Beyond Your Dreams
Within Your Reach
Official State Vacation Guide
Trav elAlas ka. c o m
1
if you’re looking for the perfect escape
Discover Alaska
Within Your Reach Low Tide, Homer
ALASKA IS YOURS TO EXPLORE You’ve dreamed of an Alaska vacation. Now you can make those dreams real. In these pages, you’ll find a gold mine of helpful advice — and facts that prove an unforgettable Alaska vacation can be yours right now. Check out the sample itineraries beginning on page 24 and see how much of Alaska you can experience in seven days or fewer. Learn how easy it is to get here. See how simple it is to get around on your own or with a group. Read about average costs — and how to save money. With all of these facts at your fingertips, the Alaska vacation of your dreams is truly within reach. And more help is as close as your phone or computer. The trip of your dreams starts here.
TravelAlaska.com www.ReachAlaska.com
Brown Bear
Hiker, Kodiak
Your trip starts here...
1
Trip-Planning Distance Guide
2160
Coeur d’Alene
2578
Dawson City Edmonton
Skagway
Tok
226
126
832
328
304
Whitehorse
Seward
775
Valdez
Homer
358
724
Anchorage
185 2038 1687 2386 2286 1544 1832 2086 1436
Calgary
2165
603 2456 2105 2804 2704 1962 2250 2504 1854
Coeur d’Alene
418 185
Haines
515 1975
418 1747
515 1747 2165 1975
Edmonton
Dawson City
Coeur d’Alene
2160 2578
Calgary
The MILEPOST®
Fairbanks
Anchorage
Calgary
Anchorage
MILEAGE CHART
1562
603 1562
393
578
741
641
435
187
441
327
1853 1502 2201 2101 1359 1647 1901 1251
Fairbanks
358 2038 2456
393 1853
Haines
775 1687 2105
578 1502
653
Homer
226 2386 2804
741 2201
584 1001
Seward
126 2286 2704
641 2101
484
901
Skagway
832 1544 1962
435 1359
710
359 1058
958
Tok
328 1832 2250
187 1647
206
447
554
454
504
Valdez
304 2086 2504
441 1901
364
701
530
430
758
254
Whitehorse
724 1436 1854
327 1251
602
251
950
850
108
396
653
Dawson City Edmonton
584
484
710
206
364
602
Fairbanks
1001
901
359
447
701
251
Haines
173 1058
554
530
950
Homer
958
454
430
850
Seward
504
758
108
Skagway
254
396
Tok
650
Valdez
173
650
Whitehorse
Approximate driving distances in miles between principal points by the most direct overland routes. (Marine access routes are not included here.) © The MILEPOST (www.themilepost.com) used with permission.
Salcha Limited Access
Lake Louise
LAKE CLARK NAT’L PARK & PRESERVE
Hope
Hoonah/Icy Strait Point Tenakee Springs
U.S.
Coffman Cove
AK
Alaska in relation to contiguous U.S.
4
www.ReachAlaska.com
Trip Planning
HERE ARE THREE BASIC CHOICES TO HELP GUIDE YOUR TRIP PLANNING.
in 3 Easy Steps
Alaska is within your reach. And we’re here to walk you through all the key steps of trip planning. We’ll help you determine the best way to get here, how to get around and what to do. By the time we finish, you’ll have all you need to start planning your perfect Alaska adventure.
Dog Mushing
1. Choose Your Season Peak Season
Shoulder Season
Mid-May to Mid-September
Early May, Late September and October
This is when most of Alaska’s visitors travel. The days are longest, the temperatures warmest. Some activities or accommodations may be available only during this season.
There are fewer visitors in May, September and October. This is when you’re likely to find discounts on travel and activities. The weather in the shoulder season is often very mild.
Fall Foliage, Denali National Park
Winter November to April
River Rafting
4
TravelAlaska.com
If you want to see the northern lights, go skiing or snowshoeing, attend Fur Rendezvous, watch ice carving competitions or share the excitement of championship sled dog races, then winter is the season for you.
Northern Lights
5
2. Set Your Trip Length
3. Determine Your Travel Style
If you have a week, you have enough time for a thrilling, memorable Alaska vacation. Almost any itinerary (see pages 24 to 33 for examples) can be adapted to match the amount of time you have. And with a wide variety of activities and tours to choose from, planning your perfect itinerary is easy.
Do you like to “get away from it all” or do you travel to meet new people? Do you like a firm itinerary or prefer a flexible, relaxed schedule? Knowing your personal travel style will make it easier to recognize the trip-planning choices that are best for you.
Here are some possible foundations for your travel plans.
If you like to...
7 days • Fly to and from Alaska and spend most of your time exploring. • Focus on one area of the state and take a variety of shorter trips around that area. • Rent a car or RV and discover Alaska’s unique roadside communities. You’ll get a chance to meet friendly people, see wildlife and view unforgettable scenery. Stop where you want, for as long as you want.
Then your travel style is...
Make all your own arrangements, change your itinerary during the trip, react to special opportunities as they happen
Independent
Let someone else design the itinerary and arrange all details (hotels, transportation, activities, meals, etc.) and prefer to pay in advance for your vacations
Package
7 to 14 days • Fly round-trip to Alaska or fly one way and take a cruiseship or state ferry in the other direction.
