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whale watching alaska

Planning the Great Alaska Road Trip by RV

We’re not big planners, however when it comes to driving thousands of miles for four months of epic adventures in Alaska we figured we should sit down and make a few notes.

After spending weeks thinking, reading, researching, soul searching and planning our Alberta, British Columbia, Yukon Territory and Alaska RV trip Nikki and I looked at each other and said “we should share all our planning and researching with our fellow travelers, RVers and dreamers!”

Update!!!!  We have completed the trip!

See all the videos, tips, camping locations and more here on our Alaska Bound Page.

our first alaska adventure

Our first Alaska adventure back in 2008…a kayaking trip in Glacier Bay.

By no means is this the ultimate Alaska planning guide or the how to plan for an Alaska road trip with an RV guide, it’s more of a here’s where we are, here’s what we’ve thought of, here’s what we’ve planned for, and here’s what we could really use some help with…guide 🙂

If you’re curious about our Alaska adventures I suggest you bookmark this article and subscribe to our mailing list?  This is a living document that will grow and change as our plans come to fruition or fall to pieces, so consider this our: we’ll give it a shot and hopefully you can learn from our Alaska experiences/mistakes article.  It will be updated on a regular basis as we research before the Alaska trip, during the Alaska trip and after the Alaska trip.

Maybe you’re wondering what’s the ultimate goal of our Alaska travels?  Well, we’re going to put this out there now so we’ve made it public, promised it to our loyal readers and viewers, and therefore we will feel compelled to deliver to the very best of our ability!  Here it is…our commitment to you and to ourselves:

  • Videos and articles about RV prep and issues that may arise while on the road.
  • Videos and articles about our favorite Alaska gear and gadgets.
  • Tips and tricks to make your, and our, next Alaska trip easier.
  • Video introductions to our favorite places and adventures throughout the trip.
  • We want to inspire adventurous travel, that’s the whole reason our website exists in the first place.  We want to bring you alongside our Alaska journey to and laugh, learn and maybe even cry with us as we take on our largest and most overwhelming project to date.  We hope you’ll learn from our mistakes, our errors and our successes and start planning your very own adventure!

Here’s our planning Map, hover over the pin drops to see our approximate dates, length of stay and “things to do” for each destination currently on our radar.  Feel free to recommend additional stops, extended stays, etc. in the comments section at the end of this article, we are all ears at this point because we’re still in research mode.  Oh, and if you live in Alaska and want to invite us over for fishing, boating, polar bear watching or even deadly crabbing…please do, we’ll bring the good wine and fresh loaf of Nikki’s homemade bread!

Our Alaska BIG Questions

  • May 15 Start Date – We’ve read the earliest time to start the journey north is May 15, maybe it’s too early? Maybe we should cross into Canada June 1?
  • Roadside Camping – We’ve had countless people tell us “you can just pull of anywhere and camp in your RV”. It seems like this is a fantasy.  I’m sure there are rules and restrictions just like the lower 48.  Plus, we want real wild camping, not roadside living.
  • Camp inside Denali National Park – Apparently getting to camp inside the park takes months of advance reservations. Our feelings are what if the RV breaks down, what if we like another city and want to stay longer, making solid plans can sometimes screw the spontaneous experiences.  We’re thinking we’ll just wing it and if we have to stay outside the park then so be it.
  • Prudhoe Bay Trip – There’s a chance we might see a polar bear in August-September but it’s a 450 mile drive up a gravel road. Is it worth it?  We can always book a day trip from Fairbanks via plane and save ourselves the hassle of driving that long, slow route.
  • Inuvik Trip – Another long gravel road through the middle of nowhere. Part of me says driving up this trail will be extremely fulfilling while the other says “is it really worth the time and financial investment”?
  • Extended Float or Paddle – There are several opportunities for multi-day kayak and float adventures. Not sure we’re equipped for this type of adventure (RV storage and boarding the cats), but we sure would love to get on a river for a multi-day trip.
  • Flight to the Bush – Insanely Expensive are the two words that comes to mind. We’d have to store the RV, board the cats, pay for the flight, accommodations, food, and who knows what else.  Will it truly be an authentic & unique experience or just a tourist experience?
  • Northern Lights – If we stay till September we might get to see the Northern Lights, on the other hand we might be snowed in and left to freeze! Not sure what we’re going to do yet.
  • Ferry or Not to Ferry – We ran the numbers on a short ferry ride from Whittier to Valdez at a cost of $550 for a 6.5 hour trip, or we can drive it for an estimated cost of $160 a 7.5 hour trip! We’re thinking the ferry system might be out of our budget.  Skipping the ferry could free up the cash for the flight to the bush?
  • Milepost and TourSaver – Everyone says “you gotta purchase the Milepost and the TourSaver coupon booklet!” We’ve been told by Alaska authors and journalists that the milepost is all advertisements and from our experience “city coupons” are typically tourist focused, we’re driving all this way for authentic experiences and I feel these distractions may lead us away from our focus and goals.

 

The Alaska BIG Bucket List

  • Copper River Salmon – My favorite fish and I would love to snag a few of these guys and let Nikki cook ‘em up.
  • Grizzly River Feeding – I’ve always wanted to see a grizzly bear fish from a river…but I don’t necessarily want to be standing with hundreds of other spectators while I experience this beauty.
  • Float Plane – I don’t know, for some reason I really want to take off and land on the crystal clear waterways of Alaska…just need to figure out the best place to do this.
  • King Crab – It’s impossible to beat the taste of fresh Alaskan King Crab, and boy those suckers are gnarly looking, I want to come face to face with giants as I pull up a trap from the bay. Not sure we’ll still be up there for the season but I can still dream!
  • Ice Climbing – I’ve heard of novice trips that allow you to ice climb into a glacier, specifically Exit Glacier, this could be one serious thrill!

Dream list of Wildlife to Capture in Photographs

  • Puffins
  • Wolves
  • Orca
  • Whales
  • Polar Bear
  • Arctic Fox
  • Lynx (doubtful but would be amazing)

Our Alaska Driving Route

Drive up the Rocky Mountain Route – http://www.northtoalaska.com/Maps-and-Routes/Rocky-Mountain-Route.aspx

Dawson Creek to Dawson City – https://goo.gl/maps/Cla9P

  • Minimum 15 days of travel and exploration
  • At Dawson City add 7 days to explore Dempster Highway and Inuvik (450 mile dirt road)

Chicken to Fairbanks – https://goo.gl/maps/42rZW

  • Minimum 5 days of travel and exploration

Fairbanks North – https://goo.gl/maps/4q9zF

  • Minimum 10 days to drive and explore

Fairbanks to Kenai Peninsula – https://goo.gl/maps/ws9iX

  • Minimum 5 days in Denali NP
  • Stock up in Anchorage, Oil Change, repairs, etc.
  • Clamming & Fishing Opportunities
  • Boat Trip to Kenai National Park

Anchorage to Haines for the Ferry – https://goo.gl/maps/ciy1d  OR  Drive back to the USA on the Gold Rush Route – http://www.northtoalaska.com/Maps-and-Routes/Inside-Passage-Route.aspx

 

Our Need to Get Gear List

RV Related – Everything we will need for the new RV(nope, still can’t tell you about it yet) to be picked up sometime after March.

  • Power (Lithium Batteries, Solar, Inverter, MPPT Charge Controller, Battery Monitor)
  • Rock Guard for Tow Car
  • RV Headlight and Fog light protection
  • Tire Pressure Monitor System
  • Tire Chains
  • Spare Tire and Tools to change Tires
  • Tire Air Pump with high PSI
  • Windshield Insurance Policy
  • Extra Canadian RV Insurance
  • Additional Roadside Assistance Plan

Outdoor

  • Binoculars
  • Hiking Boots
  • Waterproof Boots
  • Waterproof Backpack
  • “Wicking” Wool Socks
  • Rain Gear
  • Fishing Gear (pole, line, lures, etc)
  • Mosquito Gear
  • Mosquito/Bug Tent with “easy up”
  • Bear Gear
  • Survival Gear (knife, emergency blanket, first aid kit, etc)
  • Hiking GPS
  • Hiking Emergency Beacon and/or Satellite Tracker and Communicator

Camera Gear

  • Compact SLR Camera
  • “Lifeproof” point and shoot camera
  • Gyro, Steadicam or Stabilizer for Cameras
  • 2 extra batteries for all cameras
  • Portable Shotgun Mic
  • Selfie Stick (we promise to use in moderation)

Connectivity

  • Call Verizon for pricing and coverage
  • “Lifeproof” phone covers
  • Canada cell phone plan?

 

Free and/or inexpensive Government Camping Opportunities

There are 4 “Alaska Public Land Information Centers” that provide information about government camping opportunities throughout Alaska, we will no doubt stop by the first location we reach in Tok, AK.

  • State of Alaska
  • USFS – United States Forest Service
  • US Fish and Wildlife Department
  • NPS – National Park System
  • BLM – Bureau of Land Management
  • City, County and Regional Government
  • There are opportunities in Canada as well, we have not researched them at this time

(here is everything we have already written/created videos about on wild camping: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/rv-wild-camping)

 

Green Initiative and Environmental Stewardship

Let’s face it, driving an RV to discover the untouched wild lands of the Northwest is basically an oxymoron. In our everyday lives we make choices that we feel have a smaller impact on the earth and the local communities, by no means are we even close to perfect when it comes to being “green”, but it’s always on our minds. Since our Alaska trip is all about wildlife, exploration and getting lost in nature we’re taking steps to make both our trip and the documentary a “Carbon Neutral” project. We’re still in the initial stages of this endeavor but here are a few sites I’ve found for calculating our carbon footprint.

 

Holidays to Consider

  • June 06 – Our 9th Wedding Anniversary
  • June 20/21 – Summer Solstice
  • June 22 – Jason Birthday
  • July 01 – Canada Day
  • July 04 – Independence Day

***One thing we haven’t really considered at this point is nightlife, breweries, distilleries, coffee roasters, famers markets, farm-to-table restaurants, wineries, or anything city related.  If you have any recommendations we’d love to hear them.

If you feel we’re missing something, not spending enough time in a specific city, or generally going about something wrong please let us know.  As we like to say “we’re not experts” and by all means if you’ve done this trip, or if you live in an area of Canada or Alaska, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

 

Our Research Tools:

 

Visual Inspiration

Our visual inspiration comes from our 2008 week long primitive kayaking trip in Glacier Bay.  It was just us, Jason’s mom and two of our best friends.  It was our first big back country camping experience with no guide and lots of wild life encounters!  These are some of the images we captured pre gone with the wynns…imagine what we will get this summer!

glacier bay alaska

glacier bay alaska

glacier bay alaska

views of glaciers

wild bears in alaska

glacier bay alaska

whale watching alaska

Famous for my "how-not-to" videos, and typically the man behind the camera, sometimes I’m forced to be here in the “spotlight”. When you see my face you’re probably reading something more technical than adventurous, but either way I do my best to tell it like it is and infuse my opinions into the commentary…after all this is a blog and not MSN.

Comments (218)

  • Lisa Parr

    We want to start RVing next year when we retire. We have cats, and I am interested to see how yours did out in the wild. It kind of makes me nervous to think they could stray and not come back to the RV.

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  • Mark brooks

    What a great series of articles folks! Glad you remembered to grab some bear gear(and hopefully gear spray or a small gun just to create noise to make ’em flee). On one of my first trips to Alaska I completely forgot about that, but gladly lads at https://gritrsports.com helped me out once I’ve told ’em that I’m going there. Ended up with a nice budget handgun and 2 packs of bear spray, on top of bear bag I was initially planning to get there. Thankfully, didn’t need to use those, but hey, better safe than sorry!

    reply
  • Isidro Krallis

    Thanks for the post!

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  • bill mcclary

    Yes Great reading for me. I was born in WILLIAMS LAKE and lived in FT ST JOHN <FORT NELSON AND WATSON LAKE I no the area well and spent a lot of time driving the highway when it was gravel . That highway has storeys to tell … bill

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  • Kenna Hoyser

    Richardson highway is a must. Matanuska glacier and others.

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  • Kenna Hoyser

    A very worthwhile part of the trip would be to take the “Denali Highway”. Don’t mix this up with any road actually within the Denali National Park. The Denali Highway is mostly a gravel road that crosses west to east across the middle of the loop formed by the Richardson Highway and the main North south highway that passes just east of Denali NP. It is entirely remote and you won’t see many other humans but the views and wildlife are spectacular. Definately a good boondogging route.

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  • Kenna Hoyser

    I had a one day business to take care of in Fairbanks so I flew to Anchorage and rented a car. I was going to make the loop from Anchorage up the Richardson Hwy (A must do) to Fairbanks, around to Denali and back to Anchorage. It was Mid-May and I didn’t have a clue how Denali worked. There is one day a year when private vehicles can drive into Denali. That is the last day before they close it for the summer and access switches to Shuttle only. I happened to get there on that very day with no planning at all. So I got to drive in that day. It was truly awesome and a once in a lifetime experience. The next day the gates were closed so I took the shuttle in. Also a great experience and not to be missed. It makes lots of stops, has a good “host” and will stop anytime some interesting wildlife is spotted. I was doubly lucky in that both days were clear and Denali itself could be seen in all its glory. I understand that is a rarity.

