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FAQ's about Traveling Alaska
General Questions
- How do I get to Alaska?
- When is the best time to avoid Mosquitoes in Alaska?
- Should I worry about bears in Alaska?
- When should I travel to Alaska?
- How expensive is it to travel Alaska?
- How much do meals cost in Alaska?
- What is the price of gas in Alaska?
- How much is lodging in Alaska?
- How much should you tip in Alaska?
- When should I make reservations if I'm traveling
to Alaska?
- Can I be comfortable traveling alone in Alaska?
- What kind of food is available in Alaska?
- What is the best thing to do in Alaska with a group representing different
generations?
- Where and when can I see the Northern Lights in Alaska?
- Is Alaska a good place for Honeymooners?
- Are there places to do laundry in Alaska?
- Can I pan for Gold while I'm in Alaska?
Packing For Alaska
- What kind of clothes will I need in Alaska?
- If I'm driving the Alaska Highway what should I bring?
- If I'm taking the plane to Alaska what should I bring?
- If I'm traveling by boat/ship to Alaska what should I bring?
Fishing and Hunting
- Where can I find permits to Hunt while in Alaska?
- Where can I find specifics on Fishing while in Alaska?
- Are the Mosquitoes bad as the rumors?
- What do I need to bring if I'm going fishing in Alaska?
- How much does a fishing license in Alaska cost?
- How big are the fishing boats in Alaska?
- How big are the Alaska fish?
- If I fish in Alaska, how much can I keep?
- If I fish in Alaska, how do I get it home?
Tours to Alaska
- What is a Alaska Cruise Tour?
- What is the classification of Cruises and Tours?
- How long are the Alaska Cruise Tours?
- What are the advantages to taking a Alaska Cruise Tour?
- Can I book an Alaska Tour without a Cruise?
- Can I book a private Alaska departure?
- Can I book a private Alaskan Tour Director?
- What is a Escorted Tour?
- What is a Self Guided Tour of Alaska?
- If I'm already in Alaska what tours are available? How do I book them?
- What is the difference between an escorted tour and air/hotel
package?
- Can I afford a custom package of Alaska or an Alaska tour?
- Is airfare included in packaged tours to Alaska?
- Can I feel comfortable with participating in Alaskan Adventure tours?
- Can I spend multiple nights in same area if I'm on a packaged tour?
- Can I customize my own tour of Alaska?
Miscellaneous
- Will you map out an itinerary if we are driving or camping?
- Do I need a permit to Hike the Chilkoot Trail?
- How do I know which products are made in Alaska?
- What do I need to know if I cross the boarder to/from Canada from/to
Alaska?
There are three main modes to get to Alaska:
Alcan Highway: The Alaska Canadian Highway
the road conditions are better then most people expect. About half of it is
surface asphalt. It usually takes between 4 to 7 days to get to
Alaska from the border of the continental US and Canada.
Marine Highway: From the "lower 48" the most common cruise
routes start in Vancouver or Seattle. Because most communities in the Southeast
Region are only accessible by boat or plane the "Inside Passage" communities
rely on the water ways to keep them connected. This is one of the most
popular ways to see Alaska for good reason, it's beautiful.
By Air: If you want to fly to Alaska there are only really 6
major airports. They are in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan,
Sitka, Yakutat. Some people may not consider Ketchikan, Sitka, and Yakutat
a major airport in fact they are all tiny, but large planes do land there!
Most Alaskan communities are accessible only by plane. However don't
expect an in-flight movie most of the planes are what we refer to as puddle
jumpers 2-12 passenger aircraft. 1 in 5 people who live in Alaska have
their private pilots license. I'm from a family of 5 and my brother has
his private and commercial ratings.
The Winter! Mosquitoes (often referred to as Alaska's state bird) peak
in most parts of the state in mid June, but will usually keep us company all
summer long. If your traveling via Ship you won't be bothered by them
often because they are most prominent in the back country.
Mosquitoes are most often associated with Driving the Alcan and Fishing. Bug
spray can be bought in most all locations and usually supplied if need on guided
tours. Other insect pests include black flies and no-see-ums. All can be
troublesome from early summer till freeze-up in specific locations. The best bet
if your driving or fishing lakes/rivers bring a headnet and plenty of strong
insect repellent (look for something containing diethylmetatoluamide, commonly
knows as DEET), and loose-fitting long clothes that cover your arms and legs. If
your not driving or fishing don't worry it's not as bad as the rumors.
Within reason, yes. Black, brown/grizzly and polar bears make their home in
Alaska. Bears are sited on the main streets of many Alaskan Communities, but it
is a rare occasion. I personally have had bears in my backyard. I thought
someone was breaking into a friend house, it was a bear. At the Bartlett
Memorial Hospital in Juneau they had a young black bear using the automatic
doors to walk into the emergency room. In Anchorage a young grizzly
frightened employees at a MacDonald! That said, if you use reasonable caution
you can think of traveling in bear country as a privilege. They are
curious, intelligent, and potentially dangerous animals. Respecting their
territory and learning a bit about their territory will ensure a safe visit.
On a side note: from the ages of 0 to 24 I saw a total of 5 bears until at
24 I started to visit Denali park on a regular basis. Most all bears avoid
people.
1) During salmon runs, avoid brushy areas along stream banks. When berries
are ripe, use the same caution while picking, and never approach a carcass of
a dead moose, caribou etc. (often indicated by heavy raven or magpie
activity.)
2) When hiking in any of the above situations, or anywhere in bear country,
travel with groups if possible and make noise. Bear bells, singing, whistles
etc. can all be helpful. Most bears will gladly avoid you if you let them know
you're around.
3) Never attempt to feed a bear.
4) Keep a clean camp, Prepare and store food well away from your sleeping
area, and don't eat in your tent. Wash dishes (again, well away from camp)
immediately after meals.
5) Never approach a bear, particularly a sow with cubs. If you see a bear,
alter you're route to give it a wide berth.
6) Don't camp on bear
trails or in areas with fresh bear scat, tracks or other signs of bears.
Here are some truths published by the State of Alaska on "Bear Facts"
|
Bears can't run downhill. |
False |
Bears are quite agile and can run downhill easily and quickly. |
|
Garbage bears are tame. |
False |
Garbage or spoiled bears pose the most hazardous threat to public safety. |
|
Bears have poor eyesight. |
False |
Bears have good eyesight. They can see colors, form, and movement but
prefer to trust their more sensitive senses of smell and hearing |
|
Bears are big and slow. |
False |
Bears are extremely agile and can run at high speeds over short distances |
|
Black bears aren't dangerous. |
False |
Black bears are as wild and unpredictable as any other member of the bear
family. |
|
Bears are carnivorous. |
False |
Ninety percent of a bear's diet contains vegetable matter. |
|
Grizzly bears cannot climb trees. |
True
and
False |
Grizzly cubs can climb all trees, but only a few adult grizzlies can climb
-- and only then when branches are sufficiently spaced. |
|
Bears don't swim. |
False |
Bears are excellent long-distance swimmers. |
May to September are by far the most popular time to travel Alaska. May
and September are considered the "shoulder season" and normally the time you can
find the best deals. Summer months offer daylight, mild weather, and tons
of Alaskan festivals. Winter travel is a perspective few experience and
nobody ever forgets, locals, northern lights, skiing, and dogsled races are our
main attractions for travelers.
In the larger communities Alaska is less expensive then rumors.
However, in the smaller Alaskan communities the rumor is true, Alaska is
expensive. Alaska is a unique area, since most communities are not
accessible by road importing supplies is expensive and is passed on to locals
and visitors alike. Credit cards are accept in most places, ATM's are
normally accessible, but some small business in smaller towns only accept cash.
The cost of meals variety depending on where you eat and where you are at.
On average this is what you can expect to pay. Smaller towns tend to be
more expensive because of the cost to import supplies.
