In the time period Mikow examined — 1880 until today — she found several reasons. First was the appearance of whalers, miners and trappers who introduced a cash economy to Native Alaskans.

Some parts of Alaska are hard to reach, but this unique route will take you to all the best towns and tourist sites, and with great views to boot.

Here’s everything you need to know about exploring the cities and vast wilderness of Alaska—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around. An Arctic river flows through the ...