This is our first trip to Alaska and I have a lot of concerns and looking for some help. We start out of Seattle Wa. and go up threw Vancouver. We have a DRV 38ft 5th wheel and my truck is a ford F350 dually and it get about 10 miles a gallon is there enough gas stations with the 36 gallon tank or will I have add an additional tank? I keep reading about putting your food in bear containers does that include all your refrigerated food to? I have 1 spare tire for both rigs should I get another tire. If there is something else I should know please feel free to add it to this post.
Safe Travels All
Rob
TRAILERKING said
07:44 AM Feb 7, 2014
fotoman54 wrote:
Hi All,
This is our first trip to Alaska ................ If there is something else I should know please feel free to add it to this post.
Safe Travels All
Rob
Yes.......Don't go now. It's WAY to cold up here.
kb0zke said
07:57 AM Feb 7, 2014
Current temperature in Anchorage is 26. Here in SW Missouri it is 5 degrees. I think we ought to head that way.
TRAILERKING said
07:59 AM Feb 7, 2014
REALLY?? Guess I gotta go there too.
dianneandsteve said
08:16 AM Feb 7, 2014
Hi Rob.
We did Alaska last summer and didn't find fuel stops an issue. We have two 50 gal. tanks and get 7 mpg. I would suggest filling up when you get to half a tank and maybe carry a couple of extra 5 gal. cans just in case.
As for bear proof containers just use common sense. Don't leave food out in your truck/RV when your not there or outside including gum. Put your BBQ away after burning it off. If your hiking with food make sure it's in sealed packages or containers. Get some bear spray and make sure your familiar with using it. We also use a bear bell when hiking although we have been told that's just a dinner bell for bears I think they were kidding...just make sure you make lots of noise.
One spare for each should be fine as long as all of your tires are in good shape.
I would recommend getting Alaskan Camping by the Churches as well as the Milepost book. When you get to Alaska find a Carrs Store and get the Tour Savers Coupon book for $99.00. It's full of 2 for 1 coupons on just about anything you may want to do.
I would for sure want more than 36 gallons of fuel. Personally, I'd add a 50 gallon tank behind the cab - it would be convenient in the lower 48 too, but cans would work, although inconvenient.
el Rojo and Pam said
08:46 AM Feb 7, 2014
I found this on the Texas Fishing Forum, thought it might help on bear identification.
In light of the rising frequency of human/grizzly bear conflicts, the Montana Department of Fish and Game is advising hikers, hunters, and fishermen to take extra precautions and keep alert for bears while in the field.
We advise that outdoorsmen wear noisy little bells on their clothing so as not to startle bears that aren't expecting them. We also advise outdoorsmen to carry pepper spray with them in case of an encounter with a bear. It is also a good idea to watch out for fresh signs of bear activity.
Outdoorsmen should recognize the difference between black bear and grizzly bear scat. Black bear scat is smaller and contains lots of berries and squirrel fur. Grizzly bear scat has little bells in it and smells like pepper.
Bill and Linda said
08:52 AM Feb 7, 2014
Rob:
Here’s our opinion having done Alaska and the Canadian NWT.I would NOT go on that trip with 36 gallons of fuel.A friend who was with us almost ran out with 36 gallons.
Now, you can take three or four containers of diesel totaling maybe 20 gallons or so and that will probably be OK.
Here’s why:First, while 36 gallons will probably be OK, our trip one of the guys with only 36 gallons came within one gallon of running out because the station(s) he planned to use were closed or simply out of fuel.Second, there may be fuel but because of the location, like Muncho Lake, it could be extremely expensive and if you could go another 150 miles there was much less expensive and plentiful fuel.
We went with 84 gallons and were able to follow the Alaska rule of thumb, never get below a half a tank.In my case I know I would have run out with only 36 gallons on both trips.
I’d put in at least a 50 gallon aux tank.You won’t regret it and you’ll be surprised how much nicer travel is when you don’t have to fill up every day even in the US.
Do make sure you have at least one spare tire for the truck and trailer as was mentioned AND have the proper equipment to change a tire on the trailer and know how to do it.Also, my opinion, if you don’t have “H” tires on the rig, put them on before you go.You will not regret it.“H” will hold up and the “G” tires won’t nearly as well.Again, seen this on numerous occasions as we were fine with “H” and the guys with “G’s” had to replace them on the trip.
No, you don’t have to put food that is in the fridge in metal containers.Just don’t leave food outside the rig.That’s the deal.You also need to become familiar with what food you can take across the border into Canada and also into the US.Remember, Alaska is the US and the US is picky about what food you can bring in from Canada.
Take general spare parts for the rig and truck.Like a water pump for the rig, fuses, light bulbs, “fan” belt, fuel filter for truck, oil filter, battery charger for the rig, jumper cables, duct tape.Simple stuff that can be hard to obtain depending on location.Think about the simple, but killer items, like your rig water pump. That goes out and you’re kind of stuck.
PM me if you want more info based on our experiences.
Bill
el Rojo and Pam said
08:56 AM Feb 7, 2014
Hello fotoman54
We should keep in touch and share notes. We will be making our first trip to Alaska this summer as well.
