Although few visitors still expect to find Alaskans living in igloos, many are surprised that daily life for most Alaskans is much like the Lower 48. Some Alaskans choose an isolated and independent life in backwoods homesteads. But most live in modern homes, drive cars, watch television, and shop in modern stores.

Alaska’s larger communities have fast food restaurants, theaters, recreation facilities, modern health care facilities, and the usual city conveniences. Art galleries, museums, concerts, and live theater as well as a statewide university system also contribute to the quality of life.

Satellites beam telephone service and television into even the most isolated villages. Although some of Alaska’s smaller towns have one-room school houses, most classrooms throughout the state are very similar to schools anywhere in the U.S. and are equipped with computers and other modern learning tools.

Alaskans are wild about outdoor recreation. Activities include dogmushing, skiing, skijoring (skiers pulled by a sled dog with a harness), snowmobiling, canoeing, kayaking, backpacking, hiking, mountain and rock climbing, biking, and even scuba diving

Fairbanks is the dogmushing capital of the world. Dogmushing is the official state sport. Dogmushing races ranging from local club meets to world championships are held throughout the winter. The 1,049-mile Iditarod, which runs from Anchorage to Nome, is Alaska’s most famous sled dog race. The winner of the first Iditarod in 1973 completed the race in 20 days, while 1996 champion Jeff King finished in just 9 days. In a typical year, 60 mushers will compete. Only two-thirds will finish.