The Journal
Stories, field notes and guidance for seeing Alaska more clearly.
ALASKA EXPLAINED
It’s one of the first questions most visitors ask. The answer begins with mountains, oceans and a frontier that shaped the way Southeast Alaska Connects.
Why Is There No Road to Juneau?
Explore by Destination
Explore Alaska by destination through thoughtful guides, local insight, and stories shaped by time spent here. Start with the place calling you north.
Juneau | Ketchikan | Skagway | Denali | General Alaska
Explore by Planning Stage
Latest Stories
How to Get to Mendenhall Glacier From the Juneau Airport, Ferry Terminal or Cruise Port in 2026: Shuttle, Taxi, Uber, Bus or Tour?
Mendenhall Glacier is about 12 miles from downtown Juneau, and transportation can shape your entire day in Juneau. Here is how the shuttle, taxi, Uber, public bus and organized-tour options compare and which one I recommend as a Juneau local.
Best Alaska Experiences: What to Book and What to Explore Independently
Some Alaska experiences are worth booking because they take you somewhere you simply cannot reach on your own. Others are better explored slowly, independently, and without a schedule. This guide helps you decide where to spend, where to save, and how to build an Alaska trip with both access and breathing room.
Best Skagway Excursions for First-Time Visitors: What Is Actually Worth Booking?
Compare the Skagway excursions most worth booking, including the White Pass Railroad, Yukon road tours and sled-dog experiences.
What Not to Miss in Ketchikan: 7 Experiences Worth Prioritizing
From Creek Street to totem poles and wildlife viewing, this Ketchikan travel guide highlights 7 of the best things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska, especially for cruise visitors with limited time.
Alaska Photography Tips | Photographing Orcas in Southeast Alaska
It is always exciting to see Orcas while cruising through the waters of Southeast Alaska. Since they move so quickly and the lighting isn’t always the best, I thought I’d share my top 3 pieces of advice for photographing Orcas.