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  • Kenna Hoyser

    5 days at Denali is too much unless you plan on tent camping in the park. About mid May they close the road and only way in is by shuttle bus. Which is well worth it but unless you want to get off at one of the shuttle stops and tent camp it’s only a 1 day experience. And you dont get anywhere near Denali itself. I was unbelievably lucky a few years ago. I was in Alaska on business (flew to Anchorage). Continued in next comment.

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  • Kenna Hoyser

    The drive to and from Valdez is spectacular. Dont bypass just to “get to” Valdez”. Valdez itself is a disappointment. But the drive to it is worth it. Just plan on 1 day for entire trip.

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    • Ann Hilton

      I used to live in Valdez. Great hiking trails! Nice bike path. Fun things to do there like white water rafting. Not a disappointment in my opinion.

      reply
  • Been following your vids over a year now, love them. I know you’re in the middle of the Pacific now and have NO interest in getting a question about Alaska, but here goes anyway. 🙂 In researching and planning for Alaska trip next summer, naturally I searched for info from y’all. I’d like to see your “planning map”, mentioned above, but not visible to me. Wondering if you could link me to it. I haven’t looked at/read all the entries (working on it!) and l realize maybe it’s somewhere else. You’re so organized it might be easier for you to link it to me than me, if it’s NOT easy, it’s OK, just sounds like a good planning tool.
    Hope you’re enjoying French Polynesia, you’re such amazing adventurers/explorers.
    Thanks, Lynn

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    • Curious Minion

      Hi Lynn. Unfortunately there is a conflict between the map plug-in and the WordPress theme that can’t be resolved at the moment. Nikki and the “IT guy” are working to resolve it. Sorry!
      Curious Minion

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      • Thank you for taking the time to respond. Hope the Pacific is treating y’all well, can’t wait to see the next installation.

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  • Mary

    I found your site while researching Alaska. My husband and I are planning a month long trip to Alaska next summer, so I’ve started the planning. We are going to drive, but are trying to decide whether to buy/rent an RV, or stay in hotels. Any suggestions on the best way to see Alaska?

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  • Lew

    I like your vlogs and blogs very much. You’ve put a lot of effort into them and I know that in doing so, you change the manner in which you experience your travels. The troubles you had after crossing into Alaska affirmed some subtle differences between planning and preparedness for me. I am not a travel planner myself in that I don’t create an itinerary for myself other than what you might find in a rough outline. I think this approach separates travelers from tourists. I am prepared, though, to anticipate and deal with mild calamities if for no other reason than I have many times in th past experinced them whether they be a break down or a bureaucratic snafu. Y’all seem quite young, but I found it (innocently) mildly entertaining that a flat tire and a not function gps and no cell coverage should present itself as a situation with possible unknown outcomes. Travelling to a point on a (paper) map where humans are sparse requires some preparedness. No other way to put it. Great experiences well recorded. An inspiration for me to follow in your footsteps. Fun, fun!

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  • Gary Parker

    Looks like you had a great time.. My wife and I are going next year 2018. We are both retired so not too much of a time frame or need to be in a hurry.. We have traveled across the country several times, and try to do with out reservations for campgrounds.. Sometimes not the best way… We would like to travel and kind of get a place to stay when we get there.. I am pretty sure we need to make reservations in homer, valdez, Kenei etc.. Your thoughts. We are leaving on May 1, 2018 . Thanks

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    • Neums

      We plan to leave end of May for fear of roads still being closed. Coming up through Montana into BC. We have a 27ft travel trailer. Hoping this works. Will ass along info if I see something helpful. What are you traveling with?

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  • shruthi brahmappa

    Hello , I came across your blog when I was researching about Alaska and I am so glad I did . Your blog has great content about Alaska .Wanted some recommendations from you guys : We are visiting Alaska June 30-July 9th , a very short trip to explore the place ,but want to make the best out of it . We plan on visiting Denali [3 days , plan on camping at wonder lake ], Seward , Kenai . We saw great things about Mccarthy , would you suggest adding this in our itinerary ? we plan to do ice climbing , ice caves ,glacier hiking ,kayaking ,hiking what places would you suggest to do these activities ?

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    • Curious Minion

      Whew, that’s a lot for a short trip! If you haven’t done it already, get on Google Maps (or similar) and run the driving times. It’s going to take you most of 2 days to drive from Seward to McCarthy, and that’s if the road is in good shape. If the road hasn’t been recently graded it’s going to be very slow going. As beautiful as it is, it might be a bit much for a short visit. I’d rather savor a few great things than get just a sip of a whole bunch.

      reply
    • We really, really loved McCarthy but it would require a lot of your time to get there. I would suggest visiting our Alaska page and viewing our posts by destination. That might help give you an idea of what each place has to offer and which ones are the most appealing to you. https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/alaska-canada-adventures

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  • Mona Danjeab

    Going to Alaska this summer. We have no time barriers so we can stay longer or shorter, whichever grabs us. Thanks for the info. We have a diesel 250 4X4 Ford towing a 38.5′ fifth wheeler. Will a rig like that make it to Chicken? I’d love to do a walkabout in the town and enjoy the local bars and restaurants. Are they dog friendly? I have 2 small, well behaved Poms that will sit in their stroller and not make a sound.

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    • Curious Minion

      The roads to Chicken aren’t any worse than most in Alaska – you’ll do fine. Chicken is really tiny – 3 gift shops, 2 restaurants & only 1 bar. Don’t know if you can take the dogs inside the restaurants, but at least one of them has outdoor seating.

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  • L. Hampshire

    We are flying to Anchorage in May and renting an rv for 3 weeks. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks so much.

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  • Mark

    Hey guys did you ever do a total cost of the trip ?

    MC

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  • Jack Ricardo

    Interested in information regarding 5th Wheel/RV prep and issues that may arise while on the road.

    reply
  • Dale Sullivan

    Jason, My wife and I are headed to Alaska in mid June with plans similar to yours. We love spontaneity and hate reservations dictating our travels. We retired a few years ago and made our first extended trip (no more 2 week vacations) this past fall. We left South Texas in August and took in the fall foliage of the Northeast. We arrived back in Texas in November. Were pulling a 30′ 5th wheel with a GMC diesel.
    Looking forward to hearing more on your trip to Alaska.
    Dsul

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    • E Andrews

      We are retiring in 3 years and our plan is to buy a used diesel rv about 30 feet and we would like to head to Alaska from Ontario…if you can let us know how your trip is/was we would appreciate it.
      Ellen

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  • Thomas

    Alaska and Canada are very expensive. We did the trip four years ago. Although it was beautiful, you will run into some very bad roads in Alaska. We wound up selling that rig and bought a new once … with a vow to never again drive to Alaska. The tires were ruined, the main slide was shaken loose and never did close right again, the windshield had more than a few chips … and I’m a slow, careful driver. As for Dawson City, it’s a rugged dirt road there. I’d suggest that you bypass that and visit Tok. You will run into a lot of substandard RV parks with 20 and 30 amp only service. But Alaska is an adventure with wonderful scenery, lots of wild animals and great fishing

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    • Carri

      That makes me nervous. I heard the roads could be tough, but our girl is no spring chicken. We have. A 33 foot class A about7 years old. She’s in great shape but I don’t want to put her into distress. We are on planning on driving to Alaska end of June in our RV from NY for about 5-6 weeks in all. Stopping along the way of course. I’m just beginning to research for the trip.

      reply
  • Pete

    2016 resolution was to get started on planning my retirement bucket list. It starts with a 2-yr RV trip in the lower 48, Canada and Alaska. Your blog is going to help me tremendously. Thanks!

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  • Jamie Campbell Petty

    3 couples will be flying into Anchorage the last week of June, renting an RV/rental car, or 2 RV’s, and doing a one week road trip. We believe the Kenai Peninsula is the focus of our trip, although there is an interest in Denali. My husband and I have done Seward and Homer, but are anxious to show it to the other 4 who have never been. The focus is fishing, hiking and more fishing .

    Can you provide suggestions or insight ? I am to plan this event, and am quite nervous about making sure there is something for everyone and we always have activities.

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  • Wanda

    My husband and I are planning our first trip to Alaska within the upcoming year. Your info is answering so many questions already. I think our largest decision is getting the best itinerary ….any help and comments would be wonderful. Thought about joining a caravan but would rather do our own exploring. Wouldn’t mind joining a few couples doing the same thing just to have companions along the way…no obligations.

    reply
    • Carl Rennell

      Hi Wanda, my wife and I are seriously considering a summer 2016 journey to Alaska from Florida and back. If you are still planning on a 2016 journey I would like to discuss our plans with you. I have looked into commercial caravan companies and read reviews. I believe the cost of the commercial caravan journey isn’t justified for us. We have made several circumnavigation journeys around the USA and back to Florida without issue and at our own pace. Alaska would be fun with another couple or two as an ultra small group. Thanks

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  • Hi Nikki & Jason – congrats on your trip: I’m looking forward to seeing some of your adventures now that you’re done. My wife and I have been full-timers for just over a year, leaving Vermont for the open road. We’re spending the winter on the Oregon coast, and will leave for Alaska in May, as conditions allow. We’ve decided to leave our 42′ Redwood here in storage, and have purchased an “expendable” 23′ 2012 lightly-used Jayco for the Alaska voyage. We’ll sell that for whatever we can when we return, and figure that we’ll save our “home” from an arduous trip while having a much smaller and versatile trailer for roadside camping. Our big question is this: would it be worthwhile to bring along our scout vehicle, a new Prius V, for the side trips we anticipate taking? Working out the fuel cost differences between running our 2014 Ram 3500 tow vehicle alone (11 mpg through the mountains of OR) for perhaps 10K miles, vs. running it for 6K miles (up and back and around) and putting the 10K miles for those side trips @ 45mpg. in the Prius, we actually come out ahead fuel-dollar-wise. The advantage would be in having a smaller, more efficient vehicle to run around from base with, and in not having to unhook and re-hook up all the time (not really a big problem). But there’s the extra insurance, buying a spare wheel & tire, road hazards and probable glass damage and tires, oil etc. to the car to consider. Looking carefully over the maps, I’m beginning to wonder if there are really enough side roads and side trips to be made which would make having the second vehicle worth while. I’m beginning to think that the Ram tow vehicle will be more than enough and will ultimately be the wiser solution. Any thoughts you care to share?
    Our route as we see it now would be Portland OR (mid May?) to Vancouver, Prince George, Dawson Creek, Dawson, Fairbanks and Circle (for the summer solstice), then on to Denali in July, and the Anchorage, Homer, Valdez segment in August. September would proceed according to weather, but planning to take the full Alcan back to the lower 48 in time to spend Oct. in the Grand Tetons.
    Now I’m off to find your trip blogs and share them with my wife.
    Thanks in advance for your advice.
    Alan & Angele

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    • I honestly think your Ram will be the much better all around vehicle for the trip. Sounds like you are giving yourself a good amount of time and not being to rigid in your scheduling…which is perfect!!! Don’t over plan or make too many reservations (we had none) and allow yourself the time and space to discover Alaska at your own pace. If you love a place, stay longer, you don’t move along…that’s the way we like to roll. Enjoying reading and watching our Alaska travels and I hope it helps provide some insight and ideas for your trip. Safe travels and have fun!

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  • Bill Slugg

    I drove the Dempster highway in 1977 when it went no further than the Arctic Circle. I was the only car on the highway so I just camped on the highway. No need to pull off the road.

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  • Kerri

    Love this!! Alaska is certainly on our bucket list, these pictures just make me want to do it sooner than later. Side note- we share an anniversary! We had our 11 year this year. ☺️

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  • Scott Lumsden

    Hi; Have been following your adventure to Alaska. Now we are planning our own. I think we’ll follow your route pretty much so my question is about accomodations. How many of your nightly stops would you say that you had advanced reservations for? I’m sure you were alble to talk to other travellers on the trip, and what were they doing for stop overs? That is really my only hesitation. And when I am trying to convince our friends to come along with us, (safety in numbers… ) they want to have almost every stop reserved in advance. I can’t see how that would work during a 3 month trip?? So, your experience and advice would be greatly appreciated.
    We are cool with boondocking, and the occasional road side stay, but our friends will need a hook up more frequently.. (IF I can convice them to go. 🙂

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  • JERRY SMITH

    How bad was Alaska on the motorhome? You had protection on the toad, but did you get damage on the motorhome? Deciding whether to go next year. Does size matter?

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    • Jerry,
      There is a lot of misinformation about Alaska roads and from our experience many of the roads were no different than what we’ve come accustomed to in the lower 48. We did travel down plenty of dirt roads however most of those were by choice because we were going for a specific wild camping spot.
      Other than a rock in the windshield we didn’t get much damage, we will likely have a few days of cleaning ahead to remove all the dust from inside the bays and remove the bugs from the front of the RV.
      Size doesn’t matter, we saw $2,000,000 Prevost conversions and 45′ American Coaches up there. Of course the larger you are the more difficult it may be to find a campground that isn’t privately owned.
      Alaska is one helluva trip, but if you’re not willing to risk a few dings and a few new rattles you may not want to make the trek. If you’re asking my personal opinion I’d say go for it!

