If you grew up outside of Alaska, you may have some memories as a child in art class when your teacher taught you how to make a totem pole out of an oatmeal canister, brown craft paper, paint and glue. It was fun, sure, but how much do you really remember about the totem pole…
Continue ReadingTake a walk: 4 favorite walking tours in Alaska and Yukon
There’s no better way to learn the history and the culture of a destination than exploring on foot. Visitors to Alaska and the Yukon can look forward to doing just that on the many walking tours throughout the region. Grab your camera, your walking shoes and stretch your legs (instead of your wallet) while enjoying…
Continue ReadingSummer Hiking Trails in the Yukon
Famous for being the home of the Klondike Gold Rush, the Yukon Territory is full of picturesque trails perfect for hiking in summer months. Guests staying at Westmark Hotels in Skagway, Alaska or Dawson City in the Yukon have many options when it comes to finding the right path to explore nature. The most historic trail…
Continue ReadingMeet The Most Memorable Alaska Zoo Animals
In honor of the recent hit animated feature “Zootopia,” we’re introducing you to some of the animals from Anchorage’s “mammal metropolis” better known as the Alaska Zoo. If you get the chance to visit the zoo, you’ll meet and learn about the residents that make it a popular destination in Alaska’s largest city. And during…
Continue ReadingAlaska’s Favorite Sport: A History of Dog Mushing
The Iditarod is the best-known race of Alaska’s official state sport, but there are dozens of dog races that take place during Alaska winters. Once a basic form of transportation, this popular activity has evolved into a recreational and competitive activity for both residents and tourists. Here’s more about how dog mushing became Alaska’s…
Continue ReadingJump-Start Your Resolutions with Westmark’s Health and Fitness Tips
Every New Year, we pen a list of resolutions promising ourselves that this will be the year we’ll make more time for exercise and improve our health and fitness. Anyone who’s been to the gym during the first week of January knows they’re not the only one who’s made this pledge. And anyone who’s been…
Continue ReadingAlaska’s Bore Tide: A Natural Phenomenon for Sightseers and Thrill-Seekers
In the Great Land, everything appears on a much bigger scale. So it’s no surprise Alaska can stake claim to one of the largest bore tides in the world. The Turnagain Arm bore tide occurs in the shallow stretch of Cook Inlet, seen from the Seward Highway south of Anchorage. When incoming tides clash with…
Continue Reading3 Haunted Places In Alaska
Some visit Alaska in hopes of finding glaciers, mountains and wildlife. Others are looking for something a little more off the beaten path, and some might even be seeking out the supernatural. Whether you’re planning a ghost tour of the 49th state or are just a little curious, here are a few notorious ghost stories…
Continue ReadingWeekend at Westmark: Dawson City
Even locals will admit the journey to the Yukon’s Dawson City is not for the faint of heart. But is it worth it? Our answer is absolutely yes! There is every reason to get excited about a trip to Dawson City, whether it’s to attend the upcoming Dawson City International Gold Show taking place the…
Continue ReadingFive Alaska Snacks to Try From Local Vendors
Photo by Steven Depolo. The farmers market trend is on the rise in Alaska and from the Interior to Southeast regions, local vendors are answering the call to sell their produce, wares and quirky treats. Food is best when shared so we’re sharing with you a few of our favorites to keep an eye out…
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