FAQs
Question
How far is Palmer from the Anchorage airport?
Answer
Roughly 45 minutes :)
Question
What will the weather be like?
Answer
TEMPERATURES: The average low around the end of may will be 44 degrees Fahrenheit with an average high of 62 degrees Fahrenheit. WEATHER: Weather in Alaska is often quite variable though typically the end of May is pretty decent. That being said, you should always be prepared for light rain, light breezes, and cloud cover and then be pleasantly surprised and grateful when its nice :) DAYLIGHT: You can expect roughly 17-18 hours of daylight during your stay as we are closely approaching the summer solstice. Sunrise will be close to 4:40am with an 11:00pm sunset. SCENERY: The end of May typically is when the sun starts to shine a little more, the greenery starts budding, and the mountains are still draped in snow. Snow is very unlikely but it is not far away if you want to seek it out. You can however expect things to be fairly wet, so waterproof or water resistant footwear is highly recommended (Xtra-Tuf boots are the local favorite if you want a good Alaskan souvenir).
Question
Top recommendations for what to do/see while in Alaska?
Answer
Hatcher Pass Drive/Hike: 20ish minute drive from Palmer. Great for views, hiking, and mountains. Hike to an old mining town. Trail options for all hiking levels. Hike the Butte: 10 min from Palmer. Good for photos, exercise, and views of the Mat-Su valley. Girdwood: Easy day or half day trip. Ride a tram up a mountain and see Alaskan animals at the wildlife center. Take a Cruise: One of the best ways to see AK. You get mountains, water, wildlife, info, and quality time with travel companions. Worth the price; half day or full day. Go out of Whittier or Seward. A fishing charter is another good option. See a glacier: Options include Matanuska Glacier (Mat-Su Valley), Knik Glacier (Mat-Su Valley), Portage Glacier (Whittier), and Exit Glacier (Seward). Overnight trip to Seward: Take a cruise, beach comb, visit Sea Life center. Learn about AK Culture & History (Anchorage): Native Heritage Center & Anch. Museum Go north (Talkeetna) for a scenic day drive and chance to see Mt. Denali
Question
How big is Palmer, AK?
Answer
Palmer has a population of roughly 5,888 (Anchorage in comparison is about 293,500). The city of Palmer is 5.07 square miles, but it is part of the larger Matanuska Susitna Borough which spans 25,258 square miles. Many of the main restaurants and business are located within walking distance of one another and makes for a cute, easy town to explore.