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  • Cathy Treadway

    We will be taking our 5th wheel on the ALCAN highway next summer. So we are so excited to see your adventures and hear the recommendations. I have done work in Anchorage and one hike that I recommend is Flat Top. Even if you just go up and do the 1/2 mile loop that looks over Anchorage it is well worth it. You can also do the more extensive hikes there. It is about 20 minutes from downtown Anchorage.

    We went to Denali and took the bus trip into the park. We saw wolves, grizzly, antelope, big horn sheep, mountain goats, caribou etc. It was amazing. Our favorite thing was we flew the top of Mt. McKinley. It was truly a lifetime experience. We did not do the stop on the glacier (good thing because they were all cancelled that day) but the twin engine that flew around. It felt like we could reach out and touch it. Truly Amazing!

    Keep the adventures coming!

    reply
  • To help you in your decision whether to fly or drive to Prudhoe Bay you might want to check my post about our day tour to the Arctic Circle. I have a few pictures of Dalton Highway. Personally I would not take my RV in those kind of road, the scenery of course is worthwhile but it is a slow drive in the wilderness and no RV services.
    http://wp.me/p2eG3Q-xX
    I also have a post of our drive to Chicken and a few miles of Top of the World highway from Tok. Again its gravel and very narrow road with steep climb and curves.
    http://wp.me/p2eG3Q-Ut

    Im sure you will have lots of stories of adventures to share and Im looking forward to see where your journey takes you. It would be my second trip to Alaska with you as our tour guide.

    Have a great adventure and just take it slow.

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  • Kelly

    Your site and ideas/plans were wonderful to read as my hubby and I are planning a trip in a few years pulling a 5th wheel to Alaska from the midwest. We are so looking forward to the beauty and adventure! Your insight is just what I needed to dig further into what we can see and do. Hope your trip is all you expect it to be! Blessings!

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  • Walter Gutowski

    Well hello there – I see you are in Chicken (don’t forget to get that T-shirt, the one about “laid in chicken… haha”). I was in Fox Lake campground for the past week enjoying the so-so weather (sorry about that). Did you get up the Dempster at all?
    I noticed in your routing that you are planning a side trip down to Haines AK from Haines Junction (on Haines Road, Yukon Highway #3). That is one beautiful drive and has been resurfaced in recent years. {The US FHA paid for that upgrade as well as the Alaska Highway from Beaver Creek to Haines Junction. Of course, there is dis-continuous permafrost between Beaver Creek and Destruction Bay in Yukon (you may notice a test section south of Beaver Creek where Yukon/FHA is evaluating some options to mitigate the effects of this permafrost. But the heaves can be a shock do be careful on your way through that section.} But I digress – I was going to say that the Haines Road is a beautiful drive both ways but if schedule permits and you would rather take an alternate route, you may want to look at catching the Alaska Marine Highway ferry to Skagway AK and drive the South Klondike Highway up to Whitehorse – another gorgeous scenic drive. Skagway is the more touristy town and the cruise ships stop there (as opposed to Haines).
    It’s too early for the bald eagles just north of Haines AK but do watch for them – salmon fishing in the adjacent river. I go down every couple years in November to snap a few shots of those beautiful birds.
    At any rate – drive safe, and enjoy yourselves!

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  • Hey! We are in Whitehorse and I just have a couple tips (I haven’t read everyone else’s so I’m sorry if I’m repeating myself):

    – I saw that you are driving to Dawson and then doing the top of the world highway. I have not done this yet, although we have a trip planned for August, but I’m sure the road conditions are similar: Drive slow! The little “bump ahead” signs are not joking and some of the worst bumps aren’t marked. Vehicles have been seriously damaged on the highway between Haines Junction and the Alaska border from the frost heaves and people trying to make good time. Take the time, drive slow, enjoy the views and you should be fine.

    – Check out Yukon Brewing. They make award winning craft beers and you can take tours (with tastings) at the brewery in Whitehorse. Their website is Yukonbeer.com.

    Have a great time!

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  • James

    Hi there!
    First off, I just happened upon your youtube channel and really enjoy your take on the “American Dream”! I live in Anchorage, and there is a lot to do just in the city. I know you mentioned float planes in the article, so I must recommend Lake Hood in Anchorage. It is the world’s busiest seaplane port. Also, if you brought your bicycles, the costal trail in Anchorage is a popular and scenic adventure. For the drive down to the Kenai Peninsula don’t forget about Girdwood, AK. There are a couple really great Restaurants, The Double Musky Inn and Seven Glaciers (It is up on the ski slope!). Also, close to Girdwood is the Winner Trail, and Iditarod NHT (National Historic Trail) that connect via a hand tram! Honestly, I could go on for days about places to check out and things to do…but I will just say take your time and if you see a turnoff from the highway, take the time and explore it! Also, if you don’t catch that fresh salmon, let me know I have some fresh caught Alaskan fish in the freezer at all times.

    OH, if Fleetwood ever does decide to produce a Bounder like the one you designed, LET ME know! The changes you made were awesome!

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  • My friend who invented imovie uses this one below when he travels it is well worth it with back pack and extra batteries. I would suggest you get one as soon as possible it is a great tool for your needs. He worked for apple for 15 years.

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    • Thanks Mickey. We actually just got the DJI 3 before crossing over into Canada and are super excited!

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  • Hey – congratulations! You’re almost here (Yukon that is). Some tips for you… in the rare event you have not already checked these out…
    1) Yukon Government provides many campgrounds throughout Yukon. Maps and other info can be found at env.gov.yk.ca. Most of these are excellent and should have pull through spaces available for you. Note that their fee is ONLY $12 (Canadian that is) per night and you get quiet, free wood, outhouses, and well maintained facilities. There is even one (Wolf Creek km 1408) near the southern limits of Whitehorse that should be able to accommodate you. Dawson City has a couple: one across from the airport (ten miles out of town) and one across the Yukon River from Dawson – however it necessitates a ferry ride (free) and is at the start of the Top of the World Highway #9 which takes you to Chicken, Alaska. If you stay here before going to the Dempster (Inuvik), you will have to cross on the ferry at least 3 times. Walk-ons welcome.
    2) Of course, there are several commercial full service RV facilities at most communities in Yukon.
    3) Dempster – you may want to go to Inuvik, I have never been but have been to YT/NWT border. Road is gravel and, in some areas, narrow. If nothing else, travel the first 250kms or so to get to the tundra; Arctic Circle marker is at km 405.6, Inuvik at km 732. There is a lodge at km 369 – only spot for fuel on Yukon portion of Dempster.
    4) Cheap(er) gas – don’t know about diesel – may be available at Contact Creek Lodge (km 909) south of Watson Lake, YT (km 976).
    5) Cheap(er) diesel in the Whitehorse area may be located north of city proper in area known as Porter Creek – Super A grocery store.
    6) I’m beyond the age of regularly visiting various drinking establishments to provide a recommendation, but wherever you go, check out the local beer (has won awards, not locally lol) – Yukon Gold, Chilkoot etc…
    7) If the opportunity permits, a couple eateries: Klondike Salmon and Rib (lots of character) or Giorgio’s for a bit more upscale. And a ton of others as well…
    8) for a number of hidden gems and little known info along your routes, you might refer to the public Highway Log http://www.hpw.gov.yk.ca/pdf/ReportHwyLogPublic2012.pdf
    9) Hope this helps – at any rate, enjoy our little territory!!!!!

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    • Walter, you have impeccable timing! This is exactly the recommendation we needed and at the exact moment we’re researching it! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave all this helpful info. I take it you are from the area? If you would like to meet up, we would love to say thanks in person.

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      • Walter

        Lots I am sure you will want to explore in the short time you are in the area (yes, I live in Whitehorse). My schedule is wide open but if you have an opportunity you could call me and perhaps we could meet up somewhere. Drive safe!
        Oh – forgot to say Alaska Highway is pretty much re-built except for a couple hundred kilometres north of Ft Nelson (Muncho Lake park area etc). That’s still the original road

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      • Walter Gutowski

        I just came in from a 10 day camping trip myself and was reminded that you can get potable water/sani-dump for no cost at North 60 Petro gas station at Walmart’s parking lot…

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  • kristi

    It’s fun to see your journey as you go, and locale at present time. I bet its truly jaw- dropping awe inspiring there. I love the Rockies !!

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  • Check out the attached website. It is the 2015 Visitors Guide for all regions of Alaska and has a lot of good info!

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  • CT

    Really enjoy your videos and can’t wait to see what you have for Alberta and the Rockies. Hope you had/have a chance to check out some of the farmers markets in Calgary as well as the amazing dining scene we have here?

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  • Debbie LaFleiche

    Hi Nikki and Jason,

    I think you are going to love Alaska. I’ve lived in Anchorage for the last 22 years and the summers are like no place else on earth. I agree with most of what Mark Ridling said. The one thing he might not be aware of is that Verizon came to AK about a year ago. It doesn’t mean you’ll have connectivity everywhere but it might be better than it was before.

    If you guys like to hike, I’d recommend the book Hiking Alaska by Dean Littlepage. It is a fantastic resource for everything from tiny 1-hour guided hikes to 3-day 22 mile hikes. It’s broken up by regions of the state.

    On your list of things to do, I saw you were planning on visiting Portage. You’ll want to also go a little farther on that road and go out to Whittier (which is only vehicle-accessible through a one-way tunnel that closes at 11 p.m.). If you make it to Anchorage by the Summer Solstice, many people hike Flat Top Mountain at midnight. It’s a fun and unique way to celebrate the longest day of the year (and in Alaska it’s still light outside!).

    Once you get to Anchorage, if you need a place to park for a few days, you’d be welcomed to driveway-surf at my house (not literally in the driveway since mine has too much of a slope and is probably too short, but the street next to my house is flat and has plenty of space). In Anchorage, you must go to Moose’s Tooth, the best pizza and beer place. I don’t know a lot about beer but I know you guys are fans and we have several local breweries that are popular (I wonder if any are listed on Harvest Hosts?).

    If I can answer any questions for you, give you local resources, etc. I’d be happy to do so. Feel free to email me. Have a wonderful adventure!!

    Best,
    Debbie

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  • Welcome to Canada and have a awesome stay.

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  • Ray H

    As for your question of drive or ferry to Valdez, definitely drive. Save the money for other fun things to do. The drive to Valdez is one of the high points that my wife and I remember from a trip to Alaska many years ago. You don’t want to miss it! Your trip is getting us thinking of taking our new RV (2015 Excursion, thank you) up there this summer. And if you want some interesting ideas for Washington State after your Alaska adventure, just let us know.

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  • Gerald Z

    I’ve followed your blog for a long time but missed your recent schedule. We’re in Missoula & would offer you a great spot to stay on our family farm with full hookups if it’s not too late. Would love to meet you if it would work.

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    • Hey, thanks for the very kind offer! We’re already passed Missoula sadly, maybe next time.

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  • Jennifer Lindenmuth

    Hello Jason and Nikki,
    We just received your newsletter and wanted you to know that we are on our way to Alaska, as well, and are right behind you on your Canada/Alaska adventure!!! We left our home in Tyler, TX on Wednesday. We are almost to Billings, MT and staying at the KOA tonight to see family and then Helena for the weekend to see our son. We plan on crossing the Coutts border middle of next week and headed to some friends in Banff sometime before the 23rd. My husband said that if we meet along the road somewhere he will bring the halibut and venison and you bring the wine!! Would love to get together.
    Safe Travels!!!
    David & Jennifer Lindenmuth

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    • Sounds like we will cross paths! We’re fish eating vegetarians so we’re all about that halibut and will put your names on some good wine!

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  • Michele Layne

    We are thinking of getting a trailer though originally we thought of getting an RV but with insurance etc and we wouldn’t be full time just occasional travelers the costs seemed high for the RV hence the thought of a trailer. Do you have to make reservations at all your RV sites prior to a trip or can you just show up and hope you can get a site? I’m not good at planning.

    I have learned a lot from your site but I get overwhelmed at the thought of having to decide what Brand to go with. So many considerations regarding, warranties, wood vs aluminum, slide outs vs no slide outs d/t possible leaking etc.

    Have a great Alaskan trip. Can’t wait for your updates on your trip.

    Michele

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  • Tarikian's

    Hi Guys!
    First: Have a safe and wonderful trip!! Alaska here the Wynns go!
    Second: Two things I could not find on your notes: HOW LONG you “think” your trip will take (from crossing to Canadá and back to Seattle) and HOW MUCH you “think” you will spend at all?
    Curious to know so we can compare later with what really happened.

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  • Pat Silva

    Jason and Nikki, didoes what Mark Ridling suggested. My wife and I spent 3 months (May, June, July) covering basically what your plans are in a 40 foot class A. I would strongly suggest that you pay heed as you drive along the Alaska an Yukon roadways to avoid ice heaving. The highway department folks place flag warnings to mark where the danger is. Usually a flag on the left or right shoulder to mark the location of heaving. Sometimes there will be flags on both sides indicating the damage is in both lanes. Slow down is an understatement if you don’t want to get airborne. Stay safe and enjoy some of the most beautiful country in North America.

