A History of the Iditarod The Genesis The Iditarod is often known as the last great race on earth, and for good reason. Historically, dog sleds were used to deliver mail, groceries, gold, furs and medicine. It wasn't until the winter of 1925, when there was a diphtheria outbreak in Nome AK, that the long distance relay was popular. During the diphtheria outbreak the closest antitoxin serum needed was 1,000 miles [...]
Alaskan Craft Brews Alaska is a hidden gem for craft breweries in the US. Unknown to some, 'The Last Frontier" is home to a number of small specialized microbreweries as well as some larger craft brewing companies that export their beer to the lower 48. This article will serve as a guide to travelers and locals alike. Find out where to go to get the most authentic taste of what Alaska [...]
Traveling with Large Groups in Alaska Big Destinations for Big Groups For such a large state, some people decide to travel around Alaska in a large group. It makes sense, it’s somewhere many people have not been, and it has vast wilderness many have never seen. Therefore, traveling in a large group can be a great idea. However, to keep things running smoothly you should be prepared and organized. Being prepared [...]
Profession in the Outdoors Each year more and more people are finding their way back to the great outdoors. Many go to adventure and explore the wilderness. And, they make the most out of whatever free time they can scramble together. Some may catch the outdoor bug on a thru hike or a vacation near wild lands. Seemingly unable to forget the relationship they have come to create. But what leads [...]
Ice Climbing 101 A MICA Guide manages the rope system while a climber ascends from glacial meltwater below Ice climbing is a wild and unique way to explore the Alaskan wilderness. Before you start there is a lot to learn. Arriving with a good idea of what to expect can help ease your worries and get you prepared for a day of adventure with MICA Guides. Arriving When you [...]
Roadside Camping: The Glenn Highway For some, home is where you park it. Having a vehicle that can support an adventurous lifestyle is what many look for when traveling around. Your vehicle can be your form of transportation, home, garage, kitchen, or just a place to relax. Working and living out of a van is hard enough. However, when you throw the Alaskan wilderness into the picture, it suddenly becomes more [...]
A History: The MICA Mocha Ice Truck Winding through the Matanuska Valley, it isn't long before you reach mile marker 101. Beyond the reflective sign, fireweed creeps over the black hood of an old Ford ice truck. The sign fastened to the front of the truck reads "MICA Mocha", telling of an ice cream and espresso shop within. As you walk around the truck, adjacent to the MICA Guides base [...]
Ski Alaska Alaska can be a winter wonderland for outdoor recreation. One way to explore these snowy landscapes is by skiing. Maybe skiing has been a long time passion or you're just getting your boots on for the first time. Ski Alaska and enjoy a sprawling selection of skiing activities to enjoy outside this winter. Gear and Recreation Coming to Alaska often means taking a plane, boat, or a long road [...]
Alaska Whale Migration Coastal Life With the changing of seasons, the Alaskan coast moves from icy stillness to layers of vibrant life. Where fall once signaled the beginning of southern migrations, the spring welcomes in new life and returning residents as the ice melts. The days lengthen and animals start to rouse just as others are making their annual trip back. Many coastal species follow the warming waters to northern regions [...]
Exploring McCarthy Entering the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve from either side shows you the grace of being something so small in this immense and intricate world. Giant snow covered peaks sit atop rolling coniferous forests here. The boundless skies that backdrop the landscape showcase the iridescent colors that come with the rising and setting of the sun. This gradient of mysticism only highlights the features of this expansive terrain. [...]
