We are thinking of renting a RV in Seattle, taking the Alaska ferry from Bellingham to Skagway, then driving to Anchorage and return the RV there.
Then taking the train up to Denali, staying there for a few days and then either go back to Anchorage or up to Fairbanks, and flying back home (Midwest) from there.
Has anyone done this? My husband has always wanted to drive to Alaska but I haven't been crazy about the idea. But this seems like a way to maximize our time in Alaska without having to drive round trip.
Would appreciate any comments or suggestions.
We want to do this in 2001.
Thanks, hope to get some great ideas as we are very excited about going to Alaska.

Sounds expensive to me - between paying for space on the ferry for the RV - and I suspect drop off charges.
Have you thought about renting an RV once you get to Anchorage to drive around and see more of the state? (We did this several years ago and it worked well for us.)
Alaska Air (www.alaskaair.com) usually has pretty reasonable fares from Juneau to Anchorage - or I believe there's some kind of overnight bus from Haines and/or Skagway to Anchorage.
I would get a copy of "Milepost" from the bookstore. It's got lots of info for planning your trip - and is invaluable if you are going to be driving in AK. (It will probably have ads for companies that rent RVs too.)
Enjoy your trip!

The Alaska Marine Highway ferry is a great way to travel (especially if you like roughing it). But I totally agree with Charlotte about bringing a rented RV along. You should take the ferry up to Alaska, then look to rent a car or RV for that portion of your trip. You say you don't even plan to keep the RV for the trip to Denali or beyond, so it would probably be cheaper to fly to Anchorage and rent (and return to the same agent) or rent in Haines or Skagway and drive up to Anchorage. The state of Alaska puts out a wonderfull magazine for tourism, loaded with ads for everything you might need. I think their website has been posted here, and they have an 800 number as well. It's a perfect tool to begin planning for your Alaska trip. You'll love it!

I lived in Southeast Alaska (Ketchikan) for 4 years and that part of the State should not be missed. But...keep in mind the ferry is NOT a cruise ship by any means. It is very basic transportation (slow at that) and at times, especially during poor weather can be very boring. If you go bring a very long, good book. I always preferred to drive through Canada to the lower 48.

Dear Charlotte, Ann & Christine
Thanks to all of your for your suggestions, they were very helpful. I
have done more checking and did find some rental companies that would rent in Skagway or Haines City and allow drop off in Anchorage. Will also re-think about taking the ferry. It sounds like an adventure but I guess if it was foggy or raining, 2 1/2 days would be a long time on the ferry.
I have ordered a "Milepost", it was recommended by many people on this forum.
Also, another question, has anyone taken a railroad trip from Anchorage to Whitter for a 4 day cruise to College Fjord & Columbia Glacier. It sounds beautiful.
Thanks again