I have been binge watching all of your videos. You all are absolutely amazing. I started a kind of down in the watching your UA-cam channel has been so uplifting and inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing your adventures. I have always wanted to go to Alaska for as long as I can remember. Thank you so much for letting me share your trip vicariously. Please give my love to Pepper. She is so adorable.
Bummer Denali was the highlight of my trip. I did the train. Mountain was wide open the whole time I was there. The Dall Sheep were all out sunnying themselves. In that 80 mile bus trip we seen thousands of sheep. Eagles, bears, caribou, moose. I stayed at a hotel in the park. That train ride was fantastic. Incredible. Off the beaten path.
I chuckled at the “it’s August, it should be hot.” August and September are our rainy season. You’d have better luck of dry weather in late May, and into June and July.
glad u like the winters here. but i will say this other then it being cloud covered most of winter. and people get hit with the depression. the northern lights do make it worth living here. i been here in wasilla for 1 year now. and would not go back to utah for nothing.
@@feliciafelicity5456 I was watching alaska state trooper. Is that show real? Do they really have meth down there? I wouldn't mind going there just to try the meth. It seems like a big tourist attraction going by the show at least.
I born in Alaska and lived there until I was 29. I was never much into outdoors activities, but fortunately, I never had to go very far to appreciate the beauty it had to offer. Thank you for doing justice to my home state!
It was my 50th state, and Kalispell, Montana was my 49th. I visited all 50 states and many places outside the USA. Acapulco and Singapore my favorites. Earthquakes were deal breakers for Acapulco for retirement, and Singapore was safe and clean, but too expensive for me.
Incredible video! We're travelling from Australia and planning our Alaska trip (3 weeks; last week of August and first two weeks of September) this year. This gave us much more direction. Will definitely watch the Vlogs. Cheers!
Read 2 novels on alaska into the wild and the great alone.feels like i'been there.although i m from india.For you its alaska for us its himalayas.come to himalayas some day.
I live in Alaska and Denali is 100% a must see if you visit here. I’ve done Denali as a day trip from Fairbanks lol. And Healy is right outside of Denali, wayyyy closer than talkeetna is. There are restaurants and many places to stay there, especially in the summer.
alaska is just so big so much to do here. so much to see. i moved here to alaska 1 year ago. and have seen tons of tourists when they come in june - july. when the salmon run hits and it gets insane.
Thanks for the realistic review! I'm looking into visiting Alaska this year, and I've been trying to figure out just how hard it really is. This was a nice overview of all the places to see, and things to consider.
Thank you for the information. I value your input. You guys are around the same age and travel very similar to me. You likely just saved me a LOT of time and trouble! Thank you very much!
So there's a little known glacier called caster, which is about 40 miles down the Richardson after you get to Delta Junction at the end of the Alaska highway. Has a pretty amazing ice cave, and not a lot of people know about it.😊
Pronunciation from a Southeast resident: SEWARD: SU-erd, Not SEE-werd. KETCHIKAN: Ketch-ih-can, not Ketch-ee-kahn. Only tourist mags calls it the panhandle. We call it The Southeast or The Inside Passage (if on a boat). And, there's a third town you can access by road in Southeast: Hyder. And you don't really need to ask yourself why you are coming here and overthinking such a simple concept. Alaska is the most beautiful place on earth and people who appreciate beauty want to come here.
I think that going to Denali NP is very worth it! Take a full day, ride the park bus out to Eielson visitor center. Even if you don't see the mountain, you will see so much! We saw a traveling pack of wolves! 10/10 highly recommend.
If you are a early bird, Denali isn't open until May 20th , That being said, if you are a hardcore mountain biker or back country hiker, you can go as soon as they open the road, you can only drive out to thirty mile, but that is a good start.
This seems to be a very interesting place, I hope I can visit sometime in the future. Seeing and sharing places like this is why I love traveling and make videos so much! And please keep up the great job! Subscribed!!
Lived there from 95-99 in the Fairbanks area. Been back twice once in 06 and then again in 07. Moving back as soon as i can to the lower part this time.
I've been to all the places you've mentioned and the drive through Denali was the absolute highlight of a wonderful month I had in Alaska a few years ago. We stopped for about 20 minutes at Polychrome Pass on the Denali Park road and it's the most spectacular lookout I've experienced anywhere in the world.
John Muir, the famous naturalist, wrote in his journal that you should never go to Alaska as a young man because you'll never be satisfied with any other place as long as you live. And there's a lot of truth to that.
I even tell the people who live here in Alaska. If you wait for good weather to do something, you will never do anything. Not saying there is no good weather. Just that it can be good weather where you live. Then you travel to where you want to do your activity and it could be any kind of bad weather. Rain wind Overcast Or all of the above or a mixture of whatever. And good weather can change in an instant. Rain gear a must Windproof a must (helps keep body heat from blowing away) A day pack helps for the quick charging weather to store the layers for whatever weather happens. Plus it makes it easier to have snack food and beverages with you. And nobody will make fun of you for wearing rain boots everywhere.
Why can't I visit Alaska to take in the scenery and the natural beauty? I'm confused on why this trip wouldn't be for me if I don't just want to go fishing...
yep great place to live if u like hunting and fishing. or trapping. i dont like the winters with the depression thing but other then that its not bad here. i would take living here over going back to the desert will say that.
