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Posted in Alaska March 01, 2017 by Courtney

The One Tiny Town In Alaska That Was Just Named As The Weirdest Place In America

Let’s set one thing straight; being weird is way more interesting (and fun) than being boring. So for the isolated town of Whittier to be named as the ‘weirdest in America‘ by Ranker.com, we’re absolutely flattered. But for many outsiders, the wildly unique attributes that this town has to offer can be quite the spectacle. So while you might think of this place as weird, we find it to be exceptionally distinctive. We’ll let you draw your own conclusion below…

The first thing you need to know about Whittier is this; there is only one way in, and one way out.

That isn't, however, taking into consideration the fact that your alternative to escaping is via boat or ferry.

To access Whittier via personal vehicle, travelers must go through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel which is carved into Maynard Mountain.

This is the second longest highway tunnel in North America at 13,300 feet. It is also the longest combined rail + highways tunnel in the country.

This strikingly beautiful tiny town is situated at the head of the Passage Canal on the western edge of Prince William Sound, and it's completely surrounded by awe-inspiring natural beauty.

The year-round population in Whittier is just over 200 residents, the majority of which are all said to live under one roof which was originally built as army barracks.

If you visit the area during the winter months, you'll notice that there are only a few roads and parking lots, which also double as areas to store the abundance of snow that gets plowed.

Boats that are dry docked are also very common sights that you'll experience in this sleepy fishing community.

One of the eeriest attractions is Whittier are the abandoned Buckner Army Barracks, which many report to be haunted.

During the summer months you'll find that Whittier is a thriving little community where seasonal businesses and recreational travelers unite in perfect harmony.

The area is a glacial mecca-land that is filled with stunning beauty in the surrounding Prince William Sound.

If glaciers are on your Alaska bucket list, we highly recommend a trip to this special place.

Even on the drive in you'll be spoiled with countless views of hanging glaciers off the Portage Glacier Highway.

An abundant assortment of waterfalls are also what you can expect to find in Whittier, many of which you'll be able to observe from the comforts of your own vehicle.

If you hike or boat into the backcountry, however, your views will only maximize as you get a truly up-close-and-personal look at Alaska's raw, rugged terrain.

The wildlife viewing in and from Whittier is enough to attract photographers from all around the world, each and every year.

The town also has a unique assortment of charming coastal eateries, most of which can be found in close proximity to the busy harbor.

Fun and idyllic gift shops where you'll find one-of-a-kind items is also something that many visitors have to look forward to when visiting the 'weird' town of Whittier.

For a closer look into what life is like in this awesomely weird little town, check out the YouTube video below.

If you love beautiful places, you don’t want to miss this tiny town in Alaska that’s completely surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. You might also enjoy learning about this small town in Alaska where you’ll never want to sleep. For more great articles and incredible video footage from Alaska, be sure to check us out online HERE.

Courtney

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.