Gustavus, Alaska

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Description

Gustavus is a picturesque community located 48 air miles west of Juneau, Alaska's state capital. Spread across a large plain created by receding glaciers, Gustavus is an oasis of humanity surrounded by Glacier Bay National Park, conservancies and public preserves. Sandy beaches offer an inspiring contrast to snow covered peaks of the Fairweather Range to the west and Chilkat Range to the east. Tlingit Indians used to forage and fish the rivers to acquire food. Because wild strawberries grow profusely, the area was once called Strawberry Point. In 1914, the first family of settlers homesteaded this alluvial fan. Today there are approximately 450 year-round residents who call Gustavus home. Most make a living through tourism, fisheries, government or local services. Subsistence plays a key role, as it does in the lives of many rural Alaskans. Gustavus is the starting point for independent travelers to Glacier Bay and Icy Strait. Visitors arrive by plane or boat as there are no outside roads connected to the area. Several air taxis and charter boats provide service to Gustavus from Juneau and other Southeast communities. Jet service is available during the tour season. There are several lodges, inns, and bed & breakfasts to please all tastes and budgets. Charter boats, kayak rentals, airplane tours, cafes, galleries and gift shops provide a wide range of recreation options. Local businesses offer a variety of Alaskan adventures, such as world class humpback whale viewing,...

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