It’s incredible how quickly nature can take over a place and make it disappear without a trace. Alaska is a big state and there are many places where nature has taken back her land from former occupants and turned it into her own again. There are many abandoned Alaska ghost towns, gold mines, and bases located around the state that have now simply ceased to exist. Maybe you’ve stumbled across the remains of an old mining town or army base during your wilderness adventures. Take in these abandoned places in Alaska and imagine the life that used to exist here. It is a magical and eerie feeling to know how small we really all are. Here are photos of several places from around the state, some well known, some not, that are currently abandoned or have been in the past for a decent amount of time. Enjoy and don’t be too creeped out; abandoned buildings are naturally spooky to people, but the history and connection to our Alaskan roots are appealing enough to draw you in anyway.
1. Buckner Building, Whittier
Buckner Building is well known amongst Alaskans as a HUGE abandoned building with winding halls and various rooms. Many people believe it would be a great place for a horror film. The City of Whittier had to put up fences around the property to deter trespassing. It is still a magnificent place to walk past, but don’t get caught on the inside!
2. Adak Underground Hospital
Occupied during World War II, this abandoned facility is NOT safe to enter. The hospital, along with several other underground constructions, were built in anticipation of enemy air strikes.
3. Abandoned Boat, Homer
As you travel down the Homer Spit you will pass multiple abandoned ships, some of which were once dwellings, that are now being claimed again by nature.
4. Portage, Alaska
This ghost town was abandoned after the devastating 1964 earthquake.
5. Utica and Fink Creek
These two mining towns are relatively close to one another and were used between 1910-1940 before being abandoned and returned to mother nature.
6. Speel River
Speel River is an abandoned Pulp Mill in Port Snettisham. The town is only accessibly by boat and plane, and the landing strip is all that remains maintained.
7. King Island
A true abandoned ghost town, King Island is home to a crumbling village on the face of the island. Once occupied by nearly 200 people, this town is now being reclaimed by nature and is quite the sight to see.
There are surely many more abandoned places in Alaska. Have you visited any of those we've mentioned here? Let us know and share your favorites in the comments.
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