McGrath is located at the northernmost point on the Kuskokwim River and serves as a transportation and communication hub for interior Alaska. Historically, the area was a meeting place for Athabascan and Yup’ik people experienced significant growth between 1911 and 1920, following the discovery of gold at Ganes Creek and in the Ophir gold districts. Today, McGrath continues to support subsistence lifestyles, with salmon fishing and moose hunting. The town is a checkpoint for the world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. McGrath’s airstrip connects it to other remote communities, making it a vital link in the region.
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English, Upper Kuskowim