Wasilla, AK

Wasilla, AK – Nestled in the scenic Matanuska-Susitna Valley, Wasilla offers breathtaking mountain views, outdoor adventures, and a rich history. Known as the gateway to Alaska’s wilderness, this charming town is perfect for fishing, dog sledding, and exploring the rugged beauty of the Last Frontier.

• Population: ~9,700
• Weather: Cold winters (5-25°F), mild summers (50-70°F); snowfall lasts from October to April.
• Places To Visit: Iditarod Trail Headquarters, Lucile Lake, Museum of Alaska Transportation, Independence Mine State Historical Park.
• Top Activities: Hiking in Hatcher Pass, fishing at Finger Lake, dog sledding, snowmachining, enjoying local festivals.
• Famous Food: Fresh Alaskan salmon, reindeer sausage, halibut tacos, and homestyle treats at local cafés.

Wasilla, Alaska, is a growing city with a strong economy driven by healthcare, education, retail, and public services. Below are some of the most in-demand jobs in Wasilla.

Wasilla, Alaska, offers plenty of relaxing and fun spots for students to unwind and enjoy a break from school. From scenic parks to cozy cafés, the city provides lots of friendly options to chill out with friends or simply enjoy some downtime.

Lake Lucille Park – This beautiful lakeside park has picnic tables, grassy areas, and fantastic views. It's perfect for relaxing outdoors, enjoying barbecues, or taking casual walks by the water.

Menard Sports Center – If you're active and looking for some fun, this is your go-to spot. Ice skating, hockey, indoor soccer, basketball, and running tracks—this center has it all, including spaces for hanging out together after a fun game.

Krazy Moose Subs and Café – A popular and comfortable local eatery where you can grab delicious sandwiches, wraps, coffee, or smoothies. It's a great place to study a bit, chat with your friends, or simply chill out and relax.

The Mug-Shot Saloon – An upbeat spot for older students (21 and above), this friendly hangout offers live music, tasty food, pool tables, trivia nights, and a friendly atmosphere great for unwinding after a long week.

Mat-Su Cinema – Whether catching the latest movie or just craving popcorn and a good time, Mat-Su Cinema is Wasilla’s main movie theater to enjoy a fun, leisurely afternoon with friends.

Bearpaw River Brewing Company – For students of legal drinking age, Bearpaw River Brewing Company offers an inviting atmosphere to meet up, relax quickly after class, or try locally crafted beers and sodas.

Wonderland Park – Popular with disc golfers, walkers, and nature lovers, this spot has open spaces and serene landscapes—a great choice if you're looking for a quiet afternoon escape in the fresh Alaska air.

Wasilla, Alaska, is a growing city known for its beautiful landscapes and strong educational opportunities. While it doesn't have large universities, it is home to community and technical colleges that serve students in the region.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Wasilla

University of Alaska Anchorage – Mat-Su College – A community campus of the University of Alaska Anchorage, offering associate degrees and workforce development programs.

Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) – Extension Programs – Provides career training in technical fields such as construction, business, and healthcare.

Alaska Pacific University – Public Programs – Though primarily private, APU partners with public institutions to offer classes and continuing education opportunities.

University of Alaska Fairbanks – Cooperative Extension Service – Offers educational programs in agriculture, small business, and home economics for Wasilla residents.

Mat-Su College Adult Basic Education – Provides GED preparation and workforce readiness programs for adult students.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Wasilla

Charter College – Wasilla – A private institution offering career-focused programs in healthcare, business, and information technology.

Wayland Baptist University – Anchorage Campus (Serving Wasilla) – A private Christian university offering degree programs in business, education, and counseling.

Alaska Christian College – Located nearby, this private college provides faith-based education with a focus on guidance and leadership.

Northwest Indian College – Wasilla Outreach – A tribal college that offers programs in Native studies, business, and environmental science.

Alaska Bible College – A small theological institution that provides degrees in biblical studies and pastoral ministry.

Wasilla, AK, offers several excellent high schools that provide quality education and diverse programs to help students succeed in academics and beyond.

Top Public High Schools in Wasilla, AK

• Colony High School – A highly rated school known for its strong academics, sports programs, and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
• Wasilla High School – Offers a wide range of academic programs, career-technical education, and extracurricular activities.
• Burchell High School – A smaller school focused on alternative education and individualized learning paths for students.
• Redington Sr. Jr/Sr High School – Provides a comprehensive education with a strong emphasis on STEM and career readiness.
• Mat-Su Career & Technical High School – Prepares students for various career fields with hands-on learning and technical training.

