Alaska Of impressive natural beauty!

Alaska, a destination in the northwest of North America that captivates locals and foreigners with its impressive natural beauty, geographic diversity, unique wildlife and a climate that goes from arctic in the north to temperate in the south. As if that were not enough, it is home to the largest national park in the United States.

Territorially speaking, it is the largest state in the USA with 1,717,856 km². Its capital is Juneau, and its most populated cities are Anchorage and Fairbanks. It is located specifically in the western region of the country, in the Pacific; bordering Canada to the east.

Although many relate this place with the cold and, in this sense, activities and sports on snow. You should know that Alaska is made up of four zones: arctic, subarctic, coastal and mountain, which make it more versatile in every sense. It is a real box of surprises!

Learn more below, but not before delving into the origin of this place dubbed “The Last Frontier” for its vast territory, low population density and remote location.

History and culture of Alaska

The history of this land is intertwined with its wild environment and its ancient indigenous peoples. Since time immemorial, Alaska Natives have lived in harmony with nature, relying on fishing, hunting and gathering for their livelihood.

The arrival of Russian explorers in the 18th century marked the beginning of a new era for Alaska, with the founding of trading settlements along the coast and the establishment of a thriving otter fur industry. However, it was the “Alaska Purchase” by the United States in 1867 that changed the destiny of the state forever, paving the way for its development and expansion.

The gold rush of the late 19th century—large deposits of gold were discovered in the Klondike and other areas—attracted fortune seekers from around the world, transforming the economy and society. But while many came in search of wealth, many stayed to forge new lives in this land of opportunity.

Today, Alaskan culture is a mosaic of Native American, Russian, European and American influences. Ancient traditions of indigenous peoples, such as hunting, fishing and crafts, blend with modern celebrations and festivals that reflect the diversity and vitality of the Alaskan community.

What is the climate like in Alaska?

Alaskan winters are long and cold, and summers are short and cool. But, to give you a more precise reference, we will talk about the climate of this state, according to its region:

• Arctic zone/northern part of the state: it is characterized by extremely cold winters (the temperature can drop below -40°C), and cool summers (with daytime temperatures of up to 10-15°C).
• Subarctic zone/interior and parts of the south: winters are cold and long, with temperatures that can drop below -20°C. Summers, on the other hand, are short and warm; with temperatures that reach 20-25°C during the day.
• Coastal zone: the coastal regions (Juneau in the southeast and Anchorage in the south-central part) have a moderate oceanic climate. They are milder than inland with a temperature that rarely drops below -10°C, and summers are cool with daytime highs around 15-20°C.
• Mountain area: Regions such as the Alaska Range and Aleutian Islands have an alpine climate that varies depending on altitude and exposure. Winters can be super cold at higher elevations, with heavy snowfall; while summers can be cool and windy.

In this order of ideas, we invite you to check out what to wear in Alaska according to the climate and the best time to travel to Alaska.

What activities to do in Alaska?

Although many associate Alaska with snow, ice and cold; its large size, geographical diversity, history, culture and varied climate give the possibility of doing endless activities in this destination.

There is so much to do and see, especially for nature lovers! You can travel alone or with family, as a couple or with friends, in search of fun or relaxation.

In this state you will find the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (largest in the US) and the highest peak in North America (Mount Denali). They offer everything from whale watching to ice cruising, festivals and native cultural tours, meaning you can connect with peoples such as the Yup’ik, Cup’ik, Aleut and Sugpiaq.

For a more precise reference, you can check out our article on the 10 best things to do in Alaska, including the Northern Lights, a majestic natural phenomenon considered one of the most impressive and magical spectacles for tourists. and photographers from around the world.

Lodging in “The Last Frontier”

When it comes to lodging, “The Last Frontier” has a wide variety of options; adapting to each traveler based on their preferences, expectations and travel budget.

You can choose between hotels and resorts, cabins and lodges, Bed and Breakfasts, camps and RV parks (mobile homes), hostels and hostels, fishing and hunting lodges.

In short, the alternatives range from luxury hotels to remote camps and outdoor adventure; for solo, couples, groups, family, vacations and even honeymoon. Discover the 10 best accommodations in Alaska by clicking on this link.

What is the gastronomy like in Alaska?

The gastronomy in Alaska is unique and diverse, influenced by the abundance of fresh local ingredients and the fusion of various culinary traditions. It includes exquisite fish, predominantly Salmon (whose fishing is presented as one of the must-see activities in the state).

In addition to this ingredient, there is trout, ocean seafood, game meat (deer, elk and birds), berries and wild fruits (blackberries, raspberries and blueberries), craft beer and liquors.

Alaskan food reflects the abundance and culture of this unique state with dishes such as smoked salmon, fish soup, ribs in tomato sauce and akutaq (a dish made from berries and meat seasoned with sugar). When it comes to drinks, Midnight Sun is the typical beer of the place.

Click on this link to find out about the 10 best restaurants in Alaska where you can taste this natural, different cuisine tailored to the most demanding palates.

How to get to Alaska?

After all that has been described above, this will surely be your next destination. In this order of ideas, it is appropriate that you know how to get to Alaska. There are several means of transportation for access even though it is considered a remote state:

• Plane: The most common way to get to Alaska is by plane. The state is served by several international airports, with Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage and Fairbanks International Airport being the largest and serving the most flights. These airports serve direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and some international destinations.
• Boat: Another option is to reach Alaska by sea. Cruises are a popular way to visit Alaska, with ports of call in cities such as Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Additionally, there are ferry services that connect Alaska with coastal cities in Washington State and British Columbia.
• Road: Although it is not practical to reach Alaska by road from the rest of the United States due to its remote location and lack of direct connections, there is the Alaska Interstate Highway that connects the state with contiguous Canada. This highway begins in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, and ends in Delta Junction, Alaska.
• Rail: Alaska Railroad has one rail service, offering scenic routes between Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Seward, as well as other destinations. This train is an excellent option for those who wish to enjoy panoramic views of Alaska’s landscapes.

Learn more details about how to get to Alaska by clicking on this link. We will specify the route options you have depending on the means of transport you prefer and where you come from. You will know the distances and options in case of flight. Direct or with a stopover? Don’t forget that in winter, snow can pose various challenges at the transfer level.

Ultimately, thanks to its impressive natural beauty and the richness of its cultural heritage, Alaska remains a unique and captivating place that continues to attract visitors from around the world in search of adventure, exploration and discovery.

Is this your next destination? Don’t hesitate to contact our specialists at We Travel Usa, they will help you plan and put together a package that includes everything you need to live the best experience. From plane tickets and hotel transfers, to accommodation and an itinerary with the must-sees of this destination.