Alaska weather in late May???
 

Greetings...

Could someone please give me some feedback on type/brand outer coat or rain jacket for hanging out in the Alaskan weather??

Thanks a buncgh!

Where in Alaska? It is a huge state with many microclimates. Southeast (Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, etc) is rainier but warmer than Anchorage or Fairbanks. Can you be more specific?

Sorry...7 nights on a boat through the inside passage. Then, on from Anchorage to both Denali (2 nights) and McKinley (2 nights, followed by Fairbanks (2 nights)

Thanks!

Which cruise boat are you taking through the inside passage? Thanks for the info.

We were there mid-June some years ago. The full road into Denali had just opened the week before, so hope it is open when you are there. Layers - something lined and waterproof for the outside layer and assorted fleeces, long-sleeved shirts under that. Hat and gloves definitely, although you will not need them all the time. Shoes that can take wet, mud - not really boots but something sturdy.

If this is a traditional cruise, ignore the photos of what people wear on-board. We have been on a number of warm water cruises and on Alaska cruise people were much less dressy. Comfort was more important than stylish cruise wear.

We were there from mid May right through June doing some of the same places you are - cruise and Denali.

Gail is right - layering is the only way. Here was my standard clothing for a day outside on the ship or on the ground in Alaska which worked really well: Goretex (waterproof) sneakers, jeans, long sleeved top, zip up very warm quality fleece jacket, plus waterproof North Face zip up jacket to keep rain and wind out, plus a warm beanie. Gloves/mittons are optional - I did end up needing to use them on two outings though.

There were also two times I needed to wear a long sleeved thermal top as well.

Go for comfort and warmth. The North Face brand of zip up raincoat with a built in hood was definitely a winner for Alaska and I don't know what I would have done without it.