Recent Alaska Shipping News

Jump to:
When should I expect snow in Alaska?
Types of winter tires
Tips and advice about winter tires
Conclusion
 


 

When should I expect snow in Alaska?

Generally speaking, the snow season in Alaska lasts from October through April. However, when you should expect snow depends on where you are in Alaska. In far north areas there is more snow because temperatures remain colder more often, and elevations tend to be higher. In areas close to the water you get higher amounts of snowfall because of the concept of lake-effect snow.

For example, when you are in the southern parts of Alaska, there is considerably more snow than other places in the United States but less than other more northern parts of Alaska. Take Anchorage for example. Anchorage averages 78 inches of snow per year whereas the US average is only 28 inches per year. This is because of Anchorage is located close to the water. However, Talkeetna which is over a hundred miles north of Anchorage, averages 178 inches of snow per year.

So, when exactly you will need snow tires in Alaska is dependent on where in Alaska you are. However, so long as you are not in the far northern parts of Alaska, you can figure that October through April will be the months where winter tires will be a good idea.
 

Types of winter tires

There are actually a couple of different types of winter tires that you can consider for your car. Which you choose depends on the severity of winter conditions you expect in your area, the amount you anticipate yourself driving in snow and ice and the type of vehicle you have.

The following are the different types of winter tires:

1. Studded tires – Studded tires are for the most serious winter conditions. These tires use metal studs on the tire to dig into snow and ice for the best traction possible. However, the downsides are that they can contribute to damage to the pavement, create a decent amount of noise and are only legal for part of the year in Alaska. Be sure to check your local laws, but in many places in Alaska studded tires are legal for the duration of the possibility of snow. So, you can keep your studded tires on from the middle of September through the middle of April.
2. Non-studded winter tires – These tires are a great option if you are in an area with an average to above average amount of snow and ice each winter. They are specially made so that they remain soft in cold temperatures and they have a heavy-duty tread design that really helps with traction.
3. All-weather tires – All-weather tires are generally for areas such as New York where there is snow but maybe only one major snowstorm per year. These tires are not recommended for use in areas with more severe winter conditions. They still work well enough in harsher winter conditions, but studded or non-studded winter tires work better.

 

Tips and advice about winter tires

Before you go out and buy your winter tires you should consider a few things first:

• What type of winter tire should you get? – As we mentioned earlier, this will depend on where you live in Alaska. If the weather conditions are harsher, you should consider buying winter tires, whether studded or non-studded, instead of all-weather tires.
• Get the right size! – This goes without saying but we will say it any way, be sure that you get the right sized tires for your car. The best way to do this is to show up to an auto shop in person and give them your vehicle specifications.
• Don’t put them on too early – Remember, there are laws against having your winter tires on during the summer months. Do not get an easily avoidable ticket by being too zealous and putting your winter tires on too early.
• Install them on all wheels – Some people try and get away with putting winter tires on only their back wheels. Do not do this because it could imbalance your car’s performance.
• Keep a close eye on your tire pressure – You should always check your tire pressure at least once a month, but you should especially do so in the winter. This is due to the fact that tire pressure will drop more rapidly in colder temperatures.

 

Conclusion

We recommend that you get snow tires for your car if you live in Alaska. They can really help you drive safely in the abundance of snow and ice that occurs in Alaska from October through April. The type of snow tire that you should get depends entirely on where exactly in Alaska you live. Remember, that if you do get studded winter tires you will be legally required to change them by the middle of April or the beginning of May at the latest.

Jump to:
Why it is dangerous leaving your kids or pets in the car on a summer day in Alaska
What are your other options?
Facts about the inside of a car during warm weather
Final word
 

 

Why it is dangerous leaving your kids or pets in the car on a summer day in Alaska

Many of us already know exactly how dangerous it can be to leave your kids or your pets in your car on a hot summer day. However, most people do not know that it can also be dangerous to do this in more moderate temperatures too.

Often in Alaska, Summer temperatures do not rise much further over eighty degrees. In fact, reaching eighty is rare. However, you will often see temperatures in the 60’s and 70’s. Now, those temperatures probably don’t seem like they could be dangerous if you sat in a parked car for a few minutes, but they actually can be.

The inside of a car during a 70 degree day can warm to just about 90 degrees in ten minutes. Keep in mind, children are much weaker and have less of a tolerance for heat than we do. Pets, such as dogs and cats, are essentially wearing fur coats. Dogs also can’t sweat, while cats can sweat they can only do so through their paws. The point is that 90 degree heat is much worse for children and pets.

All of this can easily lead to a heat stroke or worse. Sadly, some children and pets have died in parked cars due to the heat.
 

What are your other options?

When it comes to running errands with your kids or pets, you do have a few alternative options to leaving them in the car.

You could always have someone watch them for you. Yes, this might cost you a few bucks but that is a small price to pay in comparison to your beloved child or pet being injured from heat stroke.

The most obvious alternative is to bring your child inside with you wherever you are going. Unfortunately, that is usually not an option with a pet. However, you can always tie your dog up to a post outside.
 

