When I think of Alaska I think of a cold barren place with lots of ice and snow, and maybe some igloos. Apparently there is more to Alaska than I thought.

Located in the upper northwest region of the North American continent, Alaska is the largest U.S. state by area (larger than the combined area of the next 3 largest states: Texas, California, and Montana) and one of the wealthiest and most racially diverse. Go figure!

Alaska is actually quite a beautiful place with 17 of the top 20 highest peaks in the United States. The icy state also boasts natural wonders like the Yukon River, the third longest river in the U.S. and glaciers like Malaspina the largest in the state.

According to the official state website there are three big misconceptions about Alaska.

Weather is the #1 misconception. Over a third of all vacation/pleasure visitors found the weather better than expected. During the summer, average daytime temperatures throughout the state range from the 60s to the 90s.

Road conditions are usually better than expected. Almost the entire length of the Alaska Highway is asphalt-surfaced, and approximately half of the roads in the state’s highway system are paved.

The third misconception is price. Contrary to popular belief, prices throughout Alaska are generally quite reasonable.

Who knew Alaska could be so pleasant? Next time, I take a vacation I just go to Alaska. It sure sounds a like a great place with plenty of natural wonders to take in.