloves
- Fleece sweater
- Shorts
- T-Shirts
If you need other recommendations, get my Alaska summer packing list PDF.
Is July the best time to visit Alaska?
Alaska is one of my favorite months to visit Alaska and I could argue that it’s the best time to visit Alaska. Even with the larger crowds, you will get to see Alaska in its glory. You’ll enjoy the best weather for hiking, cruising, and other outdoor activities. Plus, there are a ton of cool events to check out!
I hope this guide on visiting Alaska in August was helpful as you plan your Alaska vacation! Do you have any questions about visiting Alaska? Let me know in the comments.
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