Breakfast: $7.00 to $12.00 per person
Coffee $1.50 to $6.00 specialty coffee
Lunch: $8.00 to $20.00 per person
Hamburger $5.00-$11.00
Dinner: $10.00 to $30.00 per person
Salmon Dinner: $18.00 to $30.00
Gas prices are on the rise so it is hard to give an exact figure.
Alaska is usually ten cents to a dollar extra per gallon over what people in the
lower 48 pay. For example if you are paying 1.93 per gallon count on
paying 2.03 to 2.93 per gallon in Alaska. Most places except credit card,
but keep cash in case of emergencies.
Lodging is based on the time of year you visit Alaska, budget Season
(November thru March), shoulder season (October and April), and peak season (May
thru September). Most lodges have two rates, Winter and Summer.
During the Iditarod hotel rooms are at a premium during the winter.
Here is what you can expect to pay on average:
Wilderness Lodge $150 to $425 a day
Standard Motel from $40 to $100 a day
Deluxe Hotel from $90 to $175 a day
Bed & Breakfast $65 to $145 a day
Private Cabins $20 to $150 a day (normally hiking to the cabin is involved)
Campsites start at $6.00 a day
RV hookups from $10.00 a day
How much should you tip in Alaska?
Plan on tipping the standard 15-20% on meals, taxis, and guides.
A good rule of thumb is to book your reservations as soon as you know your
date. Excursions, accommodations, and cruises book early. To get the
best of all worlds booking at least 7 months in advance is highly recommended.
Overall Alaska is a very safe place to travel. However, if you are a
single women I would recommend traveling on the main routes, on a packaged tour,
or cruise for companionship and extra sense of security. If you are going
to drive I recommend driving with someone. There are long days on the road
and expect to get a flat tire and/or broken windshield. CB's and Walkie
Talkie's come in handy if your traveling with more then one vehicle.
You name it we got it, but sometimes it can be a little difficult to find.
There are a variety of grocery stores and restaurants in most of the larger
communities like Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau. The small communities are
have a limited variety but can accommodate most all dietary needs. Almost
all the coastal communities offer some of the best and freshest seafood there is
to offer.
I do recommend cruising for people who want a wide array of activities.
There is plenty to do from hiking a mountain, taking a helicopter to a glacier,
just sitting on your verandah sipping coffee watching a eagles soar next to the
snow capped mountain while in ports. On-board there are family and
individual activities. It is convenient to meet for dinner with a wide
selection, and NO dishes! :)
Winter! Most people have their hearts set on seeing the Northern lights
when they visit, the only problem is most people come to visit in the summer.
The northern lights are out 24 hours a day, but are not seen because of light
obstructions. The best times to see them are November thru March.
They tend to be active in March. I have seen them in May and in September
on rare occasions, normally north of Anchorage.
Yes, how more romantic then enjoying the most beautiful vistas in the world
and cuddling at night.
Yes, there are laundry-mats in most all medium to larger communities.
If you are cruising some of ships have either laundry services or coin operated
laundry facilities available.
Yes you can, the best places to experience panning for gold is on the Route
of the Gold Rush, Skagway, Dawson, and Fairbanks were the most prominent
mining towns. Keep in mind most panning for gold is what we called
"salted" with gold flecks. Where they place gold in the pan to teach you
the fundamentals for panning for gold. To go down to the creeks and
streams could get you in trouble miners who and own mineral rights to the land.
Miners in these areas take mining very seriously and are very secretive about
their findings.
Remember to dress like an ONION in layers. The dress code in Alaska is
based on comfort and is very causal, and informal. During the day this is
what I recommend. The summers in Alaska tend to be warmer then most people
expect, pack light clothes too. You might even go away with a tan!
jeans, khaki's, slacks
sweaters, sweatshirts, t-shirts, flannel shirts, cotton, and wool.
waterproof jacket or windbreaker
Comfortable shoes (tennis shoes or hiking boots)
Sunglasses
Camera & Film (Zoom lens is recommended)
Binoculars
Swimsuit (for large ship cruisers, or those that really want to experience
glacier water :))
*Note towels are provided.
