Explore how time works in America's largest and most remote state—covering time zones, history, geography, and why Alaska is unlike any other place in the U.S.

Table of Contents

Alaska Overview

Alaska is the largest U.S. state by land area and the least populated, often called "The Last Frontier." It lies in the northwestern corner of North America and borders Canada to the east.

The capital is Juneau (population ~30,000), while Anchorage is the largest city with over 400,000 residents. Despite its size, Alaska’s remote geography, arctic climate, and isolation contribute to its low population.

Alaska is also known for:

  • Military bases
  • Rich oil, gas, and seafood resources
  • Spectacular natural beauty and wildlife tourism

What Time Zones Are Used in Alaska?

Alaska observes two primary time zones today:

  • Alaska Time Zone (AKT) – used by the majority of the state
  • Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone (HAT) – used in the far western Aleutian Islands
  • The unique town of Hyder observes Pacific Time (PT) due to close ties with British Columbia, Canada.

Alaska Time Zone Explained

The Alaska Time Zone has two seasonal formats:

Time Format UTC Offset
Alaska Standard Time (AKST) UTC -9
Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT) UTC -8

The Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone is used in the far west:

  • Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST) – UTC -10
  • Hawaii-Aleutian Daylight Time (HADT) – UTC -9

Alaska's Time Zone History

Alaska's timekeeping has evolved dramatically:

  • Before 1867: Alaska used Asian dates and Russian time zones.
  • 1867: When the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia for ~$7 million, the region switched to the American calendar and went back one full day.
  • Late 1800s: The Klondike Gold Rush brought thousands of miners and new interest to the region.
  • 1983: Alaska simplified its four time zones down to two: AKT and HAT.
  • 1959: Alaska officially became the 49th U.S. state.

Daylight Saving Time in Alaska

Yes, all of Alaska—including the Aleutian Islands—observes Daylight Saving Time (DST).

  • AKDT (UTC -8) is used during DST
  • AKST (UTC -9) is used the rest of the year
  • HADT (UTC -9) applies in the Aleutian Islands during DST
  • HAST (UTC -10) applies in the Aleutian Islands during standard time

DST was adopted in 1967 following the U.S. Uniform Time Act and has been adjusted since. Today, DST in Alaska runs from:

  • Second Sunday in March through the First Sunday in November

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