Don’t wait for summer to check out the dozens of great outdoor activities in Alaska

Winter is a time for outdoor activities. What? Most folks can’t wait for summer so they can go hiking, sightseeing and fishing! Well, those are all things you can do in the winter also, and many more. The past decade has seen a surge in winter tourists. Many come from China and Japan, but India has been contributing its fair share also. Generally, the winter tourists come from warmer climates; they want to see the aurora and experience real winter conditions. The influx of visitors has created bunches of small-tour operators that offer multiple activities.

The majority of winter tour operators are household businesses. These folks don’t make their living accommodating visitors, but it is an important supplemental income source for the household. There are also a number of businesses that cater exclusively to tourists — and are able to make a full-time business from serving out-of-towners.

Probably the biggest draw Alaska has to offer is the northern lights. The aurora is on virtually everyone’s list of things to see. There are no guarantees when it comes to spotting the lights. Should the aurora appear, it is rarely with the brilliance of the photos seen in calendars. Few tourists understand photography beyond what their iPhone does. Published pictures are done with an open aperture, on a tripod, which gives the lights time to stack. And many times clouds get in the way. Aurora tour operators are generally very good photographers who have the wherewithal to chase open sky in search of the aurora for their customers. One hundred miles on a night hunt for open sky is not uncommon.

The northern winter has a lot to offer. Dog sled rides are an attraction that will always draw a crowd. Generic, short ride opportunities abound and will always be popular among those who are checking things off their “bucket list.” There are better experiences out there. Those who wish to take the time, and spend more time, can visit dog kennels that offer more time with the dogs. Everything from a 2-mile ride to a 200-mile trip is available.

Should dogs not be your thing, or you need to pack more into your days, there are knowledgeable wildlife guides that can take you where moose, caribou and bison can be photographed. Also, over the last few seasons ice caving has become popular in the Interior. There are several caves that are easily accessible. Tourist traffic is high in these places, which may diminish the experience, but it does not trump the experience of walking under a glacier. Ice caves can be fascinating places, as is the glacier itself. Almost all glaciers are in avalanche zones. Certain times of the year, particular types of snowpacks and the current local weather can all create danger zones. Those without glacial experience should have a knowledgeable guide.

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Snowmobile tours and rentals are available for winter guests also. Should Alaska residents have friends or relatives who want to give snowmachining a go, tell them to bring their credit card — it isn’t cheap. For those who are not so brave, and want to ride on one of these c-rockets, a tour is probably the way to go. The guest will generally be on a groomed trail with all of the proper gear provided.

Ice fishing is another go-to activity for those from warmer climes. Fishing is never wonderful in the middle of the winter, especially on seasons where there is a lot of snow on the ice. As the days get longer, fishing generally improves. Tour operators that target deeper lakes will have better success. Deep lakes have adequate oxygen, which keep trout more active. Steer clear of folks who are fishing shallow, stocked lakes; your success rate diminishes in lakes less than 20 feet in depth.

We have touched on the more common winter activities for visitors and residents alike. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and just plain sightseeing can be pleasing as well. If you are using tour companies, check around; there are vast differences in pricing, experience and availability. Check to see if your guide can outfit you, at least in part. Winter gear rental companies exist, but for the most part, the gear they equip you with will not be adequate for outside activities lasting more than 30 minutes.

Here is a general pricing guide of what you can expect in the Interior:

Dogsledding: $95 per person and up, depending on the length of the ride. Kids usually are discounted. Ask if there are group discounts.

Snowmobiles: Snowmobiles rent for $275 per day and up. A tour will run $150 for an hour, half again if you ride double. The rider is also responsible for damage they might inflict on the machine; a broken windshield will be about $150.

Ice fishing: $125 per person; that usually covers all gear, including a heated tent. You may or may not want the tent, preferring to experience Alaska weather as it is. That is your call.

Aurora tours: These tours are all over the board. An exclusive aurora tour, complete with a knowledgeable photographer will likely start at $250, for a two-person minimum. Group tours that are more generic will have four or more people who may be unrelated. They start at $100 per person.

Ice caving: There are limited opportunities for this activity. There are a few guides that offer walking trips to various caves, and provide you with snowshoes. There are also a few snowmobile charters available, that are unscheduled, but can be booked a day or two in advance. Walking trips will start at $125 per person. Snowmobiles are about the same, sometimes less if there is a group. Charter clients will ride in a sled, not drive their own machine.

For visitors, the Alaska bus services are limited. Car rental is truly the way to go. However, should you choose bus service, provide yourself with extra time. Schedules are very limited outside or the Anchorage area. Visitors — enjoy what our state has to offer. Residents — get up and get out! See what you have been missing!