Alaska (/əˈlæskə/ ⓘ ə-LASS-kə) is a non-contiguous U.S. state on the northwest extremity of North America. It is in the Western United States region. The only other non-contiguous U.S. state is Hawaii. Alaska is also considered to be the northernmost, westernmost, and easternmost (the Aleutian Islands cross the 180th meridian into the eastern hemisphere) state in the United States. It borders the Canadian territory of Yukon and the province of British Columbia to the east. It shares a western maritime border, in the Bering Strait, with Russia’s Chukotka Autonomous Okrug. The Chukchi and Beaufort Seas of the Arctic Ocean lie to the north, and the Pacific Ocean lies to the south. Technically a semi-exclave of the U.S., it is the largest exclave in the world.

Alaska, the largest state in the United States, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. Covering over 663,000 square miles, it is more than twice the size of Texas, making it a vast and diverse region. One of the most intriguing aspects of Alaska is its extensive coastline, which stretches over 6,640 miles, longer than the rest of the U.S. coastline combined. This state is home to more than 2,670 named islands, including the Aleutian Islands, which extend over 1,200 miles into the Pacific Ocean. The diversity of its geography, from towering mountains to expansive tundras, provides a habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and bald eagles.

One of the most captivating natural phenomena in Alaska is the midnight sun, experienced in parts of the state where the sun does not set for several weeks during the summer. In Barrow (Utqiaġvik), this occurs from late May to late July, offering a unique opportunity to experience continuous daylight. Conversely, the long winter nights are perfect for witnessing the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, which paint the sky with vibrant colors. Alaska is also home to over 100,000 glaciers, with some of the most famous located in Glacier Bay National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park, providing stunning vistas and a chance to witness the sheer power of nature.

There are countless fun activities to enjoy in Alaska, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak, Denali, offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking landscapes. The park is a prime destination for mountaineers and nature lovers alike. For those interested in history and culture, exploring the rich Native American heritage of Alaska is a must. The state is home to diverse native cultures, including the Inupiat, Yupik, Aleut, Tlingit, Haida, and Athabascan peoples, each with their own unique traditions and histories. Museums and cultural centers across the state offer insights into these vibrant cultures.

Fishing is another major attraction in Alaska, known for its world-class salmon, halibut, and crab fisheries. Towns like Homer, known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” provide excellent opportunities for both amateur and professional anglers. Additionally, the state’s rich history can be explored through its numerous historic sites, including those related to the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, which brought thousands of prospectors to the region. For a more relaxed experience, the Alaska Marine Highway System offers ferry services along the coast, allowing travelers to explore the scenic beauty of Alaska’s coastal communities at a leisurely pace. Whether it’s the thrill of dog mushing in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race or the serene beauty of its vast wilderness, Alaska offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor.