6 Most Unconventional Towns In Alaska

Besides the promise of a fun trip where you can unwind, what is something that draws you to a place? It may come as a surprise to some, but Alaska boasts some of the most interesting and unconventional towns in the USA. This state has a few tricks up its sleeve and quite a bit of history behind it. The northwest extremity of North America is more than just a snowy place; it is well documented that many indigenous peoples—like the Iñupiat and Tlingit Native Americans—occupied this land long before the Alaska Purchase of 1867. Today, it is a great place for dog sledding, northern lights viewing, or glacier tours. So, if you ever feel like seeing something a little different or trying something new, there are loads of very welcoming towns that would love to host!

Buckland

Once home to the Iñupiat people, the indigenous group in the region, Buckland is the go-to spot if you wish to see traditional practices like subsistence hunting. Its location along the Buckland River makes it more easily accessible by plane or boat! The town also celebrates the annual "Buckland Dance" event, where you can enjoy local music and dances that really bring out the community’s heritage. This is not your average destination, and most people drop in here via the Buckland Airport. The Northwest Arctic Borough is, in large part, what visitors will encounter on a trip to this remote location.

Gustavus

The first stop in Gustavus is usually Glacier Bay National Park—this small town is typically used as a gateway for visitors looking to get to the park's icy expanse and see the marine wildlife. Gustavus is also close to the famous Glacier Bay, which, along with Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park, makes up a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite its small size, Gustavus’ community serves as an entry point for one of Alaska’s busiest seaplane flight routes. Unlike larger towns, Gustavus relies heavily on seasonal tourism. Visitors often head to Cross Sound Express Whale Watching, and Gustavus is notable for its World War II-era airfield, which contributed to the region's development and is still remembered as part of its history.

Wrangell

Intriguing history lies behind these islands. Wrangell Island, Zarembo Island, and others all belong to the same borough, but before that, they were controlled first by the Tlingit people, then by the Russians, before finally becoming a U.S. settlement. This unspoiled area was one of the few Alaskan towns to have a deep-water port, so you will quickly notice the many ferries and boats making harbor. Your first visit should be to see the petroglyphs at Petroglyph Beach, which are among the oldest recorded artifacts in Alaska! Wrangell is also a haven for eco-tourism and wildlife viewing, with popular hikes like the Rainbow Falls Trail. Be sure to visit the Chief Shakes Longhouse, a replica of a traditional Tlingit clan house, and dive deeper into the region’s history at the Wrangell Museum.

Sitka

Sitka is the site of the historic Russian-American Treaty of 1867—essentially where the formal transfer of Alaska from Russia to the U.S. took place. Historically, it is an important capital of Russian America, with remnants of Russian Orthodox churches still standing! Sitka’s marine economy means excellent seafood and many opportunities for boating and hiking. In fact, the Harbor Mountain Trailhead is one of the best places to really breathe in this historic place and see the land with its incredible vistas. You can visit the Sitka National Historical Park if you wish to see an array of totem poles preserved by the Tlingit people and their rich cultural heritage. A lot of this and more can be seen at the Sheldon Jackson Museum, with a diverse collection of Native Alaskan artifacts preserved and on display.

Talkeetna

Most of the land in Alaska is unblemished and breathtaking, and Talkeetna is no exception. Known for its proximity to Denali National Park, this town actually does regular air tours around the mountain, often by small bush planes. There are several annual festivals that take place here, including the Talkeetna Ice Festival, the Talkeetna Art Festival, the Talkeetna Bluegrass Festival, and others. If you are going to see what this town has in store, chances are you will be just in time for the festivities. The Talkeetna Historical Society preserves a wealth of knowledge about the town’s history, which dates back to its humble beginnings as a railroad town. Its Main Street is quirky, with historic buildings and unique shops, many dating back to its gold rush days! While you are there, a 2-minute walk will get you to Mahay’s Dock, one of the main tourist attractions.

McCarthy

One of the smaller towns in Alaska, McCarthy has a limited formal law enforcement presence; local disputes are often handled informally among residents. This community is within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park; the largest national park in the United States. One of the most scenic spots in McCarthy and beyond is the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark. The town offers many opportunities to explore its scenic beauty from places like Base Camp Kennicott or by using air taxis such as Wrangell Mountain Air. There are also photograph-worthy areas like Jumbo Mine and Mother Lode Mine that are a must-see if one dares to make the climb and reach the mountain peak known as The Knoll.

Alaska’s Most Intriguing Small Towns

Walking the path less traveled is no easy task. There is no manual for getting around some of these Alaskan towns, but that is the beauty of it. What is the point of traveling if not exploring and learning new things? Alaska has the most wilderness and protected lands in the country, so a trek there does not come easy, and one should have an adventurous heart but, more importantly, a taste for the unconventional. That is what separates a trip from an unforgettable experience.