Located on Sarichef Island in the Chukchi Sea, Shishmaref is five miles offshore from the mainland. It is one of the larger Inupiaq villages on the Seward Peninsula, with a population over 500. Residents rely heavily on subsistence practices, harvesting sea mammals, fish, birds, large game, plants, and berries throughout the year to meet most of their food needs. Sometimes known as the "friendliest village in Alaska," Shishmaref can be accessed by taking a charter or commercial flight from Nome. |
Last updated: May 1, 2015