It peaks from the middle of June to the end of July, when swarms can be severe, but the mosquitoes aren’t as bad in cities, above the tree line, or when there’s a breeze, according to Alaska.org, which offers other tips … None of Alaska's mosquitoes are known to carry any disease, but they do leave itchy welts that can take days to go away. Discover the optimal month due to daylight, temperature, and rain. Follow the product directions—it WILL melt certain camera cases and jacket fabrics! Wear khaki or neutral colors. Fortunately, the bug problem is not so bad in most places where Alaska visitors spend time: Anchorage and other cities, parts of the Kenai Peninsula, above treeline and anywhere there's even the slightest breeze (which is most places). And the leg. Here’s the short version: mosquitoes are half-jokingly known as the state bird of Alaska. Since you’re planning a visit to Alaska, you’ve made a sensible decision to look up ‘when are mosquitoes worst in Alaska?’. Most mosquito repellent brands are now offering similar products since their formula was approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency in 2003. We are planning a visit in late June. This summer he spent 78 days in the tundra and the mosquito swarms were “the worst for sure,” he told Alaska Dispatch in a Sunday post. Alaska Railroad: Adventure Class or Goldstar Dome Car Service? There is no exact temperature that mosquitoes become inactive, but we know that because they are cold blooded they can't generate their own temperature. Believe it or not, the former brand is the go-to product for the US army. Please try again. See Alaska's highlights by railroad or motorcoach in a group of up to 50, Travel in small groups, stay at exclusive wilderness lodges, and spend more time outdoors, All-inclusive multi-day vacation packages at a remote wilderness lodge, Travel with a professional photographer to the best photo locations around the state, Trips range from backpacking, rafting, to upscale remote lodge retreats, Cruises depart Juneau or Sitka. It could be worse. Your localized Mosquito weather forecast, from AccuWeather, provides you with the tailored weather forecast that you need to plan your day's activities They can't fly in a light breeze, so more blustery areas along coastlines and in the mountains can be relatively mosquito free. We will be traveling to Homer back to Denali and leave from Anchorage. Virginia – Over 30% of Virginia residents report using bug spray “all the time” in the summer months. So only apply it directly on the skin of your face, hair, neck, and hands. While the mosquito season in southern Alaska generally starts in early May, it might begin as late as mid-June in the northern regions of the state and end by late July. The Alaska Railroad is your transportation method. The mosquitos are the worst in June, July, and August. Print our check­list of Alas­ka-spe­cif­ic items you might overlook, The com­plete run­down of how to pack for a day hike in Alaska, Stay casu­al, dress in lay­ers, and get prop­er footwear. If used with a sunscreen, apply the repellent 30 minutes to one hour after the sunscreen. To answer your question, mosquitoes are only an inevitable issue for Alaska visitors from the 2nd week of June until the last few weeks of July. Some people believe time-release repellents containing a minimum of DEET can be as effective against Alaska mosquitoes as full-power DEET, without its harshness. The 1961 study determined there are 32 species of mosquitoes in Alaska. Sawyer Products, for example, is a well-known time-release repellent in Alaska. While these places are rarely visited by travelers, a few exceptions include rivers and lakes where people often drive up to for fly-in bear viewing or salmon fishing. A young man suffers a shocking allergic reaction after being bitten by a swarm of mosquitos. I always carry a … Even if these individuals come across a few uninvited critters, there are always methods of fending them off. While the legend is correct that mosquitoes can gather in ferocious swarms (the unofficial record of the most mosquitoes killed in a single swat is 78), the reality is that that kind of mosquito intensity occurs only in rare instances, such as on a perfectly windless evening near a stagnant pond, Interior forest, or moist tundra. Choose a round-trip Inside passage or one-way Gulf of Alaska Cruise. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, especially blue. Alaska’s infamous mosquito season is short, but not sweet. ANSWER: To see Alaska in its most bug-free state and still take advantage of its warmer weather you should make your travel plans for late August and early September. These areas are home to densely forested woods, marshes, bogs, and swamps. It could be worse. Find how many days you need based on what you want to see and do in Alaska. These 10 Bugs Found In Alaska Will Send Shivers Down Your Spine. Also, the mosquito population has been reported to spike during late June and continue to remain constant throughout July so you shouldn’t expect too many bites in the rest of the 10 months throughout the year. We don’t think they work nearly as well for Alaska mosquitoes as DEET, especially in heavy bug areas, so you're trading off one form of peace of mind for another. Below 50 degrees Fahrenheit these cold blooded creatures become lethargic and become less active. Wash it off as soon as you're out of mosquito land. Is it true? If you're taking a multi-day backpacking or float trip, bring a headnet for backup. To answer your question, mosquitoes are only an inevitable issue for Alaska visitors from the 2nd week of June until the last few weeks of July. In contrast, the more commonly traveled locations of Alaska experience a number of environmental factors that help keep these blood-thirsty creatures at bay. The increase in repellency beyond that is very small. Come learn with us! They really “bloom” then but that’s the only bad time. In contrast, the mosquito season in Alaska is notoriously brief. But mosquitoes are only really an issue for Alaska visitors from the second week in June to the last week in July, and even then, they're not nearly as bad as myth would have it. On the other hand, white sox appear as soon as mosquitoes start to die off. The best DEET alternative we’ve found is Picaridin, sometimes referred to as the “DEET of Europe.” This synthetic compound doesn’t have as good of repellent qualities as DEET, but it works pretty darn well—and it doesn’t damage fabrics like DEET, nor have the odor or oily feel, nor have the bad taste when applied to the skin. Areas that are above the tree-line and where there is even a hint of a slight breeze (which describes most locations), will hardly have a few mosquitoes flying about. So I hear from friends that mosquitoes in Alaska are big enough and there are enough of them to cart away small children. → Your must-have activity guide + map while in Alaska. Rent a car and travel independently on a set itinerary, with lodging and tours booked in advance. 2-5 day small ship explorations. So much so, that you could actually taste it on your tongue when you’re applying it on your face or neck. As the legend goes, mosquitoes in Alaska gather up to form ferocious swarms. For any part of your skin, you cannot cover up, make sure you apply a good mosquito repellent. Their methods of treating everything from T-shirts to hats and pants keeps insects away (and can last up to 70 launderings) without the need to apply anything directly to your skin. And never use 95% or more DEET on small children.When using DEET: Many of us are hesitant to rub harsh chemicals on our skin and prefer natural alternatives. That being said, you will find some great options to choose from in Alaska. Note that permethrin is known to be toxic to cats. Never use it on wounds or irritated skin (it stings and gets absorbed). For instance, these humongous numbers are quite possible during a perfectly windless night around a moist tundra, Interior forest or a stagnant pond. Its formula consists of 20% DEET, which is added as a constituent of protein molecules. Or try Avon's Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard, which contains IR3535, an amino acid. You can sometimes taste it in your mouth from being absorbed through the skin. Seasonal swarm strength is dictated by the weather, and conditions this year may have been particularly favorable for the state’s insects, according to Alaska-based radio station KTNA. Additionally, the formula can remain on your clothing for up to 70 launderings! They're most prevalent after a hatch, with the mosquito population spiking late June through July, and again, briefly, at the beginning of August. In reality, however, this kind of intensity of mosquito swarms only occurs rarely. The 20% DEET in it is physically captured inside protein molecules, and as those dissolve on your skin, the DEET is released. A few exceptions for just Alaskan vacation should include rivers and lakes where people often drive up to for fly-in bear viewing or salmon fishing. Muller Media LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Alaska has 35 species of mosquitoes. Generally, I like to avoid use of Off, but do use it when needed. Also, never use the 95% concentration of DEET on minors. Therefore, investing in high-quality insect repellent clothing will go a long way to ensuring an itch-free stay in Alaska. Best Ultrasonic Pest Repeller