Alaska - Are You Hungry for Adventure?

As one of the last great, unspoiled areas of the planet, Alaska adventure travel attracts thousands of tourists each year who want to experience an Alaska adventure vacation. These excursions often feature wildlife viewing activities like whale watching and may include shore excursions to native Eskimo villages or other points of interest. The great beauty of the Alaskan wilderness offers a compelling destination for travelers who want something more from their vacation than just a way to kill some time.

Where Is Alaska?

Alaska is located at the northwest tip of the American continent. Surrounded by water on one side and by Canada on the other, it isn't actually connected to the continental United States but still has the distinction of being the largest state in the Union. Alaska has a low population density due to the harshness of the climate during the winter months but it is a land rich in wildlife and sadly also rich in oil, leading many people to fear that this national treasure will be spoiled for future generations. This fear leads many people to visit Alaska out of a desire to see it while it is still in near pristine condition.

Alaska has been part of the United States since it was purchased from the Russians in 1867 for approximately $7.2 million. Today the state has a population of some 630,000 people, up from 130,000 fifty years ago. The population is composed of Caucasians, Native Americans, and some Hispanics, Asians, and African Americans.

What About Its Culture?

Because of its multiethnic society, the culture of Alaska is quite varied. Native Alaskan culture and art are of predominant interest to tourists who can avail themselves of numerous museums and cultural centers. Native groups present in the state include the Aleut, Alutiiq, Athabascan, Nupiaq, St. Lawrence Island Yupik, Tlingit, Haida, Eyak, Tsimshian, Yup'ik and Cup'ik cultures.

Life for non-native Alaskans is often a rough and tumble business. It is a casual state with a frontier quality where outdoor activities and rugged living are the norms. During the winter months many Alaskans are isolated from one another and from the outside world. Most would say the inconveniences are a small price to pay for living in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

What Kind Of Adventures Can You Look Forward To In Alaska?

There are almost unlimited sources of diversion for the prospective Alaska visitor. Camping and wildlife photography are popular Alaska travel adventure activities. Sadly there is still a hunting culture but the activity is strictly regulated by the state. Fly-fishing and sport fishing are popular on the rugged waters in the warmer months. Fishermen go after rainbow trout, sockeye salmon, silver salmon and king salmon among others. White water rafting and kayaking are popular as is mountain biking. Dog sledding and other winter sports are also prominent features of Alaska adventure travel.

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