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  • Jacquie

    Hi Jason and Nikki,
    You actually met us a few years ago briefly at the RV show in BC Canada. We will be moving to our new property in Princeton Bc soon. Camping in our Airstream while we build. So if your ever our way your welcome to stay. We will have power and water for you. In the back section we will be making areas for our friends to camp as its so private and
    beautiful. We Will also have a spot that
    will face onto our court yard when the house is built.
    Happy Trails,
    Jacquie and Stuie

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  • Jason and Nikki,
    My wife and I lived in Alaska for 35 years. We retired, purchased an RV, and are now full timing in the lower 48 states. We have made several trips up the Alcan and we love the remoteness and beauty of the trip through Canada.

    Just our opinion. I would not reccommend driving an RV up to Inuvik or Prudhoe Bay. … Both are loong dirt and gravel roads, services are very limited, and there is not much to see when you arrive (no trees, no mountains, etc). Seward, Chicken, Hope, Dawson, Manley, Seldovia, Fairbanks, Tok, Nebesna, Minto, Valdez, Homer, Denali, Kenai, Skagway, Haines, and several others are all very interesting. Just about any of the Alaska ferry trips are beautiful, with or without your RV. It may be too late to find any open vehicle slots, but there is usually always room for walk ons with bicycles. You could take a ferry to Haines, Skagway, Kodiak, or ??

    I would highly reccommend that you buy a copy of The Alaska Milepost travel book. It covers nearly every mile of every road to and in Alaska and in western Canada.pp

    Verizon has limited service in Alaska, but it does serve the main cities. But, there are many places where there is NO cell service from any carrier. So do not expect to always be connected.

    I would reccommend the use of common sense over the purchase of tire chains. Chains for RV duals are very expensive, of limited use, heavy, and difficult to put on. If you need tire chains, … You should not be there trying to drive an RV. Also, check with your insurance company. They may already cover you in Canada and Special Canada Insurance may not be necessary. We have never had to add it to any of our policies??

    If you have any specific questions that I might be able to answer, PM me and I will answer if I can and let you know if I am clueless. I will not BS.

    You will love the trip and adventure!

    Take care, have fun, and enjoy it!

    Mark

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    • Dinah R.

      I hope Nikki and Jason get in touch with you, Mark! What a nice gesture on your part and you have a wealth of real-life common sense info to share. Very cool.

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    • Hey Mark thanks so much for all the helpful tips and offer to answer questions! I will send you an email shortly as we would love to chat with you! Thanks again!

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  • Mike & Louise

    We’re also headed to Yukon and Alaska as our first trip full-timing leaving the Canadian prairies on June 17th. We’ve been summer-time RVers for 14 years so, not exactly neophytes. We’ve been following your adventures for about two years now and have learned much, for which we are immensely grateful. You may want to make further inquiries about driving your new rig to Inuvik. From what we’ve heard, and I may stand to be corrected, the shale rock will eat through your new tires in no time and you’ll likely be having to replace them on the trip.

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  • Pam

    If you go into Canada through Sweetgrass up I-15 stop at Dusty’s Bar in Brady, MT. It has a lot of Character. Tell them Pam Otness sent you.

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  • Carl Brothers

    Sadly we do not have 4 months for a real series of adventures like you have laid out. This is awesome! We are headed up north in July for our wedding anniversary. For us is it a FL to IA then IA to AK then AK to FL trip. We have a new to us rig and my inlaws will be joining us in Iowa to head north with their 5th wheel. With three little ones we will have our hands full. As always your posts are chock full of very useful tips, many of which I will try to integrate into our own planning. Maybe we will see you out there!

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  • Judy Long

    Took a caravan trip to Alaska in 2014. 59 days. Be sure and have a cover for your tow vehicle. Preferably a bra that covers the whole front end. We had a rock shield that fit in front of the tow vehicle and used a rubber exercise mat to cover the windshield. Wished we had bought the flat guard that fit between Mhome and tow vehicle. Cannot remember name of it. By using just the rock shield on the front of the tow vehicle rocks would bounce off it and hit the back of the Mhome. Lots of rock chips. We have a Bounder 35K.

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  • Tom and Kitty Katz

    We hope you guys have a safe and wonderful experience up here in Alaska. We will be leaving Alaska at the end of the month and headed to the lower 48 for our year long adventure. We have lived up here for many years and traveled all over the state in our RV and with our off road camp trailer. If yall would like to have a question/answer session with us, we would love to help. Just shoot us an email and we can set up a phone or video session with you guys to help any way we can!
    P.S. The haul road has some major issues to be concerned with.
    Tom and Kitty

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  • Jamie Smith

    I loved having the Milepost handy on our trips to Alaska. It is full of ads but it gives you some mile by mile detailed info. We found some awesome stops along the way that weren’t even on our radar. And it’s only $25. You can donate it to a library when you get back or annotate it, sell it to the highest bidder, and donate the proceeds to your favorite charity. ?

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  • Mindy

    One of our Alaskan highlights was taking a plane ride out of Talkeetna where we flew around Mt. Denali and landed one of its glaciers! While in Denali, we camped at a private campground in town within walking distance to bus tours through Denali. We got there in the early afternoon and it did fill up by evening (late June). You can camp anywhere that it is not private land. We would see RV’s parked off by the edge of rivers on side roads all of the time. Enjoy!

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    • Bobbie Lancaster

      Just out of curiosity, what was the name of the RV park you stayed at outside of Denali?
      My family & I are heading to Alaska in June and would love some advice!

      Nikki & Jason, thank you guys! Your blog has been so helpful as we plan.

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  • Tarikian's

    Hi guys
    We are also planning our trip to Alaska (for 2016) and for sure your travel & tips will be our resource.
    One thing: Where you are planning to store the spare tire? We also have a Bounder (2013) and last week, coming back from Orlando front tire blow up. Even at 60mph was no problem to stop (not sure if it happened ia a curve…) but it took 8 hours (!!) for the roadside assistance arrive and replace the tire (almost $500 for a Michelin). If we had a spare this should be no more than one hour delay.
    I called Fleetwood but they do not offer a spare tire carrier (PLEASE tell than that we need that option on “our type” of coaches!) and spare does NOT fit on any of the luggage compartments.
    On the roof it’s too heavy…. in the rear it may be an option but need to fabricate a carrier that will still let us have the bikes there.
    I was thinking what was your solution.

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  • Brian Hickman

    A good source for you to check out is The MilePost. It can help you out with chosen sites to see, places to stay, and etc. I have a pdf of the book from a few years ago that is still good. That is what i use when I was trying to figure out routes to Alaska to drive.

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  • One book I found very helpful is Guide to the Alaska Highway by Ron Dalby. I thought I would have to go by Carravan before I read this book but after it seemed I could go by myself and do just fine. He covers every road on the way to and from Alaska and all the roads in Alaska. He covers all the sights and atractions. I would say it is a must have if you are going much like the Milepost.

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  • jim

    While in Banff we recommend
    Stay in the Tunnel Mountain camp ground
    Raft ride down the river which begins just by the Banff Springs Hotel
    Take the gondola up then walk to the top
    Always have your camera with you

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  • Don and Debbie Harrison

    We too are headed for our Alaska adventure starting June 1 from Ontario Canada. We are towing a 23 foot Award trailer. With visits to family and friends we hope to be gone 12 weeks or so. Almost impossible to make any advanced reservations so “Boondocking” will be the norm…..

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  • Hey there, been scooping as much info as possible from you guys, and you’ve been an incredible resource. About to put in our own solar system and saw that you’ve got Lithium batteries on the list. Mind if I ask your plan for that? Would love to find a budget-friendly solution, so far I’m only able to find a 120AH LI for around $2k a piece. Then again, I haven’t researched much.

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  • Evelyn & Paul

    So happy to find you two again; have referenced you from time to time and should have corresponded before our 3 month Canada vacation last year…..really nice but did not use much available resources and was very expensive. So here we go again this summer (June thru September) to Alaska with many stops to and from. Thanks much for being available with lots of good resourceful info; especially the National Forests/etc. as we always visit them and aware some offer free camping but never have used them for that. We normally do very little boon docking. What we don’t want to do, is a lot of pre-planned reservations this time since we left early some times for different reasons. Pictures and even reviews not only can be but we have found ARE deceiving sometimes; as we are all different. This will be different for me as I am the one who likes to plan ahead, so a little concerning.
    Thanks again and hopefully our paths will cross. Safe travels always!
    Evelyn & Paul

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  • Edward Elbers

    I will love reading about your adventure! If you guys like mystery books make sure to read Some Kate Shugak mysteries by Dana Stabenow. The stories mostly take place in Danali National Park and are wonderfully written. At the end of your trip you might want to take the ferry to Victoria as it is a beautiful and quite unique island. Not sure you can take the RV there or not though.

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  • John

    On the verge of purchasing our first RV, and already thinking about an Alaskan adventure; will be following your trip with great interest!

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  • Ann

    What made you decide to get a GAS fleetwood, versus a Diesel? I thought you loved the diesel when you converted from gas to diesel a few years back. So, I know there will be a big reveal, but I think you have a 33 foot Fleetwood bounder, gas. You looked at them side-to-side a while back ago and you had 3 thumbs up for the layout, work-space and a few other reasons.

    Have fun! We will probably do Alaska in a few years from now. Maybe we will catch you sometime!

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    • We do have the reveal coming this week with all of the details and reasoning (so hang in there). However, this is our first ever gas coach. We have always had diesels so it will be a fun experiment (or not).

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  • Andy in Seattle

    Hey Nikki and Jason,
    We’ll be on the road to Alaska and back from mid-June to mid-July. Looks like you’ll be a week or so ahead of us, with a possible overlap at Denali. Have a fabulous journey, and hope to see you on the road!
    –Andy and Kay, fans in Seattle
    P.S. got our Milepost–it’s amazing

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    • Awesome! There is going to be quite the crew in the area and we hope to meet up with as many people as possible. If you notice we’re close, let us know.

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  • Just posted a comment on another of your posts, asking when you are heading to Alaska…then I found your Alaska trip! That was a great supply list you posted. Made me add things to our list. We are heading up in the beginning of June. Our northern route is your southern route but we will be looking for you!

    In planning our trip, I found the Milepost to be very helpful. It has great maps and is very detailed.

    safe travels

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  • Randy

    I traveled this route as a 10 year old stuck in the back seat of a ’75 Suburban. It was 1981 then, and the Alcan highway was about 90% gravel and the gravel roads were in better shape than the paved sections! Our journey from North Dakota to our new home in Homer took 8 long days. Growing up in Homer was unforgettable. Try to make time for halibut fishing, walking the docks at the boat harbor and strolling along Bishops Beach. I will be following your trip with interest.

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  • Lynn

    Hi, I am loving your youtube channel… I live up in Fairbanks. I would recommend you getting the milepost. You do get a lot of ads in there but it tells you by the milepost how far the next gas stations is and every point of interest along the way, which is a fun read. It is definitely worth it, especially since there are long stretches of Canada that don’t have gas stations and you need to be able to plan your gas station stops. I can show you around a bit if you like, or give you some recommendations. We have a few really good breweries that I think you guys would really like. There is Silver Gulch and HooDoo breweries that you need to check out while you are here. Oddly enough, we also have quite a few really good Thai food restaurants among other attractions. Fairbanks also has the Midnight Sun Run, it is 10K starting at 11 pm on June 20th that is uniquely Fairbanks. Enjoy your trip up!

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  • Like you, Suzanne and I will be heading to Alaska in 2015. Our trip starts on May 4th with Stops in Wisconsin, Minn., Mt Rushmore, the Badlands, Wind Cave and Custer SD. Then Yellowstone and Glacier National parks. From there we begin the trip thru Banff, Yoho, Jasper and then Dawson Creek. It is our intention to hit the Alcan sometime around May 27th. However we are keeping an open schedule so we can stay when we find something interesting. EX. The Ice Field Parkway.
    We missed you in Florida but will keep our eyes opened during our travels to Alaska. We are planning to be back in Michigan by the first of August to attend a family reunion. We are traveling in a Fleetwood Storm.
    I have enjoyed you Journals but will never be able to match them during our travels. But we are going to give it a try.
    Safe Travels!
    Bob and Suzanne Moran.

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  • Rick

    Hi Nikki & Jason –
    Wow! Your trip planning is like mine – I want to see everything and I want to see it all! But it just strikes me that you might be just a tad over-ambitious in your route planning in trying to cover so much of the Yukon and Alaska in 1 trip. I know – from reading your blogs for years – how you like to travel, which is to take time to explore and spend some time in each area to go to. I’m afraid that your route looks like A LOT more driving and not so much site seeing.
    Even if you took out the 2 long legs up into the northern reaches of Y.T. and Alaska you have quite a lot to cover. But – you are the experienced, perpetual travelers so I am sure you will make this adventure work for you and will have a fabulous time. Cannot wait to read your many blogs that will come out of this trip.

    Have fun!

