The saying up here in the last frontier is that when you leave Anchorage, that’s where the “real Alaska” begins. Rural life focused on simple subsistence-based principles is what living in Alaska is all about. With an endless outdoor playground and a plethora of natural resources, it would be a shame to live in the city when it’s so easy to fall in love with the quiet remoteness and peaceful tranquility. Here are 20 photos that will prove that rural Alaska is the best place to live.
1. Adak
Heart Lake Falls is just one of the many treasures found on this remote island in the Aleutian chain.
2. Angoon
Located on the western side of Admiralty Island, Angoon is a fabulous place to enjoy fishing, bear viewing and living a simple yet happy lifestyle.
3. Cooper Landing
Fish world-class rivers for salmon, rainbow trout and more. This town is truly an outdoor mecca on the Kenai Peninsula.
4. Delta Junction
This decorative kale in the gardens at Sullivan's Roadhouse is just one of the many sweet touches to enjoy in this small town located southeast of Fairbanks.
5. Gambell
Located on St. Lawrence Island, Gambell is actually much closer to Siberia than the Alaska coastline. Pretty incredible, huh? There is tons of fun to have here including four-wheeling and enjoying the stunning sights of the Bering Sea from the beach.
6. Hoonah
This is one of Alaska's greatest hidden gems. Located on Chichagof Island, Hoonah is filled with amazing people, rich history, delicious food and excellent fishing and hiking opportunities.
7. Kaktovik
Now this is the Alaska life. Located far north, Katovik is an excellent place to see polar bears and experience a town filled with pride for Alaska Native heritage.
8. King Salmon
Located on the Alaska peninsula, this town is the gateway to Katmai National Park. Bear viewing and access to world-class sockeye salmon fishing are what make this such a renowned place.
9. McGrath
This village located on the Kuskokwim River is a quiet community with excellent areas to fish and snow-machine in the wintertime. The Iditarod race also comes through this community which brings a lot of love and respect for the state sport of dog mushing.
10. Minto
Living off the grid and away from the hustle and bustle of the city lights is what it's all about in Minto. Fishing and enjoying the great outdoors are of utmost importance to residents here.
11. Mud Bay
Disappear into the rainforest for the day and leave all the noise behind you. Mud Bay life is quiet and simple, exactly how we like it!
12. Point Hope
Far northern tundra and the freshest air in the world. Sign us up!
13. Saxman
Rich Alaskan culture, historic carvings and a beautiful backdrop make it easy to fall in love with rural Alaska.
14. Seldovia
Just a short boat ride from the more accessible town of Homer, this quaint little beachy town is filled with coastal charm and warm hospitality.
15. Shishmaref
Sunset over those resting in peace is one of the most spiritual and tranquil things to witness. This small village is filled with pride for the land and the ancestors that homesteaded here.
16. St. Paul
This small town on the Aleutian chain is a birdwatching haven. The remote beach access with incredible marine life watching is also a fantastic sight to behold.
17. Tanana
Living off the grid and off the land is what makes life so desirable in this small town with around 300 residents.
18. Tok
Endless vistas without a soul in sight, Tok is the perfect place to be one with nature.
19. Unalakleet
This northwestern village with around 700 residents is surrounded by water and some of the most incredible fisheries in the world.
20. Whittier
With stunning views of waterfall and boat docks, taking a daily walk in this remote town is reason enough to want to live here year-round.
Have you ever visited any of these remote areas? Could you live off the grid in total isolation?
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