Alaska in May: Weather And Activities In The Shoulder Season
May is a great month to visit Alaska. The weather becomes milder and days grow longer. It is also one of the drier months. As snow melts and temperatures rise, the landscape awakens, and wildlife becomes more active.
It’s an ideal time for hiking, wildlife watching, scenic train rides, and local events. Festivals return across the state. From the Alaska Folk Festival in Juneau to the Kodiak Crab Festival, May suits every travel style.
We agree with this timing. After booking our sixth Alaska trip in May, it remains our favorite month to visit. In this guide, we’ll share insights on weather, packing tips, top destinations, and activities.
Weather Overview
Alaska’s weather in May is very pleasant. Southeast Alaska warms up first, and the northern regions follow later. Those from Florida, Texas, and other southern states might find the weather a bit chilly in May. So, consider traveling to Alaska in June.
Temperature Ranges
The spring temperature range in Alaska can vary by region. Expect lows in the 20s to the mid-30s Fahrenheit in the Arctic and Far North regions.
The interior regions experience the warmest weather, with averages between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. When traveling by cruise ship, expect temperatures of 35 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit in coastal regions.
Spring Climate
In May, Alaska enters spring, making it a great time to explore the Last Frontier. Longer days, with up to 22 hours of daylight, offer more opportunity to enjoy the scenery.
While May tends to be drier than the fall and winter months, you can still expect a mixed bag of weather conditions.
Rainfall is likely, so pack waterproof rain gear. We find waterproof options better than water-repellent, especially during extended time in the rain.
Snowfall is also possible at higher elevations, so be prepared for snow-covered landscapes and limited accessibility. Even in July, we’ve encountered snow at White Pass near Skagway and at Mount Roberts in Juneau.
Overall, visiting in May provides an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of spring in Alaska. While spring flowers might not be out on higher elevations, it’s a great month to experience the transition out of winter.
What To Pack For An Alaska Trip In May
When visiting Alaska in spring, pack for fluctuating conditions, even if the forecast is dry. The best coats for Alaska are waterproof and windproof, and worn with layers, for temperatures in the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit. Sturdy, comfortable shoes are best for hiking or other outdoor activities.
Vessi shoes, our favorite runners, are waterproof and washable, ideal for wet conditions and everyday use. Avid hikers may prefer hiking boots with ankle support for slippery or uneven paths.
When visiting a glacier, pack extra warm layers, plus a hat and gloves, as the air near the ice is much colder. As May progresses, you’ll need fewer layers for a June visit as temperatures rise and days lengthen.
Cruising In Alaska
Cruising is a fantastic way to experience Alaska’s scenery and wildlife. Guests can visit Alaska in April on a cruise. Being on the water is the only way to see tidewater glaciers.
Since most passengers prefer July and August (the peak months when kids are out of school), those who cruise in May will enjoy a vessel with lower capacity. Visiting in the shoulder seasons, both May and September, Alaska visits offer the best prices.
When cruising in May, consider the itinerary, timing (early or late May), and available activities at each port.
Choosing A Cruise Itinerary
When choosing an Alaska cruise, look closely at the ports and activities at each stop. Popular ports include Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Sitka, and Icy Strait Point. Juneau, the capital, offers the most activities.
In May, fewer ships have repositioned to Vancouver or Seattle. As a result, Alaska ports feel less crowded. If you prefer quieter travel, May is a strong choice.
Cruise-and-land tours in May also cost less than peak sailings in July or August. In Denali National Park, wildlife viewing can be excellent as large mammals migrate to feeding areas.
Avoid Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm in early May. Ice can limit access to the Dawes and Sawyer Glaciers.
Many shore excursions, such as glacier dog sledding and flightseeing, begin in mid-May. Mountain trails may remain muddy or closed due to snowmelt.
Early May Vs Late May
Early May and late May in Alaska differ noticeably. In early May, the region is emerging from winter, with temperatures in the mid-30s to mid-50s Fahrenheit. Snow may linger at higher elevations, and some seasonal activities or tours might not have begun.
In contrast, late May brings warmer temperatures, mid-40s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, more open trails and excursions, and longer days. There is also increased wildlife activity and more vibrant landscapes as spring progresses.
Even a week can make a difference. For example, I’ve worn long pants and a coat one week, and capris and a t-shirt the next. When it comes to Alaska weather, it’s all about luck. It’s why most tour operators don’t kick-start their businesses until mid-month.