There are mountain goats and sheep,bear, fox, beaver, golden eagles, bald eagles, moose, etc in Denali Park. However, often one can see the sheep just outside Anchorage on the Seward Hwy.
Thank you so much! I'm looking to do a spontaneous trip to Alaska next week and came across this video in my research. You absolutely helped point me in the right direction. Cheers!
Great vid! I know I'm late to the party but having taken a very similar trip to Alaska I'll ditto the thoughts on Denali. The only way to see the park is via what is essentially a school bus. There isn't enough capacity to accommodate demand so don't imagine showing up on a nice day and buying tickets. They'll be sold out unless you show up super early in the morning. You can also reserve in advance and hope to get lucky. What do you see along the way? Some wildlife, of course, but not as much as you probably imagine and not particularly close to the bus. I've had a number of Alaskans say that you can get a similar experience to driving through Denali by driving the length of unpaved Hwy 8 not far out of the park. I would argue that the visitors who will most enjoy Denali are those who use the bus system as a way to get into the center of the park and then venture out on a multi-day trek into Denali's wilderness. We too experienced regular rain and were unhappy at first until we experienced a prolonged stretch of sun and realized 1) that it was easier on the eyes to drive in misty weather; and 2) that, photographically speaking, the landscape was prettier when shrouded in atmospheric mist and clouds. The one mistake I would argue that Tim and Fin made was skipping Top-of-the-World Highway. The road itself wasn't great when we took it (limited visibility) but the route takes you past some other really interesting sites. Tombstone Territorial Park in the YT is epic and reason enough to take this route. It is not far from Dawson City, an interesting and historic town from the gold rush days. Top-of-the-World Highway terminates around Chicken, AK, and the landscape between Chicken and Tok is also pretty interesting.
I want to go see the northern lights, waterfalls , experience the food , see the Glaciers hiking Maybe ones the pandemic is over I can go 😍❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
If you really want to know the best way to see Alaska, ask one of us locals. We are always happy to give suggestions as to where to go, how to get there, and what to see and do. 😊
Hello! Me and my friend will be flying to Fairbanks soon but we could not find a car rental from the airport, do you know where can we rent a car on that area? Thank you
Why you want to go to Alaska? To experience true wilderness. Raw and wild. To see the Iditarod. Denali National Park , to see the “tallest” mountain in the world (one you can see from ground to peak, all in at once, not a series of peaks like Everest)also the highest in North America. You can see it from Anchorage!! Hundreds of miles away. It is so large it has it’s own climate system. People go to climb it in May. The oldest man to do it was in his 70s. The State Fair is a hoot. Mushing dogs,. Huge and I mean HUGE vegetables, like 55lb cabbage , wheel barrel sized zucchini. Great place to people watch. Experience the Fur Rendezvous Northern lights in Fairbanks Experience long days like midnight softball games in sunlight. No sunlight, darkness for weeks. Wolves, badgers ,wolverines, largest bears in the world , polar, grizzly, huge black bears. Bobcats, eagles, orcas, the Largest moose in the world wales up close and personal. Sea kayak with wales Alaskan king crab Fresh salmon Fly in a bush plane Visit an Eskimo village. See the pipeline Take a fascinating train ride through wilderness. Fishing Hunting. Mountain climb. See the tundra. Pick wild blue berries in the wilderness. Hiking in wilderness with bear bells. Hear the wolf packs at night. Fabulous waterfowl for hunting or viewing. One of a kind ducks like Harlequin. See musk ox, get some fresh qiviat! Alaska is a great vacation. And you are correct, you need like 3 trips, one might not even scratch the surface.
Looking at Alaska right now as the next destination, but coming from Australia it seems overwhelming, like where to start? how long to stay? I have no idea, but my son wants to do salmon fishing.
Visiting Denali was quite the borefest. You sit on the bus for 5+ hours and look at the same scenery for miles. If you're lucky, you might get to spot a moose or two. If you're really lucky, you might be able to spot a grizzly far away. I've visited close to 10 well known national parks in the lower 48 and Canada and Denali was easily the most boring.
Sorry you had rain throughout your trip in August, but if you did your research, you'd realize that August is Alaska's rainy season. Try coming back in May-July. Its pretty dry and the temps get into the 90's. Also, as far as a "2-day drive to Denali"...its only 4 hours from Anchorage. Thanks for the videos.
Great video! We are motorhoming Jasper, Banff, etc. this summer and cruising to Alaska (with a 4 day land excursion) from Vancouver. I felt like we were only getting a glimpse of Alaska, but after your video, I believe we will have a pretty full experience. Time in Alaska will be short, but we will be in the Canadian Rockies for about 3 weeks. After Tim's "more of the same" comment, I think we've made reasonable plans. Many channels loose some authenticity as they become more popular and polished. Disingenuine positivity sometimes happens for fear of impacting viewership. It's refreshing that you don't play that game. Thank you!
I couldn't be happier to hear that and that means so much to hear you say that - thanks for everything and it sounds like you guys have it figured out. Going to be a great trip!
There's plenty of bears in nw NJ. No need to schlep so far north to Alaska just to see them. Flor-eye-da is still the best vacation and retirement destination. My Florida.
You guys are the best. The why part is pretty spot on. I am planning on a solo trip to Alaska this summer and I am more of a national park guy. I've visited Banff and Jasper already and it's tough for me to drop my jaw at any scenery anymore after having driven thru ice fields parkway. With that info in mind...do you recommend Alaska for the overall experience ?
Wow, I live in Alaska and this video definitely undersold the state and was just two people flying thru and not doing anything. Also, Talkeetna is a 45-minute drive from Denali State Park NOT Denali National Park. Yes, confusing. Yes, you got it wrong. The national park is located in Denali Village which is 2.5 hours north of Talkeetna. The drive along the highway can be boring if all you do is stay in your vehicle and not get out and explore and do some day hikes or walking in areas like Byers Lake or Curry Ridge or take in the views on the banks of the Susitna River at Mile 104 on the Parks Highway or look at the expanse of the Alaska Range from Broad Pass just south of Cantwell or view the snaking Nenana River as if follows the Parks Highway up to the national park. But yeah, if I was just going 65 mph in an RV and just filming, I'd hate my trip to Alaska too.
We saw you on the return run in the Yukon. We had the red JEEP and Trailer combination. You should have got there earlier June and July were dry August it rained almost every day. We loved Denali and camped at Tek was fun.
You are correct! If you get 3 miles into Denali, and decide not to go further...Then AK is not for you! Also, if you go to AK, purchase bear spray (thinking it is more ethical choice over killing a bear), make sure you actually practice with the shit before going, and like the results. In my opinion, bear spray is equivalent to a wingsuit and the pilot in the wingsuit. You can have all the experience in the world, but sometimes circumstances cannot be predicted or planned for. In AK, I've often seen hikers carry high-powered rifles...smart hikers!
Funny how non-Alaskan's think they are experts of Alaska life and travel. First, talkeetana is not the closest town to Denali. Second, the entirety of Alaska is packed with wild life , not just Kenai. Third, the Alaska Marine Highway is not the primary form of travel in SE Alaska. It's personal boats or float planes. Fourth, you can your drive into Denali but only for a week out of the year and you need to have won a lottery ticket to do so (sign up for the lottery ticket online at the US National Forest website). Fifth, the interior of Alaska is a distinctly different part than the northern slope. They are rarely, if ever, thought of as the same. I could go on and on. Bottom line, visiting any part of Alaska is a spectacular treat. If you really want to know how to visit and travel Alaska, ask a real Alaskan and not a tourist. Any Alaskan will be more than happy to point you in the right direction with accurate information.
thinking about flying into Fairbanks and driving down to Denali National from there take the bus and then drive back to Fairbanks , might fly a bush plane to land on glacier few of my ideas
As a longtime Alaskan,been all over this state as a tour guide,want to see “real Alaska”, get off our few road systems,if you are around the road system, most of the so-called Alaska guides are from the lower 48 and don’t have a clue about Alaska, simple!!!
Hey, I have the answer to Why? I want to visit Alaska mainly to see beautiful northern lights. Please suggest which is the best place and during what time of the year we should plan the visit to see the northern lights.
I want to come to AK. But I don’t have anything specific other than do the things that people do there. Check out glaciers, see the beautiful landscapes, mountains. I’d like to fish for halibut, and maybe salmon. I’d like to see Denali NP. I’d like to see moose, bear, whales, etc etc. should I feel bad about not wanting to do more specific things?
There are no guaranties of seeing wildlife. You might see a lot and you might see none. Glaciers and hiking trails are awesome themselves. Enjoy your visit
Valdez! It's a bit of a hop from Anchorage to Valdez and back, but there's some great kayaking and day cruise opportunities there, plus an iceberg filled lake right off the road just outside of town. And... the drive out there and back is nothing short of spectacular! Wholeheartedly agree with the rest of the video, though.
Thank you for this video! It was quite helpful! I was thinking to visit Denali but I don't want to spend 2 days just getting there! Anyways Alaska is SO beautiful and pristine.
lol as to the "it's August it should be hot" comment... isn't that reason enough? I'm sick and tired of sweating all summer lol The older I get, the more I like the cold, and the less I like the heat. I want to have a wood stove again. I want to spend my summers collecting wood, ans splitting logs. I don't necessarily want to be completely off the grid, but I could do that. However, I still want to talk to my grandmothers, my old friends, etc. Internet, basically. I don't want to stop flipping vintage guitars either. The main reason for me, and my family, to go, is to stay. I can get the harsh winters of my childhood back, without having to deal with sweltering heat in the summers. I don't have to leave the mountains (the mountains are why I left home in the first place). Most importantly, society is not a necessity in Alaska. Well, so long as you aren't in the city. I can take it or leave it on a whim there. I want to get away from people. People are becoming dumber with each passing year.
I wish you can record in Fairbanks restaurant who Lisa Kelly eat lunch there . and also ice road truckers place also in prodhoe bay . this is only memories remaining
I've traveled internationally frequently and NEVER once made an itinerary. Some of my most productive trips were ones with very little planning. Try smoking a joint and not making 50 itineraries just to take a trip.
Hi! I just started watching your videos and I love them all! I am going up to Seward in a few weeks for a graduation trip. I’m from Southern California and I am definitely not used to rain. I was wondering what type of rain gear you had or things that helped you stay warm in the cold. Your videos are great and they have helped me plan so many wonderful things that I look forward to when I go! Thank you!
Hey Paris- The rain thing there was serious- just buy rain pants and a decent rain jacket if you're going up that way. I've never regretted buying our rain gear and we bring it pretty much everywhere with us. REI house brand stuff isn't too expensive but its of very high quality in our opinion.
I plan to Alaska this august... but I am confiuse where to go? any recommended? I like see something and not many people visit before.. I think anchorage because have direct flight from main airport in east coast problem I don't drive so I will explore around town
Love the channel. And your long video on your trip in Europe. You guys do a great job at production. Was wondering about your Rv. I’m retiring. Thinking about a road trip to Alaska. Were you satisfied with your rig? Lots of debate about diesel verses gas etc. would you chose your rig again? I plan on doing some sailing in winter and perhaps rv in summer. With travel in between. Made two trips to Spain last year. I live in New Orleans. You guys covered it well. Did not begin to follow you unitl you guys were past. Bummer. Would have been happy to show you around. Finally Tim. Have not met you but think you must be a very smart guy. You scooped up a nice young lady to travel through life with. Smart man indeed. Good luck to you nice young couple.
Thanks for the kind words, Terry. Our quick answer is that we didn't think that the cost of a diesel rig is worth the buy-in cost difference. Sounds like an awesome set-up between RVing, sailing and side trips. We're going to try more of that this year -- travel slowly, then take short adventurous trips as to not get burnt out!
Thanks for the update. You might consider finding a short term dog sitter in one of the larger towns. You make me want to sail to Stewart and just take a rental car and explore. Denial might be a worth a train ride. Still I got get it off my bucket list. Is September to late?
Thanks for the advice about touring Alasaka. I’ve often dreamed of visiting there. After hearing you talk about the weather and road conditions I may rethink riding my Harley Ultra up there. Thanks again for all the time and effort you put into your videos. I look forward to y’all next adventure!!
Hey John! I saw some Harleys up at Coldfoot Camp on the Dalton. That would have been a comfortable ride but man- I would not want to be cleaning that stuff of a chromed out Harley after that kind of ride! I bet you'd be fine on your Ultra and that would be one BEAUTIFUL ride. Watch out for moose!
Hi Tim and Fin, thank you for your spectacular videos. I wanted to surprise my wife and take her to Alaska in late June. We only have 8 days. If I understand you correctly, the Kenai Peninsula seems to have it all. Would this be a good choice given that we only have 8 days? Before your video I had been debating between Anchorage and Juneau. Many thanks. John
Kenai peninsula would be great for that! In and out of Juneau you would spend a lot of time on your short itinerary traveling using the ferries (unless you wanted to spend your entire trip just based out of Juneau). What a lovely surprise!
Looking for more of our Alaska content? All our Alaska vlogs in one playlist: ua-cam.com/play/PLL505b6O1-t44xRI0gi837-gfyO9ulsiB.html
The next time you guys are in Alaska, we'd love to take you fishing and do a UA-cam collab!
What a small minded narrow view...
@@plotholedetective4166 what in the world are you talking about? Just exactly who is small-minded with a very narrow view?
I have been binge watching all of your videos. You all are absolutely amazing. I started a kind of down in the watching your UA-cam channel has been so uplifting and inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing your adventures. I have always wanted to go to Alaska for as long as I can remember. Thank you so much for letting me share your trip vicariously. Please give my love to Pepper. She is so adorable.
Bummer
Denali was the highlight of my trip.
I did the train.
Mountain was wide open the whole time I was there.
The Dall Sheep were all out sunnying themselves.
In that 80 mile bus trip we seen thousands of sheep.
Eagles, bears, caribou, moose.
I stayed at a hotel in the park.
That train ride was fantastic. Incredible. Off the beaten path.
Oh that's so cool to hear! We regret not doing the train somewhere but didn't have a good solution for the dog.
I chuckled at the “it’s August, it should be hot.” August and September are our rainy season. You’d have better luck of dry weather in late May, and into June and July.
I agree, it rained every hike I went on in August.
Alaska is my home away from home. Summers are gorgeous but I'm more in love with the winters. Love the snow. Love Alaska
glad u like the winters here. but i will say this other then it being cloud covered most of winter. and people get hit with the depression. the northern lights do make it worth living here. i been here in wasilla for 1 year now. and would not go back to utah for nothing.
would love to visit alaska in the summer!
@@feliciafelicity5456 I was watching alaska state trooper. Is that show real? Do they really have meth down there? I wouldn't mind going there just to try the meth. It seems like a big tourist attraction going by the show at least.
@@jhowardsupporter i dont know about meth i stay away from that stuff. but i do know they have a some bomb weed here.
@@feliciafelicity5456 Weed is not legal in the state of Alaska. Your gonna be next to appear on the show.
Denali National Park is not about the mountain... It's about the wildlife and the scenery....
Too bad. D N P has a personality all of it's own. Totally worth the trip whether the mountain is out or not.
Too bad. D N P has a personality all of it's own. Totally worth the trip whether the mountain is out or not.
@@blacksprucecabinak Exactly
Went to the park, couldn’t see the mountain due to low cloud cover. Best pictures we got of the mountain were from a hundred miles away.
I born in Alaska and lived there until I was 29. I was never much into outdoors activities, but fortunately, I never had to go very far to appreciate the beauty it had to offer. Thank you for doing justice to my home state!
It was my 50th state, and Kalispell, Montana was my 49th. I visited all 50 states and many places outside the USA. Acapulco and Singapore my favorites. Earthquakes were deal breakers for Acapulco for retirement, and Singapore was safe and clean, but too expensive for me.
Incredible video! We're travelling from Australia and planning our Alaska trip (3 weeks; last week of August and first two weeks of September) this year. This gave us much more direction. Will definitely watch the Vlogs. Cheers!
Read 2 novels on alaska into the wild and the great alone.feels like i'been there.although i m from india.For you its alaska for us its himalayas.come to himalayas some day.
Thank you dear friend I have been to Shimla, Delhi, Chandigarh.
Want to read one of the few history books done about Alaska that is accurate? Read James Michener novel, Alaska, one of the few that is accurate.
Just finished into the wild and really want to read the Great Alone! Also, really would love to go to the Himalayas! A dream!
I live in Alaska and Denali is 100% a must see if you visit here. I’ve done Denali as a day trip from Fairbanks lol. And Healy is right outside of Denali, wayyyy closer than talkeetna is. There are restaurants and many places to stay there, especially in the summer.
alaska is just so big so much to do here. so much to see. i moved here to alaska 1 year ago. and have seen tons of tourists when they come in june - july. when the salmon run hits and it gets insane.
Heck yeah, it’s worth it. I was just there last week. 2nd time solo traveling in Alaska. Love it.
Thanks for the realistic review! I'm looking into visiting Alaska this year, and I've been trying to figure out just how hard it really is. This was a nice overview of all the places to see, and things to consider.
Rain and fog is what makes Alaska dramatic and beautiful!
Thank you for the information. I value your input. You guys are around the same age and travel very similar to me. You likely just saved me a LOT of time and trouble! Thank you very much!
We went through Denali Park then rode the train to Anchorage and IT WAS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE BEST VACA WE HAVE EVER HAD!
We also hiked Big Top OMGOSH awesome sites!
So there's a little known glacier called caster, which is about 40 miles down the Richardson after you get to Delta Junction at the end of the Alaska highway. Has a pretty amazing ice cave, and not a lot of people know about it.😊
Pronunciation from a Southeast resident:
SEWARD: SU-erd, Not SEE-werd.
KETCHIKAN: Ketch-ih-can, not Ketch-ee-kahn.
Only tourist mags calls it the panhandle. We call it The Southeast or The Inside Passage (if on a boat).
And, there's a third town you can access by road in Southeast: Hyder.
And you don't really need to ask yourself why you are coming here and overthinking such a simple concept. Alaska is the most beautiful place on earth and people who appreciate beauty want to come here.
Incredible comprehensive explanation. I havent seen a travel website explain it the way you did. Thank you!
I think that going to Denali NP is very worth it! Take a full day, ride the park bus out to Eielson visitor center. Even if you don't see the mountain, you will see so much! We saw a traveling pack of wolves! 10/10 highly recommend.
Very informative! Especially the “Why” part. Just found your channel and I’m now so eager to binge watch all of your videos hehe
Great job giving a different spin on Alaska. The channel has a very professional feel to it. The cinematography & editing are on point. 😊🥂
Right on! Thanks very much :)
If you are a early bird, Denali isn't open until May 20th , That being said, if you are a hardcore mountain biker or back country hiker, you can go as soon as they open the road, you can only drive out to thirty mile, but that is a good start.
this is what I need it... Alaska IS for me... Still waiting but more info is always welcome!
This seems to be a very interesting place, I hope I can visit sometime in the future. Seeing and sharing places like this is why I love traveling and make videos so much! And please keep up the great job! Subscribed!!
Lived there from 95-99 in the Fairbanks area. Been back twice once in 06 and then again in 07. Moving back as soon as i can to the lower part this time.
Lifelong Alaskan resident.. agree 💯 that you can get the full experience between Anchorage and the kenai Pennsylvania
I've been to all the places you've mentioned and the drive through Denali was the absolute highlight of a wonderful month I had in Alaska a few years ago. We stopped for about 20 minutes at Polychrome Pass on the Denali Park road and it's the most spectacular lookout I've experienced anywhere in the world.
John Muir, the famous naturalist, wrote in his journal that you should never go to Alaska as a young man because you'll never be satisfied with any other place as long as you live. And there's a lot of truth to that.
@@TrekkingPals Yes
Excellent informational video with great, honest advise. I loved the footage too. 👍🏽
I even tell the people who live here in Alaska.
If you wait for good weather to do something, you will never do anything.
Not saying there is no good weather. Just that it can be good weather where you live. Then you travel to where you want to do your activity and it could be any kind of bad weather.
Rain
wind
Overcast
Or all of the above or a mixture of whatever.
And good weather can change in an instant.
Rain gear a must
Windproof a must (helps keep body heat from blowing away)
A day pack helps for the quick charging weather to store the layers for whatever weather happens.
Plus it makes it easier to have snack food and beverages with you.
And nobody will make fun of you for wearing rain boots everywhere.
Why can't I visit Alaska to take in the scenery and the natural beauty? I'm confused on why this trip wouldn't be for me if I don't just want to go fishing...
Shut-ins need not apply! My sister lives in Seward and seeing your travels there bring good memories. Alaska is for those who loves outdoors. Cheers!
yep great place to live if u like hunting and fishing. or trapping. i dont like the winters with the depression thing but other then that its not bad here. i would take living here over going back to the desert will say that.
There are mountain goats and sheep,bear, fox, beaver, golden eagles, bald eagles, moose, etc in Denali Park. However, often one can see the sheep just outside Anchorage on the Seward Hwy.
Thank you so much! I'm looking to do a spontaneous trip to Alaska next week and came across this video in my research. You absolutely helped point me in the right direction. Cheers!
Holy crap= thats short notice on a Alaska trip! The Kenai Peninsula has got it all. I could go back there right now.
Great vid! I know I'm late to the party but having taken a very similar trip to Alaska I'll ditto the thoughts on Denali. The only way to see the park is via what is essentially a school bus. There isn't enough capacity to accommodate demand so don't imagine showing up on a nice day and buying tickets. They'll be sold out unless you show up super early in the morning. You can also reserve in advance and hope to get lucky. What do you see along the way? Some wildlife, of course, but not as much as you probably imagine and not particularly close to the bus. I've had a number of Alaskans say that you can get a similar experience to driving through Denali by driving the length of unpaved Hwy 8 not far out of the park. I would argue that the visitors who will most enjoy Denali are those who use the bus system as a way to get into the center of the park and then venture out on a multi-day trek into Denali's wilderness.
We too experienced regular rain and were unhappy at first until we experienced a prolonged stretch of sun and realized 1) that it was easier on the eyes to drive in misty weather; and 2) that, photographically speaking, the landscape was prettier when shrouded in atmospheric mist and clouds.
The one mistake I would argue that Tim and Fin made was skipping Top-of-the-World Highway. The road itself wasn't great when we took it (limited visibility) but the route takes you past some other really interesting sites. Tombstone Territorial Park in the YT is epic and reason enough to take this route. It is not far from Dawson City, an interesting and historic town from the gold rush days. Top-of-the-World Highway terminates around Chicken, AK, and the landscape between Chicken and Tok is also pretty interesting.
I see the IU cup. I’m an IU grad! Thanks for the video. I’m trying to plan a trip for my family.
Great job and informative. Next time yall are passing through Seward our doors are always open! Don't be strangers!
I want to go see the northern lights, waterfalls , experience the food , see the Glaciers hiking
Maybe ones the pandemic is over I can go 😍❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
The lights were out pretty good a couple of nights ago here in south central.
lmfao! august is rainy season in alaska. late may and early june is the best time to visit
You guys did a great job of explaining traveling the state as a whole!
If you really want to know the best way to see Alaska, ask one of us locals. We are always happy to give suggestions as to where to go, how to get there, and what to see and do. 😊
It always helps! I asked locals for places to see moose in Anchorage and their advice enabled us to see moose 6 times during our visit.
Hello! Me and my friend will be flying to Fairbanks soon but we could not find a car rental from the airport, do you know where can we rent a car on that area? Thank you
@@gladyshernandezsalas3979 You should be able to. Enterprise is fairly close to the airport.
I will make this simple as a longtime Alaskan, you want “real Alaska “, get off our few roads.Simple.😉👍
I once had a vision traveling to all 50 states when I was a child in skool.
the why part is very informative..... great effort and video...
Loved your Alaska video, very helpful information for my first trip to Alaska. Hi from Ireland
Thanks so much! 👋 🍀
Great video! What’s the music at 6:35? Shazam didn’t catch it. Thanks!
Why you want to go to Alaska?
To experience true wilderness.
Raw and wild.
To see the Iditarod.
Denali National Park , to see the “tallest” mountain in the world (one you can see from ground to peak, all in at once, not a series of peaks like Everest)also the highest in North America. You can see it from Anchorage!! Hundreds of miles away. It is so large it has it’s own climate system. People go to climb it in May. The oldest man to do it was in his 70s.
The State Fair is a hoot. Mushing dogs,. Huge and I mean HUGE vegetables, like 55lb cabbage , wheel barrel sized zucchini. Great place to people watch.
Experience the Fur Rendezvous
Northern lights in Fairbanks
Experience long days like midnight softball games in sunlight.
No sunlight, darkness for weeks.
Wolves, badgers ,wolverines, largest bears in the world , polar, grizzly, huge black bears.
Bobcats, eagles, orcas, the Largest moose in the world wales up close and personal.
Sea kayak with wales
Alaskan king crab
Fresh salmon
Fly in a bush plane
Visit an Eskimo village.
See the pipeline
Take a fascinating train ride through wilderness.
Fishing
Hunting.
Mountain climb.
See the tundra.
Pick wild blue berries in the wilderness.
Hiking in wilderness with bear bells.
Hear the wolf packs at night.
Fabulous waterfowl for hunting or viewing.
One of a kind ducks like Harlequin.
See musk ox, get some fresh qiviat!
Alaska is a great vacation. And you are correct, you need like 3 trips, one might not even scratch the surface.
Looking at Alaska right now as the next destination, but coming from Australia it seems overwhelming, like where to start? how long to stay? I have no idea, but my son wants to do salmon fishing.
Fantastic Video and on point info. well done.
Visiting Denali was quite the borefest. You sit on the bus for 5+ hours and look at the same scenery for miles. If you're lucky, you might get to spot a moose or two. If you're really lucky, you might be able to spot a grizzly far away. I've visited close to 10 well known national parks in the lower 48 and Canada and Denali was easily the most boring.
Sorry you had rain throughout your trip in August, but if you did your research, you'd realize that August is Alaska's rainy season. Try coming back in May-July. Its pretty dry and the temps get into the 90's. Also, as far as a "2-day drive to Denali"...its only 4 hours from Anchorage. Thanks for the videos.
I agree! It was raining almost every day we were in Alaska! I didn't mind it. It adds to the beauty of the landscape
I know a lot of work went into this video. :) We enjoyed it!
hello, loved your video, thank you, which month you were there? that is a piece of important information to plan a trip to avoid the rain. thank you.
i'd like know Alaska... beautiful state...I love it
Great video! We are motorhoming Jasper, Banff, etc. this summer and cruising to Alaska (with a 4 day land excursion) from Vancouver. I felt like we were only getting a glimpse of Alaska, but after your video, I believe we will have a pretty full experience. Time in Alaska will be short, but we will be in the Canadian Rockies for about 3 weeks. After Tim's "more of the same" comment, I think we've made reasonable plans.
Many channels loose some authenticity as they become more popular and polished. Disingenuine positivity sometimes happens for fear of impacting viewership. It's refreshing that you don't play that game. Thank you!
I couldn't be happier to hear that and that means so much to hear you say that - thanks for everything and it sounds like you guys have it figured out. Going to be a great trip!
Really informative! I've always planned on visiting Alaska but know very little about the state so I appreciate this!
There's plenty of bears in nw NJ. No need to schlep so far north to Alaska just to see them. Flor-eye-da is still the best vacation and retirement destination. My Florida.
yewww! awesome shots, lived here my whole life and love it!
You guys are the best. The why part is pretty spot on. I am planning on a solo trip to Alaska this summer and I am more of a national park guy. I've visited Banff and Jasper already and it's tough for me to drop my jaw at any scenery anymore after having driven thru ice fields parkway. With that info in mind...do you recommend Alaska for the overall experience ?
You are the best
Thanks so much. We loved whole video. Great information.
Wow, I live in Alaska and this video definitely undersold the state and was just two people flying thru and not doing anything. Also, Talkeetna is a 45-minute drive from Denali State Park NOT Denali National Park. Yes, confusing. Yes, you got it wrong. The national park is located in Denali Village which is 2.5 hours north of Talkeetna.
The drive along the highway can be boring if all you do is stay in your vehicle and not get out and explore and do some day hikes or walking in areas like Byers Lake or Curry Ridge or take in the views on the banks of the Susitna River at Mile 104 on the Parks Highway or look at the expanse of the Alaska Range from Broad Pass just south of Cantwell or view the snaking Nenana River as if follows the Parks Highway up to the national park.
But yeah, if I was just going 65 mph in an RV and just filming, I'd hate my trip to Alaska too.
We saw you on the return run in the Yukon. We had the red JEEP and Trailer combination. You should have got there earlier June and July were dry August it rained almost every day. We loved Denali and camped at Tek was fun.
You are correct! If you get 3 miles into Denali, and decide not to go further...Then AK is not for you! Also, if you go to AK, purchase bear spray (thinking it is more ethical choice over killing a bear), make sure you actually practice with the shit before going, and like the results. In my opinion, bear spray is equivalent to a wingsuit and the pilot in the wingsuit. You can have all the experience in the world, but sometimes circumstances cannot be predicted or planned for. In AK, I've often seen hikers carry high-powered rifles...smart hikers!
Funny how non-Alaskan's think they are experts of Alaska life and travel. First, talkeetana is not the closest town to Denali. Second, the entirety of Alaska is packed with wild life , not just Kenai. Third, the Alaska Marine Highway is not the primary form of travel in SE Alaska. It's personal boats or float planes. Fourth, you can your drive into Denali but only for a week out of the year and you need to have won a lottery ticket to do so (sign up for the lottery ticket online at the US National Forest website). Fifth, the interior of Alaska is a distinctly different part than the northern slope. They are rarely, if ever, thought of as the same. I could go on and on. Bottom line, visiting any part of Alaska is a spectacular treat. If you really want to know how to visit and travel Alaska, ask a real Alaskan and not a tourist. Any Alaskan will be more than happy to point you in the right direction with accurate information.
So true.
thinking about flying into Fairbanks and driving down to Denali National from there take the bus and then drive back to Fairbanks , might fly a bush plane to land on glacier few of my ideas
How about Hyder Alaska? 😊
Keep up the great videos
Love them💙
McDonald😂
@@vaibhavfulzele6172?
Moving to Soldotna in august. Wish me luck
I also just noticed your husbands cup. I am from Indiana.
As a longtime Alaskan,been all over this state as a tour guide,want to see “real Alaska”, get off our few road systems,if you are around the road system, most of the so-called Alaska guides are from the lower 48 and don’t have a clue about Alaska, simple!!!
Hey, I have the answer to Why? I want to visit Alaska mainly to see beautiful northern lights. Please suggest which is the best place and during what time of the year we should plan the visit to see the northern lights.
Thanks for taking us along on your journey!
Fabulous video, we have seen multiple yt channel tours of AK and your one video was a great capsule of the state
Aw, that's great to hear - thanks!
Ohhh, you can’t drive yourself into Denali? I had no idea thanks for the info
I want to come to AK. But I don’t have anything specific other than do the things that people do there. Check out glaciers, see the beautiful landscapes, mountains. I’d like to fish for halibut, and maybe salmon. I’d like to see Denali NP.
I’d like to see moose, bear, whales, etc etc. should I feel bad about not wanting to do more specific things?
There are no guaranties of seeing wildlife. You might see a lot and you might see none. Glaciers and hiking trails are awesome themselves. Enjoy your visit
Awesome video....entertaining and informative.....👏
Valdez! It's a bit of a hop from Anchorage to Valdez and back, but there's some great kayaking and day cruise opportunities there, plus an iceberg filled lake right off the road just outside of town. And... the drive out there and back is nothing short of spectacular!
Wholeheartedly agree with the rest of the video, though.
June/July is a much better time to visit weather wise. August is pretty much fall.
Thank you for this video! It was quite helpful! I was thinking to visit Denali but I don't want to spend 2 days just getting there! Anyways Alaska is SO beautiful and pristine.
lol as to the "it's August it should be hot" comment...
isn't that reason enough? I'm sick and tired of sweating all summer lol The older I get, the more I like the cold, and the less I like the heat. I want to have a wood stove again. I want to spend my summers collecting wood, ans splitting logs. I don't necessarily want to be completely off the grid, but I could do that. However, I still want to talk to my grandmothers, my old friends, etc. Internet, basically. I don't want to stop flipping vintage guitars either.
The main reason for me, and my family, to go, is to stay. I can get the harsh winters of my childhood back, without having to deal with sweltering heat in the summers. I don't have to leave the mountains (the mountains are why I left home in the first place). Most importantly, society is not a necessity in Alaska. Well, so long as you aren't in the city. I can take it or leave it on a whim there. I want to get away from people. People are becoming dumber with each passing year.
Visited for two weeks in June of 2009 and not a single day of rain!
Can't believe Russia sold this place to USA for a few millions.
really?
Thx for another great Video:)
Nice job on the video, thanks
I wish you can record in Fairbanks restaurant who Lisa Kelly eat lunch there . and also ice road truckers place also in prodhoe bay . this is only memories remaining
I've traveled internationally frequently and NEVER once made an itinerary. Some of my most productive trips were ones with very little planning. Try smoking a joint and not making 50 itineraries just to take a trip.
I’m working there for 4 months in Wrangell
Hi! I just started watching your videos and I love them all! I am going up to Seward in a few weeks for a graduation trip. I’m from Southern California and I am definitely not used to rain. I was wondering what type of rain gear you had or things that helped you stay warm in the cold. Your videos are great and they have helped me plan so many wonderful things that I look forward to when I go! Thank you!
Hey Paris- The rain thing there was serious- just buy rain pants and a decent rain jacket if you're going up that way. I've never regretted buying our rain gear and we bring it pretty much everywhere with us. REI house brand stuff isn't too expensive but its of very high quality in our opinion.
I plan to Alaska this august... but I am confiuse where to go? any recommended? I like see something and not many people visit before.. I think anchorage because have direct flight from main airport in east coast problem I don't drive so I will explore around town
Hello, it’s a rain forest, of course it rained a lot!
I live in North Pole AK and this was very well done. Thank you!!
Thank you so much. This help me plann my trip. Your both so beautiful inside and out. Ahhhh! 😎🌲🌲
That is so nice - thank you for making my day!
Iv’e been on the Dalten highway don’t fuck with it unless u have days worth of food
Love the channel. And your long video on your trip in Europe. You guys do a great job at production. Was wondering about your Rv. I’m retiring. Thinking about a road trip to Alaska. Were you satisfied with your rig? Lots of debate about diesel verses gas etc. would you chose your rig again? I plan on doing some sailing in winter and perhaps rv in summer. With travel in between. Made two trips to Spain last year. I live in New Orleans. You guys covered it well. Did not begin to follow you unitl you guys were past. Bummer. Would have been happy to show you around. Finally Tim. Have not met you but think you must be a very smart guy. You scooped up a nice young lady to travel through life with. Smart man indeed. Good luck to you nice young couple.
Thanks for the kind words, Terry. Our quick answer is that we didn't think that the cost of a diesel rig is worth the buy-in cost difference. Sounds like an awesome set-up between RVing, sailing and side trips. We're going to try more of that this year -- travel slowly, then take short adventurous trips as to not get burnt out!
incredible footage!! This is a great summary...
And why y’all talk about Chicago people that is so cold well in Alaska it’s very cold and they don’t have a problem
Thankkk you for this!!!
Thanks for the update. You might consider finding a short term dog sitter in one of the larger towns. You make me want to sail to Stewart and just take a rental car and explore. Denial might be a worth a train ride. Still I got get it off my bucket list. Is September to late?
Thanks for the advice about touring Alasaka. I’ve often dreamed of visiting there. After hearing you talk about the weather and road conditions I may rethink riding my Harley Ultra up there. Thanks again for all the time and effort you put into your videos. I look forward to y’all next adventure!!
Hey John! I saw some Harleys up at Coldfoot Camp on the Dalton. That would have been a comfortable ride but man- I would not want to be cleaning that stuff of a chromed out Harley after that kind of ride! I bet you'd be fine on your Ultra and that would be one BEAUTIFUL ride. Watch out for moose!
Thank you. Very useful for first timer.
Hi Tim and Fin, thank you for your spectacular videos. I wanted to surprise my wife and take her to Alaska in late June. We only have 8 days. If I understand you correctly, the Kenai Peninsula seems to have it all. Would this be a good choice given that we only have 8 days? Before your video I had been debating between Anchorage and Juneau. Many thanks. John
Kenai peninsula would be great for that! In and out of Juneau you would spend a lot of time on your short itinerary traveling using the ferries (unless you wanted to spend your entire trip just based out of Juneau). What a lovely surprise!
@@timandfin Thank you very much!!! Very kind of you to reply!!!