50 Things You Didn’t Know About Alaska

50 Things You Didn’t Know About Alaska

Alaska, the 49th state of the United States, is a land of extremes and remarkable beauty. Known for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique culture, there are many interesting facts about this northernmost state that may surprise you. Here are 50 things you may not have known about Alaska:

1. Alaska is the largest state in the United States, covering over 663,000 square miles.

2. Despite its size, Alaska is the least populous state, with a population of around 731,000 people.

3. Alaska has more coastline than all other states combined, with over 6,600 miles of coastline.

4. The state is home to over 100,000 glaciers, covering about 5 percent of the state’s land area.

5. Alaska has more than 3 million lakes, with the largest being Lake Iliamna, which is about 1,000 square miles in size.

6. The population density of Alaska is one of the lowest in the United States, with only 1.2 people per square mile.

7. Alaska is known as the “Last Frontier” because of its remote and rugged wilderness areas.

8. The state is home to the tallest mountain in North America, Denali, which stands at 20,310 feet.

9. Alaska is also home to some of the largest national parks in the United States, including Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, which is larger than Switzerland.

10. Alaska has a unique climate, with temperatures ranging from -80 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.

11. The state experiences extreme daylight hours, with up to 24 hours of daylight during the summer months in some parts of the state.

12. Alaska is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, moose, wolves, whales, and bald eagles.

13. The state has a rich Native American heritage, with 229 federally recognized tribes and the highest percentage of Native American population in the United States.

14. Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million, a deal known as the Alaska Purchase.

15. The state’s economy is heavily dependent on natural resources, including oil, gas, and seafood.

16. Alaska is known for its fishing industry, with salmon being one of the most valuable fish caught in the state.

17. The state is also a popular destination for tourists, with attractions such as the Northern Lights, Dog sled races, and Glacier cruises.

18. Alaska has the highest percentage of people who are pilots per capita in the United States.

19. The state is home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in the world, with estimates of around 30,000 to 70,000 eagles.

20. Alaska has its own time zone, Alaska Standard Time, which is one hour behind Pacific Standard Time.

21. The state is known for its long winter nights, with the city of Barrow experiencing 67 days of darkness during the winter.

22. Alaska is home to some of the world’s most active volcanoes, with over 50 eruptions recorded since 1760.

23. The state has several natural hot springs, including Chena Hot Springs, which is a popular tourist destination.

24. Alaska has more than 3,000 rivers, making it a prime destination for kayaking, rafting, and fishing.

25. The state is home to the largest temperate rainforest in the world, the Tongass National Forest.

26. Alaska has a unique state sport called dog mushing, which involves racing sled dogs across snowy terrain.

27. The state is known for its many native languages, with over 20 different indigenous languages spoken.

28. Alaska is home to the world’s largest population of sled dogs, with the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race being a popular event.

29. The state has a high cost of living, with many goods and services being more expensive than in other parts of the United States.

30. Alaska is home to the world’s largest and most active calving glacier, the Hubbard Glacier.

31. The state has a high rate of alcohol abuse, with some areas experiencing alcohol-related problems at a higher rate than the national average.

32. Alaska is one of the few states in the United States that does not have a state sales tax or income tax.

33. The state is known for its unique weather patterns, with areas such as Juneau experiencing an average of 100 inches of snowfall per year.

34. Alaska is home to many amazing natural wonders, including the Mendenhall Glacier, the Aurora Borealis, and Denali National Park.

35. The state has a unique mix of cultures, with influences from Native American, Russian, and European settlers.

36. Alaska has the longest coastline of any state in the United States, with rugged cliffs and sandy beaches.

37. The state is known for its stunning mountain ranges, including the Alaska Range and the Brooks Range.

38. Alaska has a high rate of suicide, with some areas experiencing rates that are more than double the national average.

39. The state has a strong military presence, with several military bases and installations.

40. Alaska is home to the largest population of brown bears in the United States.

41. The state has a high percentage of smokers, with rates of smoking that are higher than the national average.

42. Alaska has a high rate of alcohol-related car accidents, with some areas experiencing rates that are higher than the national average.

43. The state has a high rate of domestic violence, with rates that are higher than the national average.

44. Alaska has a unique climate, with cold winters and mild summers, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

45. The state has a high rate of obesity, with rates that are higher than the national average.

46. Alaska is home to some of the largest national wildlife refuges in the United States, protecting a wide range of wildlife species.

47. The state is known for its diverse marine life, with whales, seals, and sea lions commonly spotted off the coast.

48. The state has a high rate of alcohol abuse among Native American communities, with rates that are higher than the national average.

49. Alaska has a unique system of government, with a strong emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainable development.

50. The state is known for its beauty, wilderness, and adventure opportunities, making it a truly special place to visit or live.

Alaska is a state of remarkable beauty, abundant wildlife, and unique culture. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich heritage, there is much to discover and explore in this northernmost state. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply appreciating the natural world, Alaska has something for everyone. So, the next time you think about visiting Alaska, remember these 50 fascinating facts about the Last Frontier.