Author: Sarah Brown

 Most people think glaciers are lifeless blocks of ice, but hidden within Alaska’s frozen giants lives a creature stranger than fiction: the ice worm. Found in places like Mendenhall, Exit, and Harding Icefield, these tiny black worms (Mesenchytraeus solifugus) spend their entire lives inside glacier ice, thriving in conditions where nearly all other animals would freeze to death.https://www.youtube.com/shorts/cu41I8SpILA?feature=share Masters of Cold-Weather Survival Ice worms have evolved remarkable adaptations to survive in subzero environments. Their bodies produce special proteins that work like natural antifreeze, preventing ice crystals from forming in their tissues. Even more surprisingly, they can only live in near-freezing…

Scattered across Alaska’s vast wilderness are ghost towns that once thrived during gold rushes, fishing booms, and mining eras, only to be left silent when fortunes faded. Today, these abandoned settlements stand as haunting snapshots of frontier life, blending rugged history, eerie charm, and breathtaking landscapes for adventurous travelers to explore. What Are Ghost Towns and Why Does Alaska Have So Many? Definition:Ghost towns are former settlements that thrived during resource booms but were later deserted once profits dried up. Common Causes in Alaska:Resource depletion (mines, fisheries)Abandonment due to changing transportation routesHarsh climate makes recovery or resettlement impracticalAlaska’s Context:Its isolation and…

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport might serve a city of just 300,000 people, but it ranks among the busiest airports in the world thanks to its unique location on global flight paths. Acting as a major cargo hub, a strategic refueling stop, and a gateway for both military and seasonal tourism traffic, Anchorage handles millions of tons of freight and millions of passengers each year, far exceeding what its population alone would suggest. Anchorage Airport’s Unique Global Positioning Anchorage lies almost exactly on the great circle route between Asia and North America, making it an ideal stop for long-haul and…

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you are dealing with substance use or health-related issues, please consult a licensed medical professional before engaging in physically demanding activities such as hiking. Alaska, the largest state in the United States, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unparalleled hiking opportunities. With over 3 million square miles of rugged terrain, the state offers a plethora of trails that cater to hikers of all levels. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a casual walker, Alaska’s hiking trails provide stunning views and a…

Girdwood Campground is a small tent-only camping area in Girdwood, Alaska, located about 45 minutes south of Anchorage. It’s in the southern part of the state, surrounded by forests and mountains.This campground is only open during the summer months, usually from late May to mid-September, depending on the weather. There are 18 tent sites, and no RVs or trailers are allowed. 📍 Girdwood Campground Location & Overview Only 40 miles from Anchorage, Girdwood is easy to reach but feels like a remote slice of heaven. This tent-only campground offers 18 rustic sites carved into lush forest—no RVs, no trailers, just…

Tucked away on the southern tip of Kodiak Island, Akhiok is one of the most remote villages in Alaska, and its only school is a lifeline for the entire community. In 2025, Akhiok Alaska School remains a critical institution, not just for education, but for cultural preservation, community support, and youth development.As rural education in Alaska evolves with new technologies and funding challenges, schools like Akhiok are adapting, but not without hurdles. Here’s a comprehensive look at what’s happening at Akhiok Public School in 2025. Where Is Akhiok and What Makes It Unique? Akhiok is located at the southern end…

Alaska’s healthcare system blends state, federal, and tribal support to maximize access for those who need it most. If you qualify, you can receive high-quality care at no cost, but if you don’t, expect to face some of the highest healthcare costs in the U.S. Alaska’s healthcare system is shaped by more than just policy, it’s built around vast distances, extreme weather, and a diverse population that includes many Alaska Natives living in remote villages.📌 Quick Facts:Over 15% of Alaskans live in areas not connected by road.Healthcare access often depends on air transport, telehealth, and tribal or regional clinics.Tribal healthcare…

Tucked away in the farthest reaches of the Aleutian chain lies Adak City, Alaska, a place where time seems frozen in the aftermath of global tension. Once a critical U.S. military hub during the Cold War, Adak was bustling with over 6,000 residents, high-tech defense systems, and strategic significance. Today, it stands nearly deserted, its abandoned military base and decaying infrastructure quietly echoing the island’s forgotten role in American history. Isolated, windswept, and hauntingly beautiful, Adak offers a rare glimpse into a Cold War legacy hidden in one of the most remote towns in Alaska.https://www.youtube.com/shorts/vDc_409G9-o Once a Cold War stronghold, now a forgotten town… Hidden far out in…

When people think of Alaska, they often imagine rugged mountains, glaciers, and freezing temperatures. But did you know Anchorage is also home to some of the most exciting winter festivals and activities in the U.S.? From snow-covered parks to streets glowing with holiday lights, winter in Anchorage is a wonderland full of magic. ✨ What Makes Winter in Alaska So Special? The Northern Lights 🌌, endless snow ❄️, cozy events 🎶, and wild adventures 🦌 make it a dream destination for winter lovers. Whether you’re with friends, family, or traveling solo, Anchorage has a frosty flavor for everyone. 🎊 Major…

Alaska, known for its rugged landscapes, breathtaking wildlife, and unique culture, offers an abundance of things that make it truly one-of-a-kind. In this article, we’re inviting you to participate in 10 exciting community polls where you can have your say on everything from the best mountain view to your favorite Alaskan activity. Whether you’re a resident, a frequent visitor, or simply an admirer of the Last Frontier, these polls offer a fun and interactive way to celebrate the beauty and charm of Alaska. So, what are you waiting for? Cast your votes and help crown Alaska’s best! Best-Looking Mountain in…

Imagine a land where rivers stretch beyond the horizon, carving through glaciers, tundras, and forests. This is Alaska. With over 365,000 miles of rivers, the Last Frontier is home to the largest, longest, and most untouched water systems in the United States. And here’s the kicker, Alaska alone holds over 40% of the nation’s surface water resources. From the historic Yukon River to the salmon-packed Copper, Alaska’s waterways are its lifelines, feeding people, wildlife, and ecosystems for thousands of years. A map showcasing major rivers like:Yukon RiverKuskokwim RiverCopper RiverTanana RiverThis map gives a birds-eye view of how rivers dominate the…

Most visitors treat the trip from Anchorage to Seward like a means to an end, a prelude to their real Alaskan adventure. But let’s be real: they’re missing out on the main act. This isn’t just a road. It’s one of the most scenic drives in Alaska, arguably the world. “I’ve driven this route over a dozen times. Every trip? A completely new experience.” It’s a journey through glacial valleys, around tidal inlets, past snow-capped mountains, and into the heart of the Kenai Peninsula road trip experience. 🚍 Your Travel Options Let’s break down how you can explore this breathtaking…