Alaska 2017

Welcome to the north country, eh?  I live in Alaska and have made the drive to and from Outside several times over the years; once pulling a 2010 R-Pod on a trans-North American trip.

Check out Liard Hot Springs in northern BC, for sure.  Takhini Hot Springs, west of White Horse is a good stop, too, if you aren't in a hurry.  There are a few choices for the trip north-bound.  It all depends on what you want to see and how much time you have.  I have driven them all from Manitoba to BC and none of them were bad, but each of them were different.  You'll have to come back often to see what I mean.

The drive from Mesiadan (sp?) Jct. on the Cassiar to the seacoast towns of Stewart, BC/Hyder, AK is one of the most scenic drives in North America.  It crosses over the coastal mountains, past a roadside glacier and follows the resulting stream all the way through both towns.  Brown bear come into town to catch salmon.  You can watch it from the cafe in town while eating breakfast.

If you are interested in fishing, the sooner you get up north, the better.  June to July is the peak fishing season for salmon and halibut in the south central region.  There will be fish to be had anytime, but this is the prime time for fishing.

My recommendation for the rig is add a bug screen to the front of your tow vehicle and clean it often.  Broken headlights and windshields are not uncommon.  Plan on it and consider yourself lucky if you get home without one.

Another option is to consider the Alaska Marine Hwy, but it can be costly for a tow vehicle plus camper.  The price is on a per foot basis.  The cruise up the southeast passage is on to put on your list of places to see, especially in good weather.  You will get to the point of telling yourself that if you see one more glacier you will puke. That's when it is time to hang out at the bar and check out the local color.

Safe travels and may you dream of your trip for many years to come.

Great to get info like that on the fishing and the bears!!

I am talking with Melissa about it, hashing over if details could be worked out.