"The country’s largest national park spans over 13.2 million acres of glaciers, snowy peaks, and isolated boreal forests—roughly six times the size of Yellowstone—and requires purposeful planning: choose one district or long-distance adventure per trip, expect remote access by tiny bush plane or potholed road, and consider hiring a guide for backcountry navigation and wildlife safety. Summer (mid-May to mid-September) is the high season for pleasant weather, wildflower blooms, and near‑constant daylight around the summer solstice; late August and September bring true nights and potential aurora sightings. Visitors should be bear aware, prepare for heavy mosquitoes in late June–July, download the NPS app for offline maps, and prioritize safety gear and bear‑resistant storage when venturing into the backcountry." - Stephanie Vermillion Stephanie Vermillion Stephanie Vermillion is a travel journalist and photographer covering culture and adventure for Travel + Leisure Outside, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines