Weather, Climate and Seasons
Being part of Southcentral Alaska, Cooper Landing is located in a subarctic climate zone. Our seasons are characterized by short, cool summers and long, cold winters. The region is influenced by both coastal and continental factors, resulting in diverse weather patterns. Weather conditions are also impacted my the mountainous terrain surrounding the glacial valley.
​
Like everywhere in Alaska, the weather can vary greatly no matter what the season.
So come prepared with multiple layers of clothing. Top that off with a warm hat, a sturdy rain jacket and you’ll enjoy your stay no matter what the weather.
​
View details about each season below. Learn more about what to pack, things to do, and places to stay during that time.
Summer Time
June, July, and August
What to Expect
The sun barely sets, the salmon are running, and people are energized by all the daylight.
In general, June is the driest, July the warmest, and August the rainiest month. Daytime temps range 60° to 80°F; night and early mornings, 40° to 60°F.
-
Warm fleece jacket or sweatshirt.
-
Light weight down jacket.
-
Rain jacket and rain pants.
-
​Light weight hat and gloves.
-
Pants.
-
Shorts.
-
Quick drying T-shirts.
-
Long sleeve shirts.
-
Wool socks. ​​
-
Hiking boots.
-
Backpack.
-
Dry bag for on the water.
-
Polarized sunglasses
-
Bug spray
-
Personal bug net (if hiking).
-
​Hiking poles
-
Camera
-
Tent & sleeping bags(if camping).
-
Water bottle
-
​Food & Snacks
What to Pack
Autumn
September & October
What to Expect
The days begin to grow darker, but on a plus side you get to see some really pretty sunsets. Things are winding down from summer and the preparations for winter commence. The salmon are spawning, the leaves are turning, and the berries are ready for harvesting. During the fall months, temperatures tend to range from 40° to 60°F during the day and 20° to 40°F at night.​
-
Warm fleece jacket or sweatshirt.
-
Light weight down jacket.
-
Rain jacket and rain pants.
-
​Light weight hat and gloves.
-
Pants.
-
Shorts.
-
Quick drying T-shirts.
-
Long sleeve shirts.
-
Wool socks. ​​
-
Hiking boots.
-
Headlamp
-
Backpack.
-
Dry bag for on the water.
-
Polarized sunglasses
-
Bug spray
-
Personal bug net (if hiking).
-
​Hiking poles
-
Camera
-
Tent (if camping).
-
Sleeping bags ( if camping).
-
Water bottle
-
​Food & Snacks
What to Pack
Winter Time
November to March
What to Expect
The sun barely rises, there are logs on the woodstove, and a mug of hot chocolate in hand. Don't let the lack of daylight fool you, there is still plenty to do in the winter. Cross-country skiing, ice-skating, dog sledding, and snow-machining (or snow-mobiling as other states call it) to name a few. This is the time to see the Aurora Borealis and enjoy outdoor all things winter.
Temperatures can range from -30° to +40°F. Depending on the year, Cooper Landing can turn into a winter wonderland or an rainy- icefest. Pack both your snow-boot and your ice cleats, the weather can turn when you least expect it. February and March are the best for snow, sun and winter activities.
-
Dress in layers:
-
Undershirt​
-
Quick-drying long-sleeved shirt
-
Quick-drying long- johns
-
Synthetic insulated jacket
-
Synthetic insulated snow pants
-
-
Warm fleece jacket
-
Puffy down jacket
-
Wool Hat
-
Insulated Gloves or Mittens
-
Warm, wool socks
-
Ski or Snowboard socks
-
Backpack
-
Headlamp
-
Ice Cleats
-
Ice skates
-
Cross-country skis, boots, and poles
-
Goggles & helmet
-
Snowshoes
-
Avalanche beacon (if going in the backcountry)
-
Camera
-
Food & snacks
-
Water bottle
-
Always pack extra gear in your car for emergencies:
-
Blanket
-
​Food & water
-
What to Pack
Spring
April &May
What to Expect
As Alaska experiences longer days and increasing daylight, signs of seasonal transition become evident. Ice begins to thaw, snow begins to melt, migratory birds return, and deciduous trees regain their greenery as new vegetation emerges. Wildlife shed their winter coats and become more active, with newborn animals encountering their surroundings for the first time. Residents are eager to participate in outdoor activities, and numerous community events are held during this period.
​
In general, temperatures can range from 20° to 50°F during the day and 20° to 30°F at night.
Things To Do
Sight Seeing
-
Dress in layers:
-
T-shirt
-
Quick-drying long-sleeved shirt
-
Water resistant pants
-
Synthetic insulated jacket ​
-
-
Warm fleece jacket
-
Puffy down jacket
-
Warm Hat ​​
-
Wool socks
-
Rubber boots
-
Hiking boots
-
Hiking poles
-
Backpack
-
Camera
-
Water bottle
-
Food & snacks​
What to Pack