ALASKA ADVICE
• If you plan to travel by sea, add a few shore excursions to experience adventures such as flightseeing, kayaking, walking tours, guided rafting and fishing trips.
Don’t attempt too much on your first trip. About 40 percent of visitors each summer have been here before. Even lifelong Alaskans haven’t seen and done everything.
• Add land-based day trips and tours to your itinerary. • Include a rail trip. • Plan on one low-key day for every two days of intensive touring. • Plan a one- or two-day visit to an Alaska “Bush” community for in-depth discovery of Alaska history and Native culture.
14 days or more • Combine two 7-day itineraries. • Travel to and from the state using different methods of transportation. • Drive to and from Alaska in your own car or RV and see several regions of the state by road, adding occasional flightseeing trips, land-based tours and day cruises. • See more than one region. • Take a few days to visit the “Bush” for explorations of Gold Rush history or Native culture. • Take a motorcoach tour from the Lower 48 and allow the tour operators to handle all the details for you.
Fishing
with more mountains than buildings
6
TravelAlaska.com
Alaska’s sweeping landscape will amaze you 7
Getting
BY AIR, SEA OR LAND
to Alaska
The 49th state is an amazing place, where caribou outnumber people (by nearly 2 to 1) and aquamarine glaciers are more common than motorhomes. But even though Alaska is different from any place on earth, getting here is easy. You can be here in just a few hours. In fact, you could be here tomorrow.
Alaska Marine Highway
Approximate Flight Times
Flying: Fast, Easy Flying to Alaska is as easy and affordable as flying to many familiar vacation spots. More than a dozen airlines offer service to Alaska. Direct flights are available from a number of U.S. and international cities. WHO
Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, JetBlue, US Airways, Frontier, Sun Country and United Airlines offer regularly scheduled service. There are also a number of charters that fly providing service to Alaska.
WHERE Fly to one of Alaska’s major airports in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau or Ketchikan, with connecting flights to other communities
8
WHEN
Year-round
WHY
• Spend less time getting here and more time vacationing • Get discounts by booking early or looking for online specials • Direct and easy access to a wide variety of travel opportunities
TravelAlaska.com
To Alaska (in hours) Not including layovers Atlanta Boston Chicago Dallas Denver Detroit Houston Las Vegas Los Angeles Miami Minneapolis New York City Newark Phoenix Portland Salt Lake City St. Louis San Francisco Seattle Washington, D.C.
Anchorage
Fairbanks
Juneau
7 7 5.5 7 5 7.5 7 5 5.25 9.5 5.25 7 6.5 5.5 3.25 4.5 6.5 4.5 3 8
7.5 7.5 6 7.5 5.5 8 7.5 5.5 5.75 10 5.75 7.5 7 6 3.75 5 7 5 3.5 8.5
7.75 8.75 6.25 6.5 4.75 7.25 7 5 5 8.25 5.5 8 8.25 4.75 3 4 6.25 4 2 7.5
Many airlines, including Alaska Airlines, fly to Alaska.
You could be here
tomorrow 9
Alaska Marine Highway System: Relaxed, Flexible
Driving: The Route To Freedom
The state-owned ferry system is called a “marine highway” because it provides vital year-round transportation service for many Alaska communities — and it sails through some truly breathtaking scenery. You can travel with or without a vehicle.
Passports or equivalent identification are required for any travel by land, sea or air between the U.S. and Canada. If you don’t have a passport, valid “equivalents” are U.S. Passport Cards and Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry or FAST/EXPRES, permanent resident cards or an enhanced driver’s license that denotes identity and citizenship). For additional information, visit www.cbp.gov.
WHO
Alaska Marine Highway System
WHERE More than 30 ports (Inside Passage, Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands). Depart northbound from Bellingham, Washington or Prince Rupert, British Columbia WHEN
Year-round
HOW
• Make reservations online or by phone: 1-800-642-0066, www.FerryAlaska.com • Make reservations early, especially for cabins
WHY
• • • •
TIME
Plan on four days to cruise the Inside Passage and seven days to reach Prince William Sound ports. Schedule extra days to take advantage of stopover privileges
WHO
WHERE U.S. and Canada. Main access routes head north from Seattle, Washington, and Great Falls, Montana WHEN
Year-round. Roads are clear in summer, plowed and sanded in winter
HOW
• If you belong to an auto club (AAA, for example), ask for free tripplanning assistance • Detailed driving guides are also available for purchase at bookstores • Divide the drive into easy stages and reserve accommodations in advance during peak season • Visit NorthToAlaska.com
WHY
• Travel at your own pace, with freedom to stop whenever you choose • See spectacular scenery • Save money by camping or staying in your RV
TIME
Allow about five days for travel in each direction, plus time for travel in Alaska
Affordable Informal, relaxed atmosphere Flexibility to stop for a day or more if you want to explore an area Incredible coastal scenery
Cruises: Convenient, All-Inclusive
Alaska Highway
ALASKA ADVICE
Sail the world-famous Inside Passage aboard a ship that meets your personal needs, interests and budget. These are not “typical” cruises designed around shuffleboard and swimming pools. Here the focus is on whales, bald eagles, Russian legacy, Gold Rush history, Native cultures and spectacular coastal scenery. Many travelers take a cruise for part of their vacation, then get off the ship to explore other areas of the state. WHO
Short on time? Do your driving in Alaska. Fly to Anchorage or Fairbanks and rent a car or RV.
