Book excerpt: Alaska is a glorious landscape of magnificent mountains, rushing rivers, inexorable glaciers, and vast swatches of old-growth forest sheltering a wealth of wildlife. Brimming with natural wonders, spectacular vistas, and rugged beauty, Alaska has always defined the idea of frontier, from the first hunters to set foot in North America eons ago to the modern pioneers who seek adventure, opportunity, or simple solitude in its awesome expanse. In words and photographs that are insightful and evocative, Treasures of Alaska explores every aspect of this astonishing land. (back cover).