Alaska is known for its grand glaciers and wildlife, but beyond the cruise ship ports and national parks are lesser-known locations that offer unmatched photography potential. As a photographer based in Juneau, I’ve spent years chasing the light, the landscape, and the stillness. Here are 10 photogenic spots you might miss on a typical tour—but absolutely shouldn’t.
1. Perseverance Trail (Juneau) Hidden waterfalls, mossy bridges, and golden-hour light filtering through the trees make this trail an underrated photo haven. The first time I took this trail, I hiked up the first part of the mountain and spent fifteen minutes just starring in awe over the canyon, scanning the surrounding mountains and listening to the sound of the waterfall that was still about a mile away. What I love most about this trail is that it’s not too steep. Once you get up and over the first part (first half a mile in), the trail normalizes and its fairly flat (check out other hiking options in Juneau here).
2. Wrangell-St. Elias Backcountry Skip the flightseeing tours and take the road to McCarthy. Rugged, raw, and often empty—it’s a landscape photographer’s dream.Wrangell-St Elias National Park is tough to get to - in some ways, thats half the beauty! You can take smaller planes into the park - I headed into McCarthy and to Kennecott Mines. It truly is a primitive, all-day type of experience and vehicles are only allowed in so far (there are operators in-place to take you from point A to point B (drop me a message if you’re interested in more details, I can send them to you!).
3. LeConte Glacier Bay (Near Petersburg) Most tourists flock to Glacier Bay, but LeConte’s floating icebergs are hauntingly beautiful and perfect for minimalist compositions. When I first started going to Petersburg, Alaska, LeConte was the ‘place to go’. As I’ve moved through my time in Alaska, Glacier Bay and Tracy Arm Fjord have also crept up on the list of ‘must see’ glacier experiences (same with Hubbard Glacier and College Fjord). In my opinion, LeConte is stunning because of the ice field in front of it. The blue hues of the glacier parts, the chill in the air, and the overall landscape continue to be some of the most beautiful Alaska oceans capes I have witnessed.
4. Haines Highway Scenic Overlook This stretch between Haines and the Canadian border offers epic mountain backdrops, especially in fall when the tundra turns crimson.
5. Sitka’s Totem Park and Harbor at Dawn The morning fog, ocean mist, and centuries-old totems provide a magical, timeless setting. The view over Sitka’s local harbor is beautiful - depending on the time of year you visit, wildflowers adorn the frame, cropping the Alaska boats perfectly. Walking along the totem poles was such a strong reminder of the history of the land, so many stories to be shared, so many learnings. It’s as if history was still alive through the hundreds of poles stemming from the land.
6. Eklutna Lake (Anchorage Area) This is a local’s destination. Incredibly beautiful during any season, I truly love this location during the summer (see photo below). The crystal blue waters, greenery and view from the top of the accompanying mountain come together to create a picture perfect location to shoot photography. There are wildflowers galore and campsites along the water’s edge if you can steal away for a few days.
7. Matanuska Glacier Ice Caves Hire a guide to explore the glowing blue caves. Just bring a tripod—and your courage. Make sure to layer up as a hike will be necessary - and the air will be chilly.
8. Turnagain Arm (Seward Highway) A roadside dreamscape with sweeping tides, beluga sightings, and aurora views in winter. Huge tip - if it’s at all possible, make sure you’re not the driver! Ha! Just like the highway between Anchorage and Valdez, the Seward Highway is full of breathtaking views. It’s.a busy road that tends to get busier during the waking hours (and at times, lots of semis hauling supplies) but there are several pull-offs where you can stop and admire the views. Give yourself plenty of time to look for mountain goats, beluga whales and other Alaska creatures along the way.
9. Gustavus Beach at Low Tide Shells, seabirds, and tide patterns make this remote location a minimalist's delight.
10. Yakutat’s Cannon Beach This Pacific coast gem gives Oregon vibes with a wild Alaskan twist—driftwood, ocean spray, and perfect sunset angles. Remember that the summer days are long so sunset / sunrise are super early or super late into the evening. You’ll find it refreshing to have so many hours to experience Alaska but don’t feel bad if you need a nap!
Closing Tip: The magic of Alaska lies in patience. Travel slow, bring extra batteries, and shoot with intention. For more photo guides, follow along or check out other photographs here! Excited to have you along for the journey!
