There’s no mistake about it: Alaska is a remarkably beautiful frontier in so many ways. There are so many fascinating things to see in Alaska. From its people to its wildlife to its abundance of snow, the state holds a treasure trove of features that are special and distinct. Need further convincing? Let’s take a look at ten everyday Alaska sights that are unique to the state.
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1. Moose Crossing
Over 175,000 moose call Alaska home. In fact, moose abundance in the state can reach levels of five or more moose per square mile. Given the sheer number of these animals, it’s no wonder that locals and visitors can easily spot moose strolling across the street nearly every single day. You won’t see that in the lower 48!
2. Rubber Boots
As you stroll through the streets in Alaska or explore its natural wonders, don’t be surprised if you see at least 90% of people proudly wearing rubber boots. Many native Alaskans equate this footwear to tennis shoes. While non-Alaskans may opt for boots only when flood waters rise, Alaska locals treat them as the go-to footwear.
3. Bears on the Run
Both brown and black bears roam the frontier in staggering numbers. Given their strong presence, it’s no surprise that a person can spot a bear running somewhere on any given day.
4. Bald Eagle Scooping up Salmon
Many people can look outside their homes and see a crow nibbling on a piece of seed or a crumb. While interesting, the sight is simply not the same as observing the sharp talons of a bald eagle sink into a fast swimming salmon. An awe-inspiring phenomenon? Definitely. However, it’s also a common sight in Alaska.
5. Spam
We’re not talking about junk email here. No, we’re talking about the canned pork product. Although most popular in Hawaii, Alaskans are the second highest per capita consumers of Spam in the U.S. In fact, Spam is commonly seen at lunch or dinner tables all over the state.
6. Chipped Windshields
Gravel covered roads abound in Alaska, as do many big rigs driving on them. Follow too closely and…crack goes your windshield. Hit the road for a quick drive and you’ll likely spot a few cracks along the way. Make sure to drive carefully while enjoying your scenic Alaska road trip in order to save your windshield.
7. Vengeful Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are not an endangered species in the U.S., but this is especially true in Alaska where they’re out for blood in huge numbers. Remember how we said the vast majority of Alaskans wear rain boots? They also use mosquito repellent as their daily perfume, so you’ll likely smell that while you’re out and about.
8. Eskimo Ice Cream
Akutaq, also known as Eskimo ice cream, is a unique treat found only in Alaska and northern Canada. This common food staple is a blend of whipped fat mixed with either berries or native meat (e.g., salmon or caribou). The type of berry or meat used can vary depending on what region of the state you are in.
9. Salmon Remains
Say the phrase “salmon run” and most people will automatically think Alaska. Salmon runs are a big deal in the state, as thousands of fish return to their native streams to mate and then die. This is why it’s not a rare sight to see salmon skulls or vertebrae along the banks of streams when the runs are over. To some, this may look eerie. To Alaskans, it’s just the mark of another day.
10. Daylight/Darkness
In the northern parts of the state, summers can carry over 24 hours of sunlight at a time. Winters, conversely, see a similar stretch of darkness. Although daylight and darkness are found all over the world, in Alaska, they can be virtually all a person sees for months. Now that’s unique.
Do these quirky things to see in Alaska inspire you to spot all ten? There’s no better way to immerse yourself in this special state than pursuing a job in the transportation field to tour everything it has to offer. Start planning your Alaska adventure by searching all our current job openings.