Glacier Dog Sled Tour

Q: We would like to take the Godwin Glacier Sled Tour with the helicopter ride. We arrive on a Princess cruise in May 2011. At what port or city would we be closest to this Godwin Glacier shore excursion?

A: The Godwin Glacier shore excursion departs out of Seward. Princess ships use Whittier, not Seward, as an embarkation port. There is a similar glacier dog sled tour in the Girdwood Valley near Whittier which has an excellent reputation.

Whittier Tunnel Schedule

Q: What are the times the tunnel to Whittier is open?

A: The Alaska Department of Transportation operates the tunnel to and from Whittier. Keep in mind that the tunnel operates one direction at a time. Outbound from Whittier on the hour, inbound to Whittier on the half hour. The tunnel closes each night, and reopens in the morning.

Denali Trail Maps

Q: Anywhere we can get a map and list of trails (with descriptions) for short hikes in Denali?

A: The Denali National Park website has some maps that you can download. Be sure to visit the Wilderness Access Center in Denali for additional trail information and complimentary maps.

One Way Car Rentals from Alaska

Q: Is it possible to rent a car in Anchorage and return it in Vancouver one month later?

A: No, there are no rental cars that allow access through Canada from Alaska. I think the only option for renting one way would be an RV through Alaska Travel Adventures. Most visitors to Alaska fly to and from, or choose to take a cruise one way.

Driving to Alaska

Q: We are taking 30 days to drive round trip from Arkansas to Alaska. Is that going to be enough time to drive up and back and still see some of Alaska?

A: . I think you’ll find you will wish you had another week or two but it’s doable. Somewhat will depend on how quickly you travel through the lower-48 and onto the Alaska Highway. I’d guess that your schedule will allow for 12-14 days of exploration in Alaska. Not a lot of time. Major Alaska destinations that I would recommend would be: Kenai Peninsula (Homer, Seward, Cooper Landing), Denali National Park, Denali State Park/Talkeetna, Valdez and the Richardson Highway South of Glenallen.

My opinion, the most scenic highways in Alaska are the Glenn, Richardson, and Seward Highway. The Denali Highway is scenic as well but is a dirt road, remote and slow going in an RV.

Anchorage for restocking, repairs, and a little shopping enroute to other destinations. Based on the time you have, I don’t think I’d take the time to go all the way north to Fairbanks but it does make a nice loop.

Fly Fishing Southeast Alaska

Q: We are cruising southbound from Seward, stopping in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan for a day each. We are looking for a fly fishing experience. What do you suggest?

A: We recommend Bear Creek Outfitters. They offer a fly in, fly fishing experience out of Juneau and have an excellent reputation.

July Weather in Alaska

Q: What will the weather be like in Alaska at the following locations in late July and early August? Whitehorse, Dawson, Fairbanks, Denali, Anchorage, Seward, Glacier Bay, and Juneau.

A: You’ll want to bring several layers including a fleece jacket. Weather can vary at each location and you are traveling a very large distance. Keep in mind that the interior regions will generally be warmer, and the coastal regions will be cooler. Click here for more information on Alaska’s weather.

Anchorage Public Transportation

Q: Is there a bus system in Anchorage?

A: The local public transit system in Anchorage is called the People Mover.

Denali National Park Campgrounds

Q:I plan to go to Denali Park in July in my truck and fifth wheel. Can I RV inside the park? Do I need reservation? How long can I stay?

A: There are some campgrounds available in Denali National Park. You do need to make reservations in advance to guarantee a site. You can find information on accessing, booking reservations for, and descriptions of each Denali National Park campground on the National Park website.

Alaska Fishing License

Q: I will be visiting Alaska in June. What is the price of a fishing license?

A: A non-resident fishing license varies in price depending on how long you would like the license for. A non-resident one day fishing license is $20. If you are going to fish for kings, there is an additional $10 stamp you must purchase. Visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for additional license information.

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