Surrounded by towering evergreens and the breathtaking Chugach Mountains, the Anchorage Alaska Temple is a beautiful symbol of faith for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout Alaska. As the first temple built in the state, it has served thousands of members who previously traveled over 1,000 miles to worship in a temple. Today, it continues to serve the region while an entirely new temple is being constructed on the same property.
A Brief History
The Anchorage Alaska Temple was announced during General Conference on October 4, 1997. Groundbreaking took place on April 17, 1998, and less than a year later, President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on January 9, 1999, making it the 54th operating temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Just five years later, the temple underwent a major expansion and was rededicated on February 8, 2004, nearly doubling its size to better serve members across Alaska.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The Anchorage Alaska Temple has several distinctions that make it unlike any other temple.
It was the first temple built in Alaska, eliminating the need for many members to travel to Seattle or Alberta to participate in temple ordinances. The temple also has a beautiful mountain backdrop, with the Chugach Mountains providing one of the most scenic settings of any temple in the Church.
Perhaps its most remarkable feature today is its ongoing reconstruction. Rather than closing the temple completely, the Church is constructing a brand-new, larger temple on the same property while the original temple continues operating. Once the new temple is complete, the original building will be retired and replaced with a new meetinghouse. This is the first time this type of reconstruction has been done while the original temple remained open for ordinances.
Inside the temple, the Celestial Room features a stunning 700-pound chandelier made with thousands of Hungarian crystals. Visitors may also notice engravings of the North Star and Big Dipper etched into the temple's granite exterior—a fitting tribute to Alaska's northern skies.
Visiting the Temple
The temple is located in south Anchorage near the Seward Highway, making it easy to access while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. Although there is no visitors' center or on-site housing, the peaceful grounds are a wonderful place to walk, reflect, and take photographs. Sunrise and sunset often provide spectacular lighting against the mountain backdrop.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in Alaska.
- 54th operating temple of the Church.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley in 1999.
- Expanded and rededicated in 2004.
- Features a 700-pound crystal chandelier in the Celestial Room.
- Granite exterior includes engravings of the North Star and Big Dipper.
- Original temple remains open while a larger replacement temple is being constructed—a first in Church history.
Final Thoughts
The Anchorage Alaska Temple represents faith, sacrifice, and the continued growth of the Church in one of the world's most beautiful landscapes. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning again, it offers a peaceful place to worship surrounded by God's magnificent creations.
Stay Connected
Are you working toward visiting every temple in the United States?
Sign up for our email list to receive new temple guides, travel inspiration, product updates, and exclusive offers.
You can also explore our My Temple Journey books, designed to help you record the memories, promptings, and spiritual experiences from every temple you visit.
Visit https://broughmade.com to learn more and begin your temple journey.
Scott & Riah
Brough Made
https://broughmade.com
0 comments