Alaska
State Motto
Alaska State Information
Alaska is the 49th State in the Union
Alaska, the largest and northernmost state in the United States, is a land of breathtaking natural beauty and rugged wilderness. Known for its vast, pristine landscapes, Alaska boasts towering mountain ranges, massive glaciers, and a stunning coastline along the Pacific Ocean. It is home to diverse wildlife, including bears, moose, and bald eagles, and offers unique outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The state's native cultures and history are deeply rooted in its identity, and its economy is driven by industries like oil, seafood, and tourism. Alaska's extreme climate and remote locations make it a place of both challenges and wonders, drawing adventurers and nature enthusiasts from around the world to experience its untamed wilderness and stunning landscapes.
What's in a name?
Derived from the Aleut word 'alaxsxaq,' meaning 'the mainland' or 'great land.'
Alaska Geography
Area: | 665,384 sq mi (1,723,345 kmĀ²), 1st |
Highest Point: | Denali; 20,310 ft (1,887 m), 1st |
Lowest Point: | Gulf of Alaska; Sea Level, 0 ft (0 m) |
Bordering States: | None |
Area Codes: | Area Codes of Alaska |
Zip Codes: | Zip Codes of Alaska |
Alaska, the largest state in the United States, is renowned for its breathtaking and diverse geography. Situated in the far north of North America, Alaska boasts a stunning landscape characterized by vast expanses of rugged wilderness. It is home to towering mountain ranges, including the iconic Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), North America's tallest peak, and countless glaciers that carve their way through the terrain. Alaska's coastline stretches for thousands of miles, featuring fjords, bays, and numerous islands. The state also encompasses vast tundra regions, boreal forests, and pristine lakes and rivers. Its extreme northern location means that parts of Alaska experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun during the summer and the polar night during the winter, adding to the unique geographical features and challenges of this remarkable state.
Alaska Economy
The economy of Alaska is characterized by its unique dependence on natural resources, particularly oil, natural gas, and fisheries. The state's vast oil reserves in the North Slope have historically been a primary driver of its economy, with oil production and revenue playing a significant role in funding government services and providing Alaskan residents with an annual dividend. Additionally, the fishing industry, including commercial fishing and seafood processing, is a critical economic sector, contributing substantially to the state's employment and exports. Tourism also plays a growing role, with visitors attracted to Alaska's stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. However, the state's economy faces challenges related to its remote location, limited infrastructure, and susceptibility to fluctuations in global commodity prices, making economic diversification and sustainability ongoing priorities for Alaskan policymakers.
Agriculture
Top 3 crops / livestock for Alaska
- Barley
- Hay
- Potatoes
Industry
Top 3 industries for Alaska
- Oil and Gas
- Seafood Processing
- Tourism
Alaska State Symbols
State Bird
Willow PtarmiganState Flower
Forget-Me-NotState Tree
Sitka SpruceState Mammal
MooseState Fish
King SalmonState Insect
Four-spot Skimmer DragonflyTed Grajeda
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