As far as the fuel goes I felt the same and added a 90 gallon bed tank. Personally I don't think I needed 90 extra gallons but it has a tool box too which I wanted.
I have the same truck and didn't like the 200 mile range before looking for a place big enough to get diesel with a 5th wheel.
bjoyce said
09:12 AM Feb 7, 2014
Get the Toursaver book before going since they normally have some deals in Canada, http://www.toursaver.com/. I also recommend the Church's Alaska camping book, it is unbiased on camping (Milepost costs the campgrounds money), and also has free places and dumps stations listed - http://www.rollinghomes.com/alaska%20book.htm.
BiggarView said
09:28 AM Feb 7, 2014
el Rojo wrote:
....Outdoorsmen should recognize the difference between black bear and grizzly bear scat. Black bear scat is smaller and contains lots of berries and squirrel fur. Grizzly bear scat has little bells in it and smells like pepper.
ROFLMAO, Red
NWescapee said
09:44 AM Feb 7, 2014
Red - you made me laugh when you mentioned bear bells. I worked for several summers in Glacier Park years ago while in college. We referred to those bells as "dinner bells"
MarkS said
10:53 AM Feb 7, 2014
Making notes for our trip... 250 gals should be enough fuel, upgrade tires if necessary, get there on February 7 because it's warmer there than in MS. feed the bears bells, for a great photo op leave food out at your neighbors camp site. Educate yourself by watching all those reality shows about Alaska. Carry chains to keep the DW in line. Lift kit and big tires on the Smart. Take a wench, in case the DW doesn't like the chains.
This is gonna be a fun trip!!!
BiggarView said
11:02 AM Feb 7, 2014
MarkS wrote:
...Take a wench, in case the DW doesn't like the chains....
If you take a wench, I'm sure the DW won't even be thinking about the chains... jes sayin'
MarkS said
11:08 AM Feb 7, 2014
biggaRView wrote:
MarkS wrote:
...Take a wench, in case the DW doesn't like the chains....
If you take a wench, I'm sure the DW won't even be thinking about the chains... jes sayin'
She is very consistently tempered about this sort of thing Oh... I need to think more about my health and safety, huh?
TRAILERKING said
11:08 AM Feb 7, 2014
What dates do people usually go up to Alaska? I always thought people go up there during "HOT" summer not winter.
BiggarView said
11:11 AM Feb 7, 2014
MarkS wrote:
biggaRView wrote:
MarkS wrote:
...Take a wench, in case the DW doesn't like the chains....
If you take a wench, I'm sure the DW won't even be thinking about the chains... jes sayin'
She is very consistently tempered about this sort of thing Oh... I need to think more about my health and safety, huh?
They say laughter is the best medicine. I'd concentrate on the safety side
MarkS said
11:17 AM Feb 7, 2014
I see a lot heading up in late May, most in early June. You can find quite a few blogs about making the trip all over the interweb. Tons of solid information. If you couple that with the input you get here, you can have a safe and fun trip. I believe it is reasonably easy to find someone going at the same time and run together with them.
TRAILERKING said
11:32 AM Feb 7, 2014
Thanks Mark....And when do people start heading back?
dianneandsteve said
11:52 AM Feb 7, 2014
We were gone for 3 months and could have easily stayed for a 4th. There is so much to see and do in not only Alaska but BC and the Yukon as well.
I would recommend May thru Sept depending on the weather conditions.
-- Edited by dianneandsteve on Friday 7th of February 2014 11:56:11 AM
TRAILERKING said
12:07 PM Feb 7, 2014
Sounds great!
bjoyce said
12:12 PM Feb 7, 2014
Some people head up about mid-May, but find lakes still frozen over if they go too fast. By the first week of September it is a good idea to be heading south, Haines and Skagway are still good as is Whitehorse, then. By mid-September I would want to be to Transcanada 16, or further south.
I recommend taking the Alaska highway north and Cassiar south. The bears are not in Hyder AK/Stewart BC until late July. If you have ideas about visiting the Canadian Rockies, it is better later than earlier. In May and into June the national parks are not fully open, but in September they are. The Canadian Rockies are easy to get to for a separate one to three week trip another year, and well worth visiting.
If you can't make the full Alaska trip I recommend going to Hyder AK/Stewart BC in August or early September. 900 miles from the border, bears, glaciers, seafood, a taste of the full trip, and it can be done in two weeks.
canuck said
12:58 PM Feb 7, 2014
el Rojo wrote:
I found this on the Texas Fishing Forum, thought it might help on bear identification.
In light of the rising frequency of human/grizzly bear conflicts, the Montana Department of Fish and Game is advising hikers, hunters, and fishermen to take extra precautions and keep alert for bears while in the field.
We advise that outdoorsmen wear noisy little bells on their clothing so as not to startle bears that aren't expecting them. We also advise outdoorsmen to carry pepper spray with them in case of an encounter with a bear. It is also a good idea to watch out for fresh signs of bear activity.
Outdoorsmen should recognize the difference between black bear and grizzly bear scat. Black bear scat is smaller and contains lots of berries and squirrel fur. Grizzly bear scat has little bells in it and smells like pepper.
