Alaska is a land of almost unimaginable scale. Stretching across 586,000 square miles of untamed wilderness, Alaska is one-fifth the size of the contiquous United States. It contains the tallest mountain in North America, Mt. McKinley, which many Alaskans simply call "the mountain." And of course, the Land of the midnight Sun has longer summer days than any other state. This majestic landscape borders two oceans and three seas, with a 47,300 - mile coastline. Alaska boasts over three million lakes, 3,000 rivers, 1,800 islands, and more than 100,000 glaciers.
The Aleuts called it Alyeska - The Great Land! A place of soaring peaks, sweeping landscapes, and mighty rivers. Everything in Alaska seems larger than life. It is the Last Frontier.
Alaska is big, so allow enough time to really enjoy your trip without rushing through scenery and activities. If your time is limited, consider a packaged tour featuring highlights from several regions. Or you might prefer to travel independently, exploring Alaska at your own pace. Many visitors combine a few brief tours with an independent travel itinerary, enjoying the best of both options.
This web site provides a wealth of information to help you plan your trip to the 49th state.
Please use the following links below to learn more about Alaska's regions.
Southcentral Alaska
More than half of Alaska's residents live in this region of spectacular glaciers, fjords, roadside lakes, beaches, and salmon streams. The
region's cities, towns, and farmlands are like islands in the surrounding wilderness, and year round recreation and adventure are easily accessible.
Southeast Alaska
Shaped by glaciers millions of years ago, Alaska's Inside Passage is a web of quiet fjords and peaceful islands forested with hemlock and
spruce. It is the traditional home of Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian Indians, shared by Russians, prospectors, lumberjacks, and fishermen.
Southwest Alaska
For the naturalist, few places on earth can compare with Southwest Alaska. Brown bears, sea otters, walrus, fur seals, and sea birds share a
variety of environments ranging from the volcanic terrain of Katmai National Park to the windy grasslands of the Aleutian Islands.
Interior Alaska
In the heartland of Alaska, you'll find some of the state's most impressive natural wonders and a wealth of culture and history. Athabascans,
gold prospectors, farmers, and fur trappers have all found a home in the shadow of Mt. McKinley, the continent's tallest peak.
Far North Alaska
For many visitors to Alaska, crossing the Arctic Circle is the most memorable moment of the journey. The Far North is a land where legends
are passed from generation to generation, and yet modern industry coexists with the wildlife and traditional subsistence lifestyles.
Source: State of Alaska
