Alaska, often known as the Last Frontier, is renowned for its wild landscapes and eccentric character, which are reflected in the town names.
These locations have distinctive histories and activities in addition to their humorous names.
This article explores the origins of 5 oddly named Alaskan communities and highlights must-see locations in each.
Unalaska
With about 4,500 inhabitants, Unalaska is a thriving community in the Aleutian Islands, despite its deceptive moniker. The Aleut term “Ounalashka,” which means “near the peninsula,” is the source of the name.
Unalaska has a rich history as a hub of Aleut culture and a vital port during World War II.
The Museum of the Aleutians, which features artifacts and tales from the local indigenous population, is a must-see.
The Bunker Hill Trail provides views of the port and leads to WWII bunker remnants for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the oldest and most recognizable churches in Alaska is the Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Ascension, which stands out against the untamed surroundings with its green domes and white walls. Don’t miss it.
Chicken
The term “Chicken” is derived from a humorous yet pragmatic error. Early local miners intended to name the town after the local bird, the ptarmigan, but they couldn’t agree on how to spell it.
They decided on “Chicken” instead to save face. With less than 20 residents, this small hamlet is well-liked for its eccentric character and gold mining past.
Visitors can try their hand at gold panning at Chicken Gold Camp or take a tour of the Pedro Dredge, a vintage gold mining dredge. Hike the neighboring Top of the World Highway, which offers expansive views of the surrounding tundra, to get a sense of the environment.
The crazy Chickenstock Music Festival, a family-friendly gathering including live music, dancing, and regional crafts, takes place in Chicken every summer.
Whittier
The interesting name of Whittier, which lies on the western side of Prince William Sound, is a reflection of its early history.
Although the town was founded more for its strategic use during World War II than for its poetic value, it was named after American poet John Greenleaf Whittier.
Whittier, which has less than 300 residents, is referred to as the “town under one roof” since the Begich Towers, where the majority of the population resides, house them all.
The longest roadway tunnel in North America, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, is a unique experience. Whittier is connected to the rest of Alaska by it.
From Whittier, you may take a Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise, which offers up-close views of humpback whales, seals, and tall icebergs.
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Ketchikan
Although Ketchikan’s name may not seem strange at first, there is a fascinating backstory to it.
The Tlingit word “Kitschk-hin,” which means “thundering wings of an eagle,” is the source of the name. This village of around 8,000 people, known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” is encircled by beautiful forests and canals.
Totem Bight State Historical Park, where you can view exquisitely restored Tlingit and Haida totem poles and discover their cultural significance, is the main draw.
Creek Street, a historic boardwalk that was formerly a red-light district and is now dotted with stores and eateries, is another must-see.
Accessible by boat or floatplane, Misty Fjords National Monument offers breathtaking cliffs, waterfalls, and tranquil fjords for those who enjoy the great outdoors.
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Ninilchik
The Dena’ina Athabaskan term “Niqnalchint,” which means “peaceful settlement by a river,” is the source of the name of Ninilchik, a small community of about 800 people on the Kenai Peninsula.
Ninilchik, which was established as a Russian fishing community in the 1800s, has managed to preserve its rustic charm and scenic location near Cook Inlet.
The Russian Orthodox Church of the Transfiguration, which is situated on a hill with sweeping views of the shoreline and the town below, is a major attraction.
The Ninilchik River is a great place for fishermen to go fishing because of its famous salmon runs.
Furthermore, clam digging, beachcombing, and taking in the scenery of volcanic peaks like Mount Iliamna on Lliamna Lake are also excellent activities at Deep Creek Beach.
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