Alaska's Geographical Regions
Southeastern Alaska
Alaska'a "panhandle" comprises the narrow strip of mainland extending southeasterly to the west side of British Columbia for approximately 400 miles. It is a region of high rugged, forested mountains rising sharply from the waters edge. The coast range, rising in places to elevations of 9,000 feet or more presents almost unsuperable barriers to cross-country travel. This region is the section most accessible to the continental United States.
Southeast Alaska contains one-third of the total population and the greatest amount of industry. The local economy is based on fish, minerals, timber, recretion, and various minor resources. Juneau, the state capital and Ketchikan are located in this region.