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  • Michelle and Bill StClair

    Hi Nikki and Jason! We live on the beautiful emerald island of Kodiak, Alaska. You will be so close to us when you arrive in Homer. You should add the Alaska Marine Highway to your travel plans and head over to our beautiful island. While we don’t have polar bears we have the largest brown bears in the world. There are numerous float plane companies that can take you out for a sightseeing/bear viewing tour. You can take a dinner-cruise, whale watch, or enjoy a beautiful hike. We have 5 local coffee houses (and a Starbucks) and a local roastery. We also have a local-run brewery! There are beautiful places to camp, state parks and wide open spots on the beach. We would love to have you here! Crab dinner on us! My parents are making the trip in their RV from Florida next month arriving in Kodiak mid-May to be camp hosts at one of our state parks, Fort Abercrombie.

    My husband and I follow your blog and enjoy your videos. Looking forward to full-time RV life in 7 years when my husband can retire from the US Coast Guard Fire Department. Kodiak is home to the largest Coast Guard Base. We look forward to meeting you in person!!

    Let us know if you have any other questions!

    Michelle and Bill StClair

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  • Hello Wynn’s!
    I have been following your blog for awhile now, soaking in information and discovering motivation. My husband (Josh) and I are weeks away from purchasing our first RV to live in it full time as I become a traveling physical therapist! And thanks to your blog (and your willingness to share openly!), we feel 100% more confident moving forward into this nomadic lifestyle 🙂
    I received your latest newsletter and was ecstatic to read that you are definitely stopping by Mt. Rushmore on your way to Alaska. I was born and raised in South Dakota, growing up in Custer (southern Black Hills)… about 15 minutes away from Mt. Rushmore. Wind Cave is wonderful, I would also suggest Jewel Cave (it is actually the 3rd longest cave in the world and tends to have better formations and colors compared Wind Cave… but honestly you can’t go wrong between either one!).

    As for other things to do within the Black Hills:
    1. Harney Peak – Altitude is ~7,200 ft once you climb to the top! The hike is moderately difficult but certainly not strenuous. Wonderful view of the entire Black Hills (plus more) once you reach the top. It is also the highest point in the US east of the Rockies so that is kind of cool.
    2. Custer State Park – (I actually worked here for a summer!) Greatest chance for seeing different wildlife (buffalo, big horn sheep, antelope, mountain goats, etc.). Great for cruising through and enjoying the scenery. Also, there are multiple lakes within the park that have fun hiking trails around them.
    3. Keystone – If you’re headed to Mt. Rushmore, you won’t miss this small little town. Fun to just walk the main street (they even stage a fake shootout a few times per day…) and people watch.
    4. Mickelson Trail- Wonderful trail through the Black Hills for bike rides… great opportunity to see off the beaten path scenery (it can get pretty steep at certain parts!)
    5. Deadwood – Historic Deadwood really makes you feel like you have stepped back in time. And if you really have an urge to gamble, this is the place to do it!
    6. Devil’s Tower – This is actually in Wyoming but it is so beautiful it has to be mentioned. Also opportunity for hiking.
    7. Food – My favorite restaurant in Custer is Sage Creek Grille, unique menu and everything is made in house. The pie at The Purple Pie Place is legendary (strawberry rhubarb is their most popular, my favorite is bumbleberry).

    I hope you enjoy the Blacks Hills as much as I enjoyed growing up there. Josh and I will hopefully be headed that direction (in our RV!) in the beginning of June 🙂 Best of luck with your journey to Alaska. And thank you for this wonderful blog!

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    • Wow, thanks for all the great suggestions! Nothing better than tips from a local! So glad you have found some helpful info and hope to see you on the road.

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  • Jacquie

    Love following your travels. We did the Alaska thing last summer. Do see Mt. Rushmore but also see Crazy Horse! Go to MtR first as CH is much larger and made MtR seem very small. Also see the light show at Crazy Horse. You won’t be sorry. Have fun in Alaska and heed everyone’s road hazard warnings.

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  • Russ

    We just picked up our new 2015 Coachmen Prism.
    We will be headed to Alaska, first part of June.
    We have a spot for your rv, in Eau Claire, Wi, on your way.
    Full hook up.
    E-mail us.
    Russ

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  • Hal Lucas

    Trip sounds great! Having been to Alaska three times I can only say the best thing we have ever done anywhere, is to go to Glacier Bay. It is absolutely breathtaking.

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  • On our Alaska/Yukon excursion we took in 2006 we found a rv park in in Seward called Miller’s Landing. It was one of my favorite spots as it sat a little away from main town and was on a point that had the most spectacular view of Resurrection Bay and the mountains surrounding it. We liked it so much we stayed a couple of extra days just to soak in all the beauty.

    I am looking forward to the day we can do this trip again, nothing like it! Safe travels fellow RV’ers.

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  • Brenda Lucas

    There are so many things I want to tell you about travelling through my home province of Alberta. You could spend the entire summer right here and you wouldn’t be disappointed or bored. But, most importantly, I think you should know that Monday, May 18th is a national holiday in Canada and the unofficial start to camping season. That means that camping sites, particularly in our beautiful National Parks of Waterton, Banff and Jasper, will be brimming with folks who are eager to get out and enjoy nature after a long winter of cold and snow. If you plan on camping in Alberta on what we call “May long” be sure to make a reservation to secure a site. I would hate for you to start your epic journey through Canada by spending the night in an overflow parking lot. And, BTW, most folks who go out on May long know that snow is always a possibility.

    The trip you are planning is my dream holiday. I’m hoping to do the same trip in a couple of years with hubby and our 2 cats in our little Class C Motorhome. In the meantime, we try to enjoy trips close to home as much as possible.

    Enjoy the journey – Canada welcomes you!

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  • Dear Jason and Nikki,
    I just wanted to drop you a message to tell you what a fun web site you have.
    I just have a couple questions and thoughts.
    Question #1
    I know you have a few videos about your cameras, a Cannon SLR, a small hand held and a GOPRO or two. What software do you used to edit the videos with? How often do you use the GOPROS?
    Two Suggestions – 1. Can you get a dash cam? It would nice to sometimes see some of the more unusual events that happen while you are driving. 2. Can you get a drone to put a GOPRO on to take your videos to a new height? (Pun intended)
    Question #2
    How many wives to you have?
    The early videos show a beautiful brunette, just look at the ‘Meet Windy Video”. Then there a videos that shows you have a blond wife, and don’t worry, I hold all the blond jokes. Then you go hiking with a redhead. And in another video, you go RV shopping with someone with orange hair. If Nikki ever asks you what you like best as far as her hair, just say ‘Your natural color’. Just my $.02 USD worth.
    Question #4
    Do you ever ask yourself if you and Nikki are doing the right thing?
    If you don’t know it, you are doing the right thing. Travel now while you are young. I am an old guy; my wife dies six years ago. So when I turn 65, I won’t have anybody to travel with. Any you know it’s no fun to travel by yourself. Remember, your wife is the most valuable asset you have. It’s a good thing you are traveling now. If you had waited until you retired to blog about RVing, your web site would have been called http://www.passingwynn.com.
    Question #5
    Why didn’t you take videos of all the places you camped?
    After watching your camp ground videos, all I can say is you do excellent work. It would be nice if you took a 2 ½ minute video of all the places you stayed. Even the video about Wal-Mart was tastefully done.

    Question #6
    What kind of junk food does a pescatarian eat?
    Another section you could add to your web site is ‘Cooking with Nikki’. I, and I think many other people would love to see how one cooks on the road. I would like to see what she cooks and how she cooks it. A 2 ½ minute video would be nice. However, an American town that looked German, it looked like Nikki was going to consume a bratwurst. I almost called 1-800-Cheating-vegetarian to turn her in, but I didn’t.
    However, Jason, I do not feel you will have to invoke a vegetarian intervention.
    Sarcasm When was the last time either of you had fried chicken? /Sarcasm
    Question #7
    How often do you connect and disconnect your tow car?
    I always wondered what was involved in towing a car. I must say, you do educational videos very, very well. The real question is: Would it have been cheaper or easier to put the car on a trailer? What are the pros and cons of each?
    Question # 8
    Have you ever thought about writing an E Book?
    I don’t know how big your photo library is, but it would be nice to read about your adventures. Just write about the highlights about each place would be interesting. A few pictures would make the reading experience more real.
    Question #9
    Why did you decide to get rid of Windy?
    I realized something’s you mentioned, like the size of the water tank, 50 gallons verses 100 in Roy. 2 batteries verses 4 batteries. No washer dryer and a small bed room. Do you use the engine brake much in Roy? Does the small washer dryer work or is it better to use a large washer / dry in a camp ground? What were some other reasons you got rid of Windy?
    Question #10
    What type of protection are you taking to Alaska?
    Just remember, a bear likes fresh food. And anything that moves, a bear or wolf would be considered a potential lunch meal. I am not telling you to take a gun, but do you have pepper spray that can shoot 20 ft and compressed air horns? I am just curious what other people have told you about going north of the boarder?
    I have enjoyed watching your videos and reading the comments on you web site.
    Just remember, there are two ditches on the read.
    One on the right and one on the left.
    Just keep it between the ditches.
    Mark Rabus in St. Louis, MO

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  • A few comments on your trip to Alaska based on our trip in 2009:

    Take your time. Every day there was something to see that made us stop.

    Slow way down for the frost heaves. We saw people driving over them at 55 mph or more. These are the ones that had cracked window glass.

    Buy the 50 cent map of Alaska campgrounds at the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge visitor center right after you enter the State. It was invaluable.

    Don’t worry about reservations at Denali. If you can get into Savage River Campground – great. The park itself is somewhat disappointing. There is as much or more wildlife to see everywhere outside the park – and less crowded. The best view of Mt. McKinley (if it is clear) is from milepost 135 near Talkeetna on the highway to Anchorage.

    I see you are going to Chena Hot Springs. Great trip. You will see more moose per mile on the road from Fairbanks to Chena than anyplace else on your trip.

    In Seward you can dry camp in a city parking lot with your windshield virtually on the water’s edge. Every day we watched otters play, eagles sitting on the pilings and ships of all kinds coming and going. The city offers free dump and water across the street. Much better than any campground. Put these coordinates in Google Earth: 60.106587 -149.434148

    In Homer you can dry camp on a city lot that is right on the water at the base of the spit. Google Earth: 59.631886 -151.495556 The Chamber of Commerce offers a walking tour of Homer. It was fascinating.

    In Valdez you can dry camp for cheap on a city owned lot on the other side of the bay looking across at the lights of Valdez. Google Earth: 61.086649 -146.341323. It is just down the street from a hatchery which has great eagle and bear watching. It’s a short drive in to town.

    You can dry camp along the road in many places. Read the Milepost – it often tells you about nice places to pull off. If they don’t want you camping there – signs will be posted.

    If you want to ride the ferry, try the trip from Haines (where you will want to see the hammer (the device used to drive nails – not somebody’s last name) museum) to Skagway. For two people, a 38 foot motorhome and a Honda toad, the cost was about $250 (2009 prices).

    In Haines we stayed at Oceanview RV Park. When we checked in they asked us how many crabs we wanted at the park crabfeed that night. A little later a boat came in to the dock and they bought fresh crabs and cooked them. Yummy.

    Bears? You will see bears everywhere. Even on the trip up through Canada there were black bears eating berries right along side the road. You could stop and take pictures (from inside the RV) and the bears didn’t care. You will see some grizzly bears but mostly black bears.

    We kept a blog as we went along. Check out the website I provided.

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  • Susan

    If someone hasn’t suggested it already ‘The Milepost’ website and book have detailed info about RV Alaska road trips. We are on Vancouver Island and will likely take a similar (but shorter) trip in our Class B in the next year or two.

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  • Ronald Axt

    We are going to Alaska this summer and leave Ohio the last week of April. Do you have any suggestions on Health insurance for Canada. Is a go pro difficult and is editing hard. We gave up on the idea because it looks veery complicated. Does it make any sense to rent a go pro for a summer.See you in Chicken or somewhere in Alaska.We have a diesel pickup and small fifth wheel camper.

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  • Hi Guys! My dear friend and colleague Erin LaVale tells me that you’re heading our way in the beginning of June, to the Northern Rockies (Fort Nelson & Muncho Lake) during your incredible Alaska adventure!

    I would love to send you a copy of our Mild to Wild Hilking Guide – to provide some good maps with GPS points for the awesome hikes throughout our region that you can stage from at Muncho Lake, or many of the points in between.

    Let me know where I can send it so that I can hook you up!

    Jaylene

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  • Ryan S

    Cool to hear you’ll be in our area in May. We live in central Alberta and I’d like to suggest that you make a stop in Drumheller, AB about a hour North East of Calgary. It’s truly a dinosaur town with lots of things to see and do including the world renowned Royal Tyrell Dinosaur Museum!

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  • Marlin Stevens

    Looking forward to your progress reports. We are planning an Alaska trip beginning in August. Only comments I can offer are 1) get the Alaska Milepost magazine. It truly describes everything milepost by milepost on each and every road. Just ignore the Ads. 2) Do not take the new RV from Dawson City to Chicken over the “Top of the World”. Consider using your toad for that portion of the route. The smart ca may not be the best for that trip. Very close friends of ours made the mistake of taking a 26′ RV over that road. New tires, new windshield, lots of damage underneath – not a fun experience. They have gone back several times since. They always stay in Tok and drive to chicken.

