Take a dog sled ride in Alaska
By: Derek Miller | Posted: 19th January 2006
Looking for an escape from the same old routine – or from the same old holiday routine for that matter? Consider Anchorage, Alaska.
This friendly city with a population of 277,000 is the starting place for an extravaganza of unique adventures.
Winter visitors can go for with a dog sled ride or watch traditional dog sled races, with as many as 1000 dogs participating; they can enjoy festivals of snowsport, music and family fun. One of the largest ski marathons in North America featuring 50K, 40K, and 25K routes winds through Anchorage.
The Native Youth Olympics is an annual opportunity for nearly 400 youth from across Alaska to assemble in Anchorage to demonstrate their skills in traditional Native games.
American Indian and Alaska Native cultures are celebrated during Spirit Days. These include drum and dance performers, arts and crafts displays, storytellers, food and traditional Alaska Native sports.
Marathon runs make up a big part of summer fun in Anchorage. And each year it starts with the Mayor's Midnight Sun Marathon. This event attracts up to 4,500 runners.
Non-runners who want to kick off the summer fun make their way to the AWAIC Summer Solstice Event for live music, demonstrating Alaska artists, great food, and fun activities for the family. Presented by AWAIC (Abused Women's Aid in Crisis, Inc.).
Each summer, there is an opportunity for celebrating Scottish culture at the Alaskan Scottish Highland Games which includes athletics, music, dance, food, crafts and historical displays.
Alaska–style celebrations are featured on America's birthday, July 4. Daylong activities feature a combination of patriotic celebrations, cultural showcases and family activities.
Summer in Anchorage provides the opportunity for kayaking, rafting or cruising the inland lakes and rivers. Cruises, railroad trips, and flight seeing offer great ways to enjoy the scenic grandeur. Day trips and up to 7 night package tours are available. Head out to some of the more than 100 state parks and recreation areas, great for camping, fishing and picnics. Glacier viewing and gold panning are never to be forgotten experiences.
Opportunities abound to enjoy the beautiful birds and flowers, view the wild life – and don't forget the Northern Lights!
August spotlights some special interests. There is the Alyeska Blueberry & Mountain Arts Festival offering great food and wine, creative arts and crafts, and rousing folk music.
The Alaska Aviation Heritage Museum is a treat, especially for those interested in the Great Alaska Salmon Bake and Fly-by. This annual event is complete with vintage aircraft and fly-by's from around the state! Salmon with all the fixings and live music are on offer.
Thanksgiving Weekend sees the start of the Anchorage "City of Lights" holiday season. Numerous cultural and craft events follow the Town Square Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Anchorage provides a wonderful stating point for experiencing wilderness activities while learning more about the culture and history of America's 49th state.
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Tags: lakes and rivers, summer solstice, friendly city