Fiercley Independent
 

We are going to be in Alaska from May 29 to June 17. I realize that there are some things that must be reserved, however, I would like to be as free as possible to meander in a rented car without worrying to much about scheduling where we might be every day. This time period appears to be a "shoulder" time before the real busy season. Is it really necessary to book lodging for each and every night during this time of year? Also would we be likely to get on the boat excursions without advance reservations? We often travel not knowing where we will end up and I am hoping that we can enjoy this freedom in Alaska as well. I have ordered a milepost. I do know that I want to visit Seward, Haines, Denali and I plan to rent a special vehicle in Fairbanks and drive to Deadhorse. We have nearly 3 weeks and want to see the real Alaska as much as possible, including a boat trip on the Yukon. We will also be looking for Alaska seniors to interview for an upcoming book called Windows of Wisdom and so will be interested in getting to know local people. To tell the truth I'm not sure what more I am asking for, but would appreciate any input from this great knowledge pool. I am a new member to this forum and really appreciate all that I have read. Thank you.

It is vital that you book reservations, especially for lodging.
We went a week earlier than you did, and were very glad we had reservations.
There were "no occupancy" signs everywhere from motels to cabins.
I don't consider any time in June to be "shoulder season." That's usually very on-season.

I also agree, it is easy to figure out where you will be and reserve your lodging. You are GREATLY underestimating availablity. You can also go for 50 miles with no lodging. Strip motels are rare, and lodging is frequently "hidden" only a few rooms etc. At the very least have reservations for a couple days ahead of time. NOT as you are driving along in the evening then needing a place to stay. This will only work if you are willing to slept in your car some nights???


Be VERY well prepared for the Dalton Highway. Meaning, the ability to do light maintenance and change tires. There will be no help.

Three weeks is not a lot of time with your priorities. I will suggest you plan out a routing and itinerary with lodging before you go.

Thanks for the advise. I do get it about the Dalton Road and am able to change tires and such. I don't want to take a lot of gear on the flight, so I suppose I'll buy some basic things when I get there in case I do have to overnight it on the road. Sleeping bags, tent, etc. I plan to sleep in the SUV on the Dalton Road, mainly because the idea of pitching a tent in grizzly bear country really doesn't appeal to me. Has anyone taken the Fjord Express to Juneau from Haines? Looks like a good way to see a piece of the inside passage. Thanks again.

it was about 5 years ago but i went mid june. i had only my rental car and found plenty of lodging (bed and breakfasts) in the homer and seward areas. but maybe things have changed. it really depends on the amount of lodging in the areas you go. homer had pleanty. as you go north of anchorage you may find lodging scarce. i camped during that part of my trip. It's all about how much uncertainty you are willing to have. i never gave a thought to not finding anywhere to stay. i didn't have a set agenda, and i figured if there wasn't a place to stay i'd move on. if you are into more upscale accommodations you probably have to reserve...