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The largest state in the United States is Alaska. It is also one of the least populated states, which results in vast expanses of stunning wilderness along with exceptional small towns. These communities are remote, distinct, and visually captivating. Alaska’s history is rich with gold miners, Indigenous peoples, adventurers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
The state remains appealing throughout the year, despite experiencing some extreme weather conditions. It offers an array of activities, including island retreats, renowned salmon fisheries, preserved sites from the gold rush era, and an extraordinary range of outdoor adventures.
As a lifelong resident and traveler within Alaska, I have compiled this list of the top small towns to explore in Alaska:
1. Cordova
As Alaska is not part of the contiguous United States, numerous locations can be considered hidden gems, with Cordova ranking at the top. Positioned at the head of Orca Inlet in Prince William Sound, this town is encircled by mountains shaped by glaciers, lush forests, wildlife-rich wetlands, and abundant water resources. Hence, activities such as hiking, skiing, photography, bird watching, fishing, and scenic flights are all available.
Nearby lies Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the nation, encompassing over 13 million acres shaped by tectonic activity, with peaks that rival those of the Himalayas. Ensure to travel along Copper River Highway to witness the Child Glacier and the historic Million Dollar Bridge, constructed in 1910.
2. Talkeetna
With a population of approximately 1,000 residents, Talkeetna is situated in the shadow of the country’s highest peak, Mt. McKinley. Initially established as a gold rush town during the expansion of the Alaska Railroad, the town attracts visitors during both winter and summer. In summer, activities include fishing in the three rivers meeting in town, kayaking, river boating, zip-lining, and ATVs. Winter offers experiences such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and Nordic skiing.
Many visitors are enamored by the historic log cabins that have survived over 100 Alaskan winters. The panoramic view of the Alaskan Range provides a photographer’s paradise. Be sure to sample some of the local craft beers for which Talkeetna is renowned, with Abaddon from Denali Brewing being a personal favorite.
3. Eagle
Following the cessation of the gold rush, Eagle’s population dwindled to just nine residents (of whom seven were city council members). Nestled along the Yukon River, Eagle now serves as a living museum reflecting a bygone era. The locals take pride in never investing in restoration as the town has remained unchanged. In fact, documents were discovered in the courthouse’s judge’s desk which dated back to the 1900s when the town pivoted to tourism in the 1950s.
Today, visitors can explore numerous originals, such as the customs house, fort, original furnishings in public buildings, and more. The town is also home to five museums, and the clerk of courts maintains records of all who have ever resided in Eagle.
4. Skagway
Skagway served as the gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush, brimming with the hopeful aspiration of wealth. This historical frontier town retains its rugged and breathtaking character. It is a frequent stop for cruise ships due to its strategic location at the northern endpoint of the Inside Passage.
A popular attraction is the scenic ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route railway, a remarkable engineering achievement ascending over 3,000 feet through pristine wilderness. The town boasts an array of excellent restaurants, museums, and a surprisingly vibrant nightlife for a community of merely 1,000 residents.
5. Ester
The charm of Ester lies in its residents, known for their quirky and captivating personalities, who embrace their distinctive lifestyles. Numerous faculty and staff from the University of Alaska Fairbanks reside in Ester, along with writers and artists.
The community market in Ester hosts impressive galleries, studios, and exhibits. The town is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, and gold mining activities persist just outside town. I recommend visiting Ester Dome for remarkable hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
6. Sitka
The journey to Sitka itself is an adventure, as it can only be accessed by sea or air. Located on Baranof Island’s southern tip, Sitka offers a walkable and relaxing downtown replete with galleries, restaurants, cafes, and quaint shopping options.
Due to its coastal proximity, Sitka is an excellent location for whale watching, kayaking, fishing, and various activities. I encourage a visit to Baranof Castle Hill, the Alaska Raptor Center, Saint Lazaria National Wildlife Refuge, and the Sheldon Jackson Museum, as well as a flight-seeing cruise to appreciate the breathtaking landscape.
7. Gustavus
For a serene and comfortable experience, Gustavus is an ideal destination. With a population of approximately 400, it features a few paved roads and numerous charming bed and breakfasts. Enjoy family-style meals alongside evenings by the fire. Exploring the scenic country roads by bicycle is a favored activity, and just a short distance away is Glacier Bay National Park—a stunning 65-mile stretch of fjords, marine mammals, and glaciers.
Similar to other towns, Gustavus can only be accessed via air or sea. This region is well-known for its popularity among Humpback whales, making kayak exploration of Glacier Bay or visiting the various local beaches a memorable experience.
8. Homer
At the terminus of Sterling Highway, within Kachemak Bay lies Homer. This small town gained fame as the ‘End of the Road’ through the writings of Tom Bodett. Surrounded by ocean and wilderness, Homer serves as a hub for coal mining and commercial fishing, with locals prideful of the world’s best halibut and a burgeoning reputation as a gastronomic destination due to the abundance of fresh seafood.
