The Southernmost Town In Alaska That's Both Wild And Beautiful
By Courtney|Published January 11, 2017
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Courtney
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Living and loving life in Alaska, Courtney enjoys living a happy life based on simple principles; work hard, be kind, stay humble. She is an avid dog lover with hobbies that include running, fly fishing, hiking & snowboarding.
This isolated island destination in the Last Frontier is both the southermost town in Alaska and the westernmost place in the United States of America. Although it is no longer the bustling military base that it was in the past, it has truly proven to stand the test of time over the last twenty years. The bountiful natural resources that are available on the island attract visitors from all around the world each and every year.
The southernmost city in Alaska and the westernmost city in the United States is Adak, which is located on Kuluk Bay in the Andreanof Islands group of the Aleutian Chain. The population of Adak is just over 300 year-round residents.
The only way to access this isolated town is via airplane or boat. Due to a rich military past, Adak actually has a very sophisticated airport for its size so that is generally the most reliable transportation choice.
However, due to the subpolar oceanic climate there are consistently overcast skies, fluctuating temperatures, high winds and cyclonic storms that can prevent or delay air traffic on a regular basis.
But once you arrive to Adak, you'll be amazed by the raw natural beauty that surrounds you from every angle. There is no denying that this is one of the most jaw-dropping places in the Last Frontier.
Summertime boasts a phenomenal assortment of lupine and wildflowers throughout the town and island. The Aleutian shield fern is an endangered species of flora found on the island, which is quite unique in itself.
In the backcountry, natural wonders like Heart Lake Falls will make you feel like you are in the middle of a tropical island paradise when experienced on a clear or sunny day.
Adagdak and Mount Moffett volcanoes are located on Adak and there is an indigenous rock type known as adakite that is named after Adak. These are felsic volcanic rocks with the geochemical characteristics of magma.
The old military town played many important roles during World War II and the Cold War. Many abandoned bunkers and remaining remnants and artifacts from the past are still present all throughout the town and island.
Although the town and entire island was rocked by a series of massive earthquakes in 1957, 1964 and 1977 - it has truly proven that it is capable of standing the test of time.
Want an up close and personal look at a day in the life in Adak? Be sure to check out this great YouTube video below and experience how raw, rugged and undeniably beautiful this island town really is.
