Alaska, USA
Alaska, located in the northwestern corner of North America, is the largest state in the United States. It features a wealth of natural beauty and resources, as well as a dynamic economy. With an area of 665,384 square miles (1,723,337 square kilometers), Alaska boasts the highest peak on the continent, Denali (Mount McKinley) , which rises to an elevation of 20,310 feet (6,190 meters).
Since becoming a U.S. territory in 1912, Alaska has been admitted as the 49th state in 1959. Its economy relies heavily upon services such as research and tourism, and was greatly bolstered by the opening of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline in 1977. The state has also become one of the top oil-producing regions in the country.
With a population of 733,391 (2022 est.), Alaska presents a unique challenge in terms of balancing development and preservation. Global warming has caused dramatic changes to the climate, including thawing permafrost and melting sea ice. Nicknamed the "Last Frontier," Alaska’s motto is “North to the Future” and its state bird is the willow ptarmigan, while the alpine forget-me-not serves as the state flower. The song “Alaska’s Flag” is the official state song, and the state is represented in the United States House of Representatives by one member. Alaska's time zone is Alaskan (GMT – 9 hours).
Useful resources
- City and Borough of Juneau - official website of the City and Borough of Juneau, Alaska
- University of Alaska Southeast - official website of the University of Alaska Southeast, located in Juneau
- Juneau Arts and Humanities Council - website of the Juneau Arts and Humanities Council, providing information on local arts and culture
- Tongass National Forest - the nation's largest national forest, with camping, fishing, and hiking amid the vast wilderness.
- Mount Roberts Tramway - water views are offered from this aerial tram operating May-Sep and leading to hiking and a gift shop.
- Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure - unique gardens set against a forest landscape, with guided tours and panoramic views over Juneau.
- Eaglecrest Ski Area - ski area with 640 skiable acres, 4 chairlifts, and trails for novice, intermediate and expert skiers.
- Wings Airways & the Taku Glacier Lodge - tourist attraction in Juneau, Alaska
- Alaska State Museum - exhibits explore native culture, natural science, and history, plus a kids' section with a play area.
- Alaska State Capitol - the Alaska State Capitol is the building that hosts the Alaska Legislature, Governor of Alaska, and Lieutenant Governor of Alaska. Located in the state's capital, Juneau, the building was opened on February 14, 1931, as a federal building.
- DIPAC Macaulay Salmon Hatchery - aquarium in Juneau, Alaska
- Perseverance Theatre - official website of the Perseverance Theatre, a professional theatre by and for Alaskans
- Alaska Department of Natural Resources: Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation - official website of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources showcasing state parks near Juneau