Enjoy bear viewing and hiking in this eco-adventure capital of Alaska. The Homer Spit, a distinct geological feature, showcases a 4.5-mile-long road extending into ocean waters. Wildlife observation opportunities abound in Homer. Furthermore, consider exploring my guide on Homer for additional insights.
9. Funny River
If camping in Alaska is on your agenda, consider exploring Funny River. Surrounded by magnificent nature, you’ll find it hard to stay indoors. Enjoy horseback riding, hiking, ATV riding, and visiting Brown’s Lake, which is home to Arctic terns during summer months.
Traversing the six-mile stretch of Funny River Road provides access to Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, a location that surprisingly receives few visitors. Be prepared to encounter caribou and moose on the road, as well as lynx, loons, mergansers, and pine grosbeaks.
10. Girdwood
Located near Anchorage, Girdwood rests along the Turnagain Arm, noted for the rare bore tide that occurs daily. In Alaska, despite numerous snow-capped mountains, ski resorts are relatively rare, with Girdwood hosting one of the best, which also operates year-round.
Visitors may stay at the resort or the nearby bed and breakfasts. Originally founded during the gold rush era and named for a prospector with multiple claims at Crow Creek, Girdwood now serves as a mountain retreat nestled in the Chugach range. Travelers can anticipate outdoor adventures, relaxation, acclaimed restaurants, and a warm community feel, ensuring an immediate awareness of its distinctive charm.
11. Hoonah
Hoonah is a place that captivates visitors and compels them to return repeatedly. The town’s breathtaking beauty leaves a lasting impression, complemented by the warm hospitality of its residents. Situated on Chichagof Island, Hoonah is home to the world’s highest and largest zip line, where visitors can engage in thrilling whale watching, bear viewing, kayaking along the Icy Strait, and hiking in Tongass National Park.
The friendly atmosphere of Hoonah, affectionately termed “The Little City with a Big Heart,” contributes to its appeal. The town boasts a significant Tlingit population, with over 70% of its residents being descendants of this revered tribe.
12. Nome
Situated near the Siberian coastline is Nome, the endpoint of the renowned Iditarod Trail, characterized by marvelous backcountry roads suitable for traversing the tundra, offering a truly remarkable experience. Once a bustling town of over 28,000 residents, Nome’s current population is closer to 4,000. The town possesses a fascinating gold rush history that originated in 1898.
However, Nome’s rich heritage extends even further back, approximately 10,000 years. The Inupiaq Eskimos made this area their home, and their legacy persists within the contemporary Eskimo culture. Known for their vocal music, drumming, and exquisite ivory carving, the values of yesteryear are still reflected in the community’s present-day inhabitants. Bird watchers appreciate Nome for its appeal to over 200 migratory species annually. During the summer season, one can explore various roads into the tundra to witness the blossoms in full bloom.
13. Seward
Strongly shaped by Russian fur traders, Seward is a historically significant trading town. The colorful downtown and harbor area offers excellent shopping and dining opportunities. Each January, residents and tourists gather for the Polar Bear Jump, where the most daring locals leap into Resurrection Bay, only to emerge quickly. Seward is also recognized as mile zero of the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race.
This town serves as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where visitors can enjoy glacier cruises, summer dog sledding experiences, fat tire bike tours, snowshoeing, and a plethora of snow-related adventures. The presence of Mt. Marathon, a 3,000-foot peak, enriches Seward’s unique landscape.
14. Moose Pass
This picturesque mountain village lies on the shores of Trail Lake within the Kenai Peninsula. Moose Pass is enveloped by Chugach National Park and offers an ideal environment for backpacking and outdoor activities. Do not overlook the Johnson Pass Trail, which commences just outside the town limits. With a resident population of fewer than 200, all inhabitants are exceptionally warm and friendly.
The town celebrates the Summer Solstice Festival every June, a tradition spanning over 20 years, where attendees come from all over the region to enjoy games, music, and delectable food, making it one of the premier small-town festivals in Alaska.
15. Ketchikan
Ketchikan is the most populous town on this list, home to approximately 10,000 residents. It is nestled within a network of islands and inlets close to British Columbia, Canada. Historically, it served as an American Indian settlement, and the local community takes pride in their indigenous heritage. The Totem Heritage Center should not be overlooked, as it houses the world’s largest collection of totem poles, constructed from the region’s red cedar trees found in Tongass Rainforest, showcasing remarkable artistic craftsmanship.
In addition to its native Alaskan culture, Ketchikan is recognized for its salmon fishing and remarkably beautiful landscapes. The area attracts photographers due to the Misty Fjords National Monument, aquamarine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and striking mists that frequently envelop the town.
