HIKING

Flattop Mountain in Chugach State Park attracts many on the evening of summer solstice. The hike is a solstice tradition for some looking to take in an evening view on the longest day of the year.

PHOTO BY MARC LESTER

HIKING TIPS AND ETIQUETTE: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE TACKLING THE TRAILS

By BAILEY BERG

Hikers are spoiled for options in Alaska. From quick jaunts near urban centers to multi-day hikes, there is no shortage of trail options. While some hikes demand special equipment, like crampons for a glacier trek or a tent for overnight ventures, there are other items you need every time. Here are some of the essentials.

GEAR

GOOD SHOES: If you’re doing a fairly at or paved trail, you can probably get by with trail running shoes or a pair of hiking sandals. If you’re on a hike with multiple creek crossings, muddy trails or scree, you may spend more time missing the ankle support and waterproo ng powers of your hiking boots than you’ll spend actually enjoying nature.

LAYERS: Even the most beautiful bluebird day can devolve into a downpour of rain. Be sure to bring moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating layer and a waterproof outer layer to keep you dry and cozy. A good rule of thumb is to avoid cotton-based clothing, as it doesn’t dry as quickly as others.

BEAR PROTECTION: Did you know that an estimated 30,000 brown bears and 100,000 black bears are spread throughout Alaska? While bear attacks are rare, it’s always a good idea to carry bear spray in an accessible spot (and to know how to use it).

WATER: Staying well-hydrated while hiking is essential for both performance and general survival, so if you can’t carry the amount

A VISITOR’S GUIDE TO LEGAL CANNABIS IN ALASKA

Talk with budtenders at cannabis retail shops around the state about local marijuana varieties.

PHOTO BY BOB HALLINEN

By ZACHARIAH HUGHES

So, you’re visiting Alaska and wondering about weed. You’ve come to the right place.

Please, follow me for a few hundred words about the 49th state’s unique legal cannabis industry. We’ve got an overview of where you can nd what you’re looking for. And how to safely consume in a way that respects a, frankly, confounding patchwork of rules and regulations.

Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur or just looking to sample a novel local o ering during vacation, Alaska’s pot industry covers the full spectrum of products.

THE BASICS

Alaska has long had permissive rules when it comes to cannabis, but following a 2014 ballot initiative, the state fully legalized recreational consumption for anyone 21 and older. at includes tourists, provided you can pro er a valid ID. Cannabis is regulated more or less like alcohol, so if you’re wondering if something is legal or not, ask yourself “Would I get in trouble doing this with a cocktail in my hand or an open beer?” e big caveat there is that Alaska has almost no equivalents of bars for pot. With the exception of one establishment in Fairbanks, Good Titrations, there are no “pot cafes” or easy commercial locations in which to light up. is leaves visitors with relatively few places to legally consume. Most hotels and bars ban indoor smoking (of everything). If you’re staying on private property, check the rules or with your host. As with alcohol, it remains unlawful to consume in public parks and greenbelts. is all gets especially confusing given that federally governed entities like planes, marine ferries and national parks within Alaska still abide by full prohibitions on cannabis. e state has a handy and comprehensive guide about lawful consumption while you’re visiting.

WHERE TO BUY

Most cities and towns in Alaska have cannabis retail shops. e state has the highest number of retailers per capita of any in the union (take that, Oregon!). If you’re in population centers like Anchorage, Juneau or Fairbanks, you should have no problem nding a number of high-quality retailers. Even smaller towns that tend to see lots of summer tourists and cruise-ship passengers have multiple well-stocked businesses with a full range of products. is is not the case in small, rural, primarily indigenous communities, some of which have bans on cannabis commerce as they do with alcohol.

Shops abide by strict standards for ID’ing customers, so make sure you have your driver’s license or a state-issued ID handy when you enter. ey also deal primarily in cash, though businesses will typically have an ATM on site. A few have recently started processing debit cards. But don’t expect to just breeze in with your AmEx or Apple Pay.

Once inside, “budtenders” are on hand to help you nd what you need, and are generally exceptionally well versed in the merits of the products on hand. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. e industry is still relatively new, and sta , especially budtenders, are accustomed to