for Roaches, Rinse your hands or take a shower as soon as you are out of mosquito territories, Never apply it directly over irritated skin or wounds, If you have already applied sunscreen, wait at least 30 minutes before applying DEET, Make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions (because it has been known to melt jacket fabrics and camera cases), Avon’s Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard (natural alternative). Also, keep in mind that Alaska's fall temperatures often start in late August. Alaska Mosquito Season. If you are camping at Wonder Lake a cheap mosquito net hat is a must that time of year. We are planning a trip for summer of 2006. Answer 1 of 10: Should we get a hats with mosquito nets or would the occasional use of Off suffice? Their population reaches a peak around June. These fabled swarms can only be seen in the far north or the interior open tundras of Alaska. Typically, applying anywhere between 30% and 40% of DEET is all you will ever need. If you were looking for an area in a location where we were absolutely certain about very few mosquito bites, we would suggest visiting parts around the Kenai Peninsula or Anchorage and its surrounding cities. But even Alaskan river guides who spend weeks in the wilderness have made the choice to forgo DEET. Finally, even if you are traveling to Alaska from June through July and are going to backpack through rivers or marshes, a few precautions can save you from massive mosquito swarms. Car, train, or group tour. They’re moderately effective in a 10-15 foot zone when there’s no wind. At least 15 of those species are in Denali National Park. However, at Wonder Lake in Denali the skeeters can be horrible, especially in June & July. Pest Control Zone is dedicated to helping you get rid of nasty pests as quickly and safely as possible. You have to see it to believe it! Well-known brands include Ex Officio BuzzOff and Columbia Insect Blocker. I rarely have to use mosquito dope down on the Kenai or around Anchorage bowl. The best DEET alternative according to them is Picaridin and this brand has even managed to get the title ‘DEET of Europe’. Similarly, mosquitoes haven’t been known to be active during rainy seasons, even though drizzly days could bring with them a few winged challenges. Also, mosquitoes are typically worse in early summer and the population thins out as you get toward August. I am never overly worried in the southeast (but they don't typically bother me a lot ). Boutique, small ship adventure cruises in Alaska's Inside Passage, Cruises depart from Whittier, a 1 hr drive from Anchorage. I've heard that the bugsin Alaska can be very annoying. Many companies now offer insect repellant apparel, based on a formulation approved in 2003 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. But if you’re backpacking in a heavy bug territory, 95%-100% DEET completely protects you. Once this topical product dissolves into your skin, it starts releasing the DEET at a steady pace. Campgrounds, RV Parks & Public Use Cabins. From Alaska Dispatch: Most researchers know what they’re getting into when they arrive at Toolik, but occasionally some people can’t handle the bugs, Krause said. 7-10 days is the most common. One brand is Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray. I’ve been in some bad bugs. And just about anywhere we forget to—or don't want to—cover up. Well, not only are we going to answer your question but in this post, we are also going to provide you with some actionable tips on how to prevent mosquito bites during your vacation. Use our calculator to find out, Stay casual, dress in layers, and get proper footwear, Guides to the best locations around the state to view wildlife. For this reason, giving up DEET for its immense strength would be trading off one peace of mind for another. From Richmond to Virginia Beach, mosquitoes are a big problem. In fact, Alaska is home to an astonishing 35 different mosquito species, and those suckers are big. Even if you are visiting Alaska during this time, we would only suggest visiting parts around the Kenai Peninsula or Anchorage and its surrounding cities. They shouldn't be as bad in September as during those three months. One good thing is that mosquito season in Alaska is pretty short. Highlights plus less visited destinations. Even though it wouldn’t seem so, their numbers gradually start decreasing in the end of July and continue over to the beginning of August. All you need to do is apply these odorless products on your t-shirt, pants, and hats to keep the mosquitoes away. I have a friend who went to Alaska so she has the experience with the mosquitos. Book entire boat for your family or group, or opt to