Gortex (a type of light weight, waterproof gear) is popular and recommended.
Fly fishermen might even want to bring light neoprene
Keep in mind most guided tours don't expect you to have all the gear with
you, that is what they are there for to provide all the necessities for a fun,
safe, and comfortable excursion. Alaska vacation packages include most creature
comforts of home right down to the toilet paper.
WE do REQUIRE something of you. That is when you are travel to
Alaska bring your adventurous spirit, and positive attitude. Remember
nothing is a problem, it is just a "challenging opportunity". Some
opportunities are more challenging then others but Alaskans are friendly and
helpful, if you are friendly and grateful.
Recommended Clothing above. Plus a few extras like a squeegee and a
full container of windshield wash, extra tire, a list of emergency numbers, and
baby whips.
Recommended clothing above.
Recommended clothing above. If cruising please look at FAQ's about
cruising.
There are Hunting guides. Because there are so many regulations that
change on a regular basis it is highly recommended you see the State of Alaska
official Fish and Game page. If you would like to book a hunting trip we
can provide assistance.
http://www.state.ak.us/local/akpages/FISH.GAME/wildlife/wildmain.htm
Fishing in the Yukon call 867-667-5221 for permits or consult this website
www.renres.gov.yk.ca
Yes, if your fishing or hunting, or driving be prepared. The best bet
if your driving or fishing lakes/rivers bring a headnet and plenty of strong
insect repellent (look for something containing diethylmetatoluamide, commonly
knows as DEET), and loose-fitting long clothes that cover your arms and legs. If
your not driving or fishing don't worry it's not as bad as the rumors.
Listed below are inclusive in your Guided fishing, sightseeing, or adventure
activity trips unless otherwise noted.
- Gear (reels, rods, bait, tackle), Usually top notch equipment.
- Transportation to the "put in point" or place you start fishing.
(usually via boat, raft, float-plane)
- Transfers can be requested but not always included from the your place of
accommodation.
- Professional Guide, Pilot, and or Captain
- Food if your going for the day
- They most likely won't provide alcoholic beverages, but there are plenty
of places to pick up a six-pack on you way to the boat.
- You can purchase you fishing license from the guide or see the link below
to get it before you leave home.
If your not going with Guide then I suggest bringing lots of experience,
gear, six-pack, and if your fishing on the shore a gun, it sounds silly, but you
know salmon is meal of choice for bears. If you are on the
shore-line skip the beer and bring the gun, or at least someone that runs slower
then you. ;)
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A 7 day non-resident fishing license will cost about $30 and a 14 day license
is only $50. If you are under the age of 16 you are not required to have a
fishing license, however EVERYONE that is fishing for king salmon will
need to purchase a $10 dollar "king salmon harvest stamp". Most all
tour operators sell fishing licenses and the king salmon stamp. They can
also be purchased at most all gas stations or at the the following link.
http://www.sf.adfg.state.ak.us/statewide/html/sf_home.htm
All the boats in Alaska range in size. Most river boats are generally
about 21-23 feet long by 7 feet wide, and will fish 4 to 5 people at a
time. Most river boats, drift boats, and rafts are not equipped with
toilets, but stops along the river is possible, or the "honeybucket" always an
option. Most Ocean fishing boats are between 22-40 feet long.
Typically they are 30-40 feet long, and are equipped with heated cabins and most
important to the women toilets! :)
King Salmon catch can be about 25-85 pounds, red salmon from 5-15 pounds,
silver from 7-20 pounds, rainbow trout/ dolly varden to about 12 pounds,
and halibut from 20-300 pounds. It is recommend that any Halibut over 100
pounds is released unless you are in a Derby and can win some money.
Otherwise, Halibut breeding stocks are in the 100-300 pound range and it insure
good fishing the future release the really big ones. Keep in
mind 100 pound fish will give you about 70 pounds of fish and will fill you
freezer quick.
