Yakutat City and Borough, Alaska
Yakutat City and Borough is located in Southeast Alaska, where the panhandle connects with the mainland. It is one of the largest boroughs in the state by area, yet it has a population of only around 600 people.
The town of Yakutat is situated on a large bay. Despite the cold waters, surfing is a popular activity in the area. Fishing is a major industry, particularly salmon fishing. The Hubbard Glacier, North America’s largest tidewater glacier, is also located nearby.
Yakutat has a rich history influenced by both Tlingit and Russian cultures. The region is famous for its beautiful scenery, including mountains, forests, and beaches. It receives significant amounts of rain and snow throughout the year. Despite its small population, the community has a school and a health clinic. Every year, the Yakutat Tern Festival celebrates the region’s birdlife.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Borough Name | Yakutat City and Borough |
| Borough Seat | Yakutat |
| Population | Approximately 600 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Yakutat (the only incorporated community in the borough) |
| Interstates and Highways | None (No interstates; Alaska Route 10 provides local transportation) |
| FIPS Code | 02-282 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 9,463 square miles (Land: 7,649 sq mi, Water: 1,814 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Boroughs and Census Areas (and Direction) | Chugach Census Area (West), Hoonah–Angoon Census Area (Southwest) |
| Time Zone | Alaska Time Zone (AKT) |
| State | Alaska |
| Coordinates | 59.5469° N, 139.7270° W |
| Etymology | Derived from the Tlingit word “Yaakwdáat,” meaning “the place where canoes rest” |
| Major Landmarks | Hubbard Glacier, Russell Fjord, Situk River, Yakutat Bay, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (partly), Tongass National Forest |
