10 Best Things to Do in Alaska in January by an Expert 2026
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I will cut straight to the chase and say that arriving in Alaska in January can be a shock – so get ready! The moment you step off the plane, the intensely cold winter air will sting your skin. This is the dead of the winter season, so expect well below zero temps.
In January, the sun hangs low, casting a soft, gorgeous, golden light on the mountains and buildings. It’s a quieter time – the busy summer crowds have long since gone.
I remember a few Januarys, returning to my home of seven years in Fairbanks with my husband, Matt, after our holiday escapes to the warmth of Hawaii, or Mexico brought a familiar frozen jolt. Swapping the balmy breezes for Alaska’s biting cold was a stark reminder of the extremes of our adventurous life!
So, get ready to dive into the heart of winter!
Things to Do in Alaska in January
There are many winter activities to enjoy in January! Besides ice fishing and snowmobiling tours, here are some of my other favorites.
1. Enjoy the Northern Lights
While January is one of the coldest months of the year it is also one of the best times to visit Alaska to try to catch the Aurora Borealis. It’s never guaranteed though! The best views are often in areas where the night sky is free from light pollution from city lights, such as the hills outside Fairbanks.
I recommend booking a northern lights tour so you can benefit from local knowledge and expertise when it comes to location and timing (psst…you may even get hot drinks to warm you up)!
That way all you need to do is bundle up, grab your camera, and watch the show. Or, if you want an epic adventure book an Arctic Circle tour from Fairbanks where Northern Lights viewing will be part of the trip.
2. Go Dog Sledding
Dog sledding in January is an unforgettable experience! If you are an animal lover, this should be a must on your list of activities while visiting Alaska. I strongly recommend you line yourself up for a dog mushing tour in Fairbanks.
This is a quintessential Alaskan experience that will give you a chance to be immersed in the culture of mushing for an afternoon. I bet you won’t be able to get enough of the amazing huskies! If you want more, you can enjoy being an observer at sprint mushing races that take place in Fairbanks in January through March.
3. Skiing and Snowboarding
Alyeska Resort, in Girdwood, is the place to be in January if you love the thrill of downhill skiing or snowboarding. With easy access 45 min from Anchorage, it’s a no brainer to include it on your trip. However, don’t forget the opportunity for heli-skiing in Valdez—the little Switzerland of Alaska.
Birch Hill in Fairbanks is exceptional for nordic skiing as are the University trails there. I can’t speak highly enough of the quality of the groomed trail—we frequented both quite often when we lived there. You can enjoy skate skiing or cross-country skiing at both locations.
4. Head to the Hot Springs
Enjoying the steamy pools in the winter at Chena Hot Springs Resort, open year-round and located about an hour from Fairbanks, gives you the unique experience of sitting in the outdoor hot springs while your eyelashes and hair grow frost crystals, especially if it’s epically cold – perfect for some memorable vacation selfies! After relaxing in the hot springs, you can relax and enjoy a simple meal at their restaurant.
There’s also the Aurora Ice Museum on site where you can tour the interior and order a beverage at the ice bar! And there’s more, Chena Hot Springs grows all their own beautiful lettuce and tomatoes in warm geothermal-heated greenhouses which are available to tour for free.
5. Snowshoeing
The trails of Alaska provide an unforgettable backdrop for your winter exploration. You can easily rent snowshoes and set off on your own, or join a guided snowshoe tour in Fairbanks for a more structured adventure.
If you are in Anchorage, companies like Go Hike Alaska offer tours that weave through serene landscapes, perfect for capturing the tranquility and beauty of Alaska’s snowy terrain. They also rent snowshoes for the day as does Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental.
6. Ride the Aurora Winter Train
Riding the Aurora Winter Train between Anchorage and Fairbanks is an experience like no other. As the train chugs through the snowy Alaskan landscape, you’re treated to a front-row seat to some of the most stunning winter scenery imaginable.
The Alaska railroad takes you through backcountry landscapes inaccessible by roads; it’s a unique perspective of frozen rivers, snow-laden forests, and distant mountain ranges. And if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights might just grace the sky, adding an ethereal glow to an already magical ride!
Fun Events in Alaska in January
Winter months in Alaska are filled with fun cultural events and festivals so dig into local calendars for the month you plan to visit. Remember to check theaters, musical venues, and more for live performances!
7. Alaska Polar Bear Jump in Seward
The Alaska Polar Bear Jump in Seward is a January spectacle of fun and bravery! Decked out in zany costumes, daring participants take a frosty plunge into Resurrection Bay, while a lively crowd of supporters and fellow jumpers cheer them on.
Beyond the thrill, each dive is a leap for charity, making this frosty fest a heartwarming showcase of Alaskan spirit and generosity. It’s a chilly, cheerful way to dive into the new year!
8. AK Beer Month in Anchorage
January in Anchorage marks the celebration of AK Beer Month, an extension of the traditional AK Beer Week. This month-long festivity commences in mid-January and celebrates Alaska’s vibrant craft beer culture!
Local brewers showcase their unique brews through a series of events, including brewery tastings, beer dinners, and meet-and-greet sessions. These events offer a deep dive into the craft beer scene, perfect for both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts. For up-to-date information on AK Beer Month activities, check the official websites as the event approaches.
