Wasilla

Wasilla made national news in 2008 when Sarah Palin, the former governor of the state and resident and former mayor of the town, was picked to be the Republican vice presidential candidate. Wasilla is one of the valley's original pioneer communities, and over time has served as a supply center for farmers, gold miners, and mushers. Today fast-food restaurants and strip malls line the Parks Highway. It's the best place for stocking up if you're heading north to Talkeetna or Denali. Rolling hills and more scenic vistas can be found by wandering the area's back roads.