Informations
Alaska, the largest state in the United States, is a land of wild and breathtaking beauty, spanning over 1.7 million square kilometers — nearly three times the size of France. Located at the northwestern tip of the North American continent, this state is separated from the rest of the U.S. by Canada. It is bordered to the west by the Bering Sea and the Chukchi Sea, to the north by the Arctic Ocean, and to the south by the Pacific Ocean.
Alaska is a region where nature reigns supreme — a vast expanse of mountains, forests, glaciers, lakes, and rugged coastlines. It is home to majestic mountain ranges such as the Alaska Range, which culminates with Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), the highest peak in North America at 6,190 meters. This imposing summit symbolizes the grandeur of Alaska’s untamed wilderness.
The state features a stunning variety of landscapes: endless boreal forests, Arctic tundras, dramatic fjords, ancient glaciers, and over three million lakes. Alaska's coastline is one of the longest and most diverse in the world, stretching more than 50,000 kilometers. These vast stretches of preserved wilderness provide a unique habitat for exceptional wildlife, including brown bears, grizzlies, moose, wolves, whales, and bald eagles.
Alaska’s climate varies greatly by region. The southeastern part of the state, around Juneau and the Alexander Archipelago, experiences a more maritime climate with mild, wet winters. In contrast, the interior of the state has a subarctic climate, with winter temperatures dropping to -40°C and short but intense summers. In the far north, beyond the Arctic Circle, the climate is polar, with long winter nights and extremely brief summers.
Alaska is sparsely populated, with around 730,000 residents, many of whom live in major cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau (the capital). Alaska is also a crossroads of indigenous cultures. The Inuits (or Yupiks), Aleuts, and Athabaskans have lived in Alaska for millennia and have preserved traditions and ways of life deeply rooted in their connection to the land and natural elements.
Alaska’s economy largely relies on its natural resources: oil and natural gas play a crucial role, especially with the Trans-Alaska Pipeline that connects Prudhoe Bay to Valdez. Fishing — particularly for salmon, king crab, and halibut — is also vital to the state's economy, as are mining and logging. In recent years, ecotourism has grown significantly, attracting millions of visitors annually who come to admire the extraordinary landscapes and wildlife.
Alaska’s national parks are among the largest and most impressive in the world. Denali National Park, with its towering mountains and diverse wildlife, is a legendary destination for hikers and photographers. Wrangell–St. Elias National Park, the largest in the U.S., spans nearly 33,000 square kilometers and is filled with glaciers, mountains, and vast wilderness. Glacier Bay National Park, with its majestic glaciers and turquoise waters, is another natural wonder of Alaska.
Alaska’s history is marked by its crucial role during the gold rush, and it remains closely tied to its past as a frontier land. The journeys of trappers and pioneers, Arctic explorations, and the conquest of territories beyond the main routes have shaped the state’s identity. Historical sites like Fort Laramie, Independence Rock, and Devils Tower bear witness to this era of exploration and transformation.
Alaskan culture is a fusion of indigenous traditions and modern influences. The state is known for its traditional music festivals, rodeo events, and dog sled races that excite both locals and visitors. Music and art in Alaska are often inspired by the wilderness, with many local artists using natural materials to create works that reflect the grandeur of the landscapes.
Despite its isolation and sometimes extreme living conditions, Alaska attracts those seeking unparalleled freedom, far from urban centers and modern chaos. Its vast wilderness, clear skies ideal for stargazing, and spectacular northern lights offer a unique experience of communion with nature.
Alaska is a wild and rugged land, yet one of timeless beauty. It is a destination where explorers come to reconnect, where one can return to a lifestyle rooted in resilience, simplicity, and a deep respect for the natural world.