Alaska is known for its rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It is no surprise that sports play a significant role in the Alaskan lifestyle. From winter sports to water sports, Alaskans have a wide variety of activities to choose from.
Among the plethora of sports played in Alaska, some stand out as the most popular. These sports are enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike. Whether it’s watching a thrilling dog mushing race or hitting the slopes for some skiing, there is something for everyone in the Last Frontier.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the five most popular sports in Alaska. We will explore the history and culture behind each sport, as well as the reasons why they continue to be popular today. So, whether you are an avid sports fan or just curious about Alaskan culture, read on to discover the top five sports in Alaska.
Ice Hockey
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Alaska, with a strong following throughout the state. There are several teams that play ice hockey in Alaska, including the Anchorage Bucs, Anchorage Glacier Pilots, and the Alaska Aces.
The Anchorage Bucs and Anchorage Glacier Pilots are both amateur teams that play in the Alaska Baseball League. While the Alaska Aces were a professional ice hockey team that played in the ECHL and won three Kelly Cup championships before folding in 2017.
Alaska has also produced several notable ice hockey players, including Scott Gomez, Matt Carle, and Brandon Dubinsky, who have all played in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Ice hockey is also a popular sport at the collegiate level in Alaska, with both the University of Alaska Anchorage and the University of Alaska Fairbanks fielding men’s ice hockey teams.
Overall, ice hockey is a beloved sport in Alaska, with a strong fan base and a rich history of producing talented players and teams.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Alaska is well-known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. With its snowy mountains and breathtaking landscapes, skiing and snowboarding are two of the most popular winter sports in Alaska.
One of the most popular skiing destinations in Alaska is the Alyeska Resort. Located just 45 minutes from Anchorage, Alyeska is the largest ski resort in the state, with over 1,610 skiable acres and an average snowfall of 669 inches per year. Alyeska offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginners to experts. The resort also offers guided snow machine tours for those who want to explore the backcountry.
Aside from Alyeska, there are several other ski resorts in Alaska, including Eaglecrest in Juneau, Arctic Valley in Anchorage, and Hilltop Ski Area in Anchorage. Each of these ski resorts offers its unique terrain and skiing experience, making Alaska a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
For those who prefer backcountry skiing and snowboarding, Alaska has plenty of opportunities for that as well. With its vast wilderness and rugged terrain, Alaska offers some of the best backcountry skiing and snowboarding in the world. However, it’s important to note that backcountry skiing and snowboarding can be dangerous, and it’s recommended to go with a guide or someone who has experience in backcountry skiing.
Basketball
Basketball is a popular sport in Alaska, especially among high school students. According to recent statistics, basketball is the most popular high school sport in the state. In fact, in a survey of high school students, more than 50% of respondents said they played basketball.
Alaska also has a professional basketball team, the Anchorage Northern Knights, which plays in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The team has a loyal fan base and regularly sells out games at the Sullivan Arena in Anchorage.
There are also several basketball tournaments held throughout the state each year, including the Alaska State Basketball Championship, which features the top high school teams from around the state. The tournament is held in March and draws large crowds of spectators.
Overall, basketball is a beloved sport in Alaska, with a strong presence in both the high school and professional levels.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Alaska, with a large number of fans and players across the state. While Alaska does not have a professional football team, there are several semi-professional and amateur teams that play in the state.
The National Football League (NFL) is also popular in Alaska, with many residents following their favorite teams and players. Despite the lack of a local team, fans in Alaska are passionate about the sport and often gather to watch games together.
In addition to traditional outdoor football, indoor football is also played in Alaska. The Indoor Football League (IFL) has a team in Anchorage, the Alaska Grizzlies. The team has a loyal fan base and regularly competes against other teams in the league.
Overall, football is a beloved sport in Alaska, with a strong following and numerous opportunities for players and fans alike to get involved.
Baseball
Baseball is a popular sport in Alaska, especially during the summer months. The Alaska Baseball League (ABL) is an amateur collegiate summer baseball league that was founded in 1974. The league consists of five teams, including the Alaska Goldpanners of Fairbanks, Anchorage Bucs, Anchorage Glacier Pilots, Chugiak-Eagle River Chinooks, and Mat-Su Miners.
The Alaska Goldpanners of Fairbanks is a well-known team in the ABL and has won several championships over the years. The team was founded in 1960 and has produced several Major League Baseball players, including Tom Seaver, Barry Bonds, and Jason Giambi.
Baseball games in Alaska are often played under the midnight sun, which is a natural phenomenon that occurs during the summer months. The sun remains visible at midnight due to Alaska’s location near the Arctic Circle. This unique experience attracts many visitors to Alaska to watch baseball games.
Overall, baseball is a beloved sport in Alaska, and the Alaska Baseball League provides an opportunity for collegiate players to showcase their skills and potentially make it to the Major Leagues.
Other Sports and Events
Alaska offers a wide range of sports and events for its residents and visitors. This section covers some of the other popular sports and events that are not included in the top 5 list.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a popular winter sport in Alaska. The state has some of the best cross-country skiing trails in the world. Anchorage has more than 200 miles of groomed trails, and the city hosts the annual Tour of Anchorage, a cross-country skiing race that attracts participants from all over the world.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular sport in Alaska, with many lakes and rivers offering great opportunities for fishing. The state has five species of salmon, as well as halibut, trout, and many other types of fish. The Kenai River is a popular destination for fishing, and the annual Kenai River Classic is a major fishing event that attracts celebrities and politicians.
Soccer
Soccer is a growing sport in Alaska, with several teams and leagues across the state. The Cook Inlet Soccer Club is one of the largest soccer clubs in Alaska, with more than 1,000 players. The club offers programs for players of all ages and skill levels.
Roller Derby
Roller derby is a popular sport in Alaska, with several teams across the state. The Rage City Rollergirls is one of the most popular teams, based in Anchorage. The Fairbanks Rollergirls and the Denali Destroyer Dolls are also popular teams in the state.
Other Sports Teams
Alaska has several other sports teams, including the Anchorage Bucs baseball team, the Glacier Pilots baseball team, and the Kenai River Brown Bears hockey team. The Mat-Su Miners and the Peninsula Oilers are also popular baseball teams in the state.
Outdoor Activities and Attractions
Alaska is known for its outdoor activities and attractions, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The state has many national parks and wilderness areas, including Denali National Park and Preserve, which is home to Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America.