Recent Alaska Shipping News

Every year at the end of May, the men and women who have given their lives in sacrifice and in service are honored and remembered. There are several traditions that take place every year including putting the flag up at half-mast, joining a parade or visiting a cemetery in memory of a loved one who served.

While, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance, it is also a day to celebrate freedom. Without those who sacrificed and their families, freedom would not be ours to enjoy. Many people celebrate freedom with a family picnic or barbeque, attend a festival or open up their pool. While it is a day of remembrance, it also signifies the start of summer for some, as well. Summer is the freedom to celebrate warm weather after a long winter.

In Alaska, beginning in early May, the days begin to get longer and stay that way up until early September. So, while the rest of the states might be celebrating the seasons changing from winter to summer, Alaska has even more to celebrate – the beginning of days filled with 18 hours of sunlight while they honor and remember those who gave their lives for freedom for all.

Celebrating Alaska Style via Mt. McKinley

While parades and barbeques are how some celebrate Memorial Day, for others this simply would not suffice. Climbing Mt. McKinley to honor the fallen soldiers who no longer could, was a better way of taking a stand. A group of military veteran climbers and disabled veterans were on a mission – a mission to take a stand on Mt. McKinley.

The intention was to create a statement that honors those who sacrificed and served in a way that was memorable indeed.

For those disabled and honorable veterans who desired to climb on Memorial Day, perhaps there was more of a statement for everyone – a life lesson of sorts – no matter how hard or high the mountain in front of you appears,  it is more about facing the challenge daily and overcoming them as well – one step at a time.

The team of military veterans had hopes of carrying flags with the names of fallen veterans on them to the summit of Mt. McKinley. While Mt. McKinley had other plans with nature-related conditions, the tenacity and determination shown by these veterans is as awe-inspiring as the mountain itself.

Car Shows – Another Great Way to Honor Veterans

The Anchorage Corvette Association honored veterans the best way that they know how – by having a car show. While this is perhaps one of the biggest events among all others this club takes on, there is special meaning attached to it. All of the money raised via the car show along with their silent auction goes to support worthy causes such as the Armed Forces YMCA and the Last Frontier Honor Flight Group.

A flag ceremony, the playing of taps, along with a moment in silence set the tone for what the car show is really all about. Besides honoring the Chevrolet Corvette, this club also takes the time to honor our veterans.

Fort Richardson National Cemetery and Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery

Getting to the heart of matters, no Memorial Day Celebration would be complete without services to honor those who have passed. Fort Richardson National Cemetery hosted a memorial service along with a 21-gun salute and the placing of wreaths while Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery was the location for the posting of the flag along with memorial speeches followed by some fun in the form of a pig roast and family fun to celebrate freedom.

When it came to family fun time and memorial services, Alaska celebrated much the same way as many other states; however, having disabled veterans attempt to climb Mt. McKinley with flags that honored the names of fallen soldiers goes above and beyond the call of duty any day.

When you think of Alaska, chances are you think of lots of cold and snow. Maybe you envision some adventures like mountain climbing and ice fishing along with a grizzly bear sighting or two. Or maybe you think of 18-hour days and the aurora borealis if you stretch your imagination a little further.

For some people, Alaska is all of those things and more – like extreme adventures. A trip down a white water river, a visit to an ice blue glacier or a camp where you can intentionally get up close to a family of bears while camping are all out-of-the box extreme adventures.

However, have you ever thought of doing some of the ordinary or maybe not so ordinary things that life has to offer in Alaska?

Here are a few things that you may have never thought of doing in Alaska that will leave you thinking a bit more.

Hitch a Ride

Since dog sledding is considered Alaska’s official sport, why not consider joining them for a ride. You can take a tour in Alaska that consists of either half day tours or full day tours and become part of the beloved tradition of mushing – also known as dog sledding. Meet the team of trainers responsible for getting the Alaskan Huskies into gear for the Iditarod race, also known as the last great race.

While you are probably familiar with the Iditarod, you probably have never thought that you could possibly be part of that experience. Imagine assisting in harnessing those beautiful huskies onto the sled and then getting the opportunity to ride across the snowy and icy terrain and partake in one wild ride.

If you choose an all-day tour, you will get to meet and greet both the huskies and their trainers, get an opportunity to ask questions and gain some insight and spend the day on the sled out on the snowy training trails that prepares the mushers and the dogs for their journey in the last great race. You’ll have quite a story to tell when you arrive home.

Get Hitched

When you think of destination weddings, you probably think of locales such as Hawaii or one of the Caribbean Islands, right? Why not take another look at a unique locale – Alaska. Alaska during summer is one of the most beautiful places in the United States.

The views and the scenery are like no other. There are glistening lakes, snow-capped mountains and fields of fireweed – a colorful flower that grows in abundance in the open meadows of Alaska. You will go wild for this wildflower.

Getting married these days is less about the pomp and circumstance and more about the meaning. Picture getting married at the base of the Chugach mountain range, or during one of Alaska’s 18 hour days where the sun stays high in the sky through the night while saying I do in front of one of Alaska’s pristine lakes. This gives you an opportunity to party all night long. An Alaskan destination wedding is something to ponder and something of wonder. You will have photographic memories that will rival all others.

