Scoping the Alaskan Frontier
Thousands of years ago, the native Aleuts called it Aleyska, meaning "The Great Land." Residents and visitors today know this vast tract as Alaska -- and agree it's still as magnificent as it was then.
Alaska, which became America's 49th and largest state in 1959, comprises 365 million acres filled with pristine wilderness, an abundance of wildlife, and inspiring natural works of art.
Almost one-fifth the size of the entire continental U.S., Alaska boasts four majestic mountain ranges, 15 national parks, preserves and monuments, and 100,000 glaciers.
By virtue of its sheer size, planning a trip to the area can be overwhelming. Because Alaska is perched on the westernmost edge of North America and is almost entirely surrounded by water, one of the easiest and most popular ways to get there is by cruise.
During the mid-May to late-September cruise season, more than 30 ships venture into the gorgeous arctic-cold waters off its 47,300-mile tidal shoreline.
The cruises typically make their way through the "Inside Passage," a 1,000-mile water trek along the southeastern part of the state. Another popular route transports travelers across the Gulf of Alaska and up into Prince William Sound and the Kenai Peninsula.
Day trips might include stops at tiny fishing villages on the coast, where cultural sights, such as totem poles and native dancing, await. More adventure-oriented trek possibilities include hiking, kayaking, "flightseeing" tours over the land via helicopter, or trips on smaller boats to get a closer look inside the coast's waterways.
Many cruise lines also offer in-depth, pre-planned land excursions before or after sailing, so visitors can see more of the state's natural treasures. One must-see is 20,320-foot Mt. McKinley, the highest peak in North America. Mt. McKinley is located in Denali National Park, north of Anchorage -- an excellent place to see native wildlife, such as Dall sheep, moose and grizzly bears.
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