There is a limit of 5 King salmon per season, Red and Silver salmon
have daily limits of 3-6 per day. If your taking fish home, usually
are sent in 70lb boxes. You can keep up to your license limit, getting it
home is some times a different story. Catch and release is encouraged, but
it is also recommended you take a least a little home with you.
The best way to take fish home is part of your airline luggage allowance.
70 lbs boxes are available for about $20 that are Airline approved fish boxes
and can keep fish frozen for up to 30 hours. Most tours provide "Fishing
Vacation Freezers" usually a no charge to store your catch if you are still on
vacation. Your catch will extend the self life of your catch to over a
year in your freezer and it will be as fresh as the day you caught it.
Depending on the weight of your fish the price to mail it to upon your return
home varies.
Cruise Tours are a combination of a cruise and a land package. Normally
they are carefully orchestrated and offer a great way to see a lot of Alaska in
a limited amount of time.
Cruises:
Contemporary/Resort
Niche/Specialty/Adventure
Luxury
Premium
Value/Tradition
Yacht
Tours:
Adventure
Self-Guided
Escorted
Main Cruise Areas:
Inside Passage- Usually round trip from Vancouver(VAN)/VAN or Seattle(SEA)/SEA.
Northbound Glacier Route- One way cruise VAN to Seward
Southbound Glacier Route- One way cruise Seward to VAN
Main Land Tour areas: (keep in mind this is a rough idea)
"The Rail Belt"= Anchorage, Denali, Talkeetna, Fairbanks
"Klondike Route"= Skagway, Whitehorse, Dawson, Yukon, Tok, Fairbanks, Denali,
Anchorage
"Highway Route"= Anchorage, Denali/Talkeetna, Fairbanks, Beaver Creek,
Whitehorse, Skagway
"Artic Route"=Anchorage, Nome, Kotzebue, Prudhoe Bay, Barrow
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All trip vary in length from 7 to 23 day. The most common tours are
about 13-14 days long.
Cruise Tours give you the opportunity to see the most of Alaska in limited
time. It also is one of the best values to see and experience using
multiple methods of transportation.
Yes! Anything is possible in Alaska. Just let us know what looks
appealing to you and we'll get the price and book it.
Yes! There is a minimum number of participants required. The
minimum will vary by trip. We can customize any existing trip. Or we
can create a specialized Itinerary. Either way your in good hands.
Yes! We can customize your tour to include an Alaskan Tour Director.
Escorted Tours include a Tour Director that will guide you and a group
through Alaska. This is a recommended way to see Alaska.
Having an Tour Director gives the group a piece of mind, all the logistics are
taken care of by your guide and able to point out events while traveling that
you shouldn't miss.
Self Guided means you will have several guides along your journey a better
term is "Hosted" because your hosted in each location. Prior to departure
your trip is described in detail, with all the applicable vouchers for your
transfers, transportation, lodging, and excursions. On most tours
each location there are local representatives that will assist with additional
needs.
Yes tours are available. Go to our excursions page or the city your
looking for an excursion. If you don't find what your looking for send us
an e-mail and we'll make sure if we don't have the connections, we will send you
to the appropriate place to find more.
Normally an escorted tour won't start to be escorted until you arrive at your
Hotel in Alaska, or Embark onboard ship. Air/Hotel, pre/post packages, all
are hosted. You normally will meet your tour director the morning of your
first full day in Alaska. Trips do vary and it will be outlined in your
documents.
Keep in mind Air/hotel packages of Alaska are great for spending multiple
days in one locale. However, if you are looking at price and value it is
our recommendation that you go for a packaged tour. Packaged tours tend to
be the best value especially for the area that is covered. Custom packages
allow the flexibly, tend to be more expensive, and you spend the time exactly
where you want.
Normally Airfare is NOT included. Count on your airfare to be
approximately 300-1000 dollars per person.
Yes with limitations. You don't have to be a Mr. or Ms. Olympic but, to
some tours have limitations. We have tours that the adventures range from
easy walking to challenging treks. Alaska is a playground to explore by
foot, kayak, canoe, raft, bicycle, 4-wheels, cruise ships or a combination.