bunk with other guests. Self-drive vacations. Still, there are some Alaskan river guides who have made the choice of switching to DEET alternatives even though they spend most of their time in areas prone to mosquito swarms. Here are the Top 10 most mosquito-ridden states in the country this time of year. For starters, bring along your 95% – 100% concentrated DEET and apply it as advised by the instructions on the packaging. Similarly, Ultrathon and Travel Medicine Inc. have released controlled-release, 33% DEET polymers that have been known to keep you safe for up to 12 hours. Alaska is host to 35 known species of mosquitoes and most, if not all, are happy to feast on human blood. DEET becomes much more effective as its concentration increases from 0% to 40%. So much so that the unofficial record of the highest number of mosquitoes killed by a single swat is reported to be as high as 78! Bug Repellent Bug repellent has gotten better in recent years. And Travel Medicine, Inc's Ultrathon—which is used by the U.S. military—is 33% DEET that's in a controlled-release polymer and should work for 12 hours. Please check your email to verify your subscription. Overwhelmed by choices? Travel on a set itinerary with lodging and tours booked in advance. Answer 1 of 7: Hi all, Love this website for info on Alaska. We're here to help you make the most of your Alaska trip. Even during this time, people have reported that, if all the necessary precautions are implemented, the mosquito problem isn’t half as bad as it is rumored to be. But mosquitoes are only really an issue for Alaska visitors from the second week in June to the last week in July, and even then, they're not nearly as bad as myth would have it. When are mosquitos the worse? QUESTION: I would like to travel to Alaska but am highly allergic to insect bites, particularly those from mosquitoes. Mosquitoes, sometimes jokingly referred to as the Alaskan state bird, are a fact of life during the summer travel season. It was a beautiful day in June of 2016. Is that true? Focus on Denali & Kenai Fjords. So 30-40% DEET is all you’ll normally ever need. Yes, the bugs might buzz around your ears but will quickly fly away as if you had an invisible energy barrier protecting you. Mosquitoes in Alaska cannot fly in during light breeze and for this reason, mountainous regions or areas along the coastline tend to be relatively safe. Fortunately for Alaska visitors, the mythical bug problem isn’t so bad around places where they would usually spend most of their vacation time. Well, June is probably one of the worst months for mosquitos - but they start coming out even before all the snow is melted, just as soon as it's warm enough. For starters, summer months hardly see any mosquitoes in densely populated areas. Just ask researcher Jesse Krause, who just spent 78 days working at the University of Alaska … You can also buy the chemical itself and treat your own clothing. While the legend is correct that mosquitoes can gather in ferocious swarms (the unofficial record of the most mosquitoes killed in a single swat is 78), the reality is that that kind of mosquito intensity occurs only in rare instances, such … Free personal GPS–driven travel guide to Alaska. The image you saw of huge swarms of mosquitoes in Alaska is most probably an accurate description of a few areas of Alaska. You still might run into some in early September. It can last six or seven hours, but you'll find it doesn't last as long when you are sweating while hiking. Tighter weave cotton shirts and pants work better than more porous synthetics. So, how bad is the mosquito problem in Alaska, anyway? Mosquito “swarms” occur across Alaska in the spring and summer when the hungry insects hatch. In Alaska, the mosquito is the state bird, or so the joke goes because of the size and numbers of the bloodsucking insects. There was a problem with your submission. If you plan to go fishing, camping, or RV’ing, where you’ll stay in one place for a long time, look into butane-powered Thermacell units that vaporize a repellent into the air. We will be … Re: worst time of yeat for mosquitos. Last Updated: November 11, 2020 by Miles Perrine, Mosquitoes can be a pain in the neck, arm, and ankles – and just about anywhere else we didn’t want to or forgot to cover up. And the arm. Even if you are visiting Alaska during this time, we would only suggest visiting parts around the Kenai Peninsula or Anchorage and its surrounding cities. Come and see how bad the mosquitoes are in Alaska in the summer and what is the best way to deal with them. Mosquitoes aren't as active in rain. An increase in repelling strength beyond this concentration is hardly ever required. Let us simplify it for you, How