South Central Alaska

By air, land or sea, South-central Alaska is easily accessible to all. More than half of Alaska’s residents live in this region of spectacular glaciers, fjords, roadside lakes, salmon streams and ocean beaches.

The area encompasses farmlands, fishing communities, national parklands, ski resorts and a metropolitan city. Here visitors can venture into the heart of the wilderness by day and return to luxurious accommodations that night.

Known as the ‘City of Lights’ in winter and the ‘City of Flowers’ in summer, Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage, comes with all the cultural amenities and activities one would expect from a metropolitan hub, except this one is surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. Journey south and discover the Kenai Peninsula, a scenic jewel and fishing paradise.

Visit the quaint seaside communities of Seward or Homer and experience Kenai Fjords National Park. Wrangell-St.Elias National Park to the west contains nine of the 16 highest peaks in the U.S. The Matanuska-Susitna Valley consists of fertile farmland against the majestic backdrop of the Chugach Mountains – they really do grow giant vegetables.

Anchorage

Nearly the size of Delaware, Anchorage lies between the Chugach Mountains on the east and Knik Arm of Cook Inlet on the west. The surrounding mountain ranges encompass the city in a setting of scenic splendor. Perched on the edge of Alaska’s vast, varied expanse of forest, mountains, rivers and tundra, Anchorage has been described as “half an hour from Alaska.” Its similarities to other medium-sized American cities increase steadily, yet this modern metropolis possesses many features that mark it uniquely Alaskan. And it is true that a half-hour trip in any direction offers an abundance of wilderness experiences. Combining cosmopolitan amenities with the creative enthuriasm of a young, progressive state has made Anchorage a spirited city and an exciting destination.

Anchorage is served by more than 15 international and domestic airlines. Its largely white-collar population attracts fine restaurants and upscale shops, first-rate entertainment and world-class sporting events. Modern towers silhouette the skyline and colorful flowers spill from hundreds of baskets on downtown lampposts. Its central location, surprisingly mild climate and excellent transportation system make it a natural place to begin and end a trip.

Cordova

Cordova is a hidden gem in the midst of lofty peaks located on eastern Prince William Sound. The Copper River Delta, home to millions of migratory waterfowl during spring migration, and the Copper River’s prized King salmon have put the City of Cordova on the map. Commercial fishing has been the mainstay for the city over the past several decades. Wild river rafting, bus tours, kayaking and canoeing, charter boats for deep sea fishing or sightseeing, and flightseeing excursions are only a few of the activities provided by local operators.

The Copper River Highway takes you through the largest continuous wetland area on the Pacific coast of North America. At the road’s end discover one of Alaska’s most spectacular calving glaciers and the historical Million Dollar Bridge. Many side roads are worthy of exploring; wildlife abounds and the backdrop views of the Chugach Range will keep any photographer happy. And 35 miles of U.S. Forest Service trails take visitors into backcountry that is truly breathtaking.

Talkeetna, Alaska

Looking for a town with a flavor of the Northern Exposure television series? Take the turnoff to Talkeetna located in upper Susitna Valley. This historic hamlet serves as a staging area for mountain climbers planning to ascend Mt. McKinley. In addition, it offers visitors outstanding fishing opportunities, flightseeing, and river rafting. On clear days, the views of Mount McKinley could not be more dramatic.

On winter trips, go cross-country skiing, snowmachining, or take a dogsledding trip on the famous Iditarod Trail. In summer, hike spectacular alpine meadows at Hatcher Pass, pick wild blueberries near Independence Mine, then explore the abandoned and partially restored gold mine, now a state park.

At day’s end, re-live highlights with your host at a Mat-Su bed and breakfast, relax in a hotel Jacuzzi, swap experiences with RV park neighbors, or camp beside a burbling brook. Accommodations in the Mat-Su Valley range from lakeside resorts and country inns to vacation apartments and remote mountain lodges. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to spend several days in the Mat-Su!

Valdez, Alaska

In a fjord setting on Prince William Sound, combined with the surrounding Chugach Mountains, Valdez is absolutely picturesque. Its setting creates an impressive skyline rivaling the Swiss Alps.

Valdez has year-round activ- ities for everyone. Tour the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Terminal fish for halibut and various species of salmon, see the massive Columbia Glacier and marine wildlife by charter boat or air, hike a coastal trail to Shoup Glacier, raft past the 800-foot-tall waterfalls in Keystone Canyon, go sea Kayaking, drive to Worthington Glacier near Thompson Pass, or hike or bicycle ride on an old gold mining trail. Winter activities include some of the finest helicopter touring, back-country skiing, and snowboarding anywhere. There are trails groomed for cross-country skiing and dog sled rides. Valdez is host to the World Extreme Skiing Championships.

The mystique of the Great Land is captured in Valdez.