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  • Corinne

    I will be very interested in seeing how your trip progresses. We plan on visiting Alaska in a couple of years (need to wait until our college kids to graduate!). I plan on using your experiences to help plan our trip.

    As for cell phones while in Canada, we visited the Canadian Rockies last fall and tried to get a Canadian cell phone plan before we left. We live fairly close to the Canadian border, so it was easy for us to cross over into Canada before departing and investigate pay-as-you-go plans. It was cost prohibitive and almost impossible if you don’t have Canadian address or credit card.

    What worked best for us was:

    1) If you have Verizon (and I think you do), check with them about the cost of texting to/from Canada. I still have a Verizon unlimited data plan and texting to and from Canada is free. So if I needed to reach someone in the USA, they were a text away. If you have a friend who is always on the computer and is cooperative, texting them to google something for you could substitute for your smart phone (since you will probably have your data turned off).

    2) If on WiFi, Google Voice phone calls to any phone number in the USA and Canada are also free. I made use of that a number of times.

    3) I have an AT&T calling card that I bought at Sam’s Club 10 years ago. It still works, can be reloaded, and is cheap. All you need to do is find a pay phone and a call is pennies a minute.

    4) Finally, WiFi and Skype (or Facetime). Best places for a decent WiFi signal always seemed to be the microbreweries.

    Hope that helps you with your Canadian phone plans!

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  • Jason and Nikki,

    it appears that the only viable lithium batteries at this time are the Smart Battery series. I have these on order, and they have had some recent production issues that have severely impacted delivery times. I don’t know if you’ve ordered yours yet – – thought you’d like to know this info.

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  • Vicki Short

    Thank you so much for doing this!! The timing is perfect as I am planning my 2016 trip and trying to decide whether to ‘RV it’ or ‘drive/lodge it’!! I look forward to seeing/hearing about your adventure.

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  • Caitlyn

    Such a great road trip you have planned! If you can I would recommend coming up to Canada through Glacier Park in Montanna, it is a beautiful drive. There are a few options for crossing over the boarder into Alberta. Depending on where you cross you could stop and camp in Waterton Lakes National Park which is beautiful and has some nice camping, also very good chance of seeing bears in spring, it is just 30mins once you cross the boarder. You could also camp at Writting-On-Stone provincial park and explore Hoodoos (similar to badlands), again just 30mins once you cross the boarder into Alberta. I currently live in Calgary, I don’t think Calgary is a “must-see” in Canada but it may be an opportunity to go out for some nightlife since it is the only major city on your route. There are three breweries here in Calgary (some do tours and tastings), there is also a brewery in Canmore (just outside Banff) called The Grizzly Paw. Rouge is a farm-to-table restaurant here in Calgary, lots of good restaurants in Calgary and venues for live music every week. Out in Banff the Banff Centre puts on outdoor concerts in an ampitheatre from time to time. Look into that when you are passing though. There are tons of great campgrounds just outside of Banff in an area called Kananaskis provincial park, easy to get to with your van but you will still be very much in the mountains. The provincial or national parks are the nicest campgrounds but they also tend to fill up fast in July/August since you can reserve online as early as March. The highway from Banff to Jasper is incredible, don’t miss that. If you need more suggestions for Calgary or hiking and camping in Alberta feel free to shoot me an email. Have a great trip!

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  • Chris

    I used to live and work in Alaska. Wear Xtratuf boots just like the locals. Trip looks fun. Cordova is a fun town if you can make.

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  • I am looking forward toward your Alaska trip coverage, we want to make that journey in a couple years. We cruised the inside passage and did a side trip to Denali, and had a wonderful time but wanted to spend much more time inland. Maybe you’ll be as fortunate as I was at seeing a lynx. While spending our last day in Anchorage waiting for our flight we went looking for Moose as we had not seen any, but instead I was able to capture a photo of a lynx in Goose Lake Park Anchorage

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    • I would say a wild lynx trumps a wild moose but I would happily take both! I can’t believe you managed to get a photo, those cats are crazy hard to capture!

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  • Clayton

    If you make the switch to lithium ion batteries, curious if you know if you can you keep the same RV converter/charger and solar charge controller?

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  • Don

    If you get an opportunity I would highly recommend you visit Whittier. It’s truly a unique town with an interesting history. From there you can also rent kayaks and go on glacier cruises. My son has worked for glacier cruise companies in Whittier during the summer for the last 10 years ( Major Marine Tours the last 4-5 years).
    I plan on making the trip in my RV next year so I’ll definately be following and learning from you as you head north
    Love your site, definately the best out there with tons of information!

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  • Gil Snyder

    So much great information! Here is a question for those with experience which I haven’t found addressed anywhere, not even in tourist literature or the Milepost publication. Passing through Vancouver, BC first, I won’t be “racing” to Anchorage, but not stopping as often as a fulltime RVer. How many miles should one expect to cover in an 8 hour day? Do some folks take mostly highway 97 vs. 37?

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  • Nancy

    Sounds exciting. I love the planning stage. So, I live in Vermont and we can still have snow in mid-May. I am sure others who have done this trip can advise you better. I assume on your list includes: long johns, rain gear head to toe, wool and lots of it – mittens, hats, sweaters, socks, turtle necks, wind breaker, warm jacket, and rain boots. Sounds like what I carry in my trailer to travel around New England.

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  • Jeff Plamann

    I hate to bother you with a question but how do you do the map with the pin drops?

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    • Jeff

      Looks like I answered my own question…..www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aNordAqv_8

      Love the thought of following you on your Alaska trip!

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    • Its a paid plug in called mapify for wordpress but it is super handy!

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      • Zach Laughrey

        Thanks!. I was going to ask the same thing

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  • Marta Cantwell

    Too bad you guys are not swinging by Mendenhall Lake Campground in Juneau, one of the most beautiful campgrounds we’ve seen so far. My husband Michael and I will be hosting there again – we love seeing the glacier every day! Let us know if you alter your plans.

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    • These plans are very loose and we have no idea where we are staying yet so you never know!

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  • Shawn Holten

    I live in Calgary and some of the must see and dos are Stephen Avenue mall, A downtown pedestrian mall with great restaurants, bars and culture. You should also go to Canada Olympic Park. Site of some events from 1988 Winter olympics. They have a great long zipline and bobsled rides. Yes even in the summer!! If you have a day head out to Drumheller for the Royal Terrell Museum. An amazing dinosaur museum!

    When you are in Banff make sure you go to the Banff Springs Hotel. Great spa there too. For camping try the Tunnel Mountain Campground. They will fit your larger RV, (many Banff park campgrounds will not),they also have shuttle buses from the campground to downtown Banff. Also make sure you go to the Cave and Basin hot springs. Don’t forget you will need a Canada parks pass to stop in any Canadian national park.

    Have fun!

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  • Sounds sick guys. Our Class C could never make this trip… thanks for the excuse to upgrade.

    Before you head up there, my son has some tips on bear watching/hunting you may want to check out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jF0IEHWrHIQ&spfreload=10

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  • Susan

    Make sure you have your cats rabies certificates. Not to get into Canada but mostly to get out..

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    • We do keep them up to date and have all of our paperwork at hand. We have crossed into Canada several times with the cats and have never had any issues. We hope this time will be no different.

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  • Sheila

    Hi Jason & Nikki! Here’s a tip….watch the new video by LongLongHoneymoon (loloho):
    “Top 10″ BEAR Safety Tips”. You can never be too prepared when your in Alaska! Can’t wait till you start your trip!

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    • We have actually taken a bear safety course. It was required before we could go on our previous Alaska trip in Glacier Bay. But we do like Sean and Kristy so we will have to check out the video!

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  • Sheila

    Hi! Have you two took any CPR & First Aid classes? If not, that would probably be a good idea before your Alaskian Adventure. It’s always good to be prepared.

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  • Sheila Hagadone

    Hi again, I asked my husband (who works in Prudhoe Bay) and he said “Don’t bother going to Prudhoe Bay unless you are REALLY interested in the oil industry (which I don’t think you are). You fly into Deadhorse, get on a bus and stay on a bus thru Prudhoe Bay (oil city, usa). The motel there is outlandishly expensive! Although neither of us have been to Inuvik, I think you would real enjoy it because Charlie, my husband, says it is an Indian Village (which is ALOT more interesting than oil). Have fun deciding…..I’ll be following you (on the web, anyway) Sheila

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  • Sheila Hagadone

    I was lucky enough to visit Alaska when I worked for Alaska Airlines in the 1990’s. I was going to tell you of a little bar to go to that was in the 1964 9.2 earthquake. It was tilted due to the earthquake but alas, it burnt down. It was called The Birdhouse on Seward Hwy. You can see pictures of it on http://www.roadsideamerica.com/tip/2. I recommend to see Valdez and take the Glacier & Wildlife Cruise through Prince William Sound. There are ALOT of eagles there – like pigeons! I saw killer whales, seals and the glacier “calved” while I was there! (No, it really didn’t have a calf – thats what they call it when a piece breaks off) My husband now worked in Prudhoe Bay. He has seen 3 polar bears in 7 years. I’ll ask him what he thinks when he gets back but I think he’ll say it’s not worth it ESPECIALLY driving. Their summer is in July/August so you’ll need a coat in May. But whatever you do DON’T FORGET THE MOSQUITOE REPELLENT (the state BIRD)!!!

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  • Dan Furlong

    The trip into Whittier is on the one of a kind list. I did it on a motorcycle, I don’t want to say too much…but you need to do it in your RV even if you don’t take the ferry.

    And Whittier is is one of the “strangest” US cities… Again…you need to discover.

    The ferry To Valdez is spectacular, too…But with a Motorcycle…not so much $$$.

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  • GR &Janice Dempsey

    It’s fun to watch you having fun! On the issue of the Milepost; we just about wore ours out on our trip to Alaska in 2010. Not from “coupons”, but knowing what was ahead. It is thorough in keeping you informed about available services and sights along the road. Our favorite was a call out of a road ahead that went up to a tower on the hill to the right. A road to nowhere except to say, “Yes, this is where you are, now go on down the road 50 miles/clicks to the next road!”. The best parts of the adventure are those you stumble upon. Have fun! Life is Good!

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  • Les Young

    We love you website and blog and look forward to following you on your Alaska trip as we plan for ours in 2016.

    Safe travels!

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  • Fred & Fern Faschoway

    Hi Wynns,

    So excited to see your route and plans for your trip north. Something we didn’t realize when we went is that it can get warm in the Yukon and in Alaska. We were there July & August and the temps were as high as 28c I think that’s around 84f. So don’t think its always cold! LOL
    Definately take it slow on the roads up north, we did and had no issues but **** can still happen!
    When you are in Dawson City there is a drive up to a look-out where you can see 360 degree view of the valley, it was beautiful.
    After Lytton you could think about checking out the Okanagan winery trail!!
    We really enjoy reading your posts and following your journey!

    Safe travels,
    Fred & Fern

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  • Pembees

    At the end of your trip from Lytton you should go over to Lillooet and come down to Famous Whistler. You have to travel through Pemberton on the way down and we would love show you the local side of Whistler. Jim and Gail

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      • Pembees

        Well you could stay for a day and go across the Peak to Peak gondola. It is 1 1/2 miles long and 1700 feet high across Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. If your adventurous you can even go on one of the glass bottom gondolas.

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  • Your arrival in Canada in May means you’ll arrive with the first long weekend of the camping season. May 18 is Victoria Day (see our ties to Britian for and explaination). You can always tell the holiday is upon us here in Alberta, in the days leading up to it motorhomes and campers pop up in driveways like dandelions on a new lawn! The campgrounds will be busy no matter what the weather (which can be sunny & warm or snowing) becasue of our short season everyone is out. But definitely come on up you’ll love it here.

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  • Someone has already suggested the drive between Banff/Lake Louise and Jasper (Alberta). I would definitely recommend this in either direction, although there is something more adventurous about heading North on it.

    Going up or back you might want to consider the ferry from Prince Rupert on the BC mainland to Port Hardy on Vancouver Island (or vice-versa. In prime summer season it will set you back about $1100 CDN which is about $50 US (LOL). It gives you a very different perspective seeing the coast from the water. Northern Vancouver Island is rustic to boondocking wild.

    If the cost gets too high just arrange to make more money at the Abbotsford RV show at the end of September where you are always loved. Being able to talk with authority all about the Alaska Run will be a big draw.

    Cheers,
    Roger

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  • Scott and Tammy Cissel

    Thanks for the newsletter. My wife and I have enjoyed keeping up with your travels and watching the development of all your media marketing. You recently posted that you ran into the good people of Long Long Honeymoon down in Florida. I can’t help but remember their video about taking their Airstream to Alaska and although enjoyed the adventure a great deal, that trip beat the rivets out of the Airstream and the rv required a lot of work upon their entry back into the lower 48. Thinking that you guys are getting a new RV, I was wondering how many fellow travelers you run into (other than LoLoho’s) that have had a severely rough experience in Alaska with regard to the health of their RV. Was the experience for the Michaels and their Airstream a rare one? If not, how does that effect your decision about potential travel in Alaska, when you have such an investment in your rv and equipment? Thanks and keep up the entertaining and hard work. We enjoy it all.