Top Private High Schools in Wasilla, AK

• Heritage Christian School – A private Christian school that emphasizes strong academics, faith-based learning, and small class sizes.
• Mat-Su Central School – A unique homeschooling support institution that offers personalized learning plans and enrichment programs.
• Bristol Bay Christian Learning Center – A faith-based school focusing on character development and academic excellence.
• Birchwood Christian School – Offers a rigorous college-prep curriculum with a biblical foundation.
• Holy Rosary Academy (Anchorage-based but serves Wasilla students) – A Catholic school known for academic excellence and faith-based education.

Wasilla, Alaska, does not have any major professional sports teams. However, the state of Alaska has a strong sports culture with minor league, collegiate, and recreational teams that keep the spirit of competition alive.

🏒 Ice Hockey – Anchorage Wolverines (NAHL)

• Anchorage Wolverines – Competing in the North American Hockey League (NAHL), the Wolverines are one of the most prominent hockey teams in Alaska. They attract top-tier junior hockey talent and provide a pathway for players aiming to compete at the collegiate and professional levels.

🏒 Ice Hockey – Fairbanks Ice Dogs (NAHL)

• Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Another strong presence in Alaska’s hockey scene, the Ice Dogs are a highly competitive team in the NAHL. They have consistently produced talented players who go on to play in college and professional leagues.

🏈 Indoor Football – Anchorage Wolverines (IFL)

• Anchorage Wolverines – Not to be confused with the hockey team, this indoor football franchise competes in the Indoor Football League (IFL). They bring fast-paced football action to Alaska, giving local fans an exciting way to enjoy the sport.

⚾ Baseball – Alaska Baseball League (ABL)

• Mat-Su Miners – Based in Palmer, near Wasilla, the Mat-Su Miners are one of the most successful teams in the Alaska Baseball League (ABL). The league features top college players from around the country who come to Alaska in the summer to showcase their skills.
• Anchorage Glacier Pilots – Another ABL team, the Glacier Pilots have a long history of developing future Major League Baseball (MLB) talent.

🏀 Basketball – Anchorage Ravens (TBL)

• Anchorage Ravens – A professional basketball team competing in The Basketball League (TBL), the Ravens provide high-level competition for Alaska's basketball enthusiasts.

🏒 Recreational and Collegiate Sports

• University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves – Competing in various NCAA sports, the Seawolves have successful hockey, basketball, and skiing programs that provide local fans with high-level collegiate competition.
• University of Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks – Another NCAA program, the Nanooks have a strong hockey and rifle team and compete in other sports throughout the collegiate level.

While Wasilla does not have its own major professional sports teams, the region celebrates a deep passion for sports through minor league, collegiate, and recreational teams that keep the competitive spirit alive in Alaska.

Wasilla, Alaska, is a charming city with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique quirks that make it stand out. Whether you're familiar with this Alaskan gem or learning about it for the first time, here are some fun facts about Wasilla:

1. Home of a Vice Presidential Candidate – Wasilla gained national recognition when Sarah Palin, the former mayor, became John McCain's running mate in the 2008 U.S. presidential election.
2. Iditarod Headquarters – The city plays a huge role in the world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, with a museum dedicated to this legendary event.
3. Mat-Su Valley Beauty – Wasilla is located in the picturesque Matanuska-Susitna Valley, known for its stunning mountains and vast wilderness.
4. Gold Rush History – It was originally established as a gold mining settlement in the early 1900s.
5. Alaska’s Fastest Growing City – Over recent decades, Wasilla has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the state.
6. Caribou and Moose Sightings – It’s common to see moose wandering through neighborhoods and even city streets.
7. Extreme Daylight Changes – Wasilla experiences a huge range of daylight, from long summer days with nearly 20 hours of sunlight to dark winter months with fewer than six hours.
8. Lakes Everywhere – The city has access to many beautiful lakes, including Wasilla Lake and Lucille Lake, perfect for fishing and boating.
9. A Hub for Outdoor Adventurers – With nearby mountains, trails, and rivers, Wasilla is a prime destination for hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling.
10. No Sales Tax! – Shoppers love Wasilla because the city has no sales tax, making purchases a little more affordable.