Alaska s a state of the United States of America. Alaska is located in the extreme northwest portion of North America. It is by far the largest U.S. state in area, but one of the least populated. It is also one of the wealthiest and most racially diverse states.
Purchased from Russia on April 16, 1867, Alaska became the 49th US state on January 3, 1959. The name "Alaska" is derived from the Aleut Alaskax, alternately spelled Alyeska.
Alaska is one of the two U.S. states not bordered by another state, Hawaii being the other. It is the only non-contiguous state in North America; about 500 miles (800 km) of Canadian territory separate Alaska from Washington. Alaska is thus an exclave of the United States that is part of the continental U.S. but is not part of the contiguous U.S. (The other two exclaves of the United States are the Northwest Angle of Minnesota, and Point Roberts, Washington.) Alaska is also the only state whose capital city is accessible only via ship or air. No roads connect Juneau to the rest of the state.
It is bordered by Yukon Territory and British Columbia, Canada to the east, the Gulf of Alaska and the Pacific Ocean to the south, the Bering Sea, Bering Strait, and Chukchi Sea to the west, and the Beaufort Sea and the Arctic Ocean to the north.
Alaska is the largest state in the United States in terms of land area (it is larger in area than all but 18 of the world's nations) at 570,380 square miles (1,477,261 km²), over twice as large as Texas, the next largest state. If a map of Alaska were superimposed upon a map of the 48 contiguous states, Alaska would overlap Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, New Mexico and Colorado, and if the state's westernmost point were superimposed on San Francisco, California, its easternmost point would be in Jacksonville, Florida. Alaska also has more coastline than all of the contiguous U.S. combined.
The climate in Juneau and the southeast panhandle is best described as a cooler version of Seattle. It is a mid-latitude oceanic climate in the southern sections and a subarctic oceanic climate in the northern parts. On an annual basis, this is both the wettest and warmest part of Alaska with milder temperatures in the winter and high precipitation throughout the year. Juneau averages over 50 inches (1,270 mm) of precipitation a year, while other areas receive over 275 inches (6,990 mm). This is also the only region in Alaska in which the average daytime high temperature is above freezing during the winter months.
The climate of Anchorage and south central Alaska is mild by Alaskan standards due to the region's proximity to the seacoast. While the area does not get nearly as much rain as southeast Alaska, it does get more snow, although days tend to be clearer. On average, Anchorage receives 16 inches (406 mm) of precipitation a year, with around 75 inches (1,905 mm) of snow, although there are areas in the south central which receive far more snow. It is a subarctic climate due to its short, cool summers.
The climate of Western Alaska is determined in large part by the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska. It is a subarctic oceanic climate in the southwest and a continental subarctic climate farther north. The temperature is somewhat moderate considering how far north the area is. This area has a tremendous amount of variety in precipitation. The northern side of the Seward Peninsula is technically a desert with less than 10 inches (250 mm) of precipitation annually, while some locations between Dillingham and Bethel average around 100 inches (2,540 mm) of precipitation.
The climate of the interior of Alaska is best described as extreme and is the best example of a true subarctic climate. Some of the hottest and coldest temperatures in Alaska occur around the area near Fairbanks. The summers can have temperatures reaching into the 90s°F (near 30 °C), while in the winter, the temperature can fall below â60 °F (-52 °C). Precipitation is not much in the Interior, often less than 10 inches (250 mm) a year, but what precipitation falls in the winter tends to stay the entire winter.
The highest and lowest recorded temperatures in Alaska are both in the Interior. The highest is 100 °F (38 °C) in Fort Yukon on June 27, 1915, tied with Pahala, Hawaii as the lowest high temperature in the United States. The lowest Alaska temperature is â80 °F (-64 °C) in Prospect Creek on January 23, 1971, one degree above the lowest temperature recorded in North America (in Snag, Yukon, Canada).
