Alaska is an extraordinary destination, especially for those who appreciate close contact with nature, great hiking and beautiful landscapes during a trip. Alaska is also a great choice for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone who combines holidays with outdoor activities. The name ‘Alaska’ comes from the indigenous ‘Alyeska’ and means ‘Great Land’, or Great Land. It is the largest state in the USA and is almost six times the size of Poland. Alaska is crossed by two major rivers, the Yukon and the Kuskokwim, has many lakes, volcanic geysers, and glacial mountains and glaciers in northern Alaska. A trip to Alaska will delight true travel connoisseurs who appreciate nature still untamed by man. Interestingly, Alaska has not always belonged to the United States. It was originally a territory of the Russian Empire, but was sold back to the USA in the second half of the 19th century. The treaty was signed after lengthy negotiations on the night of 29/30 March 1867. The $7.2 million transaction was a success for the USA, as deposits of valuable raw materials were soon discovered here.
The climate in Alaska
The climate in Alaska is also extremely interesting. Annual temperatures can range from as low as -51 degrees C to as high as +33 degrees C. Due to the location and size of the state, the climate in the north is subpolar, while the climate in the south and on the coast is temperate cool. Particularly the southern region of Alaska, from which the adventure usually begins, is very attractive for excursions during the summer months (June, July, August). During this period, animals are most active, trails are accessible and nature flourishes. The right length of stay and the summer months will allow you to take full advantage of all the activities on site, including whale watching, bear viewing or a trip deep into Denali National Park. However, due to the short summer season, you should also expect the highest prices for all services during this period.
Life in Alaska
Alaska is not inhabited by a large number of people; the population density here is about 0.42 persons per km2. There are major cities, along with airports and seaports, but they are not cultural or business centres. For this reason, life in Alaska flows very slowly and quietly, unlike in most other US states. Alaska’s social structure is also very divided. Ethnically, almost 5 % of the population still speaks Eskimo-Aleutian languages. The average Alaskan is said to have a dog, an old pick-up truck, can chop wood, hunt and fish, and lives in a log cabin and values privacy. When visiting this remote corner of the world, it is easy to see that this is not just a stereotype, but the captivating reality of the place.
Attractions in Alaska
Life in Alaska is decidedly quieter than in the other states, which are more dynamic and more densely populated. Sightseeing in the region can start with Anchorage – Alaska’s largest city, where the main airport is located – before heading off on wilderness tours filled with winding rivers, scenic mountains and hot geysers.
National Parks are a hallmark of the United States, and those in Alaska are the largest in all of America. Alaska has as many as eight national parks, but most of them are not easily accessible, but with a bit of willingness, they can and definitely are worth enjoying. Particularly noteworthy is the Denali National Park region, where traffic is very limited, allowing you to enjoy untouched nature and pristine forest.
Alaska is home to 30 mountain ranges, including the Alaska Mountains, the Wrangel Mountains and the Chugach Mountains. It is here that 17 of the 20 highest peaks in the entire USA are located. The highest of these is Mount Denali. Alaska is a true paradise for hikers, both less and more advanced.
A Matanuska Glacier hike, a boat cruise to Portage Glacier or a mountain climb to Harding Icefield are just a few options for observing one of Alaska’s 100,000 glaciers. The attraction is guided by an experienced local guide, who not only ensures the safety of participants, but also tells them how interesting and important Alaska’s glaciers are.
The state of Alaska is also an ideal place to observe the aurora borealis phenomenon. Near the Arctic Circle, the magical lights regularly appear over the heads of the population between September and March. However, the appearance of the aurora borealis depends on many different factors, so be aware that this sight is just a nice addition to a trip filled with other wonderful experiences.