Cruise lines include Princess, Holland America, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival, Crystal, Disney, Oceania, Silversea and Regent Seven Seas. There are also a number of smaller, specialty cruise lines available, such as American Safari Cruise and InnerSea Discoveries
WHERE Inside Passage and Gulf of Alaska. Depart northbound from Seattle, Washington, or Vancouver, British Columbia. Depart southbound from Juneau, Ketchikan, Seward, Skagway, Whittier
10
WHEN
May through September
HOW
• Use a travel agent • Reserve online • Contact cruise lines directly
WHY
• Convenient — unpack just once • All-inclusive pricing • The cruise line handles the logistics and details of travel for you
TIME
Allow four days to reach Inside Passage destinations or seven days for cruises that reach ports around Prince William Sound (Seward, Whittier, Valdez)
Seward Highway
Visit us at
TravelAlaska.com
11
Traveling
FINDING YOUR WAY IN THE LAST FRONTIER
within Alaska
Part of what makes Alaska so interesting is its varied terrain and geographic diversity. There are parts of the Last Frontier that are not accessible by road. For example, you can reach our capital city, Juneau, only by sea or air because it is surrounded by mountains and water. But you can drive to most of Alaska’s other large communities, as well as many smaller communities located near the highway system. Where Alaska’s unique geography makes roads impossible, the usual ways of getting around are scheduled and chartered air service or the state ferry. There are good reasons to use each type of travel and reasons to mix and match the way you go — it’s all part of the adventure. Here are some suggestions for getting around Alaska … Sterling Highway
Van And Bus Travel: Relax And Leave The Driving To Others A number of tour companies, both large and small, provide transportation for visitors throughout the summer. Options range from point-to-point transportation to multi-day, all-inclusive tours. For those who would rather not plan their own transportation, package tours are a good option. Packages generally include all or most meals, transfers, transportation and activities. You can choose wilderness travel in Alaska’s remote parks, forests and refuges or choose a motorcoach tour that offers attractions and overnight accommodations. The advantage of letting someone else do the driving is that you don’t need to worry about logistics or mapping out your route. You are free to relax and enjoy the view.
ALASKA ADVICE
For more trip options and ideas, visit us at
TravelAlaska.com
12
Watch for vehicles stopped on the roadside. It often means that people are watching wildlife.
Dall Sheep
13
Self-Drive: Take The Scenic Byway
Rail: Cover Distances In Comfort
We keep talking about Alaska’s awe-inspiring scenery. You can see it for yourself by driving Alaska’s highways. Major roads in Alaska are paved — 1,329 miles (2,139 km) have earned the designation of “scenic byway.” Mile-for-mile, Alaska has more scenic highways than any other state.
The Alaska Railroad
One of the great things about driving in Alaska is that it’s difficult to get lost. For example, only two highways leave Anchorage, one going north, the other going south. Sooner or later, you’re bound to arrive someplace wonderful. And there’s nothing especially difficult about driving in Alaska. Any valid U.S. or Canadian driver’s license is honored here. So if you feel comfortable driving at home, you’ll feel comfortable driving here, too.
The Alaska Railroad gracefully winds through indescribably beautiful landscapes and, since you’re not driving, you can really enjoy the views. The rail corridor runs from Seward to Fairbanks — a distance of 500 miles (805 km). The train runs all year long, with seasonally adjusted schedules and routes. Railroad conductors and guides point out the highlights, offering commentary about scenery and wildlife along the way.
The route between Fairbanks and Anchorage includes a pass along the eastern flank of Denali National Park. To the south of Anchorage, at Whittier, you can connect with the state ferry system. Richardson Highway
Bring Your Own
If you have time, drive one way and return using the Alaska Marine Highway System or ship your vehicle on Totem Ocean Trailer Express.
Rent a Car or RV
You can cover much of Alaska’s road system in a standard rental car or RV. You don’t need four-wheel drive to get around.
Alaska Marine Highway System: Easygoing, Oceangoing Sail point-to-point on the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) and trace hundreds of miles of breathtaking coastline. The entire AMHS network is a National Scenic Byway. For you, this designation means exceptionally spectacular scenery along all the routes and rich cultural history in the port communities. Designed for Alaska residents and with access to dozens of Alaska communities, the ferry system is also a good choice for independent travelers. Bring your car, RV or bicycle and, when you arrive at a port, you’re ready to go.
Alaska Marine Highway Ferry
Walk-on space is usually available — but vehicle spaces on the most popular routes sell out in advance. As an option, consider renting cars at port destinations. Visit the Alaska Marine Highway System website at www.FerryAlaska.com for details.
14
TravelAlaska.com
Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad offers unique, double-decker, glass-domed cars that let you take full advantage of the scenery. Reservations can be made through a variety of cruise/ tour companies and with the Alaska Railroad at www.AlaskaRailroad.com.
The White Pass & Yukon Route
Consider a trip on the narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Built in 1898, at the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, this 110-mile (177-km) private railway linked the port of Skagway to Whitehorse in the Yukon, giving prospectors access to the gold fields beyond. Today, the White Pass offers narrated excursions in traditional parlor cars, traveling the “Scenic Railway of the World.”
