45 Facts About Alaska

Alaska's Unique Geography

Alaska is a land of extremes, from vast wilderness to towering mountains. Its geography is as diverse as it is stunning.

1. Alaska is the largest state in the U.S., covering 663,300 square miles.
2. It has more coastline than all other U.S. states combined, stretching over 6,640 miles.
3. The state is home to 17 of the 20 highest peaks in the United States, including Denali, the tallest at 20,310 feet.
4. Alaska has over 3 million lakes, with Lake Iliamna being the largest.
5. The state contains more than 100,000 glaciers, covering about 5% of its total area.

Wildlife Wonders

Alaska's wildlife is as impressive as its landscapes. The state is a haven for many species, both on land and in the water.

6. Alaska has the highest population of bald eagles in the U.S., with over 30,000 birds.
7. It is home to all three species of North American bears: black, brown (grizzly), and polar bears.
8. The state has more caribou than people, with an estimated 750,000 caribou roaming its lands.
9. Alaska's waters are home to the largest population of humpback whales in the world.
10. The state is a critical habitat for millions of migratory birds, including the sandhill crane.

Cultural Riches

Alaska's cultural heritage is rich and diverse, with influences from indigenous peoples and later settlers.

11. Alaska is home to 229 federally recognized tribes.
12. The state has 20 native languages, with efforts underway to preserve and revitalize them.
13. The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, an annual event, commemorates the 1925 serum run to Nome.
14. Totem poles, a significant cultural symbol, can be found throughout the state, particularly in Southeast Alaska.
15. The Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage showcases the history and culture of Alaska's indigenous peoples.

Climate Extremes

Alaska's climate varies widely, from temperate rainforests to arctic tundra, creating unique weather patterns.

16. Barrow (Utqia?vik) experiences 67 days of continuous daylight in summer and 67 days of darkness in winter.
17. The state's record high temperature is 100°F, recorded in Fort Yukon in 1915.
18. Alaska's record low temperature is -80°F, recorded in Prospect Creek in 1971.
19. The state averages 100 inches of snowfall annually, with some areas receiving over 500 inches.
20. Alaska has more earthquakes than any other state, with over 1,000 occurring each month.

Natural Resources

Alaska is rich in natural resources, contributing significantly to its economy and the nation's energy supply.

21. The state produces more than 25% of the oil in the United States.
22. Alaska is the largest producer of wild-caught salmon in the world.
23. The state has significant deposits of gold, zinc, and other minerals.
24. Alaska's forests cover over 129 million acres, providing timber and other resources.
25. The state is a leading producer of seafood, including crab, halibut, and pollock.

Historical Highlights

Alaska's history is filled with fascinating events and milestones that have shaped its development.

26. The United States purchased Alaska from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million, about 2 cents per acre.
27. Alaska became the 49th state on January 3, 1959.
28. The Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s brought thousands of prospectors to Alaska.
29. During World War II, the Aleutian Islands Campaign was the only battle fought on North American soil.
30. The Trans-Alaska Pipeline, completed in 1977, spans 800 miles from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez.

Unique Experiences

Alaska offers experiences that can't be found anywhere else, attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike.

31. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, can be seen in Alaska from September to April.
32. Alaska is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, particularly in the Inside Passage.
33. The state has more than 70 active volcanoes, with some erupting as recently as 2021.
34. Alaska's national parks cover over 54 million acres, more than the entire state of New York.
35. The Midnight Sun Baseball Game in Fairbanks is played every summer solstice without artificial lights.

Fun Facts

Alaska is full of quirky and interesting facts that add to its charm and allure.

36. The state capital, Juneau, is the only U.S. capital not accessible by road.
37. Alaska has no sales tax or state income tax.
38. The state has more pilots per capita than any other state, with one in every 78 residents holding a pilot's license.
39. Alaska's flag was designed by a 13-year-old boy named Benny Benson in 1927.
40. The state has the highest percentage of people who walk to work in the U.S.

Record-Breaking Feats

Alaska holds numerous records, showcasing its extraordinary characteristics and achievements.

41. The state has the longest coastline of any U.S. state, at 6,640 miles.
42. Alaska's Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the United States, covering 16.7 million acres.
43. The state has the highest peak in North America, Denali, at 20,310 feet.
44. Alaska's Yukon River is the third longest river in the U.S., stretching 1,980 miles.
45. The state has the largest national park in the U.S., Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, covering 13.2 million acres.

Alaska's Wonders in a Nutshell

Alaska's got a lot more than just cold weather and snow. From the Northern Lights to the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, there's always something fascinating to discover. The state's home to the largest national park in the U.S., Wrangell-St. Elias, and the tallest peak, Denali. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot grizzly bears, moose, and bald eagles in their natural habitats. Don't forget about the Midnight Sun, where the sun doesn't set for months in summer, or the Bering Strait, which is just 55 miles from Russia. Alaska's rich history includes the Gold Rush and the purchase from Russia in 1867. Whether you're into adventure, nature, or history, Alaska's got something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this incredible state!