Alaskan Family Summer Staycation Adventure Guide

By Public Relations Specialist Esther Robertson
After a long and cold winter, summer is finally here. Having some fun this season does not have to break the bank. Here are some ideas to enjoy with your family.
1. Customize your own biking adventure.
Grab your helmets and bikes, and enjoy some exercise and fresh air. The Tony Knowles Coastal Trail is an 11-mile trail along the coast of Anchorage. This is one of seven trails to choose from that covers 45 miles of potential adventures. It is a great way to see the beautiful city of Anchorage.
2. Take a hiking tour, guided or self-guided.
Eagle River Nature Center trail offers a variety of trail options: choose
from a ¾-mile, 3-mile, 6-mile, or 23-mile path. Alaska is flush with hiking trails, so, with a little research, you can plan a day of hiking for you and the family. Safety is priority, so be sure to pack bear spray and water. Take in the scenery filled with the Chugach Mountain range, lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife.
3. Pack a healthy lunch for a family picnic.
Put on some sunblock, set down a blanket, and enjoy a meal with your
loved ones in the great outdoors.
4. Harvest veggies at a local farm that offers a pick-your-own service.
Nothing is better than family time and farm-fresh produce. Have fun while picking veggies and supporting a local business. Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Farm located in Palmer allows customers to visit the farm and pick their own vegetables for a reasonable price.
5. Create a home spa night.
Set the mood for a comfortable night in with relaxing music. Enjoy a spa night by painting your nails, putting on a face mask, taking a bath, or incorporating other comforting self-care activities into your evening to help you feel pampered.
6. Camp with your family.

Make the best of your summer staycation by spending time enjoying the great Alaskan outdoors.

Whether it is in your back yard or your favorite camping ground, camping is a wonderful way to make precious memories with family.
7. Make a fort in the living room for a fun movie night.
Little things like making a fort can make an ordinary movie night more fun. Make some popcorn and put on your favorite movie for the family to enjoy in a fort!
8. Facilitate a family game night.
Turn off your devices, and fill the room with laughter while gathering around the table with cards, dice, or board games, and your family.
9. Get inspired with an arts and crafts night.
With the midnight sun, mountain scaped views, and wildlife, there is no shortage of creative inspiration. Get together with your family to paint, draw, upcycle household items, sew, or knit.
10. Go on a fishing retreat.
Last but not least, an Alaskan summer is not complete without the thrill of catching fish to fill your freezer. Whether it’s at the lake, creek, or bay, fishing is always a blast and the fish are tasty and nutritious. Remember to pick up a fishing license before you head to your favorite fishing hole.