Flying: Fast, Flexible Flight Distances and Times Within Alaska (in hours and minutes)
Miles
Anchorage to:
Hours
158 223 252 302 364 399 540 549 571 725 814 836
Kenai Homer Kodiak Valdez Fairbanks Bethel Nome Kotzebue Juneau Barrow Dutch Harbor Ketchikan
0:30 0:50 0:58 0:40 0:50 1:10 1:30 1:30 1:30 3:00 3:00 3:30
Scheduled Air Service
If you have a short time to spend in Alaska, fly between cities or take a prepackaged tour. Most towns in Alaska have regularly scheduled air service, with connections from airlines based in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Juneau. Alaska’s airports follow the same security measures used at other U.S. airports, so always allow a little extra time.
Air Taxis and Charters
There are many good reasons to travel by small plane: a fly-out fishing experience, a visit to a Native community, access to a wilderness lodge or flightseeing. Helicopters are also widely used.
“Bush plane” services are generally called air taxis or air charters. These small air carriers serve thousands of Alaskans and visitors every year. They know what trips to recommend and how to provide an unforgettable experience within your budget. This is only a partial listing. All times are approximate.
15
Alaska
is affordable
THE MEMORIES ARE PRICELESS When it comes to planning your trip, Alaska is more economical than you might think. With a wide range of travel options, accommodations and activities, there’s something to suit most any budget.
Wonder Lake, Denali National Park
Estimating Your Travel Costs
Find Everything Online
Travel expenses in Alaska are comparable to most U.S. cities.
For specific pricing information about lodging, dining, package tours or a wide array of Alaska activities, such as glacier cruises, guided fishing trips, flightseeing, bear viewing and more, log on to www.TravelAlaska.com. You can also create a personalized itinerary and take it with you by downloading the free TravelAlaska iPhone app.
From luxury lodges to charming B&B’s, rustic cabins to backpacking, the cost of an Alaska vacation can vary greatly. Ultimately, the cost of your trip will be determined by your personal travel style and preferences. For example, the average price for a dinner entree at an Alaska restaurant is between $12 and $40. Average nightly rates for a standard room in peak season are: Budget: Moderate: Luxury:
Ways to Save 1. Check the home page of TravelAlaska.com for travel specials
$100 - $150 $150 - $250 $250+
2. Visit AlaskasHottestTravelDeals.com 3. Use the Internet to search for “online” and “Internet-only” specials 4. Consider traveling in the “shoulder season” of early May, late September and October
Research shows that your Alaska vacation will be similar in cost to past vacations taken outside your home state.
5. Take advantage of early booking discounts on package travel, usually in January and February Willow Lake, Copper Center
6. Save on transportation costs — focus your trip on one region 7. Ask about discounts for seniors and military members
16
www.TravelAlaska.com TravelAlaska.com
17
Experience
CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRIP Now that you know about getting to Alaska and
the Last Frontier
getting around, it’s time to think about specific activities and places you want to experience. In a few pages, we’ll provide sample itineraries that suggest ways to combine transportation “loops,” regional attractions, special activities and your personal interests. You can easily substitute any part of an itinerary with other activities or places that you find more interesting, but first you need to know some of the possibilities. This isn’t a complete list — only a starting point. More itineraries and a detailed calendar of events can be found on our website at www.TravelAlaska.com.
Glacier Hiking, Juneau
Get Up Close With Glaciers
Catch Gold Fever
Come see the truly ancient, enormous rivers of ice that sculpted Alaska’s mountains and calving icebergs that hit the ocean with thunderous roars. How big are they? Often more than a mile wide and dozens of miles long. Alaska has so many glaciers that hundreds don’t even have names.
The lure of gold touched almost every corner of Alaska. Juneau was named for the prospector who started Alaska’s first big Gold Rush. The towns of Skagway, Haines and Dyea offered gateways to the Klondike. Nome’s golden sands beckoned to tens of thousands.
