Summer Information For Anchorage In Alaska






Jul 4, 08

4th of July
7/4/08
Girdwood, AK

Anchorage
Alaska

Alaska...

Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, is located at the head of Cook Inlet, at the base of the Chugach Mountains. This south-central Alaskan city is the most modern in the state and has an impressive skyline.

Even with its modern flair, Anchorage still offers a taste of the old days. It started out as a construction headquarters for the Alaska Railroad in 1915. Many historic buildings still remain.

The city is also the starting point for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. The 1,049 mile trek to Nome follows the path of a historic supply route to the northwest Alaskan gold fields.

Countless Outdoor Opportunites

Hikers and mountain bikers will find more than 120 miles of trails and 14,000 acres of greenbelt here. Anchorage has been named one of the country's Top Trail Towns by the American Hiking Society. And the National Park Service designated the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail a National Recreation Trail because of its breathtaking views.

What you can't explore on foot, you can explore from the sky. Airplane and helicopter tours are available to many regions in the state. Check out Chugach State Park, Portage Glacier, the abundant Alaskan wildlife or any number of spectacular natural wonders. Hot air balloon rides are available as well - float high above the Anchorage skyline.

The long hours of daylight in the summer months allow for plenty of time to do all the activities you like. Golf until midnight on one of many challenging courses or take a float trip down the Matanuska or Eagle rivers.

Fishing enthusiasts can't help but love Alaska, and Anchorage is a great place to start. More than 30 lakes are easily accessible in the area, as are numerous streams. The Kenai River provides fantastic fishing opportunities too. If you want to get farther inland, many tour companies offer day or week long charters.

Chugach State Park has dozens of peaks to challenge and delight climbers. There is a route to suit most anyone. Beginners will find many trails that are easily navigated. For those with more experience, challenging technical climbs await.

Culture and Entertainment

Along with the many natural attractions, Anchorage offers visitors a wide range of cultural activities. The Anchorage Museum of History and Art provides a look at Alaska's art, history and culture.

The Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum gives a fantastic glimpse into the wonder of flight. The museum houses 29 vintage aircraft, including a 1936 Stinson A Tri-Motor, which is thought to be the only one of its kind still in existence.

If you can't get out to see the famous Alaskan wildlife, try a trip to the Alaska Zoo. This 30-acre wooded park is home to several native as well as arctic animals.

A variety of shops offer endless gift ideas. Look for Native basketry, jewelry and jade. Alaska's seafood is renowned and makes for great gifts as well.

Several events also draw summer visitors here. The Taste of Anchorage, Three Barons Fair, the AWAIC Summer Solstice Festival and the Seward Salmon Derby are just a sampling of what the city has to offer.

Deer Valley Resort