I can not stop giggling:)
Bill and Linda said
01:22 PM Feb 7, 2014
Times of year to go:
Some of this naturally depends on where you are coming from in the states. Coming from the east or generally the mid-west you can have a lot of bad weather just getting there to get started. “There” to me is Dawson Creek which is where the Alcan begins officially.From Dawson Creek it is still almost 1,200 miles to the Alaska border and then 100 miles or so to Tok, Alaska, the first significant “wide place in the road” as my traveling Mother used to say.
IMO, based on our trips up that way, if you get to Dawson Creek about the second week of June or so that’s about right.Just remember it is 750 miles from Sweetgrass, Montana, one of the border cross over points, to Dawson Creek.All very good roads by the way.But sometimes getting to Sweetgrass in early May could be “interesting.”
We agree, you need at least 3 odd months for the whole trip including coming from most places in the US unless you are pretty close to the Alberta / British Columbia area to start with.
I would be back in the states by early October if not a bit sooner.Again based on our experience.There is a lot of land to cover where weather can develop.
I agree with Bill J’s routes up and then coming back down the Cassiar Hiway via Prince George, Japer National Park and onto the Ice Fields Parkway.Arguably one of the most fantastic drives in the world. Boondocking by a glacier is kind of cool for example.
Our perspective
B & L
The Hensons said
09:06 AM Feb 8, 2014
Bill & Linda,
I've heard your rig takes a real "beating" on the drive up. Was that your experience? I hope that's not why you are trading in your Escalade for a New Horizons
bjoyce said
09:30 AM Feb 8, 2014
Drive slow and you will be fine. The people with problems are the ones who think they can drive as fast and far as they do in the lower 48. There are areas of Yukon and Alaska, frost heave and construction, where 30 mph is fast. Some days 200 miles is a long trip. I know multiple people, with nice RVs, who travel to Alaska yearly or every couple years and have no damage. We are driving the same motorhome we took up in 2006. We would not hesitate to take it back to Alaska.
Bill and Linda said
09:36 AM Feb 8, 2014
The Hensons wrote:
Bill & Linda,
I've heard your rig takes a real "beating" on the drive up. Was that your experience? I hope that's not why you are trading in your Escalade for a New Horizons
Nope, that’s not why we are trading the Escalade.It was in excellent condition. Everything worked and NH offered to take it in trade because of its condition. They said they don’t take too many trades other than other NH coaches but actually offered to take ours. We didn’t ask them to.The Escalade was a “tank.”If they still make them like they did in 2007 we’d buy one.
The rig does not “take a beating” going to Alaska.There is about 60 miles of road, just before the Alaska border, that you really need to slow down.Like 25 MPH or less.Its tundra and they can’t keep the road level and repair because the ground melts.They are working on that problem and think they have a fix for the long term.Tests are underway.They mark the road issues very well with flags.This isn’t a drive down I-95 to Ft. Lauderdale.But it isn’t nearly as bad as you might think.
Your rig will get dirty.Really dirty due to road work.But you can wash the dirt off. They have to work on the roads in the summer so that is when you get into dirt.There is a substance they put on some of the roads to keep the dirt in place that can get on the rig.Best to wash that off as soon as possible.But if you saw our Escalade before we cleaned it and after you wouldn’t have said we were ever in Alaska or the NWT.The paint job on the Escalade was in extremely good condition even after 7 years and two trips over really bad roads in Canada’s NWT to the Arctic.Still bright and shinny.Remember, we still had the rig for almost 3 years after our two trips up there including the NWT trip.
Now, I do offer the following suggestions:If you are going to travel, as you guys actually are; I would consider two things:Put on a MOR/ryde IS before you go and put on G114 “H” tires.The MS is your home and that would give it, IMO, a much better ride for the trip as well as in the US, be much safer and the tires will last at least 45,000 miles and won’t blow out. (We were on our second set of “H” tires when traded and I changed them at 42,000 but they didn’t need it. Had other reasons.) But you know how I feel about these two upgrades for people who travel.Worth every dime, IMO.
Happy to give any other info you may desire.Looking forward to seeing all three of you at the Rally.
B & L
Bill and Linda said
09:53 AM Feb 8, 2014
bjoyce wrote:
Drive slow and you will be fine. The people with problems are the ones who think they can drive as fast and far as they do in the lower 48. There are areas of Yukon and Alaska, frost heave and construction, where 30 mph is fast. Some days 200 miles is a long trip. I know multiple people, with nice RVs, who travel to Alaska yearly or every couple years and have no damage. We are driving the same motorhome we took up in 2006. We would not hesitate to take it back to Alaska.
I really agree with this.You do have to completely re-calibrate your travel time thinking for a lot of reasons. One is to stop and look around. It takes, IMO, about 3 months including travel time from the US to the starting point.
You can make really good time up until about Fort Nelson, IMO.Then things start getting more interesting.Not bad, interesting.
BTW, we plan to take the NH Majestic to Alaska in 2015. Plans already made. We were going this year with the Escalade but the NH "got in the way." We’ll see, but every time I think about not going we see some documentary and see pictures of places we’ve been and say, “Gotta go back.”
Don’t discount Canada as well.Half the beauty of the trip is the drive up the Alcan, most of which is in Canada, and back down the Ice Fields Parkway.
You will love it and the people.
Bill
Alie and Jims Carrilite said
10:01 AM Feb 8, 2014
From everything I've read about going to Alaska one thing seems to be common,
And that is that the Journey is the Destination. Yes Alaska is where you want to go, but getting there is half of the destination.
In the lower 48, most folks drive like madmen to get to Yellowstone for the 2 week vacation, then slow down and meander through the park.
Going to Alaska is that meander through the park speed. Stop to see the wildlife, slow down for the bumps, wave people around that don't want to see what you see. Generally if your equipment survives the lower 48 then it will do fine on the journey.
We haven't been there personally, but family members have made 2 trips there. 1 couple in a Class C towing motorcycles, and the others in an Airstream toyed by a Suburban.
bjoyce said
10:14 AM Feb 8, 2014
I realized I wanted to make another comment. Most of the bad press on the trip to Alaska comes from people who took a caravan. The caravans do the trip in 30 to 45 days to and from Dawson Creek and/or Prince George BC. The two cities are about 250 miles apart on Transcanada 16, a good road you can drive like you are in the lower 48. That is way too fast and they are on a schedule, so if it rains you still take the Top of the World Highway, instead of waiting a couple days. I do not recommend taking a caravan to Alaska, it will tire you out and not leave the best impression.
Go up on your own or with casual groupings with friends. I say, "casual groupings", since it is best to not be tied to each other unless your interests and travel styles are known to be compatible. If someone likes to leave at 7AM and another at 10AM, there will be issues. If someone has to stop at every gift shop and another doesn't, there will be issues. If someone has to try every giant cinnamon roll on the route and another doesn't or can't for health reasons, there will be issues. Some friends went with a small group and the group insisted on ground rules. One person insisted that if someone wants to eat out, everyone would go. Turns out she didn't cook, so they ate out every night and those roadhouses in Canada can charge a lot for basic food. Our friends had a packed refrigerator and could not eat it all before it spoiled. When they got to Alaska only two couples wanted to fish, so the group broke up anyway.
-- Edited by bjoyce on Saturday 8th of February 2014 10:16:34 AM
Bill and Linda said
10:57 AM Feb 8, 2014
Bill J:We’ll just have to agree to disagree on the caravan point as an all encompassing statement.We took a “caravan” led by an individual, not run by a corporate firm.We had a GREAT time.We were not rushed in anyway and it took away all the initial issues of figuring all this out. There were some forest fires on the way back that closed the road. That had to be handled and he dealt with those issues because he knew how and because he had been there before.It made the trip easy in many ways.
But, to make the real point, this was not one of the commercial operations that treat you as you describe, at least in our opinion, like cats to be herded along and to wear their marketing garb. This was a small group as he requires.We had great flexibility and made lasting friendships.There is also mechanical safety in numbers and for some motorhome people that turned out to be a very good thing.
Now, I would go alone the next time?Yes, but I still would go with this individual again.The Trip Book of information provided was well worth his modest fee. He treated us all like “guests” and all on the trip respected each other’s desires and wishes, including some that split out and then later rejoined the group.“Dave” was very flexible.
Different strokes for different people.That’s why they make cars in different colors.It depends.
B & L
bjoyce said
11:28 AM Feb 8, 2014
Bill: What you are talking about is an alternative to a normal commercial caravan. I have no problem with it and was no way being critical of that kind of travel.
Dennis and Carol Hill go up about every other year and lead a group they call the Loosey Goosey Gang, http://rvdrivingschool.blogspot.com/ . It is more loose than what you are talking about, but it is also free. They keep wanting us to go with them and we would, if we could.
bjoyce said
11:41 AM Feb 8, 2014
Another thought. If you are the type who hates to backtrack or take the same road twice, you will hate Alaska or will miss some of the best places. An example is if the weather is bad in Valdez when you first get to Alaska, go later in your stay. Valdez is both very scenic and the best place to take a wildlife and glacier cruise, but many miss it because it is at the end of a dead end highway.
Bill and Linda said
11:46 AM Feb 8, 2014
bjoyce wrote:
Bill: What you are talking about is an alternative to a normal commercial caravan. I have no problem with it and was no way being critical of that kind of travel.
Dennis and Carol Hill go up about every other year and lead a group they call the Loosey Goosey Gang, http://rvdrivingschool.blogspot.com/ . It is more loose than what you are talking about, but it is also free. They keep wanting us to go with them and we would, if we could.
Exactly!I actually prefer to go with a group if that group is not doing it “just for the money.”I want people who are considering the trip to have options in case they may feel uneasy or intimated by the trip.Frankly, from our home base it was a total of miles 11,400 towing miles and when we found a small, personally run “caravan” who would take care of all the reservations and make sure we always had a place to stop we thought it would make the trip more enjoyable.It did. All I had to do was drive, look out the window, stop and say WOW! When we arrived at the campground I knew there was a space big enough for the 39’ 5er.I didn’t even have to stop at the office.We just got directed right to the site.