• • • •
Take a day cruise out of Whittier, Seward or Valdez Try simple glacier day hikes in Valdez, Kennicott, Juneau and the Mat-Su Valley Kayak the fjords in Glacier Bay, Prince William Sound or around Kodiak Island Flightsee from Talkeetna or Anchorage
Explore The Wilderness You can experience true Alaska wilderness during the day — and sleep in a warm comfortable bed at night. Guided trips and tours take you to a variety of remote (or notso-remote) places, where you can enjoy almost any outdoor interest, from kayaking and river rafting, to fly fishing and bear watching. • Try a wilderness lodge for remote adventure, combined with luxury accommodations • Take a multi-day wilderness expedition in one of Alaska’s remote parks, forests or refuges
• Join a ranger-guided walking tour through the restored buildings of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway • Pan for gold in Juneau, Fairbanks, Girdwood, Skagway and Nome • Take a day trip on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad to experience Gold Rush-era travel • Pan for gold or find some of the 44 abandoned gold dredges in Nome • Visit Independence Mine State Historical Park, in an alpine setting near Wasilla Gold Panning, Nome
18
19
Explore Russian America By the time America bought the Alaska Territory (for about 2¢ an acre), Russians had been living here for more than 120 years. Sitka was the capital of Russian-America and Alaska’s first territorial capital. The Russians also had headquarters in Kodiak and outposts all along the coastline. The strength of Alaska’s Russian heritage is still visible in the onion-shaped domes of Russian Orthodox churches that rise above many Alaska towns. Ketchikan Totems
Get To Know Native Cultures About 15 percent of Alaska’s population is composed of distinct indigenous cultural groups, including Iñupiat, Aleut, Athabascan, Yupik, Tlingit and others. Alaska Natives are interested in sharing their cultural traditions with visitors. There are a number of venues that provide opportunities to interact with Alaska Natives and learn about their traditions, crafts, music and other cultural distinctions. • • • •
Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, a “living museum” in Anchorage Take a guided tour to Barrow, site of the Iñupiat Heritage Center Go to the Alutiiq Museum and Archaeological Repository in Kodiak Visit the Museum of the North in Fairbanks and enjoy historical and contemporary Alaska art • Tour the famous totem exhibits in Ketchikan • Visit the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center
• Visit museums with exhibits exploring Russia’s role in the span of Alaska history • Join historical tours in towns and regions with strong Russian connections • Walk among old Russian buildings and learn about Russian and Native cultures at the Sitka National Historical Park • View brightly painted spirit houses at Eklutna Village Historical Park
Take Off For Flightseeing Flightseeing by plane or helicopter is an ideal way to experience the magnitude of Alaska. A variety of tours, excursions and charters are available, from 30-minute hops to full-day outings. • • • •
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the U.S. The Inside Passage for views of forests, islands, glaciers and, sometimes, whales Glacier-landing tours Tours of Mount McKinley from Talkeetna and Anchorage
Alaska is a land of adventure
come experience it for yourself
Watch The Wildlife
Winter Activities
If you want to see wildlife, Alaska is the place to visit. Bald eagles gather by the hundreds. Moose cause traffic jams. Wild Dall sheep skip along roadside cliffs. State and national wilderness lands blanket the state.
Visiting in winter will give you a distinctive Alaska experience. Activities that visitors often enjoy the most include:
• Flightseeing trips that specialize in wildlife viewing by air • Visit likely areas — especially wildlife refuges or national parks • Guided wildlife tours by motorcoach or bus • Guided tours that specialize in bear viewing, whale watching or bird watching • View moose in urban settings — there are roughly 1,500 moose in Anchorage • Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage • Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward • Alaska Zoo in Anchorage • Alaska Raptor Center in Sitka
• Watching the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race® from Anchorage to Nome • Fairbanks World Ice Art Championships • Anchorage Fur Rendezvous • Viewing the northern lights • Snowmobiling • Dog sledding • World-class downhill skiing, heliskiing and cross-country skiing • Tour of Anchorage cross-country ski race • Yukon Quest Sled Dog Race from Fairbanks to Whitehorse, Yukon
Iditarod
Bear
20
21
Within Your Reach
give us seven days, we’ll give you
the trip of a lifetime
The following seven-day itineraries with optional add-ons are suggestions to give you an idea of how much you can do and see in Alaska within a week. They are meant to serve as a starting point for trip planning, with a variety of options to fit your needs. For example, you can easily combine two itineraries to make a 14-day itinerary or reverse the route of any trip. We’ve also included additional sample itineraries on our website, www.TravelAlaska.com.
22
TravelAlaska.com
Mount McKinley, Denali National Park
23
Seward
Homer
Land of Natural Wonders Anchorage & The Kenai
The ideal place to experience a great mix of Alaska culture and wildlife Day 1 Anchorage Experience the wonders of Alaska’s indigenous people at the Alaska Native Heritage Center. Climb Flattop Mountain, one of the city’s popular day hikes; stroll a peaceful, wooded trail in Bicentennial Park. Visit the Alaska Zoo or tee off under the midnight sun before capping off the evening with a Broadway show. Day 2 Anchorage Start the day on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail with views of Cook Inlet and six mountain ranges. Visit Sunshine Plaza for a historical view of the 1964 earthquake or see it firsthand at Earthquake Park. Then drive towards Turnagain Arm to Potter Marsh, home to more than 130 species of waterfowl. Day 3 Anchorage - Seward Head 126 miles (203 km) south via the Seward Highway, a National Scenic Byway and AllAmerican Road. In Seward, visit the Alaska SeaLife Center and Exit Glacier, one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers. Take a boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park to see a variety of sea life, such as otters, sea lions and puffins. Day 4 Seward - Soldotna - Kenai Drive through the Chugach National Forest west to Soldotna, famous for Kenai River King salmon and the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, home to moose and other wildlife. Visit nearby Kenai, rich in history and culture, and tour the Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church, a National Historic Landmark. Day 5 Kenai - Homer Take a morning drive south along the bluffs of Cook Inlet, where sightings of beluga whales and seals are common. At the end of the highway, you’ll reach Homer, a bustling artist community and the “Halibut Capital of the World.” Take an afternoon to explore Homer’s historical harbor walk and eclectic art galleries. Day 6 Homer Explore the Homer Spit, with miles of beaches, charter a fishing expedition or take a water taxi to Halibut Cove, a quiet paradise tucked away in Kachemak Bay State Park. Day 7 Homer - Girdwood - Anchorage While driving to Anchorage, stop at Portage Glacier for a boat tour or visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for wildlife viewing. Eat lunch in Girdwood, home to a luxury year-round resort based at sea level. Ride the enclosed aerial tram up Mount Alyeska for spectacular views. Two-Day Add-On: Kodiak From Anchorage, fly to Kodiak Island, Alaska’s Emerald Isle. Explore Kodiak’s magnificent coastal scenery by land and by sea, enjoy world-class sport fishing, view Kodiak brown bears, marvel at the marine wildlife and birds and learn about Kodiak’s rich Alutiiq and Russian heritage.
