The 1961 study determined there are 32 species of mosquitoes in Alaska. Alaska is known for its legendary mosquito population. What it’s like and how to get some sleep. Mosquito “swarms” occur across Alaska in the spring and summer when the hungry insects hatch. For starters, summer months hardly see any mosquitoes in densely populated areas. It won’t have the same saturation and bonding, but it will still last 2-4 weeks and survive a washing or two—long enough for most Alaska vacations. Alaska’s mosquitoes are so bad that you need to wear a special suit to go outside. 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. However, at Wonder Lake in Denali the skeeters can be horrible, especially in June & July. Travel on a set itinerary with lodging and tours booked in advance. 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. The warmer it is in Alaska, the more mosquitos you get. So I hear from friends that mosquitoes in Alaska are big enough and there are enough of them to cart away small children. Alaska Railroad: Adventure Class or Goldstar Dome Car Service? The classic Alaska Cruise, offered by such companies as Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. https://weather.com/.../mosquitoes-are-really-bad-in-alaska-heres-why They’re moderately effective in a 10-15 foot zone when there’s no wind. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, especially blue. Wash it off as soon as you're out of mosquito land. Discover the optimal month due to daylight, temperature, and rain. Please try again. Fortunately for Alaska visitors, the mythical bug problem isn’t so bad around places where they would usually spend most of their vacation time. 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. Free personal GPS–driven travel guide to Alaska. 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 … One of the better ones is Bite Blocker, an oil-based repellent laced with soybean oil, geranium oil, and coconut oil. For the rest of your body, rub it on your clothes, or use permethrin-treated clothes (see below). Mosquitoes are most prevalent after they have hatched and their population has been reported to spike during late June and continues to remain constant throughout July. Is it true? 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). Similarly, mosquitoes haven’t been known to be active during rainy seasons, even though drizzly days could bring with them a few winged challenges. 2-5 day small ship explorations. Attempted being the key word here. 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. Also, mosquitoes are typically worse in early summer and the population thins out as you get toward August. I have a friend who went to Alaska so she has the experience with the mosquitos. You have some good options for bug protection in Alaska: No question, DEET is the most effective method of combating our pesky neighbors. However, visitors are rarely faced with these swarms within the city. Highlights plus less visited destinations. Most mosquito repellent brands are now offering similar products since their formula was approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency in 2003. 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. Just ask researcher Jesse Krause, who just spent 78 days working at the University of Alaska … Trips available from Whittier, Homer, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. 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. Permethrin is the name of an odorless mosquito repellent formula that can easily bind to any type of clothing. When the average person hears the words ‘bug’ and ‘Alaska’ in the same sentence, they are sent into some sort of frenzy; absentmindedly swatting at the air, and talking about football sized mosquitoes waiting patiently at the door of your tent like a blood sucking hover craft. Choose a round-trip Inside passage or one-way Gulf of Alaska Cruise. Believe it or not, the former brand is the go-to product for the US army. So much so, that you could actually taste it on your tongue when you’re applying it on your face or neck. 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. Answer 1 of 10: Should we get a hats with mosquito nets or would the occasional use of Off suffice? So 30-40% DEET is all you’ll normally ever need. An increase in repelling strength beyond this concentration is hardly ever required. 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. Let us simplify it for you, How much does an Alaska summer vacation cost? Mosquitoes are a summertime nightmare for Alaska residents and due to many rivers, lakes, marshlands, regular precipitation, and mild temperatures, the environment is perfect for these pesky little critters. You can find this insect repellent gear at most outdoor recreation retailers. United States - Best Time for Alaska---Good Weather vs. Mosquitoes - I thought I had things all figured out for a trip to Alaska next summer, going mid-August. Overwhelmed by choices? 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 … 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. Even if these individuals come across a few uninvited critters, there are always methods of fending them off. Mosquitoes, sometimes jokingly referred to as the Alaskan state bird, are a fact of life during the summer travel season. They're most prevalent after a hatch, with the mosquito population spiking late June through July, and again, briefly, at the beginning of August. Answer 1 of 7: Hi all, Love this website for info on Alaska. Mosquitoes and other bugs are most prevalent in the boggy interior and Arctic tundra regions during mid-summer. Stops include Seward (Kenai Fjords), Girdwood, Whittier & Spencer Glacier, Stops include Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali National Park & Fairbanks. 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. 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. Come learn with us! We parked at the trail head and prepped for what should be a short hike. Rent a car and travel independently on a set itinerary, with lodging and tours booked in advance. 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. Typically, applying anywhere between 30% and 40% of DEET is all you will ever need. Pest Control Zone is dedicated to helping you get rid of nasty pests as quickly and safely as possible. The following have been our trusty companions and so we would like to recommend them to you: DEET is, hands down, the most effective method of warding off your pesky neighbors in Alaska. Some people are of the opinion that time-release repellents are formulated with a minimum of what DEET uses and can still be quite as effective as fully concentrated DEET (minus the harshness). They shouldn't be as bad in September as during those three months. In reality, however, this kind of intensity of mosquito swarms only occurs rarely. 10. For this reason, giving up DEET for its immense strength would be trading off one peace of mind for another. You see, DEET is a very strong chemical. Which one is right for you? Since you’re planning a visit to Alaska, you’ve made a sensible decision … Continue Reading about When Are Mosquitoes Worst in Alaska? It could be worse. 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. The 20% DEET in it is physically captured inside protein molecules, and as those dissolve on your skin, the DEET is released. 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. Brand names include Natrapel 8-Hr Pump Spray, Sawyer Premium, Cutter Advanced, and Repel Smart Spray. But if you’re backpacking in a heavy bug territory, 95%-100% DEET completely protects you. You have to see it to believe it! It can last six or seven hours, but you'll find it doesn't last as long when you are sweating while hiking. For this reason, you need not apply it directly to other parts of your body and instead just moderately rub it on your clothes. 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. The best DEET alternative according to them is Picaridin and this brand has even managed to get the title ‘DEET of Europe’. However, we don’t think any natural alternative available in Alaska works as well as DEET – especially if you’re up against their infamous mosquito swarms. You still might run into some in early September. The image you saw of huge swarms of mosquitoes in Alaska is most probably an accurate description of a few areas of Alaska. Think mosquitoes are bad in your neck of the woods this summer? 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. Visit September to April to see the Northern Lights, Best Northern Lights Viewing Spots Near Anchorage, How to Travel to Alaska in January and February, The Best Large Family & Group Vacations in Alaska, How to Get from Anchorage to Your Cruise Port in Whittier or Seward (or the reverse!). Book entire boat for your family or group, or opt to bunk with other guests. And the leg. Since you’re planning a visit to Alaska, you’ve made a sensible decision to look up ‘when are mosquitoes worst in Alaska?’. People in Alaska talk about mosquitoes the way they talk about the weather. The bugs will come near, and then fly away—as if an invisible shield protects you. I have been to the Yukon, Alaska, Minnesota, and the Everglades. Here’s the short version: mosquitoes are half-jokingly known as the state bird of 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. Sawyer Products, for example, is a well-known time-release repellent in Alaska. It was a beautiful day in June of 2016. I’ve been in some bad bugs. Also, keep in mind that Alaska's fall temperatures often start in late August. Additionally, the formula can remain on your clothing for up to 70 launderings! 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. For much of the sum­mer, Alas­ka doesn’t real­ly get dark. Pest control company Orkin has released a ranking of the worst mosquito cities in the United States, based on the number of customers who bought mosquito control services in … If you're taking a multi-day backpacking or float trip, bring a headnet for backup. On the other hand, white sox appear as soon as mosquitoes start to die off. 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. Think mosquitoes are bad in your neck of the woods this summer? Wearing loose cut long sleeve shirts and pants creates a physical barrier that keeps bugs away from your skin. There are “safe” times in Alaska if you just don’t want to fight the mosquitoes. Some of us are hesitant to apply harsh chemicals on our bare skin and hence turn towards natural alternatives. In contrast, the mosquito season in Alaska is notoriously brief. 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. 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. So only apply it directly on the skin of your face, hair, neck, and hands. 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. This site is owned and operated by Muller Media LLC. 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. It should go without saying that the effectiveness of this product increases as you increase its concentration. 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. You can also buy the chemical itself and treat your own clothing. 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. Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. I rarely have to use mosquito dope down on the Kenai or around Anchorage bowl. But even Alaskan river guides who spend weeks in the wilderness have made the choice to forgo DEET. Your must-have activity guide + map while in Alaska. 7-10 days is the most common. None of Alaska's mosquitoes are known to carry any disease, but they do leave itchy welts that can take days to go away. 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). Generally, I like to avoid use of Off, but do use it when needed. They really “bloom” then but that’s the only bad time. Other than these areas, travelers rarely wander off to areas where large mosquito swarms are common – unless they are backpackers or adventure travelers. Mosquitoes aren't as active in rain. One good thing is that mosquito season in Alaska is pretty short. These 10 Bugs Found In Alaska Will Send Shivers Down Your Spine. 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. 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. That being said, you will find some great options to choose from in Alaska. I've heard that the bugsin Alaska can be very annoying. Muller Media LLC also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. Note that permethrin is known to be toxic to cats. 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. However, the worst experience with mosquitoes by far was when my wife and I attempted the Zumwalt Meadow Trail in King’s Canyon NP. We will be … It could be worse. Make sure to get some good long-sleeved shirts to cover vulnerable skin. The largest mosquito in North America is … One brand is Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray. 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. Well-known brands include Ex Officio BuzzOff and Columbia Insect Blocker. For starters, bring along your 95% – 100% concentrated DEET and apply it as advised by the instructions on the packaging. And just about anywhere we forget to—or don't want to—cover up. Alaska Mosquito Season. Or try Avon's Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard, which contains IR3535, an amino acid. Virginia – Over 30% of Virginia residents report using bug spray “all the time” in the summer months. 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. 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