Adventure travelers interested in exploring Alaska often embark on long journeys, but rarely do they circle the entire state.
Andrew Shurka, however, is no ordinary man. In the newest issue of National Geographic Magazine, Shurka's journey is shown through stunning photographs and a fascinating story.
Nobody had ever completed the adventure on record - hike, ski and raft 4,769 miles through eight national parks, more than a dozen mountain ranges and down the entire length of the Yukon territory border.
In Denali National Park, Shurka skied over unnamed passes in gorgeous and sunny spring-time weather. Avalanches were a constant fear, but he was fortunate enough to pass through without incident, completing the trek in 176 days.
"After my parents, the United States Postal Service played the most important role in my trip logistics," says Shurka in Nat Geo. "I'm still not sure how a 12-pound box of food can be shipped from Massachusetts to bush-village Alaska for just $15, but I don't want to question it."
Most travelers who venture across Alaska don't have to worry about such things - tour operators provide shelter, food and guides for making treks across mountain ranges and through the elements.
The best way to see the Alaskan wilderness is with a small group of adventure travelers.
One man circles the whole of Alaska
Posted on Monday, Feb. 28th, 2011