24
Outdoor Dining, The Kenai
25
Glenn Highway
Hatcher Pass
Valdez
The Alaska Pioneer Anchorage to Mat-Su & Valdez Kenny Lake
Explore the state like a true Alaskan — by riverboat, back road, on foot and by ferry. From Anchorage to the Mat-Su and on to Valdez, experience Alaska’s pioneer culture of gold mining, glacier trekking, fishing and wilderness adventure. Day 1 Anchorage - Wasilla Fly into Anchorage and experience the many shops, museums and art galleries. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the scenic Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, accessible from downtown, or take a hike in Kincaid Park. Rent a car or RV and drive 45 miles (72 km) north to Wasilla, home of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Visit Iditarod Headquarters for a sled dog ride and learn about Alaska’s unique history. Day 2 Wasilla - Palmer Driving north on the Parks Highway, take an “off-the-beaten-path” road to Hatcher Pass and Independence Mine State Historical Park. Look for wildlife and old gold mines nearby. Take an alpine tundra hike or have lunch at a mountain lodge. Continue to Palmer. Day 3 Palmer - Glennallen Travel north on the Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway to visit the Musk Ox Farm and Matanuska Glacier, Alaska’s largest road-accessible glacier. Day 4 Glennallen - Copper Center Enjoy one of the area’s many recreational activities, from hiking and river running to fishing. From Copper Center, stop at the visitor center for a view of the Wrangell-St. Elias Mountains, located in the nation’s largest national park. Spend the night in Glennallen or Copper Center. Day 5 Copper Center - Valdez Take the Richardson Highway south and stop to view Worthington Glacier, accessible just off the highway atop Thompson Pass. Once in Valdez, take a day cruise in Prince William Sound to Columbia Glacier, the second-largest tidewater glacier in North America or take a guided river trip through historical Keystone Canyon past towering waterfalls.Day Day 6 Valdez Valdez is a premier fishing destination. Book a full- or half-day charter or fish right from shore. Have a relaxing meal at a local restaurant or pull into a picnic site to grill your own fresh catch of the day. Get acquainted with the city’s rich Gold Rush history by touring its historical museums and scenic trails. Day 7 Prince William Sound - Whittier - Anchorage Put your vehicle on a ferry and ride the Alaska Marine Highway through Prince William Sound to Whittier. Drive through the longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel in North America on your way back to Anchorage. Two-Day Add-On: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park For a great adventure in the largest national park in the country, take the Edgerton Highway and McCarthy Road turnoff for an exciting drive on a 93-mile (150-km) paved/ gravel road to the old mining towns of McCarthy and Kennicott. Stay overnight.
Kennecott Mine, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
26
27
Fairbanks
Anchorage
The Heartland Fairbanks to Anchorage Whether you fly into Alaska’s biggest cities or drive in through Tok, the road from Fairbanks to Anchorage is big on culture, history and scenic wonders. Day 1 Fairbanks After arriving in Fairbanks, the gateway to Alaska’s Interior and the Arctic, rent a car or RV and visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North, one of the state’s top-10 visitor attractions. See musk ox, an Ice Age survivor and reindeer on a tour of the University’s Large Animal Research Station. Day 2 Fairbanks Start the morning with a riverboat cruise along the Chena or Tanana River, lunch on the deck at a riverside restaurant and try your hand at gold panning on an afternoon gold-mining tour. Stop for a view of the trans-Alaska oil pipeline on the Steese Highway. Day 3 Fairbanks - Denali Enjoy a two-hour drive south to Denali National Park, home to Mount McKinley, North America’s tallest peak. Take a full-day guided tour to see sweeping landscapes and incredible wildlife. Day 4 Denali Denali National Park offers a variety of activities. Take a flightseeing tour via small plane or helicopter, or try a whitewater rafting excursion. Stay in the area for an evening program. Day 5 Denali - Talkeetna Continue south to the town of Talkeetna to see majestic views of Mount McKinley. Flightseeing tours provide dramatic views and a unique perspective of the mountain. Experience a guided fishing trip or wildlife and scenic jet boat tour. Day 6 Talkeetna - Eklutna - Anchorage Enjoy a scenic drive south to Eklutna Historical Park. Tour St. Nicholas Russian Church and view brightly painted “spirit houses.” Experience a canoe and bike excursion at Eklutna Lake or hike majestic Thunderbird Falls. Learn about local wildlife at the Eagle River Nature Center or walk trails in the stunning gored valley. Continue to Anchorage to enjoy a meal of exquisite, fresh seafood. (Wild Alaska salmon is a local dining specialty.) Day 7 Anchorage Alaska’s largest city has world-class theater, a vital arts and culture scene, outdoor markets, music in the park and 1,500 resident moose. Visit Lake Hood, the busiest float plane harbor in the world or fish for salmon in downtown Ship Creek. Try an award-winning brewpub or see a baseball game under the midnight sun. Rail Option Rather than traveling by car or RV, take a scenic railway tour of Alaska from Fairbanks to Anchorage, stopping overnight in Denali or Talkeetna.
