Pre-Trip Fun for Anchorage, Alaska

"Snow Buddies" – A family of golden retriever puppies trains with an orphaned husky named Shasta to race as sled dogs in Alaska. Shasta is played by a husky named Hugo, who lives in Anchorage and loves to meet kids at the Iditarod Sled Dog Rodeo. (School-age kids)

"Limbo" – David Strathairn is a down-and-outer on a mysterious sea voyage with a single mom and her teenage daughter. Filmed in Juneau, this John Sayles thriller includes fabulous shots of the wilderness along Alaska's coast. (Teens)

"Never Cry Wolf" – A government researcher believes wolves are to blame for destroying the caribou population, but later comes to realize that humans are a much greater threat. (Teens)

Seafood -- Crab and salmon are the heart of traditional Alaskan food. Try kid-friendly crab cakes, or broil salmon with butter and sea salt.

Sourdough Bread -- Back in the days of the Klondike Gold Rush, everyone kept a pot of sourdough starter in their kitchen. Sourdough bread has become so popular in Alaska that "sourdough" is the nickname for a person who lives there.

Blueberry Cobbler -- Blueberries and cranberries are among the many wild and cultivated berries enjoyed in Alaska.

"Under Alaska's Midnight Sun" – In Alaska on the winter solstice, a child has fun with leaping salmon, waddling baby ducks, and a wandering mama moose with her calf. (Preschoolers)

"The Stolen Sun" – In a story inspired by Native Alaskan folklore, when Raven becomes angry with humankind, he hides the sun to punish them. A small child releases the sun and becomes a hero. (School-age kids)

"The Trap" – When an elderly Native Alaskan doesn't return from checking his trapline in the cold Alaskan wilderness, his grandson sets out to rescue him in a race against time. (Tweens)

"Black Star, Bright Dawn" – An Eskimo teen takes her injured father's place in the Iditarod, facing frightening challenges with courage and strength. (Tweens and teens)

Edible Moose – The moose is one of the most beloved and iconic animals in Alaska. Make (and nibble) your own with chocolate wafers and pretzels.

Tin Can Totem Pole – Totem poles were first carved by Native Alaskans from Alaska's Inside Passage. Make your own totem pole honoring your family's heritage and culture.

Sugar-Cube Igloo – During winter, the Inuit (or Inupiat) clan of Native Alaskans lived in snow shelters, also known as igloos. Make your own winter wonderland with a sugar-cube igloo as its centerpiece.