The Athabascan Indians of Alaska reside primarily within the interior of the state between the Brooks Range and the Alaska Range, occupying the largest geographic area of all the native cultures in Alaska. The exception is the Dena’ ina tribe, which resides along the Cook Inlet shoreline.

There are eleven ethnic and linguistic subgroups in the Athabascan culture: the Ahtna, Dena’ ina, Deg Hit’an, Holikachuk, Koyukon, Upper Kuskokwim, Tanana, Tanacross, Upper Tanana, Han and Gwich’in. Many of the linguistic groups can be linked to the Apache and Navajo groups of southwest America. The Gwich’in and the Koyukon groups have the largest number of native speakers, however many of them are elders. A decline in young speakers is becoming evident each year. The decline in native speakers is a common challenge throughout the state, one that native leaders are trying to solve. Other concerns include maintaining the intricate native artistry, such as the complex beadwork, clothing, and crafting of weapons and hunting tools. A beautiful spoken craft is that of storytelling, used to teach about cultural values and doctrine. This continues to be a very important part of Athabascan culture.

There are about 12,000 Athabascan living in Alaska. Most villages have satellite communication, television, and Internet access. Few homes have running water and flush toilets, and electricity is commonly provided by village-sponsored diesel-powered generators. Many individuals still live in remote areas inaccessible by road systems. Residents of remote native villages are dependent on the use of small aircraft for supplies and the use of all terrain vehicles such as four wheelers and snow machines. Many natives still use dog sleds for hauling food and supplies and as a mode of transportation.

Athabascans continue to depend on subsistence hunting and gathering. Those groups, residing near bodies of water, rely upon salmon harvesting, along with white fish, grayling, moose, caribou, bear, berries, and birds. Those groups living further inland away from major rivers rely heavily on hunting caribou and moose. In addition to subsistence, some natives hold government jobs, working in the schools and in health facilities. Others work construction, or fish commercially.