Expert: Michael Donaldson - 2/20/2005

Question
Hi Michael,

We,re going to do a round trip in alaska and yukon with an RV in June this year visiting: Seward,Homer,Denali,Dawson,Whitehorse,Valdes,Anchorage.
The question is is the Denali Highway something we must do.
where can we find some dogsledding (on wheels)but not that touristic.
Which hotsprings are worthwhile to visit.

Best Regards,

Walter and Tamara

Answer
Hi Walter and Tamara!

Those were some good questions and it sounds like you have a spectacular trip planned.

As far as the Denali Highway: I would highly recommend taking it at least once...it's a beautiful drive. Obviously I have no idea of what your personal trip itinerary consists of, but my suggestion would be to head east on that highway after visiting Denali National Park on your way to Valdez.  I assume you'll be going thru Whitehorse, then Dawson, and then on to Anchorage via the Glenn Highway...so it would make sense to take my idea and take the Denali Highway on your way to Valdez.  Let me know if I confused you on all that and I'll explain in more detail (I'll give you my personal e-mail address at the end of my reply so you can write me directly).

As far as hot springs: there's 3 good hot springs in Alaska (Chena, Circle, and Manley), but none that I know of in any of the areas you planned on visiting -- the three I named are mainly north of Fairbanks.  I've been to all three and they're really nice...especially Chena Hot Springs (which wasn't far from where we lived).

And finally, as far as dogsledding: the best one I know of (besides in Fairbanks) is near Wasilla, right off the Parks Highway on Knik Road.  It's called "Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race" Headquarters.  I believe it's exactly what you're looking for, including a visitors center/museum.  Check them out at www.iditarod.com or call for info at (970)376-5155, ext. 108.

I sure hope that helped answer your questions...let me know, ok?  If you have any further questions or concerns before your trip, please e-mail me at LASKANWLF@aol.com and I'll help out where I can.  By the way, are you making this round-trip via the ALCAN Highway from the lower 48?  I'm just curious...let me know in your e-mail. Thanks!  Take care and write soon!

 Michael