Novices and Experts are welcome.
Simple answer Yes and No. Anything is possible for a price. Yes
if it is a pre, post, or self guided packaged tour. No if it is an
escorted tour unless it is a customized exclusive tour.
Yes, we can customize an already packaged cruise or tour. Or we
can start from scratch and build your ideal itinerary.
4Miscellaneous
Simple answer...No. However, if you want a custom tour that involved
excursions and hotels along the way we can certainly help.
Backcountry Permits are required to hike the Chilkoot Trail and are no longer
available at the trailhead. All overnight hikers, regardless of length of
stay, should visit The Trail Center at 2nd & Broadway in Skagway prior to
traveling to Dyea. The Trail Center is open 7 days a week from 7:00am to
7:00pm.
There is a reservation fee & permit fee, which is payable by Visa/MC, cash or
money order. Call 1-800-661-0486 Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 4:30 pm PST to
make a reservation. Reservations are HIGHLY recommended approximately 42
permits are given out each day, allowing only 8 unreserved spaces which are
given out the day of on a first come, first serve basis. When you call to
reserve your spot be sure to have your credit card, mailing address, number of
hikers, date you plan to start your hike and two alternate dates, and a hiking
itinerary. Contact us for trail head drop off, accommodation, and rail or
van pick-up.
 MADE
IN ALASKA CERTIFICATION If the product
you buy is marked with the polar bear or the silver hand you are insured a
authentic Alaskan product. If you really want to support Alaskans look for
these symbols.
A MADE IN ALASKA emblem with the polar
bear is issued to a product where the applicant:
- locates and maintains the handicraft or
product making or manufacturing operation with the state;
- produces a handicraft in the state or a
product in which the value-added processes were accomplished in the state;
- uses Alaska resources and materials in the
manufacturing or production of the product or handicraft, or provides
documentation that the raw resources and materials do not exist with the state
either in the form, quality, or quantity required for the production of the
product or the handicraft;
- has a current Alaska business license
An AUTHENTIC NATIVE HANDCRAFT FROM ALASKA
emblem with the silver hand is issued to a product where the applicant is a
Native Alaskan and is Handcrafted.
CROSSING THE BOARDER
U.S. residents crossing the U.S.-Canadian border either way normally is made
without difficulty or delay. Passports are required, even to native-born U.S.
citizens. Other residents from the United States should have either a
Naturalization Certificate or an Alien Resident Card.
If your driving, be sure to carry your Vehicle Registration. Auto insurance
is mandatory in all Canadian provinces. Motorists entering Canada may be
required to show a Canada Non-Resident Inter-Province Motor Vehicle Liability
Insurance Card. This card, which can be obtained from your insurance agent, will
certify that the motorist has liability and property damage insurance coverage.
You can bring in personal goods without paying duty or tax, as long as you do
not leave them in Canada. You can also bring (minimum 19 years) 1.5 L of wine or
1.14 L of liquor or 24 (12 oz) bottles/cans of beer. 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars
and 200 grams manufactured tobacco. You can bring in gifts without paying duty
or tax, as long as they are not alcohol or tobacco or business goods, and they
have a value of CAN $60 or less per gift.
Canadian residents; must include the total value of all goods (including gifts)
that you have purchased, received, or acquired abroad or at duty-free shops and
that you are bringing into Canada. 24 hours exemption limit $50; 48 hours $200;
7 days $750.
Dogs and cats must be have a rabies vaccination certificate valid within the
past 36 months.
Non-residents entering Canada are not permitted to carry revolvers, pistols
or fully-automatic weapons under any circumstance. Personal protective sprays
such as mace or pepper sprays are not allowed.
If you are a visitor to Canada, you will have to declare your firearms
in-writing. Visitors may only import nonrestricted firearms for legitimate
purposes such as: sporting or hunting use during hunting season; use in
competitions; in-transit movement; personal protection against wildlife in
remote areas of Canada, as long as the customs officer is satisfied that the
circumstances warrant the firearm being imported.
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