Destination Guides - Southpoint.com Blog

Feature Book: The Strangest Town in Alaska...where locals walk their reindeer

 
I recently read The Strangest Town in Alaska, which tells the true story about this frontier town of Whittier that was built in a remote and beautiful area around Prince William Sound.
For those who like the unusual and travel, it's a very enjoyable read. Also, see our other recommended travel books.

Our trip several years ago to Alaska took us to the town and former military base of Whittier. Situated in Prince William Sound among mountains, the only access for 50 years was by railroad. Automobiles now share the one-way access through the 2.5 mile tunnel through the mountain to get to Whittier. Built during WWII, the town has two of the largest buildings in Alaska, which is intended to house military and civilians for emergencies. While we were there we saw more than one local out walking their pet reindeer on a leash..
Most of the 300 residents live in one of the buildings. We took a couple of glacier tours in the area that took us up close to catch a glimpse of orcas, sea lions, seals, even bald eagles, and also see calving glaciers. This area of Alaska is stark and so beautiful.
This photo was taken on the way to Whittier, with a view of fireweed in the foreground, which we make delicious jelly from. Once you start to see the fireweed wane, it's a sign that fall is on it's way with the long winter.