Every spring in Alaska the birch sap starts flowing when the snow begins to melt. As one of the first indicators that our long winter is over, birch tree syrup and water is an experience unique to those who live in the northern latitudes, and who get to experience the beauty of our birch groves.

Every spring the birch trees come to life again.
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In Alaska, the birch trees' sap tends to rise some time in April, depending on the weather.
For an average of three weeks in spring, the birch sap flows.
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This will go on until the leaves begin to bud. Once they emerge, the sap slows to a trickle, and then stops completely.
Tapping birch trees for their sap is not harmful.
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If you practice good conservation techniques and only tap once on the tree, it's perfectly healthy to collect about 10-15% of a tree's sap production.

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During harvest time, an average birch tree in Alaska can produce about 0.5 gallons of sap a day.
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After collecting the sap, you must boil it to have the water evaporate. The syrup you are used to buying at the grocery store has been condensed down so that it's thicker and sweeter.
That means an average tree can produce about 15 ounces of birch syrup per season.
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It's not very much, and it gives you a good idea of how time intensive and laborious making birch syrup can be. In comparison, creating maple syrup is much easier. It takes half the amount of maple sap to make the same amount of syrup that a birch tree does.
Many people drink the birch sap straight from the tree, without alteration.
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This is called birch water, and it is filled with vitamins and minerals. The flavor is silky smooth, and tastes just like a slightly sweet water. It is comprised of 1% naturally occurring sugars, which lends to its pleasant flavor, and makes this water especially hydrating.
Whether you enjoy the sweet taste of birch syrup, or you just love looking at them, watching the birch groves come alive is a wonderful part of spring.
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There are many hikes and trails that feature one of Alaska's most useful trees. Skip your neighborhood park and head into the forest!

Do you enjoy the birch sap syrup or water? Have you ever tried it? Let us know in the comments below!

If you want to get out of the house and embrace the warmer weather, Kick Off Spring In Alaska With These 7 Scenic Hikes Under Two Miles.

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