"The Last Frontier": Alaska (USA part III, chapter 1)

Flag of the State of Alaska

Background.
In 1867, the territory of Alaska was bought by the USA from Russia for 2 cents per acre. The entire area cost US$ 7.2 million.For years Alaska was known as "Seward's Folly" after the Secretary of State who over saw the US acquisition. The territory was seen as nothing more than a frozen wasteland, but that very quickly changed when oil, huge amounts of oil and gold were found. Alaska is now the US's resource for both gold and oil.

In 1959, Alaska was incorporated into the Union and became the 49th State of the USA.

Quite simply, Alaska is absolutely huge. It is by far the largest State in the USA. It is over double the size of the next largest State, Texas. It has the longest coast line than any other State, in fact more than the combine coastlines of the other 49 States put together. North America's highest peak, Mount McKinley and all of the top 10 highest mountains in the USA will also be found in, yes you guessed it, Alaska.

Size of Alaska compared to the rest of the USA.

Across the water called the Bering Sea is Russia and the rest of Asia. Of course there is also the International Date Line that separates the two countries. Due to the sheer size, it is very difficult to see the whole of Alaska in one go, especially when your time is limited, which more often than not is the case. The vast majority of visitors will see a couple of regions at a time, or just one. Alaska's entire eastern border and its relatively short southern one is with Canada,

Although it is the largest US State, Alaska is one of the least populated ones in the Union.

Finally, there is no direct overland route from "the lower 48" States to Alaska. You will have to go by boat, air or drive through Canada (roughly 1200 kms).

Beer.
Beer is a very big deal in Alaska with 7 breweries in the Anchorage area alone. The Alaskan Brewing Company in Juneau is the best known brewery and its beer is the best selling in the State. In January The Great Alaskan Beer and Barleywine Festival. It is the third largest beer event in the USA. The barleywine side of the festival is possibly the largest event in itself  in the USA.

Getting around.
Alaska is the State that has the smallest road network in the USA. Juneau, the State capital and Alaska's third largest city is not connected to any of the other larger centres, which has led to calls over the years for the capital to be moved. Having said that there is still a large network of roads to use, either by mountain bike, motorcycle or car.

What to do and see. 
When you tour Alaska you will suddenly see why its called "The Last Frontier". The grandness and diversity of the State is truly mind blowing. Alaska changes radically from place to place and from season to season. From the far north to the southern most reaches there is just so much to see and do.

With 6 mountain ranges in clear view, Anchorage, Alaska's biggest city is tucked between the mountains and the sea. Nearly half of all Alaskans live and work in or around the city.Known as the city of flowers, Anchorage's streets are festooned with flowers in baskets and beds. The city boasts some of the finest fresh food on the American continent and just like the State of Alaska, helpings are huge. Nearby Flattop Mountain will offer breath taking views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness.

From boreal forest to alpine tundra and across its many waterways, Denali National Park and Preserve is a place of natural wonder. The Park covers 6 million acres where you will see grizzly bear, caribou, moose, tundra swan and golden eagle in abundance.

Moose in Denali

Denali National Park and Preserve is the home of Mount McKinley (20,320 ft) and its sheer majesty is a major attraction and well worth seeing.

Denali can be as primitive or as tame as you want it to be. As with all National Parks throughout the World, Denali is a protected area. To preserve the delicate ecosystems do not pick flowers or collect natural artifacts, you will keep the pristine area in balance and will not spoil it for others.

Where to stay.
There are over 72 hotels and guesthouses to stay in in the Anchorage area. From 1 to 5 star hotels with photos, reviews and rates just visit:

www.globaltraveldeals.biz

Stay safe.
Crime is relatively rare in Alaska, and it is a safe place to travel in. Be aware that although Alaska is wild and beautiful, it will not tolerate fools in any way. It is very easy to get lost, very cold, very wet and even die all within sight of Anchorage city centre!

Many visitors come to Alaska with half baked ideas about living off the land etc, this has led to a few Alaskans being hostile to tourists, but generally speaking, visitors are find many Alaskans warm and friendly.

Always be prepared for all eventualities and take the advice of local people, it could save your life.

Finally.
I will be looking at the other areas of Alaska in chapter 2

Bon Voyage!