The climate in the extreme north of Alaska is as expected for an area north of the Arctic Circle. It is an Arctic climate with long, very cold winters and short, cool summers. Even in July, the average low temperature is barely above freezing in Barrow, at 34 °F (2 °C). Precipitation is light in this part of Alaska, with many places averaging less than 10 inches (250 mm) per year, mostly in the form of snow which stays on the ground almost the entire year.
Glacier Bay National Park
Eleven tidewater glaciers spill from the mountains and fill the sea with icebergs around this famous wilderness. You can see the glaciers via a cruise up the West Arm of Glacier Bay or by renting a sea kayak. Glacier Bay Visitor Center is on the second floor of Glacier Bay Lodge and has exhibits, a bookshop and an information deck.
Admiralty Island National Monument 24km (15mi) SE of Juneau Southeast Alaska 8461 Old Dairy Rd (office)
The Admiralty Island National Monument has 3641 sq km (1406 sq mi) of designated wilderness, featuring eagles, humpback whales, harbor seals, porpoises, sea lions and bears - the best bear-viewing area in Southeast Alaska is at Pack Creek, on the eastern side of the island. Angoon is the starting point for the adventurous canoe trips the area is famous for.
Saxman Native Village 3.2km (2mi) S of Ketchikan S Tongass Hwy
Alaska fishing
one reason the state calls itself the Last Frontier. Close your eyes, indulge for a moment in the vacation of your dreamsâŚ
It's late evening now, but the light remains steadfast. The shapes moving beneath the shimmering water can just be made out. You stand in a quiet stream and the loudest sound is the piercing whir of your line as you cast. It is quiet, and one question pursues your thoughts: What lies beneath the water?
Such is the mystery of Alaska fishing.
Before you get in the boat, your guide tells you that you've made the right decision. There are doubts, since the rain is coming down diagonally. But still, he says Alaska King Salmon fishing is the best: Nowhere on earth can you even hope to find such massive Chinooks. You get excited and boast about the 30 pound salmon you caught in California last summer. Your guide chuckles humbly and says "the world record king salmon was caught right over there," as he points his finger across the Kenai River.
Like he said, you've made the right choice.
The World Record King Salmon was caught on May 17, 1985 by Les Anderson. The mighty Chinook weighed in at a whopping 97lbs 4oz!
Alaska hunting
Some Alaskans will say that "if you aren't spending the hunting season in Alaska, you're spending it in Africa." Alaska is without a doubt one of the most sought after places for hunting enthusiasts, and not without good reason. Alaska is abundant in both land and big-game, not to mention the majestic surroundings of paradise.
The Mulchatna caribou herd that migrates through Southwest Alaska is over 250,000 animals strong, and is the essence of excitement when deciding which trophy bull you are going to take. Of course you will remember an experience like that forever because you will be grinning ear to ear when your buddy snaps a photo of you kneeling in the middle of your monster trophy antlers.
Moose hunting is extremely popular in Alaska, and the meat will have guests coming over to your place uninvited for weeks. A bull moose in Alaska can weigh over 1000 pounds and can easily wield a rack wider than the front bumper of your Chevy Silverado!
Dall Sheep hunts are definitely not for Nancy-boys! Dall sheep demand respect, and you better be in good physical condition in order to claim a trophy on one of these hunts. Hunting Dall sheep in Alaska will definitely yield sightseeing dreams come true.
Need more excitement? If so, you want the mighty Grizzly. This hunt is often tagged with a high degree of danger. It is very important that you find a guide that knows what he/she is doing, and that really goes for all guided hunting. Hunting bear is often on rugged terrain and requires good physical endurance.
There are many other hunting opportunities in Alaska as well. Now that you're ready to come to Alaska for the experience of a lifetime, you will need to plan. Planning is the most important part of your adventure. The Alaskan wilderness can be very unforgiving, and that can get you in a lot of trouble or even dead. Make sure to plan with safety being top priority. Remember the clichĂŠ, "failing to plan, is planning to fail."
Good luck and happy hunting.
