USVI-On-Line

Hi Everyone-
I'm planning a quick trip to Alaska the first week of May. Its a bit last minute, I've never been there before, and I don't have alot of time to plan...so I'm looking for some advice.

Planning on flying into...somewhere...renting a car and staying someplace not terribly expensive for 4-5 days. Want to get see some glaciers and wildlife, and avoid crazy touristy stuff.

Which is the best city to fly into and what are the must sees/dos?

Thanks guys! I'm sure someone has been here before...even though its a far cry from the sandy beaches we know and love!

Dear Sun-
I think you will be well ahead of the main tourist season. You could fly into Juneau or Ketchikan, but they are down south in the "thumb" of Alaska, and not very close to Mt. McKinley.

If you fly into Anchorage you can drive to Kenai penninsula or up to Talkeetna. We found very good views of Mt. McKinley from Talkeetna area.

Not sure when Denali National Park opens, but it is several hours north of Talkeetna. Also, you could fly into Fairbanks, which is north of Denali, but I didn't find Fairbanks all that scenic.

Alaska is so huge it is difficult to see in just a few days. Glacier Bay is down near Skagway, you could fly in there also but would miss Mt McKinley (also known as Denali-the Great One). Weather would still be a concern that early in the spring.

Hope this helps.