For some, not all, we think this is a great option to do Alaska, at least the first time and see more than you might otherwise.
BTW, for those considering such a trip, let me quickly add the solo trip from the Sweetgrass, Montana border, or almost any border crossing in the west to Dawson Creek, is like driving in the US. Except for the “funny” speed limit signs (they’re in kilometers) you hardly know you aren’t in the US road wise.It is very safe.I have never felt uneasy in Canada and we’ve been through a lot of it.Enjoy.
B & L
Bill and Linda said
11:49 AM Feb 8, 2014
bjoyce wrote:
Another thought. If you are the type who hates to backtrack or take the same road twice, you will hate Alaska or will miss some of the best places. An example is if the weather is bad in Valdez when you first get to Alaska, go later in your stay. Valdez is both very scenic and the best place to take a wildlife and glacier cruise, but many miss it because it is at the end of a dead end highway.
X2 on that.There aren’t that many roads that go places in Alaska and Canada.You have to backtrack.But, I can tell you from experience, you see things coming back you didn’t see going.
Loved Valdez
The Hensons said
07:21 PM Feb 8, 2014
Bill and Linda wrote:
Now, I do offer the following suggestions: If you are going to travel, as you guys actually are; I would consider two things: Put on a MOR/ryde IS before you go and put on G114 “H” tires. The MS is your home and that would give it, IMO, a much better ride for the trip as well as in the US, be much safer and the tires will last at least 45,000 miles and won’t blow out. (We were on our second set of “H” tires when traded and I changed them at 42,000 but they didn’t need it. Had other reasons.) But you know how I feel about these two upgrades for people who travel. Worth every dime, IMO.
Happy to give any other info you may desire. Looking forward to seeing all three of you at the Rally.
B & L
Looking forward to seeing you both at the rally as well!
I've been to Alaska 3x, all were fishing trips to Kenai and none were by RV. My next trip will hopefully be via RV and will be more for sightseeing...although we might have to accidentally pass through Kenai :)
Thanks for the information. I'm encouraged by what you and bjoyce wrote. We are considering 2016 for Alaska. I have "J" tires now so they should be good, though they may need replaced by then.
I have the Trail Air c/p suspension right now and am not likely to change that any time soon, though I'd prefer the MOR/ryde IS.
soos said
01:14 AM Feb 10, 2014
fotoman54 wrote:
Hi All,
This is our first trip to Alaska and I have a lot of concerns and looking for some help. We start out of Seattle Wa. and go up threw Vancouver. We have a DRV 38ft 5th wheel and my truck is a ford F350 dually and it get about 10 miles a gallon is there enough gas stations with the 36 gallon tank or will I have add an additional tank? I keep reading about putting your food in bear containers does that include all your refrigerated food to? I have 1 spare tire for both rigs should I get another tire. If there is something else I should know please feel free to add it to this post.
Safe Travels All
Rob
We are headed to Alaska this summer as well, but we decided not to bring our Mobile Suites. Instead, we bought a truck camper.
we'll have no place to store extra diesel so hopefully our 36 gallon tank will be enough. We should get better mileage since we won't be towing.
Bill and Linda said
10:53 AM Feb 11, 2014
In the humor department about when not to go to Alaska:
I noticed this post on a truck forum from a guy with a diesel truck going up the Alcan. Some of these towns were mentioned in this thread. Tok is the first town in Alaska on the Alcan.Just got a chuckle out of it.Maybe you will.
“I recently came up the Alaska Highway, cold front on, 5W/40 Rotella T6 synthetic and had filled my DEF in Idaho before heading north. Ran many days at -20F and some areas in Canada around FT Nelson and Watson Lake at -31F. I am sure the DEF tank froze as parked at motels and plugged in for say 10 - 12 hours. I did lay over an extra day to avoid -49F in Tok, AK.”
Thank you for all the information for our trip to Alaska. We already have the Mor/Ryd and have upgraded our tires last summer. I am planning on bringing enough oil for a change, fuel filter, air filter and enough DEF for the trip.
Wha is the rig you are driving it big????
Bill and Linda said
08:50 PM Feb 24, 2014
The Escalade we took to Alaska was just a bit under 39 feet.
Hi All,
This is our first trip to Alaska and I have a lot of concerns and looking for some help. We start out of Seattle Wa. and go up threw Vancouver. We have a DRV 38ft 5th wheel and my truck is a ford F350 dually and it get about 10 miles a gallon is there enough gas stations with the 36 gallon tank or will I have add an additional tank? I keep reading about putting your food in bear containers does that include all your refrigerated food to? I have 1 spare tire for both rigs should I get another tire. If there is something else I should know please feel free to add it to this post.
Safe Travels All
Rob
Yes.......Don't go now. It's WAY to cold up here.
Hi Rob.
We did Alaska last summer and didn't find fuel stops an issue. We have two 50 gal. tanks and get 7 mpg. I would suggest filling up when you get to half a tank and maybe carry a couple of extra 5 gal. cans just in case.
