In a funny way, my Alaska trip turned into a string of near misses. We missed the 80 percent chance of rain that was forecasted every day. Most days were sunny and clear. We missed peak salmon season by about two weeks, but still managed to eat our way through every version of it: smoked, grilled, even candied. We missed the big wildlife moments too. No bears lumbering by, no whales breaching right in front of us. Just pinhead size visuals through a binocular.

But we did spot a playful baby seal in the Juneau harbor, and at Glacier Bay National Park, a bald eagle perched on a drifting slab of ice and a handful of adorable otters floating on their backs like they owned the place. Anchorage gave us a roadside moose, which felt very on‑brand for Alaska. And while some people on our ship caught a glacier calving in real time, I only heard it, a sudden thunderous rumble.

What you absolutely cannot miss in Alaska is the beauty. It’s everywhere. Views on the water, on land, in the air. At some point you catch yourself trying not to get numb to it.

If Alaska is on your list, here are a few things I’d recommend:

• Cruise Glacier Bay Consider a cruise line that can access Glacier Bay National Park and College Fjord. Holland America suited our budget and desire for a cabin with a window (highly recommended!) We flew into Vancouver the day before our cruise and squeezed in dinner with my nephew, which made the trip feel even more special.

• Wander around Ketchikan Yes, explore Creek Street. But also wander off the main drag and follow the rickety wooden walkways that double as neighborhood sidewalks. It’s quirky and charming in the best way.

• Take a float plane Wing Airways flies from Juneau to Taku Lodge, tucked across from the Taku Glacier and reachable only by plane or boat. The aerial views alone are worth it — icefields, tidewaters, and tiny hints of life below. The delicious salmon buffet is bonus! (Be forewarned: Mosquitoes love to attack hikers in the rainforest.)

• Ride the White Pass Summit train ride from Skagway This ride is a stunner. I barely sat inside. Most of the time I was out on the platform, one hand gripping the rail, the other balancing my not‑so‑light camera.

• Try reindeer sausage Besides salmon, enjoy reindeer sausage, another regional specialty. This tasty sausage is a blend of reindeer, pork, and beef. Yummy!

While Alaska has a way of making you feel small in the best possible way, it’s big on scenery and adventures.