Alaska Week 2009 : Discovery Channel

There's a reason the U.S. state with the most land has such a small population: Life in many parts of Alaska is no walk in the park. Particularly if you live outside of a city and have to contend with polar bears, earthquakes, the occasional volcanic eruption or tsunami, those extreme Arctic temperatures, not to mention the often dark and depressing weather. In this Wide Angle we celebrate these challenges, along with some of Alaska's beauties.

Top 10: Alaskan Glacier Surprises
Tired of the old breathless glacier cliches? This slide show brushes that drivel aside and looks at 10 things you probably never suspected a glacier could do.

My Take: Surviving Alaska
Survival Expert Ross McFayden shares some very handy secrets of surviving in the winter wilds of Alaska, or anywhere, for that matter.

News: Climate Change Culture Shock
The Inupiat people of northern Alaska are whale worshipers and whale hunters. Their entire culture is built around the giant cetaceans. But climate change is about to end their ancient ways.

Video: Making the Grade at Avalanche School
For backcountry trekkers in Alaska, avalanches come with the territory. The Alaska Avalanche School teaches them how to spot, avoid and provide rescue after one. Jorge Ribas goes to class.

Video: 3 Questions: Avalanche!
Avalanches are fast, powerful and just plain scary; and Alaska Avalanche School director Blaine Smith knows all about them. Jorge Ribas asks him three questions.

Puzzle: Raging Alaska
Alaska is more than baren wilderness, it's full of activity. Piece together these puzzles to watch Alaska come alive.