If you’re an Alaskan then you’re probably one tough cookie. It’s more than expensive produce and freezing cold temperatures up here, it’s the Last Frontier! We work hard to make this state as unique as it is. If you’re an Alaskan, then you know what I’m talking about. So if you think you’ve got what it takes, then we want you. But remember, it’s not easy being us. Have you ever really thought about how people from Alaska are tough? Just check the list if you don’t believe me, but if you think you’re up to it, pack up your things and head North, to the future. (That’s our state motto – for those of you who didn’t know.)

1. We build it ourselves.
Donna | Flickr
Outside of town, us Alaskans really have to take care of ourselves. That means we have to take care of our property, too. A lot of homes are built by hand, from log cabins to homesteads.
2. We shovel our driveway more times a year than you sneeze.
Bill Couch | Flickr
It's true, shoveling snow is a rite of passage for all Alaskans. We've all got a technique that we swear is the best.
3. Even our commute to work is a bit tougher than most.
JLS Photography - Alaska | Flickr
From having to ride a snow machine to work or encountering a moose on your way into town - it's not always easy getting there on time every day.
4. We have one of everything... but only one.
JLS Photography - Alaska | Flickr
A lot of towns in Alaska have one of everything, from grocery stores to diners.
5. You've got to be tough to work in one of the three major industries.
Chris Ford | Flickr
Whether it's working on the slope, or on a fishing vessel, the job and the weather can be pretty harsh. The third industry is tourism and it takes more mental toughness than anything else to deal with that business.

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6. Everything here is bigger.
Kolby | Flickr
Just 5 minutes out of town and you're smack dab in the middle of BIG country. You've got to be tough to partake in most of the outdoor activities like rock climbing, snowboarding and skiing, mountaineering... it all takes some courage if you ask me.
7. Ok, ok, the weather is kinda hard to put up with sometimes.
JLS Photography - Alaska | Flickr
It may look like a winter wonderland, but the weather can get a bit taxing.
8. The dark can get a little dreary.
JLS Photography - Alaska | Flickr
If you don't want to get SAD, it's best to prepare for the winter months long ahead of time. By SAD, of course, we mean that seasonal affective disorder is not a joke.
9. Gotta have a little bit of a survivalist in your bones.
Travis | Flickr
You've got to learn to be a survivalist up here, because much of the time, you wont have cell phone service or someone there to help you out. You need to know how to make a fire or how to pull a buddy's truck out with tooth floss, cat litter, and a shovel.
10. Adversity is alive and well in Alaska.
Laura Avellaneda-Cruz | Flickr
Every day Alaskans have to overcome the stereotypes about where they are from and the lifestyle they lead. We try to let it slide, though - we know that not everyone can tough it up out here and stick around.

Have you ever really thought about how people in Alaska are tough? For more about life here on the Last Frontier, read 25 Things That Are Actually Really Frustrating About Living In Alaska.

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how people in Alaska are tough

Kim Magaraci | March 01, 2021

What are the best things about living in Alaska?

The best thing about living in Alaska, by far, is the breathtaking beauty of the state. In all seasons, Alaska is the most stunning place on Earth! We're surrounded by natural wonders at any given time, and unlike those who live down in the states, we don't ever have to worry about crowds. Every day seems like a one-of-a-kind adventure up here, and it makes all the difficulties so worth it. Plus, our fresh seafood and local game make Alaskan cuisine truly unique.

What are the worst things about living in Alaska?

It's hard to sugarcoat it - life in Alaska can be frustrating. Winters are dark and cold, the cost of living is outrageously high, and we struggle to enjoy basic things like fresh produce and store-bought bread without jumping through all sorts of hoops. Our definition of "driving distance" is pretty different than the rest of the country because no destinations are particularly close. It really does take time to adjust to living up here, but all it takes is one beautiful bluebird day, an aurora, or a summer day on the trail to prove that it's worth every second.

What are the most popular foods in Alaska?

Forget hot dogs - up here we snack on Reindeer Dogs. Visitors are known to look twice when they see them - but they're delicious! Of course, seafood is amazing here, and Alaska is home to the best salmon and black cod in the world. Plus, they don't call it Alaskan King Crab for no reason - crab in general is a part of the local cuisine here. When it comes to sweets, most of our desserts are made with local berries, and Agutuk is a sweet ice cream made with seal oil, reindeer fat, snow, and fresh-picked berries. Yum!

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