1. Alaska is home to 17 of North America’s tallest mountains, including the grand Denali, which reaches a whopping 20,320 ft above sea level.
2. Alaska Natives make up 18% of the state’s population. There are 224 federally recognized Alaska Native tribes and 20 indigenous languages spoken in the state.
3. Alaska's got coastlines galore! Take your pick from the Arctic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and Bering Sea for your ultimate Alaska vacation experience.
4. Benny Benson, a creative 13-year-old, designed Alaska's flag in 1926. It officially became the state flag when Alaska joined the Union in 1959.
5. Alaska has more coastline than the rest of the U.S. combined – over 34,000 miles of it!
6. Due to its proximity to the 180th meridian, the northernmost, easternmost, and westernmost points in the U.S. are all found in Alaska. Point Barrow (northern), Pochnoi Point on Semisopochnoi Island (eastern), and Amatignak Island (western).
7. Dog mushing is the state sport of Alaska. The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race is the state’s largest sporting event.
8. Alaska might be known for its gold, but zinc is actually the state’s biggest mineral export.
9. Brace yourself for the chill! Alaska holds the record for the lowest U.S. temperature: a bone-chilling -80 degrees at Prospect Creek Camp in 1971.
10. Fish fanatics, rejoice! Alaska boasts the most commercial fisheries in the U.S., featuring 5 salmon species, 4 crab species, shrimp, halibut, and more. Dive into seafood paradise!