Alaska Outdoor Summer Activities
Alaska is one of the most popular vacation destinations for the outdoor enthusiast as well as your typical knickknack shopping tourist. Alaska is a huge land loaded with unscathed wilderness as far as the eye can see. It is a land abundant in culture, adventure, and beauty.
The long summers in the land of the Midnight Sun provide endless days of summer sporting fun. Have you ever heard an umpire yell "Play Ball!" in a ball park at 10:30 in the evening? There's a good chance many of you have. But was the sun providing the light for the players to see or was it numerous banks of high watt artificial lighting? I'm guessing that it was the latter for most of you. During the Solstice, you can watch a baseball game in Fairbanks under the sun at Midnight! In the Far North, the days are endless. The sun will rise in the middle of May, and won't set again until early August.
There are numerous activities to partake in during the summer months in Alaska, and the long days give you more time to enjoy them. Whether you're hiking Denali National Park or kayaking through Prince William Sound, there will be memories to cherish forever.
Alaska Outdoor Winter Activities
Winter in Alaska is a season of snow covered beauty and opportunity. Skiing Alaska or gazing up at the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) while you sit in the healing waters of Chena Hot Springs are just a few activities that you will remember forever. You can even experience the comfort of rustic wilderness lodging during your stay. Contrary to popular belief, most Alaskans do not live in igloos nor will you have to stay in one during your visit to the Last Frontier.
Some of the most popular Winter sporting events are held in Alaska. The Iditarod and Yukon Quest Sled Dog Races capture audiences all over the world, and the Tesoro Iron Dog 2000 has the respect of snowmachiners everywhere as being the toughest and most grueling snowmobile race on earth. If skiing is your thing, the World Extreme Skiing Championship (WESC) draws skiers as far away as New Zealand to the beautiful port city of Valdez every April.
There are numerous activities to partake in during the winter months in Alaska, and the long seasons give you more time to enjoy them. Whether you're snowshoeing in the Chugach mountain range or taking an Arctic Circle tour via a respected air charter, there will be memories to cherish forever.
Don't forget to dress warm!
Alaska Lodging
Alaskan hospitality is some of the finest in the world. Everywhere you plan on staying during your visit to the 49th state will, more often than not, have a smiling face waiting to greet you. The accommodations whether in a city or remote are very respectable. If you feel you will need to book time in an igloo, you are clearly mistaken. Alaska accommodates over 1 million visitors annually.
If you choose to stay in a bed and breakfast, you are choosing a truly unique experience. Whether you just want privacy or choose to interact with the proprietors, it is a very rewarding experience. If you have never stayed in a bed and breakfast, it is a nice change from a hotel and a nice escape from the crowds. Depending on the area, you are likely to be surprised, in a good way, at the cost of a bed and breakfast compared to a hotel or resort.
For those who truly want to witness a unique Alaska experience should book their vacation at one of the many wilderness lodges scattered throughout Alaska. Although be forewarned... a hefty price tag can come with one of these vacation packages especially the more remote the lodge is. Celebrities such as comedian Jim Carey, former president Jimmy Carter, and former football great Larry Csonka are known to frequent these lodges to either escape from the limelight or to take advantage of the serene wilderness surroundings while wetting a fishing line. Regardless of the reasons, anyone who chooses this type of backwoods adventure will return with an entirely new respect for mother nature. You will cry if you forget your camera!
The largely traveled areas like Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Valdez have numerous hotels and resorts as well as bed and breakfasts. During the summer months, the big resorts and hotels fill up fast. If you insist on staying in a hotel, it is highly recommended that you book early.
Enjoy your stay!
To enjoy Alaskan cuisine one must love fish. Salmon, halibut and trout feature heavily on most menus. Regional specialties: ⢠Smoked salmon. ⢠Caribou stew.
