We are leaving in two weeks, and have finalized many plans with your input. I have a few gaps to fill.
1. Is there something special to do in Anchorage?
2. How long should we allow for a possible flightseeing tour of Mckinley from Talkeetna.
Should we use Talkeetna Aero?
3. Can we rent bikes in Denali Park?
4. If weather doesn't permit the flight tour, what else might we do on the drive to or from Denali from Anchorage?
I'd appreciate any advice. We are two adults and a 13 and 10 year old. We'll be doing the Kenai fjords boat trip later before we catch our cruise.

I found a place to rent bikes, but was wondering if it is recommended to bike through Denali on our own, or if the shuttle bus is better.

We didn't go to Denali so can't help you there but can recommend renting bikes in Anchorage to do the coastal trail it was great. There are lots of interesting stops among which are the small lake used by float planes, interpretive signs about the 1964 earthquake and beautiful views of the city. We also saw a couple moose on the trail!

Plenty to do in Anchorage- stop at the visitor center and look over activities www.anchorage.net I fly with Talkeetna Aero the most- but probably any operator would give you an excellent tour. Determine WHAT your flying preference is?? Summit view vs summit flights- over the top. But can't get a glacier landing on the summit flights. Reserve ahead for best availability. The flight times are listed in the descriptions.

Do you have a copy of THE MILEPOST?- if not GET ONE. It is a necessary reference for traveling independent in Alaska. Read the Parks Highway log and see what intersts you along the way?? Perhaps- Eagle River Nature Center, Eklutna Spirit House tours, Wasilla Sled dog museum, Talkeetna- Independence Mine ( slight detour) etc etc.

There is bike rental in Denali Park - but are you aware- that the Park road is 90 miles??? My min. distance in is Eielson mile 66. If you want wildlife opportunities then the farther into the Park the better, have binoculars, and take the SHUTTLE buses and NOT the tour buses- cost 3 times more. You must bring in all your own food and drink on the shuttles however.

Thanks for your input. I guess I'm trying to avoid sitting on a bus for many hours with children, but 60 miles is probably too much unless we could catch the bus back, and we probably won't have time in Anchorage. We will be doing a bike tour in Juneau however, when the cruise stops. I have looked at the Milepost and will get another copy before we leave. I've been told to wait to book any flight trips to determine if the weather is cooperating.

My experience- biking is excellent in Skagway, ok in Juneau. I don't know who "told" you to wait to book flights - so you can see the weather?? BUT this is VERY risky and likely no availability, flights are very popular and most always full. You can't predict the weather. If you have several back up plans then wait but if a must do- reserve ahead- ESPECIALLY if you are booking for 4 people. Planes are small.

I've taken your advice and made flight reservations. Now a friend just returned from Alaska, and told me to take a tour bus, instead of a shuttle bus through Denali. I've gotten the impression through this talk site that the shuttle is the way to go. Any advice?

First off- did your friend do BOTH??? I doubt it? The Shuttle goes farther and I have never had a driver who didn't know every inch of the Park Road. At 1/3 the cost, I think that alone makes my choice easy. BUT you do need to pack in all your own food and drink for the day.

They did not do both buses, but were told that the shuttle bus drivers didn't do a lot of talking and explaining, and their tour guide kept them and their children interested. If there is indeed such a difference, I feel the money is well spent. But they could have been misled since you, Budget Queen, and others here, seem to indicate knowledgeable bus drivers.

We just got back from 17 days in AK. We did the shuttle bus to Eilson and the driver was very informative and we saw alot of animals, including 6 grizzlies. Even so, the ride got to be a long day. There were a few people napping on the way back.

We Took a flight-seeing trip through Talkeetna Air Taxi and they are wonderful!Our flight left at 6 p.m. and went for 90 minutes. I would definitely recommend them!

You'll have a great time!

I find it difficult to give a comparism when the "friend" did not go with both buses, and was told by "someone"?? the tour bus was better??? If your choice is to book the tour bus then do so. It's your vacation. Have a great trip!!!!!!!!

We just returned from 2 weeks in Alaska, March 16,2004. Seward,Girdwood, Palmer, Tok, Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage. We have our trip showing where we stayed, ate and tours, etc. that we took. If you want a copy, e-mail me at [email protected]. If we can help in anyway we will be glad to.