Galena holidays
Located on the banks of the mighty Yukon River, this remote Alaskan town was once an important World War II air base. Today, it’s home to fewer than 500 residents and can only be accessed by boat or plane. Holidays to Galena can feel like an outdoor fantasyland. From salmon fishing and cross-country skiing to viewing the Northern Lights, come discover the good life at the edge of the world.
Galena holiday highlights
Harrison New
Go Wild
A holiday in Galena is paradise for outdoor adventurers. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding. In summer, enjoy fishing, kayaking and hiking. Galena is also a staging community for adventures into the nearby Koyukuk, Nowitna and Innoko national wildlife refuges. Arrange float or fishing trips, or charter a small aircraft to explore the vast wilderness.
Downtown
Downtown is the heart of the Galena community. You won’t find lively rows of bars and restaurants, but instead a hub of shops and essential services. These include a post office, grocery and hardware stores and health clinics. The beauty of Galena's Downtown lies in its backdrop of Alaskan wilderness.
Yukon Riverfront
This section of Galena is a prime spot for viewing the major races that pass through town. The big ones are the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, held annually in March, and Iron Dog, an off-road snowmobile race in February that covers more than 2,500 miles of Alaskan backcountry. If you’re planning your holiday to Galena in June, watch riverboats compete in the annual Yukon 800 Mile Marathon.
Galena: Know before you go
Language
English
Currency
United States dollar ($)
Time zone
UTC-6 (CST) and UTC-5 (CDT)
High season
June – August
Low season
December – February
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Caption
Photographer name
Things to do in Galena
Beaches
While you won't find traditional sandy beaches in Galena, the Yukon riverside has its own rugged charm. The riverbanks are the jumping off point for adventure. This is where you’ll launch your kayak or throw a line to catch a salmon. During the summer, join locals by the water and take advantage of the long daylight hours.
Places to eat
The small number of restaurants in Galena serve up hearty meals with a side of local charm. Menus will most likely feature fish caught from the Yukon River and game from the surrounding forests. Yukon Inn on the riverfront is Galena’s only bar, and the place to go for pizza, live music and a drink with the locals.
Shopping
Shopping in Galena is more than just buying goods — it’s about connecting with the local community. The stores and markets here are hubs of social interaction. Expect to find shops selling handmade crafts and Indigenous art next to outdoor gear and fishing tackle. It's a good idea to bring essential items with you rather than relying on buying them in town.
FAQs about Galena holidays
The warmest month in Galena is July, when temperatures peak at 22ºC (72ºF).
Three to five days is ideal for a trip to Galena if you're only a quick drive or flight away. Consider booking for a week or longer if you're travelling long-distance. You'll be able to explore the most popular sights and add some side trips to your itinerary.
The official currency in Galena is the United States dollar (USD). It's wise to carry some cash during your trip to Galena, but digital payments and credit cards are usually accepted by most places.
Plan your Galena holiday for January and you'll be there when conditions are at their coolest. -37ºC (-35ºF) is as cold as the city gets.
Whether you're looking to splurge or save, your travel style will help determine the cost. When budgeting for your Galena flights and hotels, consider all the options, from flying first class or economy to booking inexpensive or luxury stays. The time of year also matters, with some seasons offering better deals for a city break in Galena.
With an average rainfall of 8 cm, August is the wettest month to go on a Galena holiday. When the skies open up, head indoors and make the most of the city's restaurants, shops, museums and more.
While on your city break in Galena, you'll hear the locals talking mostly in English.
Galena has a subarctic climate, which means very cold winters and mild summers. Summer (June to August) is good if you want to enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing. A winter holiday in Galena (November to March) gives you the opportunity to see the Northern Lights and enjoy snowmobiling, dog sledding and ice fishing.
With a little planning, you can enjoy a safe and memorable holiday in Galena. The city is remote and subject to extreme weather, particularly in winter, so check forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes. If you're planning outdoor adventures, wear the right gear and let someone know where you’re going.
Given its remote location, the most common way to visit Galena for a holiday is by taking a domestic flight from Fairbanks or Anchorage to the city’s Edward G. Pitka Sr. Airport. There are no connecting roads outside the town. In summer, it’s possible to access the village by boat on the Yukon River.
More holiday inspiration
How to get cheap last-minute flights
How to get a flight upgrade
How to search for multi-city flights on Skyscanner
Plan your holiday to Galena
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