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  • Also planning a Alaskan trip for 2016. Although we have flown up to North Pole many times to visit family, a RV trip next year is the first “to do” item in my upcoming retirement. Can’t wait. Will be following your blog very carefully. Our last visit (Aug 2013) Verizon had just come into the Fairbanks / North Pole area. Reception (data & voice) was very good I felt. (3G). While not full timers or big rig owners, our hybrid trailer will see many stops alternating between boon-docking, sis-n-laws driveway and campgrounds. Especially liked you article on portable solar a year ago. Debating between the 80 or 120 watt set-up. Go Power

    From driving the roads between Denali, Valdez, Circle, Chena Hot Springs I feel they are very manageable. Just watch out for the frost heaves. Even the gravel roads we took to Circle (in a car) we managed 40 – 50 mph. Just slow down when you see on coming traffic, and hope they slow down too.

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  • Hi Nikki & Jason! Hubby and I just love your channel! You guys certainly have a talent for providing incredibly useful information in a very entertaining format. We are relatively new to the RV lifestyle, but we are easing into it with our Navion IQ, “Mitzi.” We just started day-dreaming a bit about going to Alaska next year. This planning information is AMAZING!!! And, I am blown away by all the helpful comments. Thank you so much for providing this flood of invaluable info! Deb (aka Ms.Strider)

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  • Mark Elliott

    Unless you have your hearts set on visiting Calgary I’d suggest you stay on I-90 to Coeur d’Alene Idaho and head north from there on US 95 through Sandpoint and continue on Canada 95 north through Fairmont Hot Springs then turn east at Radium Hot Springs on Canada 93 to TC Hwy 1 to Banff and Lake Louise and points north. I drove this route years ago in a loop around BC and it was my favorite part of the journey…

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  • Ann

    Cool, Alaska! Lots of long gravel roads!

    One thing I’ve experienced with long gravel road trips are flat tires…one time I had two on one fifty mile stretch.

    With that in mind, are you going to upgrade your tires and if so, to what? Will you be carrying more than one spare tire?

    One tip I’ve always heard though: Reduce your speed! Slower you go the less chance of a flat. Are you figuring longer drive times for your Alaska adventure? (i.e. no faster than 35 MPH?)

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  • Marcia Julian

    I’m new to your site, so not up to speed yet on which questions/topics have been exhausted. Regarding the Milepost; we used it on our nine week AK trip and found it VERY valuable. We would not make the trip again without the latest version.
    I agree the coupon book is for tourist destinations for the most part.

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  • Deb S

    Such an exciting trip! I look forward to watching your trip unfold. I went to AK many years back and still marvel at just how enormous everything was. Gives new meaning to “Big Sky”. Late one night, I drove down to Exit Glacier & Seward. I got there around 10:30 pm near solstice. Wondered if it was smart/ safe to be visiting that late at night, and was shocked to find a half-full parking lot. I also went up to Denali and took my chances at finding a tent site–heard lots of warnings about needing advance reservations, or waiting days for a site to open up. Not only I’d I get a campsite, but had the entire campground to myself. Just me and the two bears a couple miles downriver. It was a long sleepless night in my little tent! The weather can change multiple times an hour in early June, dress appropriately. The 93 mile bus ride was well worth it and we were extraordinarily lucky to see the mountain. I wish I had taken the time to visit Talkeetna, scenery was supposed to be fantastic from there too.
    Icefields Parkway Calgary to Jasper that fall was scenic, but hard to venture too far from the main highway.
    Enjoy!!!

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  • Ed Snoke

    You’ve put together a great itinerary. Love following your escapades and plan on doing this trip again next year, so looking to see how your goes.

    Lived in Anchorage in the early 70’s and have driving up/back 5 times. Some thoughts, take them or leave them:

    • Leaving in May is a good time to start your trip. The earliest I have ever left was March and didn’t have any trouble (the snow makes a great road base).
    • The Going to the Sun highway will be closed in Glacier NP, but it is a great park
    • Get some really good bug repellant (lots of DEET). There are about 27 different species of mosquitoes up there and the small ones are the worst (you tend to breath them in. So even a head net wouldn’t be a bad idea. You just don’t know when you may run into them (they are so loud, they can sound like a turbo prop plane) and you can’t get away from them.
    • Don’t waste your money on chains. They are hard to put on and if you really need them, you shouldn’t be driving.
    • The drive to Valdez is a great drive and you should camp at Blueberry lake camp ground at the top of Thompson pass.
    • I’ve taken the ferry before and it’s great, but would suggest opting for a whale tour out into Prince William Sound and the Columbia Glacier.
    • You should plan a side trip to Chitina (they have these fish wheels there and they do dip netting) which is on the way to Valdes. Camping at Lincoln Falls or Cooper Landing.
    • A flight over to Katmai National Park and Preserve will give you the greatest Bear viewing. You can fly out of Anchorage or Homer. What a trip!
    • Bear spray give a false sense of security. Be alert and make lots of noise is a better option.
    • If your RV has air breaks, then you may already have a built-in Tire Air Pump (check it out).
    • Spare Tire and Tools to change Tires are a must. Checkout Harbor Freight for a long (24 inch) breaker bar), extension ,sockets and a bottle jack.

    Have a great trip.
    ED

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  • Have you considered how to get internet access along the way?

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  • Patricia

    You have to make a stop at Chicken, Alaska. Very friendly people and it is fun. You take the Top of the World Highway to get there and the road can be a little rough, depending, on the time of year. But , then that is like most roads in Alaska. We bought a postcard that says , We travelled the Alaskan Highway and lived. I keep it on my fridge as a reminder. 🙂
    Also go to Skagway- It is amazing. Looking forward to reliving our adventure there through you guys. Take care and blessing to you both. Patricia

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  • Terrance

    I’d forget boondocking in Canada. You’d have to go up some iffy logging roads to find any, unlike the U.S. i can speak to float flying in Western Canada but your right it’s pricey. Northern Lights are a winter thing best observed above the 60th parallel when it’s 50 below.

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    • Sally

      UNtrue. All along the Canadian highway to Alaska there are pullouts. Everywhere. So, you just need to pullover, stay the nite, and then get right back on the highway. Simple as that. Same in Alaska.

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  • Karen

    Hello Wynns. I heard you mention you may want to see Mt Rushmore. We left Denver on May 10, 2014 w/rain predicated the whole way. Stopped for the night in Scottsbluff NE Walmart. (Very friendly) All weather reports said rain the rest of the way so we took off. About 2.5 hrs north the rain turned to sleet, then snow. At points, the snow was so deep it was near the bottom of our travel trailer. No where to get off, hard to see, 20 mph max. The weather that time of year can be 70’s or low 30’s and can change very quickly. We finally made it through, but it was very hard on the nerves. Stayed at the KOA Mt Rushmore. Excellent. Very few campers, Nat. Forest hiking trails across the road and only 6 mile drive to the monument. I think there were 12 of us visiting that day so it was a great time to go. Best wishes, safe travels, and we look forward to watching your adventure to Alaska. On our bucket list for 2016.

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  • Tristan Jones was a great sea going person that would protect his boat with spreading tacks on the deck of his boat when he left it and most of all had a bow and arrow kit. archery is not really dangerous as a gun nor against the law. It can come in handy for reasons of protection. I am against guns, But bears and lord knows what e;se archery is an art hobby that also allows for protection. Read Triston’s book- one hand for yourself and one for the boat.

    amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=archery+supplies&tag=mh0b-20&index=sporting&hvadid=21442669&ref=pd_sl_6am59cnlz0_e

    just an idea? wikipedia.org/wiki/Tristan_Jones

    best of luck and best regards Mickey 🙂

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  • Connie

    Ahhh! We are from S.E. Ak! Juneau if full of mining history! And you must explore Prince of Wales Island!
    If you find yourself headed to Seward… stop in and visit our friends Virgil & Dawn at IRBI knives just out of Moose Pass. Tell them hi from Mark & Connie.
    Safe travels to you!

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  • Randall Payne

    Thank you for doing this. My wife and I are very excited for you. Our Alaska trip is planned for 2016.
    Yes, on skipping the tour saver, having followed you since your Travel Channel show, it does not appear to be your style.
    We have been using the Mile Post for a lot of our planning. Both the paper back and the digital form. Yes, there is to much advertising, but they also cover in great detail , road conditions, where to park, what not to miss for scenic – views/overlooks. The digital form is included with purchase. The digital form has incorporated web links. This part I love. Not much money for our trip of life time. (There is even links to Bush pilots, but it might be the tourist thing, not sure about that one.)

    We look forward to watching your adventure unfold with the planning and execution. Also, my wife is wanting see to how you have set up the decor of your soon to be delivered new motorhome. We are hoping and praying you have no delays there.
    Thanks again, Randy and Myong

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  • Bruce

    Just a though and maybe a little side trip into Prince Rupert BC, It’s the last little town in Canada before you head back into the States,
    Loaded with fantastic restaurants on the coast, great little pubs and a Halibut and Salmon fishery that will satisfy anybody. A few years ago I hooked a 77 lb Halibut that provided an Epic fight and many mouth watering meals.
    Great little town to visit,,, Just for the Halibut

    Have a Great Trip

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  • Joanne

    You’re describing and planning my dream trip which I think is still three years away. I really enjoyed and appreciated getting to see your early planning and will continue to watch your trip come to reality. Thanks so much for sharing these blogs!

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  • Love it! Can’t wait to hear all about your grand adventure, presented in a way that only you two can show it. The only sad part (for us) about your itinerary is that we’ll be down around New Mexico in September… right around the time you come south through the Fraser Valley. 🙁

    We are determined to re-connect with you again at some point. Safe travels.

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  • Mike Welch

    In 1984 I drove my 77 Dodge Van from Seattle to Fairbanks. We used the Milepost and thought it was a great book. The book gave mile by mile detail and we found places to stop that we would have never thought of. We carried two spare tires, and had to use them both (When we traveled on the “Top of the World road”). When they are improving roads they will: 1. Blast 2. Clear the rock with a big Cat 3.Then wave you through. The blades on the Cats will, at times, shred off pieces, and these pieces will destroy tires. Even the main roads, in 1984, had many chuck holes and it is not a relaxing trip. Would I do it again? Yes, Yes, Yes…On the return trip we caught the ferry in Skagway and took it to Prince Rupert, with a stop in Juneau.

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  • Dennis Keppner

    Suggest skipping Prudhoe unless dead set on going and if so, plane is bettter. Palmer – wow the produce! Valdez is worth it though we’re fans of Cordova more (just can’t drive there). Unique stuff: Halibut Olympia, the Prince William Sound shrimp, beer batter rock fish. May want to research the Chitna Bluegrass festival if that’s your thing.

    Envy you!!

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  • Wow, so much to plan. We can help, starting with the Dalton, it is amazing but BRUTAL. You will have so many new rattles in your rig and will regret it.
    We can also help with many of the fishing and sporting. We live in Seward and I’m a captain.
    There is too much advice to give over a comment text box.

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  • Hey guys. I’d split this trip in 2 to make sure i have enough time to see everything. Alaska and the Canada. Otherwise you have 2-3 days top in each place otherwise you are running out of time before snow. My idea of RVing is taking it really slow, so for hiking somewhere size of Zion park or Canyonlands I’d plan at least a week and likely to stay longer. I’ve done many trips on the motorcycle going crazy on the schedule and it’s not fun (well, it is, but could be much more interesting if I stayed longer in some places)

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  • Helen

    Hey Wynns. Have you considered stopping by Drumheller, Alberta? It’s considered the world capital for dinosaurs. Check out http://www.traveldrumheller.com.

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    • al

      I’ll second that, was going to suggest it myself. Also Wells gray provincial park

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  • Lynne

    Hey there you two, I’m a little puzzled … I’ve been following you guys for a couple of years now and being the techies that you are and having a newer rig & about to pickup your new rig in March do they not have tire monitors built-in?

    If not, here’s something similar to what we use for our truck & trailer combined …
    amazon.com/TireTech-TP7004-Wireless-Monitoring-Transmitters/dp/B00HAI1LF8/ref=sr_1_3?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1422175209&sr=1-3&pebp=1422175226806&peasin=B00HAI1LF8

    The cost is based on your sensors for your tires, and you should be able to use this device for your toad as well. I’m assuming your motorhome as 6 tires & your toad 4 = 10 sensors.

    We live in Calgary, east of Banff. We haven’t done the drive to Alaska yet, but will be following you closely!! We haven’t done much boondocking in Canada, so I can’t help there. Be prepared for some awesome scenery up here, I know you’ll be amazed. If I can help in any way, just drop me an email. Cheers and when you get here … Welcome to Canada, eh!! 🙂

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  • dan

    Prudhoe bay trip and invuk can destroy your vehicle. If it rains, you better plan on camping on the side of the road for a few days because It turns to quicksand.

    That being said, your chances of seeing a polar bear are almost 0%. It’s too warm in the summer in Prudhoe bay for then to come into town. They go miles and miles out onto the ice to find seal during summer. I second Banf and Jasper. Also Haines is awesome. On the way up to alaska, everybody who owns land has a campground. So it’s easy to find camping. I’ll be leaving mid April from San Diego with my travel trailer to head up to AK. I’ll be doing it in about 21 days to get up there with many stops alongg the way.

