Bathtime at 220°F

Published: October 1, 2012 

I’m on the hunt for traditional Yup’ik steam houses that village and Bethel transplants have built in the city. Have a secret maqi somewhere in Anchorage? Can we check it out? Send me a note at khopkins@adn.com.

Meantime, behold a clip from my first-ever steam during our recent stay in Kwethluk:

Most families in the Lower Kuskokwim River village are still years away from flush toilets and running water, but steam houses can be found on nearly every corner. A big thanks to Frank Ashepak for showing us how it’s done.

I tapped out at about 220 to 230 degrees. Kid’s stuff, Ashepak said.

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