This isolated island destination in the Last Frontier is both the southermost town in Alaska and the westernmost place in the United States of America. Although it is no longer the bustling military base that it was in the past, it has truly proven to stand the test of time over the last twenty years. The bountiful natural resources that are available on the island attract visitors from all around the world each and every year.
The southernmost city in Alaska and the westernmost city in the United States is Adak, which is located on Kuluk Bay in the Andreanof Islands group of the Aleutian Chain. The population of Adak is just over 300 year-round residents.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
The only way to access this isolated town is via airplane or boat. Due to a rich military past, Adak actually has a very sophisticated airport for its size so that is generally the most reliable transportation choice.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
On Adak there are only 16 miles paved and primitive roads, which are all privately owned by a native corporation.
Flickr - Travis
However, due to the subpolar oceanic climate there are consistently overcast skies, fluctuating temperatures, high winds and cyclonic storms that can prevent or delay air traffic on a regular basis.
Flickr - U.S. Geological Survey
But once you arrive to Adak, you’ll be amazed by the raw natural beauty that surrounds you from every angle. There is no denying that this is one of the most jaw-dropping places in the Last Frontier.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
Summertime boasts a phenomenal assortment of lupine and wildflowers throughout the town and island. The Aleutian shield fern is an endangered species of flora found on the island, which is quite unique in itself.
Flickr - Kim F
In the backcountry, natural wonders like Heart Lake Falls will make you feel like you are in the middle of a tropical island paradise when experienced on a clear or sunny day.
Flickr - Kim F
Adagdak and Mount Moffett volcanoes are located on Adak and there is an indigenous rock type known as adakite that is named after Adak. These are felsic volcanic rocks with the geochemical characteristics of magma.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
Hiking, backpacking and camping in the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge is also very popular in the area during the summer months.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
Caribou hunting is a very prolific sport on Adak as the prized animals can reach sizes up to 700 pounds.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
Saltwater fishing around Adak offers a very plentiful amount of natural resources. Many also enjoy walking for miles on the secluded sandy beaches.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
In town you’ll notice many old, abandoned buildings as Adak is home to the former Adak Army Base and Adak Naval Operating Base.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
The old military town played many important roles during World War II and the Cold War. Many abandoned bunkers and remaining remnants and artifacts from the past are still present all throughout the town and island.
Flickr - Travis
Although the town and entire island was rocked by a series of massive earthquakes in 1957, 1964 and 1977 - it has truly proven that it is capable of standing the test of time.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
Want an up close and personal look at a day in the life in Adak? Be sure to check out this great YouTube video below and experience how raw, rugged and undeniably beautiful this island town really is.
Flickr - Paxson Woelber
Flickr - Travis
Flickr - U.S. Geological Survey
Flickr - Kim F
If you enjoyed reading about Adak, there’s something incredibly unique (and dangerous) about this one island in Alaska. You’ll also enjoy these 20 photos that prove rural Alaska is the best place to live.
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