For so many people who love to travel, Alaska feels like the holy grail of destinations. With an abundance of national and state parks, majestic peaks and glistening glaciers, awe inspiring wildlife and crystal clear streams teaming with fish, it's no wonder why so many travelers dream about visiting Alaska. Well, it's time to finally stop dreaming and go for it!

This is your year to see head north, and for my part you can't go wrong making Alaska's Mat-Su Valley the focal point for all your adventures. Located just north of Anchorage, so many iconic Alaska experiences can be had in the Mat-Su region. Here are some common bucket list items that visitors hope for when coming to Alaska:

DENALI
The journey to North America's tallest peak takes you right through the heart of our Mat-Su Valley. No Denali experience would be complete without a couple days in the Mat-Su town of Talkeetna, where all the climbing expeditions are staged and climbers are air taxied to Denali's base camp. The great news is that you don't have to be a climber to enjoy the same flightseeing experience over the Alaska Range to this majestic peak.

WILDLIFE
Moose, bears, Dall sheep, caribou, wolves and more! The wildife is here in a big way. Book a scenic ATV or boating tour with an experienced guide who knows where to look for these amazing animals. Enjoy a scenic drive into historic Hatcher Pass and look for marmots, ptarmigan, bald eagles and more!

GLACIERS
Alaska's largest road accessible glacier helped to carve out our glacier valley destination long long ago. Your glacier experience can take many forms. Visitors can see Matanuska Glacier up close and enjoy trekking on the ice, ice climbing, ice cave exploring, or scenic helicopter tours over its beautiful frozen contours. Knik Glacier also is a great destination. Consider paddle boarding in the glacier's deep blue melt pools!

CULTURE
Our region has a variety of thriving lifestyles, each one embracing the wonder and beauty of Alaska in a unique way. Whether its the exhilarating sled dog culture, the agricultural heritage and its fresh farm-to-table dining, the deep mining history or our wonderful Alaska native culture, you'll enjoy a special Alaska vibe when you visit the Mat-Su region.

ADVENTURE
While there are exciting activities in every destination, Alaska's Mat-Su Valley has some unique adventures that you may not find anywhere else on the globe. Take a flight or snowmobile tour to watch the world famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race from the checkpoints along the trail. Harness up on a zipline tour with beautiful Denali as your backdrop. Spend a winter getaway at a cozy lodge and watch the breathtaking Aurora Borealis overhead at night. Activities range in level of adventure, from whitewater rafting and overnight backpacking to horseback riding and farm tours. You're sure to find the perfect experience for you here in the Valley!

No more putting it off! Let's plan that Alaska vacation this year and make some lasting memories. Give yourself at least a few days in this enormous region of southcentral Alaska and you'll never regret it. See you in the Mat-Su Valley!