The 2005 gross state product was $39.9 billion. Its per-capita GSP for 2005 was $60,079, 3rd in the nation. Alaska's economy relies heavily on petroleum extraction, with more than 80% of the state's revenues derived from this industry. Alaska's main export product (excluding oil and natural gas) is seafood, primarily salmon, cod, pollock and crab. Agriculture represents only a fraction of the Alaskan economy. Agricultural production is primarily for consumption within the state and includes nursery stock, dairy products, vegetables, and livestock. Manufacturing is limited, with most foodstuffs and general goods imported from elsewhere. Employment is primarily in government and industries such as natural resource extraction, shipping, and transportation. Military bases are a significant component of the economy in both Fairbanks and Anchorage. Its industrial outputs are crude petroleum, natural gas, coal, gold, precious metals, zinc and other mining, seafood processing, timber and wood products. There is also a growing service and tourism sector. Tourists have contributed to the economy by supporting local lodging.
Alaska's economy is heavily dependent on increasingly expensive diesel fuel for heating, transportation, electric power and light. Though wind and hydroelectric power are abundant and underutilized, proposals for state-wide energy systems (e.g. with special low-cost electric interties) were judged uneconomical (at the time of the report, 2001) due to low (<$0.50/Gal) fuel prices, long distances and low population. The cost of a gallon of gas in urban Alaska today is usually $0.30-$0.60 higher than the national average; prices in rural areas are generally significantly higher but vary widely depending on transportation costs, seasonal usage peaks, nearby petroleum development infrastructure and many other factors.
Permanent Fund
The Alaska Permanent Fund is a legislatively controlled appropriation established in 1976 to manage a surplus in state petroleum revenues from the recently constructed Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. From its initial principal of $734,000, the fund has grown to $38 billion as a result of oil royalties and capital investment programs. Starting in 1982, dividends from the fund's annual growth have been paid out each year to eligible Alaskans, ranging from $331.29 in 1984 to $1963.86 in 2000.
Cost of living
The cost of goods in Alaska has long been higher than in the contiguous 48 states. This has changed for the most part in Anchorage and to a lesser extent in Fairbanks, where the cost of living has dropped somewhat in the past five years. Federal Government employees, particularly United States Postal Service (USPS) workers and active-duty military members, receive a Cost Of Living Allowance usually set at 25% of base pay because, while the cost of living has gone down, it is still one of the highest in the country.
The introduction of big-box stores in Anchorage, Fairbanks (Wal-Mart in March of 2004), and Juneau also did much to lower prices. However, rural Alaska suffers from extremely high prices for food and consumer goods, compared to the rest of the country due to the relatively limited transportation infrastructure. Many rural residents come in to these cities and purchase food and goods in bulk from warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam's Club. Some have embraced the free shipping offers of some online retailers to purchase items much more cheaply than they could in their own communities, if they are available at all.
Taxes
Alaska has the lowest individual tax burden in the United States, and is one of only five states with no state sales tax and one of seven states that do not levy an individual income tax. To finance state government operations, Alaska depends primarily on petroleum revenues. The Department of Revenue Tax Division reports regularly on the state's revenue sources. The Department also issues an annual overview of its operations, including new state laws that directly affect the tax division.
While Alaska has no state sales tax, 89 municipalities collect a local sales tax, from 1% to 7%, typically 3% to 5%. Other local taxes levied include raw fish taxes, hotel, motel, and B&B âbedâ taxes, severance taxes, liquor and tobacco taxes, gaming (pull tabs) taxes, tire taxes and fuel transfer taxes. A percentage of revenue collected from certain state taxes and license fees (such as petroleum, aviation motor fuel, telephone cooperative) is shared with municipalities in Alaska.
Property taxes are relatively low, with only 25 of 161 incorporated municipalities or boroughs in the state assessing property taxes.Fairbanks has one of the highest property taxes in the state as no sales or income taxes are assessed in the Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB). A sales tax for the FNSB has been voted on many times, but has yet to be approved, leading law makers to increase taxes dramatically on other goods such as liquor and tobacco. The average per capita property tax paid in all municipalities, excluding oil and gas properties, was US$999 (2003 data).
In 2008 the Tax Foundation ranked Alaska as having the 4th most "business friendly" tax policy. Superior states were Wyoming, Nevada, and South Dakota.
