The usual answer is It Depends

As is often the case, things are different in Alaska than "outside" (the Alaskan term for anyplace not in Alaska). We often have to make do.

Most of the Alaska is not covered by 7.5 minute quads. They are only available for a few areas in and around population centers. And up here, what few 7.5 minute maps we have are at 1:25000 with contours in meters. For most of the state, we only have 15 minute quads at a scale of 1:63,360 (1 inch = 1 mile), with contours in feet. A few of those have been revised in populated areas, but many date from the 1950's. (The magnetic declination shown on those old maps is way off.) I have the National Geographic Topo software for the whole state on my computer, and I usually just print one up for the area I plan to visit. For areas that I go frequently, I also have purchased paper copies of the USGS quads.

The waterproof National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps are available for some areas, such as Denali National Park. Where they are available I carry those as well. They are good for an overview, but are often at a rather small scale for convenient use, so I carry paper maps in addition. One area I spend a lot of time in is Chugach State Park, which comes right to the edge of Anchorage. Imus Geographic has published a beautiful map of Chugach Park, with very up to date trail info.

Finally, when sea kayaking, I usually also carry a copy of the appropriate nautical chart for the area, along with topo maps.