Most travelers to Alaska visit its capital, Juneau and large cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks. While each provides their own appeal, exploring its smaller towns offers a more authentic feel.
Alaska’s small towns showcase the state’s rugged beauty and frontier spirit. Often void of big box stores and “tourist traps,” these remote communities allow us to connect to the environment, observe wildlife, and engage in outdoor adventures.
Due to the state’s mountainous landscape, some towns like Sitka and Hoonah are only accessible by sea and plane.
History of Small Towns in Alaska
The state’s small towns have rich and diverse histories shaped by Russian colonization, indigenous cultures, and American settlement. These communities preserve unique cultural legacies that can be enjoyed today.
Indigenous Heritage
Native Alaskan peoples inhabited the land for thousands of years before European contact. Their heritage can be explored in towns like Sikta, Kodiak, and Hoonah.
In the latter, visitors can take in a traditional dance performance at the Heritage Center Native Theater. In Sitka, we recommend viewing its numerous totem poles in Sitka National Historical Park or exploring one of its museums.
Kodiak’s Alutiiq Museum preserves artifacts and stories of the island’s indigenous inhabitants.
Russian Influence
It’s no secret that Alaska was once owned by Russia. After its sale to the United States, the Russian influence remains. Sitka, the former capital of Alaska, boasts the Baranof Castle Historic Site. The signing agreement between Russia and the United States took place here.
The city also has the St. Michael’s Cathedral, the country’s oldest Orthodox church. While not appealing from its exterior, the inside holds a treasure trove of religious items.
Kodiak also has an old Russian Orthodox church. Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral on Kashevaroff Ave is a similar wooden structure with striking blue onion-shaped cupulas.
American Expansion And The Gold Rush
The 1867 Alaska Purchase ushered in American influence, and later the Gold Rush. Skagway boomed during the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s. It led to the construction of the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, which is still in use today.
After learning the town’s history, take a short walk out to the Gold Rush Cemetery, where you’ll find the rustic graves of many Gold Rush prospectors.
Many small Alaskan towns like Whittier and Seward developed as important transportation hubs. Today, Whittier Harbor is linked to Anchorage by way of road and train.
Notable Small Towns In Alaska
Alaska’s small towns offer unique glimpses into the state’s rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural beauty. We showcase ten examples and reasons to visit each one.
Sitka
Sitka, on Baranof Island, is a favorite amongst outdoor adventurers. It boasts the world’s largest sea otter population. Kayak excursions through Sitka Sound provide a fun way to view them.
In addition, Sitka is home to two notable sanctuaries. The Alaska Raptor Center cares for and rehabilitates injured bald eagles, hawks, and owls, while the Fortress of the Bear, located just outside of town, provides a haven for orphaned black and brown bears.
For history buffs, the Russian and Tlingit heritage is everywhere. St. Michael’s Cathedral, a remnant of Russian colonization, Russian Bishop Museum, and the Tlingit totem poles in Sitka National Historical Park are great places to start.
The town’s picturesque harbor is framed by snow-capped mountains and lush forests. On clear days, Mount Edgecumbe’s snow-capped peak may be viewable 15 miles away.
Due to Sitka’s position in Southeast Alaska, it receives a lot of rain. Be prepared by packing the right coat for Alaska, preferably one that’s waterproof and wind-proof.
Nome
Nome, on the Seward Peninsula, was put on the map in the 1920s when a dog sled team traveled almost 700 miles to deliver vaccine to the Diphtheria-sickened town.
Today, it serves as the end point for the iconic Iditarod Sled Dog Race. The annual event travels an impressive 1,100-mile in sub-zero conditions. Visit in March to witness mushers and their teams complete this epic journey.
The area’s history is diverse, and includes the Gold Rush, military, and Inupiat and Yupik cultures. Its remote location near the Arctic Circle makes it a rarely visited destination, but one worth seeing if you like to get off the beaten path.
The region surrounding Nome is known for its unique wildlife, including polar bears, seals, and migratory birds. The nearby wilderness and the Bering Sea coastline offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
Talkeetna
Talkeetna, often regarded as the gateway to Denali, charms visitors with its quirky atmosphere. Closer to Mount Denali than the park entrance, it attracts visitors to see the peak, and mountain climbers who use it as a base before tackling its snowy slopes.
Its main street offers a mix of eclectic shops from art galleries to gift shops selling the famed Birch Syrup, Alaska beer, and Spruce Tip Jelly.
Outdoor adventures are plentiful here. Flightseeing to Denali is popular for those without a budget. Adventure seekers can take a rafting excursion down the Talkeetna or Susitna Rivers or opt for an ATV tour on backcountry trails.
In winter, these interior destinations provide opportunities to see the Aurora Borealis, if you can withstand the frigid temperatures.
Talkeetna can be reached by road or train. The Alaska Railroad and McKinley Explorer provide a luxurious way to get there. Their domed railcars offer 360 degrees scenic views, with dining options onboard.
Cordova
Cordova, tucked away in Prince William Sound, is accessible by plane or ferry. With a population of under 2,500, the town’s industry centers around commercial fishing. Visit during the Copper River salmon season to taste some of the world’s finest Coho, Sockeye, and King salmon.
Cordova is one of the state’s hidden gems, and its isolation has preserved its authentic character. To experience the heart of Cordova, head to the Ilanka Cultural Center. It highlights Eyak, Alutiiq, and Tlingit artifacts, offering a history lesson on the region’s indigenous heritage.
The surrounding Chugach National Forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Choose from many hiking trails, including a popular route to Saddlebag Glacier.
