Visiting Alaska

Alaska, famous as the largest state of the United Sates, is actually twice the size of Texas – large enough to feature 'flight seeing' as visitor attraction. Known for it's expansive wilderness, midnight sun, and freezing temperatures it has a mythic draw for visitors.

Juneau, the state capital, is located in the majestic inside passage region. Waterways and fjords carved by glaciers combine with lush forests as home to native wildlife. The 36th annual Alaska Folk Festival, the state's largest and longest running folk music festival, is April 5-11. Unique and welcoming, there is no admission and there's only one paid guest performance. It's a celebration by and for pure music lovers. Come enjoy professionals and amateur musicians. There are no auditions, so if you play, bring your music too. The festival is held at Centennial Hall in Juneau.

Alaskans get moving in the spring. There are a number of running events scheduled each month, including competitive, fundraisers and fun runs. April alone Juneau is host to three events to jump start your summer exercise regime. The Hospice 5K and 1 mile Run/Walk on April 10 raises funds for Hospice and Home care of Juneau. The Waterfront Awareness run on April 17th begins at the Juneau Arts and Culture Center to benefit AWARE. The Rotary Park Fun Run for Kids is a one mile fun run geared for children and a great opportunity to involve the whole family.

Fishing enthusiasts, get a license and a ticket, the month of May is Juneau's Spring King Salmon Derby. With well over $3,000 in prize money, it is worth casting a line in. This benefits native Alaskan scholarship programs. Fishing in Alaska for prizes and a good cause – doesn't get much better.

Fishing Report: Alaska is the number one producer of wild salmon in the world and Ketchikan is known as the Salmon Capital of the World. Memorial Day Weekend and two weekends in June the world class Ketchikan King Salmon Derby is held. Locals and visitors will be fishing for over $10,000 in prizes, and having a lot of fun along the way.

Kodiak may be your destination in April if seafood is your business. ComFish Alaska, held April 15-17, 2010, is a premier commercial fishery trade show. The perfect location where nature is integrating into the local livelihoods and lifestyles. No matter what brings you to Kodiak, the unparalleled natural setting will reward the visit.

The Kodiak Crab Festival 2010, a favorite for the region, is held the last week of May. Few festivals are as action-packed as Kodiak's. Two great events for those in training are the predicted mile run and swim – you estimate your finish time and the winner is the one who comes closest. From arm wrestling to kayak races, athletes have a variety of events to test themselves. A grand parade, shrimp parade, a midway full of rides and games will keep kids entertained. There is even a gubernatorial debate on the schedule. This is the festival to attend and a favorite for locals and anyone who has visited.

If making hotel reservations is your ideal camping, book Best Western Hotels for you Alaska travels. Conveniently located in major cities and along popular travel routes, the perfect place to land at the end of a day of adventure. Best Western Hotels are affordable for you and the whole family to enjoy your Alaska experience.