Explore Fairbanks Announces Scavenger Hunt and Photo Contest Winners
Winner of the Most Amusing category.
Leah Kovall
In an engaging effort to encourage locals and statewide travelers to get out and “Explore Local,” Explore Fairbanks recently held a Scavenger Hunt and Photo Contest. Contestants were asked to visit at least fifteen iconic Fairbanks locations, take pictures and submit up to three of their best photos to be considered in a number of different categories. All entrants were entered into a random drawing for Explore Fairbanks swag and other prizes.
Photos were reviewed and the winners were chosen, with the top submission in each category receiving a $75 gift certificate from a local restaurant. All the wonderful photos submitted are featured in a rotating gallery on the Explore Fairbanks website and some photos will be featured via social media channels.
Winner of the Most Beautiful category.
Susan McMahon
The category winner for Most Amusing goes to Leah Kovall with her photo of children riding the wooden salmon in Pioneer Park, Most Creative goes to Cade Smith for his photo of the Alaska mural downtown through the camera of a phone and Most Beautiful goes to Susan McMahon’s photo of a white crowned sparrow at Creamer’s Field. The random prize winner is Kelly Conlin.
Winner of the Most Creative category.
Cade Smith
Explore Fairbanks is grateful to all the participants. To view all submitted photos including the winners, log on to www.explorefairbanks.com/winners.
Current Issue
January 2026
GM, Director of Experience Hired for The Wildbirch Hotel
The renovated former Holiday Inn, rechristened The Wildbirch Hotel this summer, brings aboard Peter Faas as General Manager and Susynn Snyder as Director of Experience.
Interim Boss Announced at Alaska Center for the Performing Arts
The nonprofit that operates the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts selected Kathy Cronen as Interim President and COO upon the departure of Codie Costello.
Alaska Native Heritage Center Promotes New CEO
Alaska Native Heritage Center found a new President and CEO in its strategic advancement and communications department, promoting Kelsey Ciugun Wallace.
We’re honored again this year to celebrate our partnership with Junior Achievement of Alaska, a nonprofit that educates local youth about enterprise, business, money, and financial literacy. In the special section, three Junior Achievement of Alaska students weigh in on their experience with the exceptional volunteers and teachers involved with the program.
And in Industry Support, we explore the range of varied services that industry in Alaska requires, from mancamps to spill response to off-grid energy solutions.
Outside the special sections, make sure to check out the 2026 Economic forecast, where Alaska leaders share their insights on what may lie ahead in the coming year. Enjoy!