As for bear proof containers just use common sense. Don't leave food out in your truck/RV when your not there or outside including gum. Put your BBQ away after burning it off. If your hiking with food make sure it's in sealed packages or containers. Get some bear spray and make sure your familiar with using it. We also use a bear bell when hiking although we have been told that's just a dinner bell for bears
I think they were kidding...just make sure you make lots of noise.
One spare for each should be fine as long as all of your tires are in good shape.
I would recommend getting Alaskan Camping by the Churches as well as the Milepost book. When you get to Alaska find a Carrs Store and get the Tour Savers Coupon book for $99.00. It's full of 2 for 1 coupons on just about anything you may want to do.
For references check out our Alaska blog at http://steveanddiannesmostexcellentadventure.blogspot.com/2013/06/tuesday-june-11-2013-historic-hat-creek.html
Safe travels!
In light of the rising frequency of human/grizzly bear conflicts, the Montana Department of Fish and Game is advising hikers, hunters, and fishermen to take extra precautions and keep alert for bears while in the field.
We advise that outdoorsmen wear noisy little bells on their clothing so as not to startle bears that aren't expecting them. We also advise outdoorsmen to carry pepper spray with them in case of an encounter with a bear. It is also a good idea to watch out for fresh signs of bear activity.
Outdoorsmen should recognize the difference between black bear and grizzly bear scat. Black bear scat is smaller and contains lots of berries and squirrel fur. Grizzly bear scat has little bells in it and smells like pepper.
Rob:
Here’s our opinion having done Alaska and the Canadian NWT. I would NOT go on that trip with 36 gallons of fuel. A friend who was with us almost ran out with 36 gallons.
Now, you can take three or four containers of diesel totaling maybe 20 gallons or so and that will probably be OK.
Here’s why: First, while 36 gallons will probably be OK, our trip one of the guys with only 36 gallons came within one gallon of running out because the station(s) he planned to use were closed or simply out of fuel. Second, there may be fuel but because of the location, like Muncho Lake, it could be extremely expensive and if you could go another 150 miles there was much less expensive and plentiful fuel.
We went with 84 gallons and were able to follow the Alaska rule of thumb, never get below a half a tank. In my case I know I would have run out with only 36 gallons on both trips.
I’d put in at least a 50 gallon aux tank. You won’t regret it and you’ll be surprised how much nicer travel is when you don’t have to fill up every day even in the US.
Do make sure you have at least one spare tire for the truck and trailer as was mentioned AND have the proper equipment to change a tire on the trailer and know how to do it. Also, my opinion, if you don’t have “H” tires on the rig, put them on before you go. You will not regret it. “H” will hold up and the “G” tires won’t nearly as well. Again, seen this on numerous occasions as we were fine with “H” and the guys with “G’s” had to replace them on the trip.
No, you don’t have to put food that is in the fridge in metal containers. Just don’t leave food outside the rig. That’s the deal. You also need to become familiar with what food you can take across the border into Canada and also into the US. Remember, Alaska is the US and the US is picky about what food you can bring in from Canada.
Take general spare parts for the rig and truck. Like a water pump for the rig, fuses, light bulbs, “fan” belt, fuel filter for truck, oil filter, battery charger for the rig, jumper cables, duct tape. Simple stuff that can be hard to obtain depending on location. Think about the simple, but killer items, like your rig water pump. That goes out and you’re kind of stuck.
PM me if you want more info based on our experiences.
Bill
We should keep in touch and share notes. We will be making our first trip to Alaska this summer as well.
As far as the fuel goes I felt the same and added a 90 gallon bed tank. Personally I don't think I needed 90 extra gallons but it has a tool box too which I wanted.
I have the same truck and didn't like the 200 mile range before looking for a place big enough to get diesel with a 5th wheel.
Get the Toursaver book before going since they normally have some deals in Canada, http://www.toursaver.com/. I also recommend the Church's Alaska camping book, it is unbiased on camping (Milepost costs the campgrounds money), and also has free places and dumps stations listed - http://www.rollinghomes.com/alaska%20book.htm.
ROFLMAO, Red
Red - you made me laugh when you mentioned bear bells. I worked for several summers in Glacier Park years ago while in college. We referred to those bells as "dinner bells"
This is gonna be a fun trip!!!
If you take a wench, I'm sure the DW won't even be thinking about the chains... jes sayin'
She is very consistently tempered about this sort of thing
Oh... I need to think more about my health and safety, huh?
What dates do people usually go up to Alaska? I always thought people go up there during "HOT" summer not winter.
They say laughter is the best medicine. I'd concentrate on the safety side
We were gone for 3 months and could have easily stayed for a 4th. There is so much to see and do in not only Alaska but BC and the Yukon as well.
I would recommend May thru Sept depending on the weather conditions.
-- Edited by dianneandsteve on Friday 7th of February 2014 11:56:11 AM
I recommend taking the Alaska highway north and Cassiar south. The bears are not in Hyder AK/Stewart BC until late July. If you have ideas about visiting the Canadian Rockies, it is better later than earlier. In May and into June the national parks are not fully open, but in September they are. The Canadian Rockies are easy to get to for a separate one to three week trip another year, and well worth visiting.