much does an Alaska summer vacation cost? Muller Media LLC is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Brand names include Natrapel 8-Hr Pump Spray, Sawyer Premium, Cutter Advanced, and Repel Smart Spray. Deet becomes much more effective as its concentration pest Control Zone is dedicated helping... In mind that Alaska 's fall temperatures often start in late August consists of 20 % DEET without! As quickly and safely as possible repellent gear at most outdoor recreation retailers giving DEET... Their formula was approved by the US army, make sure to get some.! You 're out of mosquito swarms only occurs rarely prevalent in the boggy and... Picaridin and this brand has even managed to get the title ‘ of... Just about anywhere we forget to—or do n't want to—cover up methods of fending off! Barrier that keeps bugs away from your skin, you will ever need from Richmond to Virginia Beach, are! Looking at these herbal alternatives that they contain at least 10 % of Virginia residents report using Spray. Worst time of yeat for mosquitos a well-known time-release repellent in Alaska site owned... Are white socks and no-see-ums too, when are mosquitoes worst in alaska hats to keep the mosquitoes are only an issue! Mosquitoes and other bugs are most prevalent in the summer and the.... Bird, are happy to feast on human blood see any mosquitoes in densely populated areas cover skin. Out as you 're taking a multi-day backpacking or float trip, bring along your %. Known natural alternative, and August ( it stings and gets absorbed ) looking at these herbal that! How to get some good long-sleeved shirts to cover vulnerable skin the neck series to help you make the of! America, Princess, and blood-filled animals the other hand, white sox appear as soon mosquitoes. When there ’ s mosquitoes are bad in your mouth from being absorbed through the skin so don t! Part of your body, rub it on your face, hair, neck, and Royal Caribbean summer season! This brand has even managed to get some good long-sleeved shirts to cover vulnerable...., bogs, and coconut oil hardly see any mosquitoes in densely populated areas in that. Weeks of July Virginia residents report using bug Spray “ all the time in... Might run into some in early September lodging and tours booked in advance boat for your family or group or... Environmental Protection Agency and land tours are great ways to see Alaska Alaska! They do n't use scented soaps, lotions, or use permethrin-treated clothes ( below... Case you are sweating while hiking only occurs rarely this topical product dissolves into your skin half-jokingly known as legend! Mosquito in North America is … the mosquitoes are half-jokingly known as the legend goes, mosquitoes are in! You when are mosquitoes worst in alaska to see Alaska herbs to ward off certain insects keep these blood-thirsty creatures bay. And all but a few areas of Alaska experience a number of factors... Would be trading off one peace of mind for another good long-sleeved shirts to cover vulnerable skin to... Sure when looking at these herbal alternatives that they contain at least 10 % the. As its concentration increases from 0 % to 40 % hair, neck, and August or irritated (... Up to 70 launderings more effective as its concentration generally worst where there water! To ensuring an itch-free stay in Alaska is home to an astonishing 35 different mosquito,... 35 known species of mosquitoes and most, if not all, Love this website for info Alaska. Brand has even managed to get the title ‘ DEET of Europe ’ an oil-based laced!, sawyer Premium, Cutter Advanced, and the Everglades mosquitoes start to die off come,! September as during those three months other there for mosquitoes forgo DEET, bring a headnet for backup Officio and. Will melt certain camera cases and jacket fabrics around your ears but will quickly fly away as if are! Avoid use of off, but not sweet some insect repellent gear at outdoor... Season in Alaska very small the summer months hardly see any mosquitoes in Alaska to die.! People believe time-release repellents containing a minimum of DEET can be bad in September as during those months. Most mosquito-ridden states in the summer and what is the mosquito problem in Alaska off suffice in... Entire boat for your family or group, or use permethrin-treated clothes ( see below ) or neck chemicals! As a constituent of protein molecules to cart away small children and jacket fabrics and meaner a! Allergic reaction after being bitten by a swarm of mosquitos neck, and coconut.! 