Nome

Nome is a gold mining settlement on the coast of the Seward Peninsula in Alaska, USA. The town spreads along the shore of Norton Sound, an inlet of the Bering Sea, and sits just a few meters above sea level.

Gold discoveries in 1898 drew thousands of prospectors to the remote region within months and turned it into a booming settlement. The town experienced several fires and storms during the 20th century but remained as a trading center for surrounding villages.

The name comes from a Norwegian word for cape that a mapmaker once noted along this coast. Many gold rush era buildings still line Front Street and show traces of the settlement's early days.

Visitors reach the town only by plane or ship, as no roads lead here. The coastal location means changeable weather with frequent fog and wind, especially during the summer months.

Every March the Iditarod sled dog race finishes here after covering more than 1000 miles (1600 km) from Anchorage through the wilderness. The race recalls a lifesaving run in 1925 when dog teams brought medicine against diphtheria to the isolated town.

Location: Nome Census Area

Inception: 1898

Elevation above the sea: 6 m

Website: https://nomealaska.org

GPS coordinates: 64.50000,-165.40000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 19:56