If you can't make the full Alaska trip I recommend going to Hyder AK/Stewart BC in August or early September. 900 miles from the border, bears, glaciers, seafood, a taste of the full trip, and it can be done in two weeks.
I can not stop giggling:)
Times of year to go:
Some of this naturally depends on where you are coming from in the states. Coming from the east or generally the mid-west you can have a lot of bad weather just getting there to get started. “There” to me is Dawson Creek which is where the Alcan begins officially. From Dawson Creek it is still almost 1,200 miles to the Alaska border and then 100 miles or so to Tok, Alaska, the first significant “wide place in the road” as my traveling Mother used to say.
IMO, based on our trips up that way, if you get to Dawson Creek about the second week of June or so that’s about right. Just remember it is 750 miles from Sweetgrass, Montana, one of the border cross over points, to Dawson Creek. All very good roads by the way. But sometimes getting to Sweetgrass in early May could be “interesting.”
We agree, you need at least 3 odd months for the whole trip including coming from most places in the US unless you are pretty close to the Alberta / British Columbia area to start with.
I would be back in the states by early October if not a bit sooner. Again based on our experience. There is a lot of land to cover where weather can develop.
I agree with Bill J’s routes up and then coming back down the Cassiar Hiway via Prince George, Japer National Park and onto the Ice Fields Parkway. Arguably one of the most fantastic drives in the world. Boondocking by a glacier is kind of cool for example.
Our perspective
B & L
Bill & Linda,
I've heard your rig takes a real "beating" on the drive up. Was that your experience? I hope that's not why you are trading in your Escalade for a New Horizons
Nope, that’s not why we are trading the Escalade. It was in excellent condition. Everything worked and NH offered to take it in trade because of its condition. They said they don’t take too many trades other than other NH coaches but actually offered to take ours. We didn’t ask them to. The Escalade was a “tank.” If they still make them like they did in 2007 we’d buy one.
The rig does not “take a beating” going to Alaska. There is about 60 miles of road, just before the Alaska border, that you really need to slow down. Like 25 MPH or less. Its tundra and they can’t keep the road level and repair because the ground melts. They are working on that problem and think they have a fix for the long term. Tests are underway. They mark the road issues very well with flags. This isn’t a drive down I-95 to Ft. Lauderdale. But it isn’t nearly as bad as you might think.
Your rig will get dirty. Really dirty due to road work. But you can wash the dirt off. They have to work on the roads in the summer so that is when you get into dirt. There is a substance they put on some of the roads to keep the dirt in place that can get on the rig. Best to wash that off as soon as possible. But if you saw our Escalade before we cleaned it and after you wouldn’t have said we were ever in Alaska or the NWT. The paint job on the Escalade was in extremely good condition even after 7 years and two trips over really bad roads in Canada’s NWT to the Arctic. Still bright and shinny. Remember, we still had the rig for almost 3 years after our two trips up there including the NWT trip.
Now, I do offer the following suggestions: If you are going to travel, as you guys actually are; I would consider two things: Put on a MOR/ryde IS before you go and put on G114 “H” tires. The MS is your home and that would give it, IMO, a much better ride for the trip as well as in the US, be much safer and the tires will last at least 45,000 miles and won’t blow out. (We were on our second set of “H” tires when traded and I changed them at 42,000 but they didn’t need it. Had other reasons.) But you know how I feel about these two upgrades for people who travel. Worth every dime, IMO.
Happy to give any other info you may desire. Looking forward to seeing all three of you at the Rally.
B & L
I really agree with this. You do have to completely re-calibrate your travel time thinking for a lot of reasons. One is to stop and look around. It takes, IMO, about 3 months including travel time from the US to the starting point.
You can make really good time up until about Fort Nelson, IMO. Then things start getting more interesting. Not bad, interesting.
BTW, we plan to take the NH Majestic to Alaska in 2015. Plans already made. We were going this year with the Escalade but the NH "got in the way." We’ll see, but every time I think about not going we see some documentary and see pictures of places we’ve been and say, “Gotta go back.”
Don’t discount Canada as well. Half the beauty of the trip is the drive up the Alcan, most of which is in Canada, and back down the Ice Fields Parkway.
You will love it and the people.
Bill
And that is that the Journey is the Destination. Yes Alaska is where you want to go, but getting there is half of the destination.
In the lower 48, most folks drive like madmen to get to Yellowstone for the 2 week vacation, then slow down and meander through the park.
Going to Alaska is that meander through the park speed. Stop to see the wildlife, slow down for the bumps, wave people around that don't want to see what you see. Generally if your equipment survives the lower 48 then it will do fine on the journey.
We haven't been there personally, but family members have made 2 trips there. 1 couple in a Class C towing motorcycles, and the others in an Airstream toyed by a Suburban.
I realized I wanted to make another comment. Most of the bad press on the trip to Alaska comes from people who took a caravan. The caravans do the trip in 30 to 45 days to and from Dawson Creek and/or Prince George BC. The two cities are about 250 miles apart on Transcanada 16, a good road you can drive like you are in the lower 48. That is way too fast and they are on a schedule, so if it rains you still take the Top of the World Highway, instead of waiting a couple days. I do not recommend taking a caravan to Alaska, it will tire you out and not leave the best impression.