Facts about the inside of a car during warm weather

• It can get really hot in your car, really quickly – Depending on if the car is in direct sunlight and how hot it is outside, temperatures in a car can rise by 20 degrees in just ten minutes.
• There are laws in some places against leaving your child or pet in the car – Right now almost twenty states have laws against leaving your child in the car. Unfortunately, Alaska is not one of them at the moment. However, there could be a law passed in the near future. Also, keep in mind, that if your kid or pet does get injured or die from being left in your car, you could be charged with negligence. So, that is just another reason to make sure that you do not leave your child in your car while you run into the store.
• It does not need to be extremely hot out for the inside of your car to get too hot – Believe it or not, children have died from heat related injuries due to being left in a car when the temperature outside was lower than 65 degrees. Do not take any chances.
• Cracking the windows does not help – When it is in the uppers 60’s, even if you crack your window, temperatures can rise by over 30 degrees in an hour.
• Colors make a slight difference – It might sound strange but cars with lighter exteriors reflect more sunlight thus they take more time to get hotter. Conversely, dark interiors help the inside of a car get hot faster because they do a poor job of reflecting sunlight. However, no matter what your car’s interior or exterior is, you should never leave you child or pet in a parked car unattended.

 

Final word

Leaving your child or pet in a parked car on a warm day is an all-around bad idea. You are risking serious injury or even death for them. You, yourself, are risking legal consequence when you do that. You are also even risking a broken car window by a good Samaritan looking to help your child or pet out. The point is just don’t leave your kids and/or pets in the car while you run into the store.

Jump to:
What are the downsides to idling your car?
Are there any laws against idling in Alaska?
Tips and information regarding remote starters
Conclusion
 


 
The reason someone might consider getting a remote starter is that they want to be able to warm their car up in cold weather without going outside to do so. It is quite nice to be able to walk out in the winter to a car that is already nice and toasty. You can also keep your car locked while your car warms up, which is something you cannot do if you are using your keys in your ignition to warm up your car.
 

What are the downsides to idling your car?

When it is cold out, especially the way it gets in Alaska sometimes, it is no fun having to run out of the house and get into a car that isn’t warm. So, many people will run out and start their car and run back in so that they can enjoy the warmth of their home while their car warms up. Some may not even need to leave their home as they have remote starters which can temporarily start your car for a few minutes by the click of a button.

This all sounds great and harmless, but it comes with a price. Idling your car can cause moderate amounts of dirt and grime to build up in your engine which, over the course of the winter, can reach a level where it can cause damage to your car’s engine.

Idling can also waste a considerable amount of fuel. If you frequently use your remote starter in the winter, analyze your gas expenses and you will see that you are spending noticeably more on gas.

Possibly the worst downside of getting a remote starter for your car is all the extra pollution that you are contributing to the environment. Each time you idle your car for just five minutes, you are releasing over a pound of greenhouse gases into the environment.
 

Are there any laws against idling in Alaska?

In many places, there are laws in place to minimize or completely prevent the practice of idling. Right now, there are no such laws in Alaska. However, there could be in the future, so be on the lookout.

Places that do have laws regarding car idling are generally areas with large populations such as New York City. This is because when you multiply the effects of idling by millions of people, the environmental results could be disastrous.

Right now, the population in Alaska is very low by comparison to most other places in the United States. However, if that number grows at a steady rate in Alaska, you could see more consideration for legislation regarding idling being passed in the future.
 

Tips and information regarding remote starters

If you are planning on getting a remote starter in the near future, you should read the following tips before you even start the process of buying a starter. You should make sure you can have an automatic starter installed in your particular car, then buy one, and then make the appointment to have it installed by a mechanic.

• All remote starters are not equal – As with any other product you might be considering buying, you should do your research and shop around first. You can visit auto stores and ask the opinions of those working there, ask friends and family if they have used any remote starters that they have liked, and you can also research the different types of remote starters online as well. If you do your research online be sure that you are aware of the practice of fake and paid reviews for products on sites like amazon.com.
• Make your appointment to have it installed – A remote starter obviously is not something that you can install yourself. You will need a knowledgeable mechanic to install it for you. You should call around locally and ask auto shops if they have experience doing this and if they can with your specific type of starter. Sometimes, stores such as Best Buy have a car department where you can have a remote starter installed. When you do have your appointment, be prepared for the installation to take a couple of hours.
• Do not overuse it – Using it when you do not need to or for too long is a waste of gas which is a waste of money. The more often you do use it, the more wear and tear you are risking putting on your engine. Use it sparingly. Using it on a cold winter day for 3 minutes is more than enough to warm up your car.
• Try not to use it during the summer – In some areas, some summer days can get very hot, humid and unbearable. This is almost never the case in Alaska. When you use your remote starter during summer months, it puts even more strain on your engine than normal. In the winter months, your engine does not have to work that hard to keep the engine from getting too hot. In summer months, your car needs to rely heavily on the radiator fan to keep the engine cool thus straining the engine more.

 

Conclusion

Remote starters are the way that some people choose to get their car warmed up over the winter. They do have their downsides though. They can increase wear and tear on your engine, waste gas, and increase the amount of pollution your car gives off. However, if you use it sparingly, these negative effects will be negligible.

Whether or not you have a remote starter in your car, you can easily get it shipped to or from Alaska anytime that you might need to with Alaska Car Transport.

Jump to
Alaska’s incredible glaciers
The best ways to see the glaciers
Tips for seeing the glaciers
Final Word
 


 

Alaska’s incredible glaciers

Alaska is one of the better places in the world for some very picturesque sight-seeing. From expansive valleys and gorgeous winter landscapes to lush forests and northern lights, you won’t find a lack of things to get out and see. However, one of the sights that you definitely won’t want to miss are the world-renowned glaciers of Alaska.

There are almost a hundred thousand glaciers in Alaska. However, there are a few glaciers which are much more famous and notable than the others. Alaska’s most popular glaciers are:

• Mendenhall Glacier
• The Malaspina Glacier
• Worthington Glacier
• The Columbia Glacier
• Exit Glacier
• Spencer Glacier
• Portage Glacier
• McBride Glacier
• Chisana Glacier

 

The best ways to see the glaciers

The best way to see a glacier depends on a few things. However, many times you have options to choose from such as hiking, taking a cruise or taking a flight or helicopter tour. These are all fantastic ways to see a glacier. Which of these you choose (provided there is the option) is entirely up to you and your comfort level with each of them.

Hiking is better for a more personal and up-close experience that ends up being infused with a day of fairly vigorous cardiovascular exercise. A cruise is probably the most relaxing and slowest paced of the tours. You can get some great mid-range views of the glaciers on a cruise. On a flight or helicopter tour, you will get a bunch of incredible aerial views of the glaciers. These tours are also the quickest type of the tours, usually clocking in at under two hours or less.

If you are going to hike the glaciers or a trail close to them, we highly recommend that you do so with a guide, even if you are a seasoned and experienced hiker already. It is much safer if you go with a guide. Be sure to bring the right supplies like food, water, emergency medical supplies, all the proper hiking equipment and clothing. You can find a full list of what to bring here.

If you are going to take a cruise to see the glaciers in Alaska, then you have a few options to choose from. We recommend that you go with one of the following:

• Portage Glacier Cruises
• Stephens Cruises
• Phillips Cruises
• Major Marine Tours

Be sure that you follow any and all instructions given to you while you are on the boat so you can ensure your safety and that you have the best experience possible. We recommend that you read the website of whichever cruise-line that you choose before your board.

If you decided to tour Alaska’s glaciers by air whether it be plane or helicopter, you should plan ahead and be prepared to spend a couple hundred dollars per person for the trip. You can see a list of the highest rated Alaska glacier plane tours here.

As far as helicopter tours, you can check out a list of the highest rated tours here. These types of tours will also cost a couple hundred dollars or more depending on which specific type of tour you end up choosing.
 

Tips for seeing the glaciers

Before you head out to see the glaciers in Alaska, take a few moments to check out these helpful tips:

• Go during the summer – The glaciers will be around for viewing year-round but the best time to see them is from May through September. Summer actually offers the best visibility as well as the best overall weather conditions for seeing the glaciers. In the winter, inclement weather can prevent you from getting a good view of the glaciers or even from taking the trip to see them at all.
• Dress appropriately – You will be either hiking, on a cruise or in the air when you are seeing the glaciers. All of these methods of seeing the glaciers can definitely get pretty cool in temperature at points. So, be sure you at least have something extra to throw on if you do feel cold. This includes the summer too.
• Pick your preferred way of travel – Believe it or not, you can see glaciers in Alaska by foot, sea or air. You can hike, take a cruise or take a plane/helicopter tour. In the end, you should choose whatever is the most comfortable for you. For example, if you are not too keen on being exposed to the elements, take a helicopter tour rather than walking.
• Take pictures but not the entire time – You will definitely want to take pictures so that you have memories of your wonderful glacier experience. However, don’t spend the whole time behind your camera or phone taking pictures. Take some time and just enjoy the view.
• Stay somewhere close to where your tour or hike begins – You do not want to end up having to drive a long way to get to your tour, so look into this well in advanced.

 

Final Word

The glaciers of Alaska are a must-see attraction if you are visiting or even living in Alaska and haven’t seen them yet. They provide some of the best photo opportunities in all of the state. Be sure that you take the time to plan in advanced so you can easily reserve your spot on any tours and that you choose a place to stay that isn’t too far out of the way.

Jump to:
Alaska’s construction season is here
The list of current road construction in Alaska
The list of future road constriction in Alaska
Ways to avoid getting stuck in construction traffic
Conclusion
 

 

Alaska’s construction season is here

There is no “official” construction season in Alaska, but all construction goes on from the late spring into then end of the summer/fall. This is because the weather is much better and more conducive to getting the construction work done during these months versus during the colder months when a snowstorm could easily delay work for several weeks at a time.

This year, Alaska’s Department of Transportation and Public Facilities has over forty projects planned for its norther region. The overall purpose of these projects according to the Alaska DOT and PF website is to: improve safety, preserve roads, bridges and tunnels that are already in use, and to reduce overall costs of operations. The two major projects this season will be the work being done on Badger Road and Mitchell Expressway (most of the work in phase two on Mitchell Expressway has concluded).
 

The list of current road construction in Alaska

The following are the current road construction projects going on at the time this post was published – July 1st, 2019. For a list of future projects scheduled to start sometime soon you can click here.

• Sterling Highway and Main Street Intersection – There is paving, and grading work being done here that will last through November.
• Sterling Highway: Mile Posts 97 through 118 – There is work being done to widen the shoulder and create a fish passage culvert at Crooked Creek. The work will continue through October.
• Beaver Loop Road – Construction crews are re-surfacing the road as well as creating a new pedestrian path. Construction will continue through the end of October.
• Kenai Spur Highway – New lanes are being built by construction crews. This will include a new temporary traffic pattern and moderate delays. Construction is expected to last at least several months.
• Sterling Highway: Skilak Lake Road to Milepost 78 – Construction crews are upgrading lanes and a pedestrian path. They are also adding a bridge. Expect long delays. Construction is expected to last for several months.
• Snug Harbor Road – Construction crews are performing ditching operations from mile 3 to 4. Expect short delays of a few minutes. Construction will be over by early July.
• Seward Highway: Milepost 75 to 90 – Night work will occur on this road until September 2. Construction crews will be working on drainage, lane realignments, pedestrian paths and facilities and more. You can expect light to moderate delays.
• Rabbit Creek Road – Crews will be working on repaving the road through July. Traffic will be down to a single lane at points so expect moderate delays.
• Abbott Road – Construction crews will be adding lanes and making sight improvements for the road. This work will last through the end of July. You should expect some moderate delays.
• C Street – Lanes will be closed causing some longer delays so that construction crews can work on the preservation of C street.
• Jewel Lake Road – Crews will be working to widen a portion of Jewel Lake Road through the fall. There will be some detours including possible lane closures. You can expect some moderate delays.
• Glenn Highway – Constructions crews will be adding a lane to Glenn Highway now through the fall. You can expect some lane closures and moderate delays.
• Palmer off-ramp: Glenn Highway – You can expect for the Palmer off-ramp on Glenn Highway to be closed for a week during July. Construction crews are working to improve various aspects of the road. Expect short delays and taking a detour.
• Edlund Road – Through the middle of July, portion of the road will be closed while crews install a fish passage culvert. Expect mild delays and a detour.
• Parks Highway: Mile Post 83 to 99 – Construction crews are working on adding passing lanes and improving pedestrian areas. This work will last through September. You can expect some light delays.
• Badger Road: Automatic Vehicle Classifier station – Construction crews will be working on the lanes near the station at Badger Road. You can expect short delays and some single lane closures. This work should continue into the fall.
• Richardson Highway: Mile Post 30 to 33 – Guardrail and paving work will be taking place here from late June through the fall. Expect moderate delays.
• Tok Cutoff: Mile Post 38 to 50 – Construction crews will be working on the bridge in this area as well as on drainage and overall road conditions. Light delays are expected until the project is expected to be completed in October.
• Alaska Highway: Mile Post 1309 – Crews will be replacing the current Tok River Bridge. This project will run through October. Expect moderate delays as well as a detour.
• Badger Road: Fairbanks – Construction personnel will be adding a two-way left turning lane in an effort to decrease accidents in this area. Expect traffic patterns to change as well as some light delays in the area.
• Chena Hot Springs Road: Mile Post 20 – The bridge here is being replaced by constructions crews. The work is expected to last until October. Drivers should expect detours and moderate delays in the area.
• Richardson Highway: Mile Post 353 to 357 – Work here will include intersection improvements, drainage improvements and other highway modifications. Very few, if any, delays are expected. Work will continue into the fall.
• Gillam Way – Construction on Gillam Way will include multiple road improvements including drainage, intersection improvements, and sidewalks. The work is expected to run through October. Drivers should be prepared for moderate delays.
• Old Airport Way – Resurfacing of this road is currently in progress and will continue through October. Moderate delays are expected in the area.
• University Avenue: Side Streets – Construction crews will be re-doing the side streets that run along University Avenue. Moderate delays are expected. The work should finish in September.
• Farmers Loop Road – Construction crews will be resurfacing Farmers Loop Road until sometime in the late summer. Light delays are expected to occur.
• Gold Mine Trail Road – Construction on Gold Mine Trail Road is expected to include adding an intersection as well as various other road improvements including the installation of new pavement in several areas. The project is expected to run until August 2019.
• Elliot Highway: Mile Posts 0 to 12 – Through October, construction crews will be working on Elliot Highway in an effort to improve the road in various ways that include lighting upgrades and shoulder improvements.

 

The list of future road construction in Alaska

This is the list of any upcoming road construction projects that will get underway during this construction season.

• Cooper River Highway – From July 22nd 2019 until July 24th 2019, there will be moderate delays as construction will occur. Be on the lookout for construction workers as well as for heavy equipment on the road.
• Alaska Highway: Mile Post 1347 – From July 11th 2019 to July 14th 2019 there will be construction occurring on Alaska Highway near Mile Post 1347.
• Alaska Highway: Mile Post 1380 – There will be construction going on in this area on July 13th until July 17th 2019. Moderate delays are expected in the area. There will be heavy equipment and construction workers on or near the road.
• Alaska Highway: Mile Post 1393 – Bridge inspections and some construction will be occurring in this area from July 16th through July 20th. Expect light delays in the area.
• Richardson Highway: Mile Post 275 – On July 9th through July 11th 2019, there will be construction and bridge inspections on this stretch of the Richardson Highway. Some light delays might occur.
• Chena Hot Springs Road: Milepost 49 – On August 14th 2019, there will be bridge inspections and light construction on this area of Chena Hot Springs Road. Light delays could occur as a result.
• Nordale Road – On August 7th 2019, there will be some construction as well as bridge inspections on Nordale Road. Be on the lookout for heavy equipment and construction workers.
• Parks Highway: Mile Post 358 – On August 14th 2019, bridge inspections and construction will occur on this part of Parks Highway. Possible light to moderate delays could occur.
• Steese Expressway – On August 15th 2019, there will be some moderate construction as well as bridge inspections on the Steese Expressway. Drive with caution and watch out for construction workers and construction vehicles on the road.

 

Ways to avoid getting stuck in construction traffic

Getting stuck in traffic because of construction on the road is never fun and always frustrating. Thankfully, you can avoid it as long as you are proactive enough to plan your drives ahead of time.

Obviously this guide will help you in the near future but you should still consider watching the traffic report on your local news station as well as using some sort of a GPS app with up-to-date traffic information such as Waze. An app like this can update itself based on real-time traffic conditions so that you can minimize your time in traffic.

You can also check the current status of Alaska’s road construction projects at Alaska.gov.
 

Conclusion

Overall, the traffic in Alaska is almost always not too bad. The population is less dense, thus, there is less traffic. Unfortunately, when it does get a little worse than expected, it is usually construction that is to blame. That is why you should take some time to plan your drive before you get out onto the road. You can use an app on your phone with up-to-date traffic information in conjunction with local news and online resources.

Remember, always drive safely and with caution. However, you should exercise the absolute highest level of safety and caution when you are driving through any construction zones because there are workers on the road and traffic will be slower and more difficult to navigate in those areas.

Jump to
A brief history of racing in Alaska
Alaska’s racetracks and how you can get there
Tips for watching a race
Final word
 

 

A brief history of racing in Alaska

Alaska has had a pretty rich history of racing. In particular, drag racing has been a consistent staple of the Alaskan racing culture.

Back in the sixties, Alaska had several dragstrips. This included Merrill Field, Polar Raceway, Tanacross Air Base, and Anchorage Dragway. Many of these have since closed. However, throughout the years, many other racetracks have since opened.

Many of the current racetracks are actually circular. Alaska Raceway track, which is a drag strip, is actually an IHRA member since 1995. Currently, the cars that race are all modern racecars specific to their individual sport. But, back in the sixties the cars were mostly regular cars that were modified.
 

Alaska’s racetracks and how you can get there

These are Alaska’s best racetrack with directions on how you can get to each:

• Alaska Raceway Park – This quarter mile drag strip is the premier spot in Alaska racing. There is also a circle dirt track which opened in 2016. This is one of the best places in Alaska to catch a race and it is located in Palmer, Alaska. You can get directions to the track here.
• Capitol Speedway – A three eights mile-long track, Capitol Speedway is a popular dirt track located in Willow, Alaska. The track hosts all kinds of races from stock car races to demolition derbies. You can find directions here.
• Mitchell Raceway – Mitchell Raceway is a quarter mile long racetrack that is the northern-most racetrack in the world. It is made of dirt and is primarily used for non-traditional races. Mitchell Raceway is in Fairbanks, Alaska. Get directions to the track here
• Twin City Raceway – Almost a half mile in overall length, Twin City Racetrack hosts both cars and dirt bikes on its clay track. It’s a great spot to watch a race but bring your own chairs! The track is located in Kenai, Alaska. You can find directions here.
• Kodiak Island Raceway – Kodiak Island Raceway is a less popular but still great racetrack in Kodiak. It is a quarter mile in overall length and is a dirt track. There are both car and motorcycle races here. Get directions here.

 

Tips for watching a race

When you are watching a race, you will want to enjoy the action while being completely out of harm’s way. Here are a few ways you can do that:

• Get a good view but keep a safe distance – At a race it is important to get a good view but to simultaneously be sure that you are a safe distance from the track. Crashes occasionally occur which, even with the guard rail and fence, can pose a potential threat to those sitting close.
• Get a race scanner – Watching the race in person is great. However, you won’t be able to hear the commentator’s updates. With a race scanner, you can listen in to the race updates as they happen.
• Be ready for rain – Racetracks are obviously always outdoors. Races rarely get cancelled due to weather. Be ready for rain with a poncho or umbrella.
• Stay comfortable – Races can be long. They can last for hours in some cases. So, you will want to dress comfortably which means comfortable shoes, clothing and a hat and/or sunscreen. If you are sitting out in the sun for hours, nothing can be more uncomfortable than a sunburn.

 

Final word

Alaska has a really fun and interesting racing culture. If you live there or are visiting, you should do whatever it takes to catch a race at least once. You can visit the tracks individual websites to see their schedule of events and find out information on purchasing tickets as well. Races are an inexpensive way to have fun and enjoy a day. When you are at a race do your best to stay safe and dry.

Jump to:
General information about Alaska’s road system
Alaska’s Highways
Where you can drive in Alaska
Where you will need to take a plane or boat to
 

 

General information about Alaska’s road system

Alaska has almost fifteen thousand miles of public roads in the state. However, not all of its communities and towns are connected to each other by roads. Some areas are only accessible by plane or boat. Thus, it is important to know which roads and highways will lead where.

Inclement weather can play a big role in how easily you are able to navigate Alaska’s roads. Be sure you do not attempt to drive on any roads that are currently impassable. If you are only visiting Alaska, try to do so during the warmer summer months so that road conditions will be at their best. Although, you should still be on the lookout for wildlife crossing the road and road issues such as potholes.
 

Alaska’s Highways

Alaska has several major highways which connect much of the southern and middle parts of the state. The following is a breakdown of Alaska’s Highways:

• Dalton Highway – The Dalton Highway is infamous for its long lonely trek that many consider quite dangerous as well. It is over four hundred miles long and connects the upper north of Alaska near Deadhorse with the rest of Alaska through its connection with Elliot Highway just north of Fairbanks. It is recommended you drive this road with someone and that you do not attempt to drive on the highway during any bad weather.
• Alaska Highway – The most famous highway in Alaska, the Alaska Highway is over thirteen hundred miles long. It runs through Canada into Alaska. It runs from Dawson Creek in northwest Canada to Delta Junction in Fairbanks, Alaska. It is often referred to as a wonderful road trip experience due to all the great scenery along the route.
• Edgerton Highway – Edgerton Highway is a short road, only thirty-three miles long, that extends from the Richardson Highway in Cooper Center to Chitina. On its route you will pass a popular fishery as well as an airport.
• Denali Highway – The Denali Highway is a hundred and thirty-five miles long and runs from Paxson, Alaska to Cantwell, Alaska. The route includes, weather-permitting, great views of several glaciers and mountains. There are also several campsites along the route as well.
• George Parks Highway – At three hundred and twenty-three miles long, the George Parks Highway connects from Palmer all the way to Fairbanks. The road includes exits for Wasilla, the Denali State Park, Denali National Park, Fairbanks and the Fairbanks airport.
• Elliot Highway – Elliot Highway stretches from just north of Fairbanks up to an area called Manley Hot Springs. The total length of the highway is just over a hundred and fifty miles long. Much of the road is gravel and travel can be difficult during the winter months. Amenities are limited, so bring a full tank of gas and some extra food if you will be traveling on this road.
• Haines Highway – At nearly a hundred and fifty miles long the Haines Highway in Alaska stretches from Haines in Alaska to Haines in Canada. The road has some breathtaking scenery as well as a stop at a bald eagle preserve.
• Glenn Highway – The Glenn Highway spans well over three hundred miles. It spans from west to east from Anchorage to Glennallen. The road includes several primary exits for Anchorage as well as exits for Knik River and Palmer.
• Klondike Highway – Almost four hundred and fifty miles long, the Klondike Highway in Alaska connects Dawson City, Canada with Skagway in Alaska. The route includes connections with a ferry terminal, Whitehorse and Alaska Highway.
• Nome Road System – The Nome Road system is not accessible from anywhere in Alaska other than Nome itself. It is essentially about three hundred miles worth of roads surrounding Nome. The roads are mostly just for sightseeing or making stops to hike or fish. You can rent a car once you arrive in Nome by plane.
• Richardson Highway – Richardson Highway stretches from Fairbanks to Valdez and is three hundred and sixty-eight miles long. The highway has exits for Willow Creek, Delta Junction, Alaska Highway and Denali National Park.
• Steese Highway – This highway stretches from Fairbanks to Circle, Alaska and is over a hundred and sixty miles long. The Steese Highway is a National Scenic Byway.
• Taylor Highway – Taylor Highway is a hundred and sixty miles long and spans from Tetlin Junction to Eagle. The highway has exits that lead to Chicken Airport, Eagle and Jack Wade Junction. The road can be fairly tricky to navigate at points due to its narrowness and curves so be careful when you are driving here.
• Sterling/Seward Highway – The Seward Highway in Alaska totals a hundred and twenty-five miles in length. It starts in Seward and ends in Anchorage. The road has great sightseeing and fishing spots and it includes exits for the Alaska Railroad, Portage glacier and more.

 

Where you can drive in Alaska

You can drive most places in Alaska. There are some more remote places that you won’t be able to drive to which we will discuss below. But, places like Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Palmer, Valdez, Denali, Wasillia and more are all accessible by car one way or another.

Some may be easier to drive to than others, but you can get there by car. When you drive in Alaska, be sure to check road conditions before you head out. Try and use an app like Waze which will give you up-to-date crowdsourced information on road and traffic conditions.
 

Where you will need to take a plane or boat to

Unfortunately, there are several areas in Alaska that you can only travel to by plane and/or boat. These areas include: Dutch Harbor, Kodiak, Bethel, Nome, Barrow, and Sitka.

You can travel to and from Juneau by car, but you will need to cut through Canada to do so.

For places like Dutch Harbor and Kodiak, you can easily take a ferry there. You can find more information about taking the Ferry in Alaska by reading this guide.

As for places like Nome and Barrow, consider taking a short flight there. You can learn more about getting flights to places like Nome here.

Jump to:
The basics about moving to Alaska
The best places to move to in Alaska
Tips for moving to Alaska
Conclusion

 

The basics about moving to Alaska

Alaska is a wonderful place to live, however, not everyone would absolutely love it. For example, if you cannot deal with the thought of living with some colder weather, the move to Alaska might not be for you. Alaska has other caveats too such as the wildlife and some periods in certain areas where the night lasts for weeks.

There are also things like the northern lights and the fact that the government pays you to live there to help incentivize you to live there. Either way, if you are moving to Alaska, you will need to be prepared.

You should know too that not all of Alaska is connected by roadways. There are some areas and places that are only accessible by boat and/or plane. Although the larger and more incorporated cities are easily accessible by road.

The people of Alaska are generally pretty friendly and helpful. However, some of them can be fairly reclusive and reluctant to speak to anyone they deem a stranger.

Overall, life in Alaska is quaint and charming. We definitely recommend that you give it a chance if you are considering it!
 

The best places to move to in Alaska

1. Anchorage – The biggest, most populated and most famous Alaskan city is number one on our list of best places to move to in Alaska. The city has almost three hundred thousand people living there according to a 2018 estimate. The climate has some extremes throughout the year averaging as low as 5 degrees in the winter to as high as 78 degrees in the summer. Jobs available are from a variety of fields including tourism, transportation, military, general business and more. The culture of Anchorage includes a performing arts center, multiple museums, college sports, the annual Iditarod sled race and more. Anchorage is also home to a variety of wildlife including bears and moose. It has a bunch of schools and a couple of hospitals that service the area.
2. Fairbanks – The second city on this list has a population of over thirty-two thousand people according to a 2018 estimation. Fairbanks has very cold weather sometimes. Temperatures can drop as low as 40 below zero but during the short yet warm summer, they can reach as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The city also gets a considerable amount of snow each year. The economy is based around jobs in transportation and government primarily. The city has some nearby schools and hospitals that service the area.
3. Juneau – Alaska’s capital is another great spot to move to on our list. There are a good number of jobs available in government, tourism and fishing. The city has a population of over thirty thousand according to a 2018 estimate. Temperatures are actually pretty moderate in Juneau. Most of the year, the temperature averages fall between 32 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The culture includes a professional theatre that produces plays as well as a few music festivals. It does rain or snow in Juneau over two hundred days a year on average. It has several schools and a hospital.
4. Ketchikan – Ketchikan is the next city on the list with a population of just over eight thousand people. The climate is pretty mild and wet with temperatures normally ranging from about 30 degrees Fahrenheit to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. There is also a considerable amount of rain throughout each year.
5. Badger – Badger is the last city on the list but it still deserves your consideration for moving. The city has a population of just over twenty thousand people. The most numerous jobs in Badger are in transportation, construction and retail. The city has some nearby schools and hospitals that service the area as well.

 

Tips for moving to Alaska

• Prepare for the cost of living – The cost of living in Alaska is fairly high by comparison to many other places in the United States. This includes the cost of food and rent/property as well.
• Get some warm winter clothes before you go – The winter months in most places can be particularly cold. Be sure to have what you need to in order to bundle up.
• Be sure you stay there at least a year as a citizen – If you live in Alaska as a citizen for at least a year you will receive a permanent fund dividend. This is money that the state will pay you for living there. It’s just under a thousand bucks per person each year.
• Learn about specific safety precautions before you head there – There are things in Alaska such as bears and frostbite that you need to be aware of and how to avoid them. Do this before you travel to Alaska.
• Get ready for odd daylight hours – In Alaska, there are periods in certain areas where the sun will not come up for extended periods and other times where it will not go down for extended periods. Research this before you head there so you are mentally prepared.

 

Conclusion

Alaska is definitely a state like no other. In fact, moving there will take some adjustments. However, that doesn’t mean it is not a great place to live. You just need to be properly prepared to make a few changes. Once you do it can be a really nice place to live, work and raise a family.

Once you do make the decision to move to Alaska, you will have the decision of driving all the way there, selling your car and buying a new one, or shipping your car there. If you do decide to ship your car there, go with the experts at Alaska Car Transport.

Jump to:
Basic info about the Alaska Railroad
Alaska Railroad’s route
Interesting facts about the Alaska Railroad
Conclusion

 

Basic info about the Alaska Railroad

The Alaska Railroad is Alaska’s train line which opened over a hundred years ago. It runs from the center of Alaska near Fairbanks down to southern Alaska in Seward and runs in both directions.

It is not only a great way to get from one area of Alaska to another, it is a wonderful and very comfortable way to sight-see. In fact, some of the trains are primarily intended for sight-seeing. There are five different trains you can take on the Alaska Railroad, some of which run year-round and some run seasonally. The trains are:

• Coastal Classic – The Coastal Classic runs from Anchorage to Girdwood and Girdwood to Seward and in the opposite direction for both of those trips. Ticket prices vary based on the class of ticket you choose, what time of year that you are traveling and the age of the passenger. If one adult traveled from Anchorage to Seward round-trip during the summer with the regular class ticket the trip would cost just over $300.

  The Costal Classic only runs during the summer but a trip on this rail line does include some fantastic views of Alaska’s mountains and wilderness.

• Denali Star – The Denali Star runs from Anchorage to Fairbanks. That full trip is divided into separate trips from Anchorage to Wasilla, Wasilla to Talkeetna, Talkteena to Denali and Denali to Fairbanks. The line has the same division of stops going south as well.

  This is the most popular train on the Alaska Railroad. It only runs in the summer from May through September but that is more than enough time to take a few trips on the outstanding route. The route includes great views of rivers, mountains and canyons. As with the other Alaska Railroad trains, ticket prices will vary based on the type of class you pick, the passenger’s age and the time of year that you are traveling. If one adult traveled from Anchorage to Fairbanks in June with a roundtrip ticket it would cost $498.

• Glacier Discovery – The Glacier Discovery train is exactly what it sounds like, a train with a route where you will have breathtaking views of glaciers. The train runs from May to September travels from Anchorage to Whittier with several stops in and around Girdwood and Portage.

  The prices of the tickets for this train will vary based on the age of the passenger, the class of ticket that you choose and when you are traveling. If one adult took a round-trip on this line in June from Anchorage to Whittier, the ticket would cost $100.

• Hurricane Turn – The Hurricane Turn train runs year-round with a different route in both winter and summer. During the summer the train travels from Talkeetna to Hurricane with stops in Chase, Curry, Sherman, Gold Creek, Twin Bridges and Chulitna. In the winter the train travels from Anchorage to Hurricane with stops in Wasilla, Talkteena, Chase, Curry, Sherman, Gold Creek, Twin Bridges and Chulitna.

  The trip includes renowned and panoramic views of Alaska’s rivers and valleys. The prices of the tickets for this train will vary based on the age of the passenger, the class of ticket that you choose and when you are traveling. If one adult took a round-trip on this line in June from Talkeetna to Hurricane, the ticket would cost just over $100.

• Aurora Winter – As the name suggests, the Aurora Winter Train only runs during the winter and on weekends only. In December, February and March there is some select mid-week service but normally the train only runs on weekends during the winter. The train travels from Anchorage to Fairbanks with stops in Wasilla, Talkeetna, Hurricane, Healy and Nenana.

  As with all the other trains, ticket prices vary based on several factors. If one adult was going to take a round-trip on this train in January from Anchorage to Fairbanks it would cost $432.

 

Alaska Railroad’s route

The Alaska Railroad make stops at the following places on its route:

• Eielson Air Force Base
• Fairbanks
• Nenana
• Denali
• Talkeetna
• Wasilla
• Palmer
• Anchorage
• Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
• Girdwood
• Whittier
• Portage
• Grandview
• Seward

The railroad also includes several “flag stops” which are stops that are not scheduled but can be “flagged” by a passenger if they need to get off there. These stops include: Hurricane, Chulitna, Twin Bridges, Canyon, Gold Creek, Sherman, Deadhorse, Curry, and Chase.

The full route is 470 miles and would take over sixteen hours to get from Seward to Fairbanks. However, this would require a transfer and a likely layover.
 

Interesting facts about the Alaska Railroad

• There are several “event trains” that run during the year for special occasions. These trains include an Easter train, a kids Halloween train, a family fun train, a beer train and more. You can find more specific information on these trains here.
• Kids under two can ride for free but only if they sit on your lap. If you want them to have their own seat you will need to buy a kid’s ticket.
• Several trains feature glass dome seating for certain ticket levels, visit the Alaska Railroad Website for more information on how to get a seat in one of these cars.
• There are senior and military discounts available. Your best bet to get one of these rates, if you qualify, is to give them a call.
• Over the years, the Alaska Railroad has won awards from National Geographic Traveler, USA Today Travel, Trip Advisor, and the National Tour Association.

 

Conclusion

The Alaska Railroad is one of the most popular ways to see the great state of Alaska. It’s a cozy and comfortable trip yet it includes breathtaking and expansive views of much of Alaska’s natural beauty. The trains include some great amenities including dinning cars, comfortable seating and some even have bar cars. Do yourself a favor and be sure to take a trip on the Alaska Railroad as soon as you get the chance!

Jump to:
Car battery basics
The way a car battery reacts to temperature
Keep the battery clean
Keep the battery charged

 
It is never too early to start thinking about winter preparations in Alaska, especially for your car. Winterizing your car is essential for driving in Alaska and one of the most crucial parts of making sure that your car is ready to roll this winter will be making sure that your battery is ready for the winter.
 

Car battery basics

You depend on your car battery to operate properly in order for your car to be able to start. Everyone knows that, but not everyone is aware that taking certain steps to care for your battery can make or break its performance later on.

First, and most obviously, the way the battery is connected makes a tremendous difference in the performance or lack thereof of your car battery. If you leave the connection loose, you could possibly hit a bump in the road and knock the connection off. This would cause the car to lose all power and stop wherever you were driving. This is obviously something that could be incredibly dangerous.

Also, car battery connections can become corroded over time. Be sure that your battery’s connections are not corroded, if they are, then get your battery serviced or replace the battery.

Next, the battery should not be that old because batteries lose the ability to hold a charge over time. The older a battery gets, the more likely it could end up dying on you. You should replace your car battery every five years.
 

The way a car battery reacts to temperature

As you might expect, the temperature outside has a considerable effect on the battery. Very hot temperatures (over 90 degrees) can accelerate corrosion on the inside of a car battery. This can considerably lower a battery’s ability to retain a charge.

Cold temperatures can affect the battery’s ability to provide power to the car. The colder out it is, the slower your battery can effectively deliver power to your car. If it is cold enough, batteries can even freeze. This is fairly rare, but it can occur. It is dependent on the level of charge your battery is carrying.
 

Keep the battery clean

Like pretty much anything else in your car’s engine, how clean your battery is directly affects its performance. Obviously, you should make sure that you wipe away any excess dirt or grime, but corrosion is the biggest issue in terms of keeping the battery clean.

After the warmer summer months, your battery likely has a bit more corrosion than normal. Before the winter cold hits, you should clean any corrosion and dirt from the battery.

Here is how you can clean your car battery:

1. Mix some baking soda with some water
2. Take the cables off the battery (the car must be off before you do this).
3. Take an old toothbrush and dip it in the baking soda and water mixture, then start gently scrubbing off the corrosion and dirt.
4. Wipe off any residue left from the baking soda.
5. Put a bit of petroleum jelly on the battery terminals (this will help prevent corrosion in the future).
6. Re-attach the battery cables.

 

Keep the battery charged

As we already mentioned, your car battery loses its ability to hold its charge as time goes on. Extreme temperatures in the winter can help accelerate how quickly your battery can lose its charge. This is obviously something that you should be concerned with if you live in Alaska. However, there are some simple ways that you can help keep your battery charged.

Here are some tips to help keep your car battery charged:

• Wait a few moments before you turn on your accessories – In the winter you might want to turn everything on as soon as you jump in your car but if you wait a minute or two before you turn the heat, lights and radio on you will give the battery a chance to grab some charge off of the alternator.
• Park the car with the front facing away from the wind – The car should always be parked with the front facing away from the primary direction of the wind. So, if the wind is blowing north the car should be facing north. This way the majority of the wind is hitting the rear of the car which will protect the battery from the wind and its effects. If you have a garage to park your car in that is even better.
• Keep the battery clean – We know we just mentioned it above, but it is worth mentioning again, keeping your car battery clean greatly improves performance and overall battery life.