    Last summer I rode my motorcycle to Prudhoe bay. I left at the end of May. It was actually warm the entire way up. You can check it my blog from the trip. I hit a lot of spots you have planned.

    http://Www.DanRidesADucati.com

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  • Parker

    I’m going to second Dave and Chad’s comments about the Dalton Highway and Prudhoe Bay. It’s an incredible journey, but the road conditions aren’t suited for an RV or smart car, and service stations are few and far between.

    Getting there aside, Deadhorse is a dry town (that’s right, booze is illegal!) whose sole purpose is to provide accommodations for the oilfield workers of Prudhoe Bay, so there’s not really a whole lot to see or do. The only way to see the Arctic Ocean is through a guided tour, which you’ll need to arrange well in advance.

    I’m not trying to discourage you from going– in fact, I highly recommend that you do! Just get there safely and plan ahead. If you *do* head up the Dalton Highway, grab some reindeer sausage from the trucker’s cafe at the Coldfoot Camp. You know, just to say that you did!

    As far as the rest of Alaska, try and stop by Skagway if it’s on your way. If you can arrange it, I would also recommend grabbing a plane to either Nome or Barrow if you want a true Arctic experience.

    Be safe, and HAVE FUN! 😀

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  • Pat Stanton

    We did the ferry from Haines to Skagway. Was reasonable and a good experience. We also did a day trip on the ferry to Juneau.

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  • Jimmy and I will be following your Alaska posts, as we’re considering a Northern Exposure trip ourselves, but, in the planning dept, you guys are way ahead of us!

    A couple of notes: The Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper is worth every dollar of gas, even if you’ve already done it. Jasper has some great hiking and kayaking. We were in the lucky third who were treated to a spectacular view of Denali when we were there. A paddle on Byers Lake out of Talkeetna was exceptional and be sure to stop by Nagley’s Store in Talkeetna.

    So many places, so little time!

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  • Michael Lund

    My wife and I are long time residents of AK. We hunt, fish, camp, bike, and do just about everything else.

    Shoot me an email (or look me up on facebook and send a message), and we would be happy to help with logistics or questions, etc.

    And we camp in Denali 3-4 times a year. With our camper. We can give you the details that took us about 5 years to learn, and help with getting the best out of the park.

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  • Definitely go between Banff and Jasper on your way up. Marvelous real estate along there, for sure! Hike the short hike to Bow Lake overlook.

    In Alaska, check out the city camping at the marina. You literally pull up to the waters edge. And eat salmon at Ray’s in Seward. Yum! Also, try to time it so you take in the Moose Dropping Festival in Talkeetna.

    Have fun!

    Jim

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    • Sally

      We camped in Seward at the marina. Great view to wake up to!

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  • Hi from the Quartzsire RV show. They have a booth here called the “Ultimate Road Trip” hosted by many of our fine northern Canadian providences and Alaska. Might some additional resources for your planning. northtoalaska.com

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  • Jill

    On your way from Denali to Anchorage stop by Talkeetna. The Talkeetna Roadhouse is has wonderful cinnamon buns and across the street is Denali Brewing.You can also arrange a sightseeing flight out of Talkeetna. Research carefully – we were scheduled to go but the plane we were to be on got stranded on the mountain due to fog, the day before. They were up there for like 4 or 5 days! In Anchorage, hike Flattop Mountain – Great views of the city. You will see whales, puffins, sea otters, eagles, and other wild life on the boat out to the Kenai Fjords glaciers. While there go to Exit Glacier. I’m envious…can’t wait to get back to Alaska!

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  • We’re also in the planning stages for our Alaska trip this summer. I actually graduated from Ben Eielson High (Go Ravens!!) right outside of Fairbanks and attended UAF. I still have some fellow Ravens that live in both Fairbanks and Anchorage so I’ll see if I can help with some “to-do’s” (restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, etc.). Oh, and Denali is the BEST.

    I was 16 when I (along with the parents) made the trip up from Southern CA to Fairbanks. The Alcan wasn’t fully paved yet. We tent camped the whole way. I was 22 when I made the drive back down to Socal…and tent camped as well. Really good times.

    Drove up to the Arctic Circle on the Dawson Highway in a little Plymouth Sundance…somehow managed not to get a flat tire. We’re contemplating if we want to attempt it in the Jeep since it’s at least a 4×4 and has more aggressive tires.

    Anyway, seeing as I’m 44 now, it’s been a looooong time since I was up that way. I do remember the Milepost being handy at the time (you can literally read what is coming up and if you might think it’s worth stopping before you accidentally pass it by) but maybe it’s different now. I just know that it was handy when it came to finding gas stations or places to eat as well as a nifty hot springs to stop at (Liard Hot Springs). But now we have smart phones so maybe it would be redundant.

    Anyway, thanks for posting this..it will most definitely make our planning a whole lot easier. =)

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  • Hey Folks,

    We absolutely LOVE your website – – as it happens, we also are planning an Alaskan trip, this year, with a May departure. We also will be gone for 4 months.

    We’ve been lightly planning this for a year now, but are really getting down to brass tacks this month (talked to some folks at Quartzite). We might swap some ideas and tips with you over the next few months as we all make our plans.

    G.

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  • Julio & Anna-Lisa

    Jason & Nikki,

    Nothing like the experience from those who have done an Alaska trip in an RV. Can’t help you guys there but perhaps the link below may be useful for general information. We’ll be following your adventures for sure.

    A couple of days ago I received a government letter promoting travel to the state of Alaska and offering a free travel guide and planner (also available online right away after registering).

    In case you have not received it, follow this link and check out this site to help plan your Alaska adventure.

    https://www.travelalaska.com/Planners/Planner.aspx

    Safe travels!

    Julio & Anna-Lisa

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  • Julio & Anna-Lisa

    Jason & Nikki,

    Nothing like the experience from those who have done an Alaska trip in an RV. Can’t help you guys there but perhaps the link below may be useful for general information. We’ll be following your adventures for sure.

    A couple of days ago I received a government letter promoting travel to the state of Alaska and offering a free travel guide and planner (also available online right away after registering).

    In case you have not received it, follow this link help plan your Alaska adventure.

    https://www.travelalaska.com/Planners/Planner.aspx

    Safe travels!

    Julio & Anna-Lisa

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  • Sally

    I don’t know the official rules/laws, but we have pulled off the side of the road to sleep all over canada and alaska.

    The most beautiful drives were to Valdez (try to be there during the Gold Rush Festival), a little town we fell in love with, and the drive from Haines Junction to Haines. We took the ferry from Haines to Skagway so didn’t have to do the drive. But when we got to Skagway, there were SIX cruise ships there.

    If you can be in Fairbanks during summer solstice, be there.

    I would recommend going to Seward …which I would do over going to Homer, if you need to cut something/prioritize.

    There seemed to be a town big enough for a gas station every 4 hours of driving (our camper van gets 18 mpg), unsure how big your tank is or what mileage you get, but be aware of the gas situation. We saw people parked/sleeping at gas stations, waiting for them to open in the morning. We went to one station that had run out of gas…quickly got to another right before it closed.

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  • Chad

    I wouldn’t attempt the Dalton Hwy either with the Smart or the RV… Its not an easy treck unless you have 4wd or an old truck

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    • Sally

      Chad is correct. NOT for RVs.

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  • The Denali national park has mandatory bus usage in the park. You must buy tickets in advance. I’m including a link to a travel blog that encountered poor communication of these requirements.

    http://everywhereonce.com/2013/12/13/denali-bad-and-good/

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  • JF

    Hey guys, we are from Whitehorse, We did the drive up and down many times, and went to different parts of Alaska too.

    The BC provincial parks are beautiful on the drive up north. Our favorites are Summit Lake and Liard HotSprings on the Alaska highway (on the way up) and Meziadin Lake on the Stewart-Cassiar Highway (for your drive back down south).

    In the Yukon, territorial campgrounds offer dry camping (but free wood for fires) for $12 a night. Some are really close to the main road, some require you to do some dirt road driving. I highly recommend Army Beach (Marsh Lake) as it is close to town, but not too much, Kusawa Lake and Congdon Creek campgrounds on the Alaska Highway.

    The drive from Whitehorse to Skagway is an absolute must, as is the stop in Carcross for the history of the place and the amazing coffee shop! If you are into mountain biking and hiking, there are many options from there.

    The train ride from/to Skagway is beautiful too. If you have the time, take 3-4 days and hike the Chilkoot Trail for the full experience of the Gold Rush.

    Back in the Yukon, Dawson City is also a great place. Another must is the Tombstone Territorial Park, about 50 miles up the Dempster highway. Driving the entire way to Inuvik with your coach is probably not the smartest thing to do, but is possible. Stopping at Tombstone will give you an idea of the northern wilderness (check out our post regarding this place : http://www.roaditup.com/blog/2014/8/18/hiking-the-tombstone)

    As for the Alaska side of things, Haines is one of our favorite. Chilkoot Lake State Rec Area campground is beautiful, as is also Chilkat State Park.

    The Top of the World Highway (unpaved) from Dawson to Tok offers some spectacular views, with the stop in Chicken, which is more touristy than anything…

    The Kenai Peninsula offers a lot to see, from Seward to Homer. Going all the way to the Homer Spit is the classic trip. You won’t be disappointed if you like halibut and king crab…

    I am going to stop here (sorry for the extra long comment), but we still haven’t seen it all ourselves after all this time… too many things to see and do.

    Mid May is perfect to drive up, you will get to experience the days getting longer and longer up to the solstice. Be warned for 21-22 h days of sunlight at the peak! No need for headlamps, ever!

    p.s. There are also many RV parks along the way offering hookups if you need to…

    Enjoy!
    JF

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  • Gayla Lindquist

    We have driven twice to AK, once the end of October, once the end of July. We loved the Milepost! Like the old AAA Triptik, it tells what the terrain is, what to look for. Buy an old own in a used bookstore, tear out the parts you don’t want. Just enjoy!

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  • Dave

    Most of the things you want to do should be fine. I would absolutely *not* take your RV or Smart up the Dalton Hwy. (aka, the Haul Road) to Prudhoe Bay. The road is gravel, and not always the greatest condition. Some parts are up to 12% grade. You will likely damage the RV and/or car doing it. If you really want to do it, then see if you can rent a 4WD in Fairbanks and go that way. There are not many places to stay along the way, and lodging and fuel are crazy expensive.

    But, the rest of Alaska is incredible, and you will have an absolute blast. I will say that if you want to take ‘guided side trips’, sometimes the best way to do it is to make no plans and just show up, but be flexible. If you book these trips through someone else they can be silly expensive. Often, the best deal can be had right on the spot.

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  • Bob Behrner

    Hello Wynns

    May 15 Start Date – We left Minnesota May 19 and hit Canadian Customs at Coutts, Alberta (I-15 in Montana) on May 21. We’re thinking if we went again we would leave a week earlier so you’re right in there at the right time. It’s a good time to go; we were ahead of the hordes heading north and didn’t have any trouble finding places to camp. We stayed mostly in RV parks as we aren’t well versed in boon docking yet. We also saw a lot of wildlife along the road so that was great.

    Camp inside Denali National Park – We hit Denali NP on June 16 and called to make reservations just the day before we got there and there were plenty of sites at Riley Creek Campground right by the park entrance. We only stayed two nights though so that might have made a difference.

    We were in Fairbanks over summer solstice and as it looks like you’ll be there then too, you might want to consider attending the Fairbanks Goldpanners base ball game. They have played a midnight game on June 21 for the last 100 years or so and have never turned the lights on yet! The game starts at 10 PM. It was cloudy and rainy when we were there but it was fun and they didn’t turn the lights on!

    We took the Ferry from Haines to Skagway to say we did it, it was only 13 miles on the water but it was fun with beautiful scenery. I think it was $230 for the two of us and our 46’ of truck and trailer.

    I’m sure you’ll get plenty of advice but that’s some info we can pass on to you.

    Have a great trip!

    Bob and Nancy
    Minnesota

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    • Hey, thanks so much for sharing!!! This is great insight!

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  • andrea

    I can recommend Banff, Alberta if you’re passing that way. We camped there all the time when I was kid (admittedly many years ago!) but back in the 80’s it was beautiful. I know Lake Louise is still considered stunning.

    If you’re ever coming back through Washington, I highly recommend Orcas Island (you can take the ferry from Anacortes). We went there in June and saw the oldest living Orca whale, Granny and many, many others during our small whale watching tour. It was amazing. It’s a cute little town to spend a day or two and Island Hoppin’ Brewery is a good time too. It’s also a great place for a kayak adventure.

    Someday we will make it up to Alaska. Until then, I can’t wait to see your pictures. It’s bound to be unforgettable.

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  • Hey! I am a long-time reader of your blog and I live in Juneau, AK. I’ve done the trip a few times (never in an RV) and have had some cool experiences. Also, I am in the Lower 48 for a job contract until May and will be doing the drive again around the same time as you guys. I’d love to answer any/all of your questions! Send me an email if you’re interested! 🙂

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