9. Anchorage Folk Festival
Another highlight of January in Anchorage is the Anchorage Folk Festival. This annual event is a celebration of music, dance, and storytelling, featuring performances by local and visiting artists.
The festival provides a platform for folk music of all genres, workshops, and community gatherings, making it a culturally enriching experience for all ages. For details on the festival lineup and schedule, visit Anchorage Folk Festival.
10. Cordova Iceworm Festival
The Cordova Iceworm Festival, at the end of January, is a fun and quirky event centered around tiny ice worms that live in glacial ice! Highlights include the Iceworm Parade, where people don whimsical costumes and march through the town, and the Miss Iceworm Coronation.
They really turn up the cool factor with ice sculpting contests, where artists transform blocks of ice into incredible, intricate works of art. Also, the variety show is a total blast, spotlighting Cordova’s performers. And for a real slice of local life, don’t miss the survival suit races and other sporting events — they’re a wild, wintery mix of skill and immense fun.
Daylight Hours and Weather Conditions in Alaska in January
In January, the short daylight hours and gradually lengthening days after the winter solstice are a defining feature of Alaskan winters.
The light is pretty magical this time of year and although the winter glow can be brief, it leaves lasting impressions. Make sure you spend time outdoors midday so you take in all the hours of sunlight that you can!
UTQIAGVIK: In Utqiaġvik (formerly Barrow), the sun remains below the horizon for the majority of the month, resulting in a unique polar night where the sun doesn’t rise at all.
FAIRBANKS: In Fairbanks, the daylight gradually increases from about 3-4 hours at the start of the month to around 5-6 hours by the end, with sunrise occurring between 10:00 and 11:00 AM and sunset between 3:00 and 4:00 PM.
ANCHORAGE: Anchorage sees a bit more daylight, starting the month with around 5 hours and ending with about 7 hours, with the sun typically rising around 10:00 AM and setting between 4:00 and 5:00 PM.
As the Alaskan landscape transitions through these unique daylight patterns, the weather also plays a significant role in shaping the January experience! This is the heart of winter so it’s frigid and in Fairbanks you’ll typically experience sub-zero temperatures as the highs as opposed to warmer coastal areas.
When planning travel or outdoor activities in January, it’s always best to consult a reliable and up-to-date weather source such as the National Weather Service. This guide serves as a general reference to help you get a sense of what to expect.
Here’s a chart showing the average high and low temperatures in January for various Alaskan cities and towns:
| City/Town | Average High (°F) | Average High (°C) | Average Low (°F) | Average Low (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage | 22 | -6 | 9 | -13 |
| Fairbanks | 8 | -13 | -10 | -23 |
| Juneau | 29 | -2 | 19 | -7 |
| Ketchikan | 39 | 4 | 29 | -2 |
| Nome | 13 | -11 | 1 | -17 |
| Barrow (Utqiaġvik) | -7 | -22 | -16 | -27 |
How to Pack for January in Alaska
When packing for a January trip to Alaska, layering is your best strategy to stay warm and comfortable. If you don’t, your skin can actually hurt because you feel so cold—trust me— and you risk getting frostbite.
January is one of the worst months to visit if you don’t think you can handle the extreme cold but if you are up for the experience, dress properly! Here’s a practical guide based on my own experience living in Alaska:
- Base Layers: Start with wool or synthetic or wool base layers. These materials are excellent at moisture management, keeping you dry and warm. I love Smartwool baselayers.
- Mid-Layers: Add a fleece or wool mid-layer for insulation. These materials trap heat effectively. Depending on the cold, you might want a light fleece for milder days or a heavier one when it’s really chilly.
- Down Jacket: A good-quality down jacket with a hood that covers hips and rear provides excellent warmth without the bulk. It’s a lifesaver during those freezing Alaskan winters.
- Shell Jacket: In addition consider wearing a waterproof and windproof shell. It protects against snow, wind, and rain, and is essential for staying dry.
- Pants: Insulated, waterproof pants are a must if you plan to go on a dog sledding tour or spend long periods outdoors doing winter sports. They’ll keep you warm and dry whether you’re walking in the city or exploring the wilderness.
- Boots: Footwear is crucial. Choose boots rated for -40 degrees to ensure your feet stay warm. Make sure they are waterproof and have good traction for icy conditions.
- Mittens and Liners: Mittens are warmer than gloves and you can even add a removable liner for extra warmth and versatility.
- Accessories: Don’t forget a warm hat that covers your ears, a scarf or neck gaiter, and wool or thermal socks.
- Daypack: This is a good idea for carrying essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, a battery pack, and a camera.
Remember, in Alaska, it’s better to be over-prepared. Layering allows you to adjust to changing conditions, ensuring you enjoy your Alaskan adventure comfortably.
As my husband always says, “Why be warm when you can be hot?” This has never been truer when you find yourself standing in -45º F hoping to view the Northern Lights!
Have some questions? I would love to hear from you in the comments! I am happy to help you navigate planning your trip for January.
💡Hey! Check out my post on Visiting Alaska in February as well to see if that is a better fit for you!