Chena River, Fairbanks
28
29
Lake Louise
Juneau
Skagway
The Seafarer Coastal Cruise
A cruise through the Inside Passage across the Gulf of Alaska through Prince William Sound lets visitors experience diverse landscapes, pristine waters and spectacular wildlife. Day 1 Vancouver, B.C. Sail from Vancouver on one of many Alaska cruises. (This cruise can also be made from Alaska to Vancouver.) Day 2 Inside Passage Alaska’s coastline is one of the most scenic waterways in the world. You’ll experience wildlife and wonder along Alaska’s Inside Passage as you make your way north to Alaska’s colorful frontier ports. Day 3 Ketchikan Known as “Alaska’s First City,” Ketchikan is the first major community travelers come to as they travel north. Founded as a fishing camp, Ketchikan is built on steep hillsides. Get an introduction to the indigenous people of the area by visiting the Totem Heritage Center, Totem Bight State Park or Saxman Native Village. Day 4 Juneau Perched on a thin strip of land at the mouth of Gold Creek, Juneau is one of America’s most beautiful state capitals. The steep summits of Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts provide a gorgeous backdrop. Juneau was once an integral part of Alaska’s Gold Rush. Day 5 Skagway This “Gateway to the Klondike” saw countless fortune-seekers pass through during the heyday of Alaska’s Gold Rush. Today, you can still feel like a prospector among the rustic boardwalks with frontier-style storefronts. Explore town and then take a three-hour trip on the historical White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Day 6 Glacier Bay National Park Spread across an impressive 3.2 million acres in southeast Alaska, this treasure trove of scenic coastal islands, narrow fjords and abundant wildlife offers an inspirational glimpse of what Mother Nature does best. The park is home to the highest concentration of tidewater glaciers on the planet. Day 7 College Fjords - Whittier/Seward After crossing the Gulf of Alaska, glide into College Fjords, where you will be completely surrounded by 16 ice-blue glaciers. Each was named for one of the Ivy League colleges by members of the expedition that discovered them. Step off your cruise ship in Whittier or Seward. Stay and explore the Kenai Peninsula, travel to Anchorage for a connecting land tour or fly directly home. Three-Day Add-On: Whittier/Seward - Denali National Park - Fairbanks From Whittier, take a scenic journey north on the Alaska Railroad. See Mount McKinley on a guided tour of Denali National Park and continue by train to Fairbanks, Alaska’s “Golden Heart City.” Inside Passage
30
31
Petersburg
Haines
Sitka
The Inside Passage Explorer Inside Passage Fly/Ferry Visitors looking for an unforgettable expedition discover Alaska by air and sea. Day 1 Ketchikan Arrive in Ketchikan, Alaska’s first port of call, via air or Alaska ferry. Pick up a walking tour map and explore downtown attractions, including historical Creek Street, Tongass Historical Museum, Southeast Alaska Discovery Center and unique local art galleries and shops. Day 2 Ketchikan - Sitka Take an excursion boat or plane to the 2.3-million-acre Misty Fiords National Monument, with its majestic fjords or choose a half-day guided sport fishing trip. In the afternoon, fly to Sitka. Day 3 Sitka Tour historical St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House in what was once the Russian capital of Alaska. Take in Alaska Native artifacts at Sheldon Jackson Museum, totem poles and a cultural center at Sitka National Historical Park and view eagles and other birds of prey up close at the Alaska Raptor Rehabilitation Center. Day 4 Sitka - Juneau Take the ferry or fly to Juneau, Alaska’s capital city. Visit magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, 13 miles from downtown, a rainforest botanical garden, a fish hatchery or ride the Mount Roberts tramway. Day 5 Juneau Pick from dozens of soft adventure tours like sea kayaking, rafting, glacier trekking or hike one of Juneau’s numerous trails. Visit shops and museums in the historic downtown area. Day 6 Juneau - Haines Enjoy a morning cruise on an Alaska ferry to Haines. Discover historical Fort Seward on the shores of America’s longest fjord. In the afternoon, explore the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. Spend the night in Haines. Day 7 Haines - Skagway - Juneau Get an early start and take the water taxi or ferry to Skagway, a browser’s paradise. Take in the Gold Rush history on the “Scenic Railway of the World,” the railroad to the White Pass summit. Return to Juneau via fast ferry or air taxi before departing. Three-Day Add-On: Wrangell and Petersburg After leaving Ketchikan, travel via ferry, jet or air taxi to the small communities of Wrangell and Petersburg. In Wrangell, take an exhilarating run up the Stikine River by jet boat or visit Petroglyph Beach to view prehistoric rock carvings. In Petersburg, also known as “Little Norway,” see traditional Norwegian painted buildings and take an excursion to LeConte Glacier.
Creek Street, Ketchikan
32
33
Frequently
Q
When should I make my reservations?
A
If you want to visit during the peak summer season, make reservations at least six weeks in advance. For travel in May or October, book a minimum of three weeks before travel. Winter travelers can get excellent reservations with as little as two weeks notice. If you can travel on short notice, you may be able to find last-minute openings online. These are general guidelines. Add a few weeks if your trip includes elements that are very popular or in short supply (e.g., cabins on the Alaska ferry).
Q
Where’s the best fishing?