Haines
Haines, along the Lynn Canal, is the neighbor to the town of Skagway. Both towns are accessible by road. While Haines has 500 more residents, it sees far fewer visitors than its neighbor, which has a large cruise port that can accommodate four ships a day.
This coastal town is known for its population of bald eagles. In fall, thousands of birds gather at the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, making it a must-visit for bird enthusiasts and avid photographers.
The small downtown area oozes with character, and a chance to explore Fort William H. Seward, a former U.S. Army post now housing art galleries and studios. The Haines Sheldon Museum provides a comprehensive look at local history and culture.
One of the quirkiest attractions is the Hammer Museum, showcasing thousands of antique and modern-day hammers.
Visiting the Kroschel Wildlife Center, offers a chance to get close to moose, wolverine, and other creatures. Run by Steve Kroschel, who freelances for movie companies, visitors will witness the unique bond he shares with his animals.
Skagway
While Skagway is small, with only 1,200 full-time residents, it isn’t the off-the-beaten path destination like its neighbor, Haines.
In summer, Skagway welcomes over a million cruise passengers annually, eager to immerse themselves in the well-preserved 1800s Gold Rush town. The historic downtown district transports visitors to a western movie set with wooden boardwalks and restored buildings.
Many who visit either ride the White Pass Railroad or rent a car and enjoy a road trip from Skagway to Emerald Lake in the Yukon. Both routes follow the path that the gold prospectors took over a century ago.
To relive the Klondike Gold Rush, participate in a ranger-led tour, visit Gold Rush Cemetery, or try your hand at panning for the precious metal at Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp.
To escape the summer crowds, the surrounding landscape offers many hiking trails. The one to Lower and Upper Dewey Lakes offers picturesque views, but a steep ascent. When visiting Skagway with children, the trail to Smugglers Cove offers an easier route.
To visit both Skagway and Haines, the fast ferry provides the easiest and quickest access at under an hour.
Healy
Healy, located just north of Denali National Park, provides a more affordable stay for those exploring the nature preserve. This small coal mining town offers a more authentic Alaskan experience than the more commercialized park entrance area.
You’ll find comfortable lodgings in Healy, many in small cabins as opposed to a single hotel room. With a 15-minute drive to Denali National Park, you’ll enjoy a small town feel but with modern amenities a short distance away.
Healy is a great destination for adventure seekers. Fat Truck tours, Nenana River rafting, and ATV excursions are popular here. If you choose the latter, Denali Toy Rentals gives you the option to explore on your own.
Girdwood
Originally a gold mining town, Girdwood has transformed into a year-round resort destination. Located just 40 miles south of Anchorage, it offers outdoor activities in summer and skiing in winter. Alyeska Tram, located behind the Alyeska Resort Hotel, offers spectacular views all year round.
Girdwood is a great destination for hiking or those who want to enjoy activities in surrounding areas. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Whittier, home to Prince William Sound Cruises, are both a short drive away.
The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, just south of town, is a must-visit sanctuary. It rescues, rehabilitates and returns native species to the wild. Moose, bears, muskox, caribou, wolves, and foxes are housed in large enclosures that mimic their natural habitats.
Despite Girdwood’s size of around 2,500 residents, its dining scene is impressive. Our top picks are the Double Musky or the Girdwood Brewing Company.
Hoonah
Hoonah, on Chichagof Island, is the largest Tlingit village in Alaska. This island, part of Alaska’s ABC chain (Admiralty, Baranof, and Chichagof) has the world’s largest population of brown bears. The bears outnumber the residents.
Season one of the TV series Outlast was filmed on Chichagof Island, showcasing the raw, untamed beauty and harsh conditions of this remote Alaskan wilderness.
This remote community offers a genuine look at Alaska native life. Hoonah lacks the amenities of modern-day cities. Judging from its harbor, fishing is the town’s main industry. However, with the construction of the Icy Strait Point port nearby, tourism is adding valuable income.
For those docking in Icy Strait, a shuttle provides access to Hoonah. Alternatively, it takes 30 minutes to walk the 1.5-mile coastal route. Along the way, you could spot Sitka deer and bald eagles.
Fishing and whale watching are great activities on Chichagof Island. Humpback whales frequently visit the waters around Hoonah during summer months. Without a tour, humpback whales are often sighted from the waterfront boardwalk.
Small group bear tours are also popular, with a chance to see brown bears in their natural habitat.
Whittier
For the most part, Whittier is incredibly tiny with fewer than 350 residents. Amazingly, most of Whittier’s residents live in one high-rise apartment building, Begich Towers, which has a bank, school, post office, and grocery store.
This town is accessed by the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. The Alaska Railroad shares the one lane tunnel with vehicles, with traffic alternating each way every 30 minutes.
In Whittier, visitors can access tidewater glaciers on boat tours operated by Phillips Cruises. The longer 26 Glacier Cruise visits more than two dozen glaciers, while the shorter Glacier Quest route visits Blackstone Bay.
The coastal town also offers kayaking adventures, some lasting multiple days. Hiking trails are also plentiful, with options to Byron Glacier, Blackstone Bay vista, and Portage Pass. The Portage Pass is a favorite amongst locals and visitors, offering Portage Glacier and lake views.
Small Towns In Alaska Conclusion
Beyond these destinations, there are others worth exploring. Petersburg, Seward, Kodiak, Gustavus, Homer, and Kenai are just a few examples.
Some are very remote, while others have easier access. The decision as to which ones to visit comes down to accessibility, personal interests, budget, and available activities.
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