As the largest state in the United States, Alaska’s size is nothing to ignore. Covering a whopping 663,268 square miles, Alaska is larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined. With a population of approximately 731,000 (2023), Alaska is also the least densely populated state in the union, with a population density around 1.3 people per square mile.
With such a wide area to cover, Alaska is divided into five distinct regions. Each region offers a unique perspective of the Alaskan experience, and showcases the variety of cultures, ecosystems, and landscapes that thrive in this northern wonderland.
In this guide, we'll explore the size of each region, its relative population density, and cover top destinations. Due to Alaska’s vastness in size and limited transportation options, you will want to be prepared for your Alaskan adventure by ensuring you know where to go, what to expect, and how to get there.
Southeast Alaska (35,138 square miles)
With a population of approximately 75,000 and a density of 2.1 persons per square mile, Southeast Alaska is a coastal paradise known for its lush rainforests, glacier-lined fjords, and vibrant Native Alaskan cultures. Top tourist destinations include:
Juneau: As Alaska’s capital city, Juneau only has a tiny population of around 32,000 (small by lower 48 standards), but it is the second-largest city in the United States by land area. The city covers approximately 3,255 square miles (8,430 square kilometers), and offers attractions such as Mendenhall Glacier and the Alaska State Museum.
Glacier Bay National Park: A key highlight for many Southeast trips, this 3.3-million-acre national park is home to a stunning array of glaciers, wildlife, and temperate rainforests.
Sitka: Located on Baranof Island, Sitka covers an area of approximately 4,811 square miles (12,461 square kilometers), making it the largest city by land area in the United States. It only hosts a population of around 8,600 full time residents, though this number can surge dramatically in the summer. Sitka offers cultural experiences such as the Sitka National Historical Park and the Russian Bishop's House.
Southcentral Alaska (101,000 square miles)
Home to approximately 290,000 people, Southcentral Alaska has a population density of 2.9 persons per square mile. This region is home to a magnificent blend of majestic mountains, pristine coastlines, and urban experiences. Highlights include:
Anchorage: As the largest city in Alaska, with a population of nearly 290,000, Anchorage is the gateway to the state's mainland, and offers attractions such as the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and the Anchorage Museum. This is also one of the most connected destinations in the state, with road access and a major international airport.
Kenai Fjords National Park: Spanning 669,984 acres, the Kenai Fjords boasts magnificent glaciers, abundant marine wildlife, and the Harding Icefield. Accessible from Seward and Homer, this is a popular destination to most visitors to the Kenai Peninsula.
Valdez: Known as the "Switzerland of Alaska," Valdez is famous for its snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the Columbia Glacier. With a population of around 3,800, it is a small town offering basic amenities and accommodations.
Southwest Alaska (183,000 square miles)
Housing approximately 40,000 residents with a population density of 0.2 persons per square mile, Southwest Alaska is the epitome of rugged wilderness. This region is full of wildlife, scenery, ocean vistas, and unique cultures. Must-visit spots include:
Katmai National Park: At 4,093,077 acres, Katmai is famous for its thriving population of brown bears and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Common photography spots include Brooks Falls and Hallo Bay, and day tours are available from Homer, Kodiak, and Anchorage.
Kodiak Island: Home to the Kodiak bear and a rich fishing history, this island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.With a population of around 13,000, visitors can find accommodation in the town of Kodiak or in one of the numerous lodges spread across the island.
Lake Clark National Park: This 4,030,025-acre national park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with turquoise lakes, soaring mountains, and abundant wildlife. Day trips are available from Homer and Anchorage.
Interior Alaska (174,400 square miles)
With a population of around 100,000 and a density of 0.6 persons per square mile, Interior Alaska is truly a land of extremes. Top destinations include:
Fairbanks: With a population of around 31,000 and a land area encompassing 7,444 square miles, Fairbanks is the gateway to the Arctic and offers attractions like the Museum of the North and the Aurora Ice Museum.
Denali National Park: Covering 6,075,029 acres, Denali is home to North America's tallest peak, Denali, and offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities.
Chena Hot Springs: A popular year-round retreat, Chena Hot Springs is known for its natural hot springs and the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Arctic Alaska, “The North Slope” (180,000 square miles)
A vast, remote, and largely untouched expanse, Arctic Alaska is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and nature's enduring beauty in extreme climates. Highlights of this region include:
Gates of the Arctic National Park: At 8,472,506 acres, this park is the epitome of pristine wilderness, with no roads or trails leading into its vast expanse. It offers solitude and a chance to see arctic animals and migratory herds.
Utqiagvik (Barrow): The northernmost city in the United States, Barrow showcases Inupiat culture and provides a rare opportunity to witness the midnight sun and polar night phenomena.
Kobuk Valley National Park: Covering 1,750,716 acres, Kobuk features the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, the largest active sand dunes in the Arctic. Kobuk is also the best place to see the caribou migration in the late fall.
Navigating Alaska's Immensity: How to Travel in Alaska
The sheer size of Alaska has a significant impact on how travelers can move around the state and access its various regions. Due to its vastness and challenging terrain, it is essential to understand the unique transportation options available and the time it takes to traverse this expansive state.
Air Travel: Given the enormous distances and limited road connections between regions, air travel is often the most efficient and convenient way to explore Alaska. Many remote locations are only accessible by air, and the state boasts numerous small airlines, air taxis, and charter services catering to tourists. Major cities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau have well-connected airports, while smaller communities typically have airstrips or float plane docks to accommodate bush planes.
Road Travel: Although Alaska has a relatively limited road system compared to the contiguous United States, key highways, such as the Seward, Alaska, Parks, and Dalton Highways, connect major cities and attractions.
Rail Travel: The Alaska Railroad is a popular and scenic way to explore the state. The train travels between Seward and Fairbanks, with stops in Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park.
Water Travel: Parts of Alaska are served by the Alaska Marine Highway System, a network of ferries that transport passengers, vehicles, and cargo between coastal communities. The ferry system provides access to destinations such as Juneau, Sitka, Kodiak, Homer, Ketchikan, and Skagway, as well as connections to the lower 48 through Bellingham, Washington. Cruises are also a popular option for exploring Alaska's coastline, with numerous itineraries including the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay, and the Gulf of Alaska.
Navigating Alaska's vast and diverse landscape can be both a challenge and a thrill for travelers. By understanding the various transportation options available, you can tailor your journey to suit your preferences and make the most of your Alaskan adventure. Embrace the spirit of exploration and traverse the breathtaking expanses of the Last Frontier, experiencing firsthand the wonders that await in this extraordinary state.