Go up on your own or with casual groupings with friends. I say, "casual groupings", since it is best to not be tied to each other unless your interests and travel styles are known to be compatible. If someone likes to leave at 7AM and another at 10AM, there will be issues. If someone has to stop at every gift shop and another doesn't, there will be issues. If someone has to try every giant cinnamon roll on the route and another doesn't or can't for health reasons, there will be issues. Some friends went with a small group and the group insisted on ground rules. One person insisted that if someone wants to eat out, everyone would go. Turns out she didn't cook, so they ate out every night and those roadhouses in Canada can charge a lot for basic food. Our friends had a packed refrigerator and could not eat it all before it spoiled. When they got to Alaska only two couples wanted to fish, so the group broke up anyway.
-- Edited by bjoyce on Saturday 8th of February 2014 10:16:34 AM
Bill J: We’ll just have to agree to disagree on the caravan point as an all encompassing statement. We took a “caravan” led by an individual, not run by a corporate firm. We had a GREAT time. We were not rushed in anyway and it took away all the initial issues of figuring all this out. There were some forest fires on the way back that closed the road. That had to be handled and he dealt with those issues because he knew how and because he had been there before. It made the trip easy in many ways.
But, to make the real point, this was not one of the commercial operations that treat you as you describe, at least in our opinion, like cats to be herded along and to wear their marketing garb. This was a small group as he requires. We had great flexibility and made lasting friendships. There is also mechanical safety in numbers and for some motorhome people that turned out to be a very good thing.
Now, I would go alone the next time? Yes, but I still would go with this individual again. The Trip Book of information provided was well worth his modest fee. He treated us all like “guests” and all on the trip respected each other’s desires and wishes, including some that split out and then later rejoined the group. “Dave” was very flexible.
Different strokes for different people. That’s why they make cars in different colors. It depends.
B & L
Bill: What you are talking about is an alternative to a normal commercial caravan. I have no problem with it and was no way being critical of that kind of travel.
Dennis and Carol Hill go up about every other year and lead a group they call the Loosey Goosey Gang, http://rvdrivingschool.blogspot.com/ . It is more loose than what you are talking about, but it is also free. They keep wanting us to go with them and we would, if we could.
Exactly! I actually prefer to go with a group if that group is not doing it “just for the money.” I want people who are considering the trip to have options in case they may feel uneasy or intimated by the trip. Frankly, from our home base it was a total of miles 11,400 towing miles and when we found a small, personally run “caravan” who would take care of all the reservations and make sure we always had a place to stop we thought it would make the trip more enjoyable. It did. All I had to do was drive, look out the window, stop and say WOW! When we arrived at the campground I knew there was a space big enough for the 39’ 5er. I didn’t even have to stop at the office. We just got directed right to the site.
For some, not all, we think this is a great option to do Alaska, at least the first time and see more than you might otherwise.
BTW, for those considering such a trip, let me quickly add the solo trip from the Sweetgrass, Montana border, or almost any border crossing in the west to Dawson Creek, is like driving in the US. Except for the “funny” speed limit signs (they’re in kilometers) you hardly know you aren’t in the US road wise. It is very safe. I have never felt uneasy in Canada and we’ve been through a lot of it. Enjoy.
B & L
X2 on that. There aren’t that many roads that go places in Alaska and Canada. You have to backtrack. But, I can tell you from experience, you see things coming back you didn’t see going.
Loved Valdez
Looking forward to seeing you both at the rally as well!
I've been to Alaska 3x, all were fishing trips to Kenai and none were by RV. My next trip will hopefully be via RV and will be more for sightseeing...although we might have to accidentally pass through Kenai :)
Thanks for the information. I'm encouraged by what you and bjoyce wrote. We are considering 2016 for Alaska. I have "J" tires now so they should be good, though they may need replaced by then.
I have the Trail Air c/p suspension right now and am not likely to change that any time soon, though I'd prefer the MOR/ryde IS.
We are headed to Alaska this summer as well, but we decided not to bring our Mobile Suites. Instead, we bought a truck camper.
we'll have no place to store extra diesel so hopefully our 36 gallon tank will be enough. We should get better mileage since we won't be towing.
In the humor department about when not to go to Alaska:
I noticed this post on a truck forum from a guy with a diesel truck going up the Alcan. Some of these towns were mentioned in this thread. Tok is the first town in Alaska on the Alcan. Just got a chuckle out of it. Maybe you will.
“I recently came up the Alaska Highway, cold front on, 5W/40 Rotella T6 synthetic and had filled my DEF in Idaho before heading north. Ran many days at -20F and some areas in Canada around FT Nelson and Watson Lake at -31F. I am sure the DEF tank froze as parked at motels and plugged in for say 10 - 12 hours. I did lay over an extra day to avoid -49F in Tok, AK.”
Hi Bill and Linda
Thank you for all the information for our trip to Alaska. We already have the Mor/Ryd and have upgraded our tires last summer. I am planning on bringing enough oil for a change, fuel filter, air filter and enough DEF for the trip.
Wha is the rig you are driving it big????
The Escalade we took to Alaska was just a bit under 39 feet.