Early May offers fewer crowds, better pricing, and opportunities to see migrating whales heading to their feeding grounds. Late May offers longer days, warmer weather, more whale sightings, and additional opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and boating.
Cruise Activities
Alaska cruises offer a wide range of onboard activities, from spa treatments to cooking classes. Those who like swimming should choose a cruise ship with an indoor pool.
Although many passengers choose Alaska cruises for the outdoor activities available at each port of call. Some popular activities include:
- Mendenhall Glacier: Visiting the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center provides an opportunity to see another glacier, one that’s rapidly retreating.
- Dog sledding: If the budget allows, experience the thrill of dog sledding on a glacier or through the Alaskan wilderness. Glacier dog sledding, while a bucket-list excursion, is offered from mid-May onward. Dog mushing on dirt is a more affordable option for families.
- White Pass & Yukon Route Railway: The White Pass Railroad offers trains from Skagway into the Yukon as soon as ships arrive. It takes two weeks to clear the tracks of snow for the start of the season. This ride in vintage rail cars is a must for anyone visiting Skagway.
No matter which activities you choose, a trip to Alaska in May promises an unforgettable experience.
Outdoor Adventures
May is a great time to explore Alaska’s outdoors due to its mild weather. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures to experience in Alaska when spring arrives.
Hiking Trails
Many cruise lines offer guided hikes on glaciers, such as the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau. Check the timing, as many of these tours aren’t offered until the later weeks.
Alternatively, many ports and cities offer a plethora of hiking trails, and May is a great time to explore them. The lower elevation trails are usually free of snow, except for the ones at the top of Mount Roberts gondola in Juneau.
In the early weeks, trekkers will benefit from the lack of mosquitoes. As the weeks progress, the pesky bugs accompany hikers uninvited. It’s a rainforest, after all.
Some of the best hiking trails in Alaska include the Portage Pass Trail, Flat Top Mountain Trail, and the Twin Peaks Trail. These trails offer stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.
For a more leisurely trail, the route to Nugget Falls at Mendenhall Glacier (Juneau) is suitable for all ages, regardless of their hiking ability. Treks to waterfalls are lovely in spring, as the winter melt creates gushing cascades not seen in the warmer months.
Observing Wildlife
May is a great time to observe Alaska’s wildlife, but it’s important to do so responsibly. In spring, animals welcome new life, and it’s important to view them at a safe distance.
Consider booking a guided excursion with a reputable company to ensure a safe and respectful experience. It’s essential to keep a safe distance from animals and never approach or feed them.
As bears emerge from hibernation, you’re more likely to see them on higher ground. The Klondike Hwy from Skagway to Emerald Lake is a prime example.
Humpback whales are arriving in Alaska to begin binge feeding during the warmer months to sustain them through the winter.
Whale Watching Tours
May is the perfect time to take a whale watching tour in Alaska. The whales are migrating north and may accompany your cruise ship, if that’s your mode of transportation.
Some of the best places to go whale watching in Alaska include Seward, Juneau, and Icy Strait Point. Species spotted include humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales.
Humpbacks migrate from Hawaii to feed in Alaska’s marine-rich waters during summer. Males, usually the stronger swimmers, arrive in early May, followed by the females and their young.
No matter where you book a tour, most operators guarantee sightings.
Fishing Opportunities
Alaska is known for its world-class fishing. King salmon fishing begins in May, so it’s a prime opportunity for avid anglers. The later weeks welcome the start of halibut season.
Some of the best places to go fishing in Alaska include the Kenai River, the Copper River, and the Kasilof River. You can fish from the shore, go to a lake for trout fishing, or hire a guide to take you out on a boat. Many places will even clean, package, and ship your catch home.
Overall, May is a great time to explore Alaska’s outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, whale watching, or fishing, there is something for everyone. Just remember to wear the right clothing according to the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Festivals In May
Alaska is not only known for its stunning, untouched landscapes but also for its rich cultural heritage. The month of May is an excellent time to experience Alaska’s cultural events and festivals, which range from quirky to creative and everything in between.
One of May’s biggest and most popular festivals is the Kodiak Crab Festival. It takes place over Memorial Day weekend in the charming coastal town of Kodiak. The festival features vendors, live music, food, carnival rides, and, best of all, fresh crab.
Another festival worth checking out is the Sitka Whalefest, which celebrates the migration of gray whales and other marine wildlife. The festival includes lectures, music, and a parade.
But for some, the Great Alaska Craft Beer Festival in Haines is a must-visit to celebrate what Alaska is great at – brewing beer!
