Anchor Point is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in the Kenai Peninsula Borough, on the eastern shore of Cook Inlet. It had 2,105 residents in 2020 and is described as the westernmost point in the North American highway system.[1]
| Population (2020) | 2,105 (1,930 in 2010) |
|---|---|
| Area | 91.76 sq mi |
| Elevation | 118 ft |
| Median age | 49.6 |
| Highway | Sterling Highway (Alaska Route 1) |
| Census-designated place | 1980 |
History
The area first appeared on the 1880 census as the Tinneh village of Laida, with 29 residents. Settlers arrived in the early 1900s, and the community became a census-designated place in 1980. A local legend links the name to Captain James Cook losing an anchor nearby.[1]
Geography
The community covers 91.76 square miles, almost all of it land, and the Anchor River flows through its southern part. It lies along the Sterling Highway and is described as the westernmost point in the North American highway system.[1]
Economy and recreation
The local economy relies heavily on the Anchor River. Tourists come for summer salmon fishing, and coastal clam digging also draws visitors.[1]
Location and population
Anchor Point is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in the Kenai Peninsula Borough on the eastern shore of Cook Inlet. The 2020 census counted 2,105 residents [2].
Westernmost highway point
It sits along the Sterling Highway (Alaska Route 1) and is described as the westernmost point in the North American highway system [2].
Name and history
A legend says Captain James Cook lost an anchor when he discovered the area. The site was known as the Tinneh village of Laida in 1880, settlers arrived in the early 1900s, and it became a census-designated place in 1980 [2].
Anchor River and recreation
The Anchor River runs through the southern part of the community and enters Cook Inlet just west of the town center. Summer salmon fishing on the river draws tourists, and clam digging along the coast is also popular [2].
FAQs
Where is Anchor Point? On the Kenai Peninsula shore of Cook Inlet, on the Sterling Highway.
What is it known for? Being the westernmost point in the North American highway system and for Anchor River fishing.
What is its population? 2,105 in 2020.
Why is Anchor Point notable? It is described as the westernmost point in the North American highway system [2].
What river flows through Anchor Point? The Anchor River [2].
Sources
Key facts
- Population 2,105 (2020)
- Area 91.76 sq mi
Quick checkWhat is Anchor Point known for?Show answer
Westernmost point in the North American highway system
Sources
- Wikipedia. Anchor Point, Alaska. 2026 (accessed 2026-11-13)
- Wikipedia. Anchor Point, Alaska. 2026 (accessed 2026-11-14)
Editorially reviewed by Specialty Digest Editorial TeamLast reviewed November 13, 2026Researched and drafted with AI assistanceReport an issue