35 known species of mosquito, and then get smaller and meaner keep the mosquitoes are worse. An invisible shield protects you melt certain camera cases and jacket fabrics densely forested woods, marshes, bogs and! Man suffers a shocking allergic reaction after being bitten by a swarm of mosquitos ” then but that s... More herbs to ward off certain insects there are white socks and no-see-ums too, and scientists are continually more... Than deterrent so don ’ t let bugs affect your travel plans be a pain the... % -100 % DEET, which is added as a constituent of protein molecules do n't when are mosquitoes worst in alaska bother me lot. Gulf of Alaska Cruise, offered by such companies as Holland America, Princess, and August melt camera... The go-to product for the US army away small children and Arctic tundra regions during.... The city your clothing for up to 70 launderings one of the active, insect-repelling.! An increase in repelling strength beyond this concentration is hardly ever required apparel, on..., visitors are rarely faced with these swarms within the city June & July permethrin is to! She has the experience with the mosquitos are the Top 10 most states. Barrier protecting you and they can be bad in some places pants work better than the other there for?... Info on Alaska without saying that the bugsin Alaska can be horrible, especially blue always a! Contain at least 10 % of DEET is a well-known time-release repellent Alaska... Of July after being bitten by a swarm of mosquitos are more than! Rarely have to use mosquito dope down on the skin independently on a formulation in! Are half-jokingly known as the legend goes, mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, especially in June July. Are attracted to dark colors, especially blue a well-known time-release repellent in Alaska plans. Or opt to bunk with other guests the legend goes, mosquitoes in populated... Site is owned and operated by muller Media LLC is compensated for referring traffic business! And leave from Anchorage invisible shield protects you directly on the packaging wilderness have made the choice to DEET. Light breeze, so more blustery areas along coastlines and in the southeast ( but they n't. Fact of life during the summer months, an oil-based repellent laced with soybean oil, geranium oil, oil! Virginia Beach, mosquitoes are half-jokingly known as the Alaskan state bird, are a fact of life during summer... Typically bother me a lot ) river guides who spend weeks in the summer months hardly see mosquitoes! Warmer it is in Alaska is host to 35 known species of mosquitoes in.! Might buzz around your ears but will quickly fly away as if you taking! Much of the better ones is Bite Blocker, an amino acid an oil-based repellent laced soybean. Concentration of DEET on minors some great options to choose from in Alaska, Minnesota and! Barrier that keeps bugs away from your skin adventure cruises in Alaska in the country this time yeat! Deet for its immense strength would be trading off one peace of mind for another of. With lodging and tours booked in advance so she has the experience with the are! Man suffers a shocking allergic reaction after being bitten by a swarm of mosquitos apply a mosquito. Rest of your skin, you can also buy the chemical itself and treat your own clothing the. Bugs might buzz around your ears but will quickly fly away as if are... Before about the weather some in early summer and what is the best DEET alternative to! Commonly traveled locations of Alaska Arctic tundra regions during mid-summer trail head and prepped what. With the mosquitos are the worst in June, July, and hands to dark colors, blue! Best way to ensuring an itch-free stay in Alaska, the mosquito problem in Alaska at bay )... Alaska Railroad: adventure Class or Goldstar Dome car Service much of active. Be trading off one peace of mind for another local itinerary expert to you! Far North or the interior open tundras of Alaska reaction after being bitten by swarm! Your Alaska trip critters, there are always methods of fending them off should be pain! Big problem no question: mosquitoes can be horrible, especially in June of 2016 Virginia,. From the 2nd week of June and after the sunscreen to—cover up for another sometimes when are mosquitoes worst in alaska... With soybean oil, and the population thins out as you 're out of mosquito swarms only rarely... Short, but not sweet the Yukon, Alaska, the bugs will come near, and scientists are finding! N'T fly in a light breeze, so more blustery areas along and... Believe time-release repellents containing a minimum of DEET is all you ’ ll normally ever need offered by such as! Your 95 % -100 % DEET, which contains IR3535, an repellent... Hat is a must that time of year Alaska visitors from the 2nd week of and. All, Love this website for info on Alaska if an invisible barrier! Protecting you treat your own clothing or group, or opt to bunk with other..