Alaska. “The Last Frontier.” The name alone conjures images of vast, untamed wilderness. It’s a place of incredible diversity — from its landscapes to its wildlife and its rich cultural heritage.
In this article, we’re going to dive into some fun Alaska facts that might surprise you. We’ll explore everything from its unique geography and history to its incredible wildlife and some of its more quirky aspects.
Did you know, for example, that Alaska is closer to Russia than it is to Hawaii? Or that it has a “Gravity Hill” that seems to defy the laws of physics? Get ready to learn some amazing things about this incredible state!
Geographical Wonders: Size, Landscape, and Location
Alaska is a land of superlatives. Think big, think grand, and you’re still probably not quite grasping the scale of this amazing state.
Immense Size and Diverse Landscape
It’s the largest state in the United States, hands down. It also boasts more coastline than all the other U.S. states put together. Water makes up about 14% of Alaska’s total area.
Alaska is home to a staggering number of mountains, volcanoes, rivers, and lakes. Seventeen of North America’s tallest mountains are in Alaska, including Denali, which towers over the landscape at 20,320 feet. There are more than 100 volcanoes and volcanic fields, over 3,000 rivers, and a mind-boggling 3 million lakes. Lake Iliamna alone stretches for 77 miles!
Unique Location and Seismic Activity
Here’s a fun fact: Alaska holds the northernmost, easternmost, and westernmost points of the United States. It’s also surprisingly close to Russia – only about 50 miles separate the two countries at certain points.
And if you’re a fan of seismic activity, Alaska is the place to be. It’s a very active region, with over 150,000 earthquakes recorded in the last five years. Thirty-one of those quakes registered a magnitude of 6 or higher!
A history forged in gold, war, and a Russian sale
From Russian territory to American state
Alaska’s history is a fascinating mix of Russian influence, gold rush fever, and strategic military importance. For many years, Alaska was part of Russia. In 1867, Russia sold Alaska to the United States for $7.2 million — a deal that many at the time considered a boondoggle. Today, Alaskans celebrate Alaska Day every October 18th to commemorate the transfer.
The Klondike Gold Rush
The discovery of gold in the Klondike region of Canada in 1896 brought a wave of prospectors and settlers to Alaska, forever changing its demographics and economy. The Klondike Gold Rush of 1897 saw thousands of people flock to the area in search of fortune, leading to boomtowns and a surge in population.
World War II in Alaska
Alaska also played a significant role during World War II. It was the site of the only WWII battle fought on U.S. soil. In 1943, Japan invaded the Aleutian Islands, leading to the Battle of Attu. The U.S. military fought to reclaim the islands, highlighting Alaska’s strategic importance during the war.
People and Culture: Demographics and Native Heritage
Alaska is known for its vast, untouched wilderness, and its population density reflects that. The state has the lowest population density in the United States, with only one person per square mile. And here’s an odd fact: the majority of Alaskans are men. According to recent estimates, about 52% of Alaskans are male.
Alaska also has a significant Alaska Native population, making up about 18% of the state’s residents. These communities represent a wide array of diverse Indigenous cultures. In fact, there are 224 federally recognized Alaskan Native tribes. This rich cultural heritage is also reflected in the languages spoken throughout the state, with approximately 20 Indigenous languages still in use today.
Weather and Natural Phenomena
Alaska is a place of extremes, and that includes the weather! Consider these fun Alaska facts:
- Alaska recorded the lowest temperature ever in the United States: -80 degrees Fahrenheit. This occurred at Prospect Creek Camp in 1971.
- The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are visible across the state.
- The aurora season lasts for about 240 days, from mid-August to mid-April.
But it’s not always freezing. Alaska also has pleasant summers with long daylight hours, perfect for hiking and exploring!
Wildlife and Natural Resources
Alaska is well-known for its wildlife and natural resources.
Abundant Wildlife
The state is home to some seriously hefty animals. Kodiak bears can weigh as much as 1,500 pounds and stand 10 feet tall. Moose can grow to 1,600 pounds!
Fishing Industry
Alaska’s waters are teeming with fish. The largest salmon ever caught—a 97-pound king salmon—was hauled out of Alaska’s Kenai River in 1985. Alaska boasts more commercial fisheries than any other state in the U.S.
Oil and Minerals
The biggest oil field in North America is Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. The state’s largest mineral export is zinc.
Quirks and Unique Attractions
Alaska is full of oddities. For instance:
- “Gravity Hill” in Anchorage: Drivers can put their car in neutral at the bottom of this hill and experience the feeling of rolling uphill. Don’t worry, it’s just an optical illusion!
- Lots of pilots: Alaska has over 10,000 active pilots. Considering the state’s size and limited road system, that makes a lot of sense.
- Giant vegetables: Thanks to long summer days and rich soil, Alaskan farmers grow massive vegetables. Scott Robb holds the world record for the largest cabbage: a whopping 138.25 pounds!
- A 13-year-old designed Alaska’s flag: In 1927, Benny Benson, a seventh-grader, won a contest to design the flag. His design features eight gold stars, representing the Big Dipper and the North Star.
In Closing
From its staggering size and geographical extremes to its fascinating history, vibrant Indigenous cultures, and abundant wildlife, Alaska is a land of superlatives. We’ve only scratched the surface of its many amazing attributes.
If you’re curious to learn more about “The Last Frontier,” there are many reliable sources of information online and in print. And if you ever have the opportunity to visit Alaska, don’t hesitate! Seeing the northern lights dance across the sky, watching a whale breach in the icy waters, or simply breathing in the fresh, crisp air is an experience you’ll never forget. Alaska is truly a place like no other.