A
You’ll find excellent fishing almost anywhere in the state, from fly fishing in high mountain streams to angling for deepwater halibut. For Alaska fishing regulations and tips, visit the Alaska Department of Fish & Game online or call to order a copy of a current sport fish regulation guide. The website includes week-to-week fishing reports, so remember to check online just before you visit. You can buy a nonresident license (for one, three, seven or 14 days) in advance online or in Alaska at almost any grocery store, charter service or fish-related business. Call (907) 2672218 or visit www.sf.adfg.state.ak.us.
Q
Will I see moose, bears or bald eagles?
A
No one can guarantee wildlife sightings. But there are ways to improve your chances. Take a tour designed for wildlife viewing or travel when and where animals are likely to appear. (For example, bears gather to feed on spawning salmon in late summer.) For detailed wildlife information, seasonal/regional viewing calendars and printed viewing guides, contact the Alaska Division of Wildlife Conservation at (907) 4654190 or go to their online “Wildlife Viewing” pages at www.wildlifeviewing.alaska.gov.
Q
Isn’t Alaska mostly covered by ice?
A
Alaska has more than 100,000 glaciers, so a person could easily imagine ice everywhere. But in fact, only 5 percent of the state is glaciated. Fortunately, you can experience the wonder of glaciers in nearly every region of the state and, in many cases, you can view them from the road.
Q
What clothes should I pack?
A
Bring comfortable, sensible clothes designed to wear in layers that you can easily add or take off. (For example, a short-sleeved shirt, sweater and light, waterproof jacket.) Remember that each region has its own climate, from mild and moist in the Inside Passage to hot and dry in Fairbanks. Casual clothes are suitable almost everywhere in Alaska.
asked questions
Kodiak
34
Q
Is Alaska all wilderness?
A
Alaska’s cities feature the same amenities found in any typical American town, including community services such as public transportation, hospitals and banks. You’ll also recognize the names of familiar hotel chains, restaurants and stores. And Americans traveling in Alaska never have to worry about foreign money, electric current, laws or languages — after all, we’re part of the United States, too!
Q
What are the roads like?
A
Most of Alaska’s roads are two- to four-lane paved highways, but we also have smaller dirt roads that are regularly graded. Because driving conditions vary by season, the state makes it easy to check current conditions for any state road. After you get to Alaska, just phone 511 for recorded information or visit http://511.alaska.gov.
TravelAlaska.com
Alaska Pipeline
35
Q
What time zone does Alaska use?
A
Alaska is west of the Pacific states and has a separate time zone: Alaska Standard Time (AST). AST is one hour earlier than Pacific Standard Time and four hours earlier than Eastern Standard Time. So when it’s 8 a.m. in California, and 11 a.m. in New York City, it’s 7 a.m. in Alaska. Be aware of the time difference when you place phone calls and make reservations.
Start Planning your trip today!
Cabin, Hope
Icy Strait Point, Hoonah
1. Find it all on www.TravelAlaska.com
Q
Do I need a passport to travel to Alaska?
A
All persons traveling via land, air or sea between the U.S. and Canada must have a passport or equivalent. Please visit www.cbp.gov for updated information requirements in advance of your trip.
Q
When and where can I see the northern lights?
A
During summer, when the glorious midnight sun hangs high in the sky, it’s almost impossible to see northern lights — or stars, or even Fourth of July fireworks! Your best chance to see the aurora comes during winter months, on dark nights with clear skies, in areas to the north, especially Fairbanks. If you visit in winter, ask your hotel for a “northern lights wake-up call.” For aurora forecasts (as well as recent volcano and earthquake activity), visit the Geophysical Institute online at www.gi.alaska.edu.
Q A
What temperatures can I expect?
• Sample Itineraries
• Alaska Maps
• Calendar of Events
• Activities
• Weather & Climate
• Lodging Rates
• Travel Specials
• Transportation
Get your free Official Alaska State Vacation Planner. It’s a 96-page book of photos, descriptions, contact information and all the details you want to know about Alaska’s accommodations, activities, points of interest, transportation and more. Get your Vacation Planner by:
Anchorage
Fairbanks
Juneau
Front Cover: Valdez — Michael DeYoung/State of Alaska Portage Valley — Michael DeYoung/State of Alaska Eagle — Peter Kronenmann/State of Alaska Valdez Glacier Lake — Michael DeYoung/State of Alaska Back Cover: Kodiak — Michael DeYoung/State of Alaska Bear — Chris McLennan/State of Alaska Independence Mine — Matt Hage/State of Alaska
• Sending in the reply card attached to this book • Requesting one online at TravelAlaska.com
CREDITS
36
Log on to Alaska’s official travel website for helpful trip-planning tips and useful information.
2. Request a printed Vacation Planner
80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 -10
Average High Temperature °F
Other Photos: Alaska Airlines; AlaskaStock; Clark James Mishler/ State of Alaska; Frank Flavin/State of Alaska; Mark Kelley/State of Alaska; Michael DeYoung/State of Alaska; Robin Hood/State of Alaska; Dave Parkhurst
The trip of a lifetime
is at your fingertips
37
Tr a v e l A l a s k a . c o m
Within Your Reach
Beyond Your Dreams
2012/2013
State of Alaska Official Alaska Vacation Guide P.O. Box 196710 Anchorage, AK 99519-6710 TravelAlaska.com State of Alaska
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID