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Popular Misapprehensions on Alaska

Alaska is vastly different from all the other states in the U.S. Because of movies and TV shows’ portrayal of the state, it is not surprising that many people have misconceived ideas about Alaska and its residents. Let’s take a look at these popular misconceptions:

 

It’s Always Cold and Snowing

Many believe that Alaska only has two weather conditions: cold and freezing cold. Contrary to popular beliefs, Alaska is pretty warm in the winter season (May to September). Temperatures can warm-up from 70°F (21.1°C) to 100°F (37.8°C), depending on the location.

 

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The days are getting just a little bit longer, but there’s a pretty darn good cold snap across the state! -47F out here and -30 for friends in town. Not too much happens in weather like this. Hopefully there’s enough wood for the snap! The chainsaw likes to freeze in the “on” position below -30. The way I tell the temperature when it’s cold outside is through the feelings in my nose. You feel the cold traveling further up your nostrils with each degree drop. Fingertips get cold quickly, and bunny boots are a must. The wild animals aren’t as visibly active as in warmer winter temperatures. Old tracks are all that you see when out and about. Many furbearers and rabbits are active below the snow, in the subnivean world where it is warmer. The cabin won’t get too warm right now. You almost can’t burn enough wood. Here is a shot of 330PM, the sun beginning to sink after making its lateral track across the sky. Here’s to staying warm! Tea and caribou stew are waiting inside. Sometimes the simple beauty of a scene like this keep you outside in the cold for just a little bit longer to watch the sun disappear behind the trees, the light shifting across the surface of the snow. #winterwonderland #coldsnap #cabinlife #folklife #subnivean #offthegrid #coldsnap2019 #alaskaweather #alaskalife #cabinfolk #cabininthewoods #tracking #snowshoe #wintersunset #mybackyard

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Alaskans are Rugged, Primitive People

When you think of people living in Alaska, the first two things that pop up in your mind are igloos and dog sledding. The third thing that comes to mind is the image of people chopping firewood or hunting deer for dinner.

Most Alaskan live in warm, modern homes and buy their day-to-day supplies from stores and supermarkets which is sometimes surprising to other people. Dog sledding and hunting are just hobbies of a small percentage of the state’s population.

 

Everywhere is All Towns and Villages

Since a lot of movies and TV shows filmed in small towns or villages, many believe that Alaska only has small villages or towns. The Last Frontier really has populated cities and towns. Anchorage, the largest city has a population of about 300,000. The entire state has over 731,000 people as of 2019.

 

All People Carry Guns

The misconception that all Alaskans carry their guns everywhere they go is far from reality. People living in cities like Anchorage or Juneau do not have any use for guns. Ammunition is only used for hunting and protection against predators or moose. Guns may have a variety of uses, but not everyone in Alaska owns or carries them.

These misconceptions are just misunderstandings of people who have not experienced Alaskan’s beauty and grace. What better way to invalidate these than by visiting the amazing state yourself!

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