Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska, is the largest city in the United States' largest and most extraordinary state — a gateway to wilderness so vast, wild and beautiful that the city itself almost recedes in significance. Situated in the Cook Inlet surrounded by the Chugach Mountains, with Denali (6,190m, North America's highest peak) visible on clear days 240km north, Anchorage is genuinely unlike any other American city. The Anchorage Museum is outstanding — its interpretation of Alaska Native culture, the history of Alaska (the purchase from Russia in 1867, the Gold Rush, the oil pipeline) and Alaska's contemporary identity are thoughtful and comprehensive. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail (11 miles along the Cook Inlet, with excellent mountain and wildlife views) is the finest urban running and cycling trail in North America. The Alaska Native Heritage Center provides excellent context for Alaska's indigenous cultures. Anchorage is primarily a jumping-off point. Denali National Park (5 hours by train or road) is one of the world's great wilderness experiences. Kenai Fjords National Park (3 hours south) offers glacier boat tours and extraordinary wildlife (orcas, puffins, sea otters, humpback whales). Chugach State Park, directly accessible from the city, offers hiking with moose and bear. The Alaska Railroad journey from Anchorage to Seward or Denali is magnificent. Fishing for king salmon in accessible rivers is an extraordinary experience. The Northern Lights are visible from Anchorage September–March.