Originally an area inhabited by Koyukon Athabaskans, Fairbanks was started as a trading post in 1901. Various events, such as the discovery of gold, construction of the Alcan highway, and construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline fueled the growth of what would become Alaska's second largest city. Modern day Fairbanks is the service and supply center for Interior Alaska. The University of Alaska's main campus is located here. Nearly a quarter of a million tourists visit Fairbanks each year. Fairbanks is known for its temperature extremes--temperatures can drop as low as -40°F (-40°C) during the winters and and climb as high as 90°F (32°C) in the summer.
Fairbanks
If it looks cold in this picture, it's because it is. These pictures were taken during a work-related trip for the Festival of Native Arts in March 2007. With temperatures dropping to -40°F/C at night, half of the vehicles that we came in would not start the next morning. |
Chena Hot Springs
Located about an hour's drive east of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs is a small popular resort. A large naturally heated outdoor pool and an indoor pool are the two popular attractions here. |
North Pole
It's always Christmas at North Pole, a small town about a 15-minute drive southeast of Fairbanks. Many light poles along the streets of town are adorned with Christmas decorations year-round, and the most popular attraction is the Santa Claus House. It's a Christmas-themed store with Alaskan souvenirs, toys, and Christmas items. Outside the Santa Claus House are two giant Santas to greet visitors. |
Copyright © Douglas Gates