Go to College

Whether you are considering a two-year degree, a four-year degree, training in a specific trade, undergraduate or graduate school, you have several choices in Alaska. Imagine pursuing your educational career in the same place where you can view wildlife such as moose and grizzly bears or partake in viewing the Northern Lights.

Areas of study range anywhere from health and wellness to, of course, hospitality and recreation. Whether you choose The University of Alaska in the heavily populated Anchorage or in the remote city of Juneau, The Alaska Pacific University or the Alaska Vocational Technical Center, you have a host of upper education options in Alaska.

Take Phenomenal Photos

Alaska is one of those rare places on earth that has no loss of photo opportunities. Whether you are an advanced photographic professional or an amateur, there are really no bad pictures you can take in Alaska.

In Alaska, you will find misty waterfalls, fog coated lakes, snowcapped mountains and ice blue glaciers. During summer, you can view endless fields of open fireweed in the brightest of colors. Don’t forget about the wildlife photo opportunities either. There are beluga whales waving their tails at you, grizzly bears reaching for a morning breakfast of salmon, and bald eagles soaring overhead amongst the misty clouds.

Alaska is truly one gigantic photo opportunity waiting to happen.

Christmas in July

Are you one of those people that count down the days until the next Christmas because you just love it so much? If you are yearning for Christmas in July, take a trip to the North Pole in Alaska. North Pole, Alaska celebrates Christmas all year around, even in July. North Pole, Alaska is decorated in holiday tradition all year around.

Have some fun getting in touch with your spirit of Christmas as you drive down Santa Claus Lane and go visit the Santa Claus House. If you want to feel like a kid at Christmas, this store can do just that with aisles of Christmas decorations and toys, you’ll feel like a kid again in no time.

North Pole, Alaska honors Christmas throughout the year and if you plan on attending in December, you can take part in loads of festivities such as the Christmas in Ice Contest featuring ice sculptures from all over.

Whatever season you choose to visit, you’ll be sure to get in touch with your inner Christmas.

These are five great things you may have never considered doing on a visit to Alaska. You never know, you might find yourself hitched to a sled experiencing what it feels like to be part of the Iditarod while your beloved proposes the idea of getting hitched.

While part of the United States, Alaska has its own individual characteristics and flair. In Alaska, you will have months without seeing the sun rise and months without seeing it set. How much more unique than that does it get? With a backdrop of wildlife as its landscape, Alaska is a one-of-a-kind state.

Besides its native wildlife and unusual weather patterns, Alaska also has some tricks up its sleeve when it comes to slang terms. Here is some lingo you might want to know about if you are planning a visit to Alaska.

Iditarod

Paying homage to the Iditarod River, this race is also lovingly referred to as “the last great race.”

While you may have, of course, heard the term before, you may not know how much dedication and challenge are involved in this race.

A team of mushers and their dogs sled over 1000 miles to complete this heroic trail. While the Iditarod may have started out as a mail route to get much-needed supplies, mail and even medicines to remote areas, today it is all about tradition.

If driving over frozen ice, drifting snow, across the roughest terrain that a wintry Mother Nature can supply with below-zero temperatures sounds like something out of a movie, then you have somewhat of an idea of what Iditarod is really like. Iditarod is an important part of Alaskan culture and a good term to know.

The Lower 48

The Lower 48 is a term used to describe all of the other states (excluding those of Alaska and Hawaii). When referring to other states, Alaskans will tend to use the term, “the lower 48.” In addition, it is not unheard of for Alaskans to use the term, “Outside” when speaking of traveling to other states.

Mushing

When you take on the sport of driving a sled driven by a team of dogs, this is known as mushing. This term may have originated from the French word “marche” when French Canadians were commanding their dogs, but is now well-known and loved by all Alaskans.

Eskimo Ice Cream

Just when you thought you had heard of every flavor of ice cream, you get to learn about the term, “Eskimo Ice Cream.” Eskimo Ice Cream is a term used for a traditional food of Alaskans. An interesting mix of ingredients such as animal fat such as seal, lard, berries and ground fish go into this unique mixture that is loved by many an Alaskan.

This might be one of the more important terms to know. If you are invited to partake in some “Eskimo Ice Cream,” then you will at least know that it is far from what you expected.

Blanket Toss

This term is exactly what it means – a blanket toss. Traditionally, an Inupiaq hunter would get tossed in the air with the purpose of spotting game to hunt. Now, however, it’s done for fun. A group gathers around holding onto an animal skin while tossing someone into the air. The goal of the toss is to land, keeping balance and not falling over. So, if you are invited to a “blanket toss,” make sure that you are invited as a viewer and not a participant.

These are a few interesting and endearing terms you might want to know before you go to Alaska. This way, when you are invited to enjoy some “Eskimo Ice Cream” on the way to a blanket toss, you know what to expect.

When you think of Alaska, do you simply think of Eskimos and igloos? Alaskans know that Alaska is so much more than that. Alaska is a place filled with natural settings, pristine views of glaciers, mountains and water. Alaska is a place where wildlife roams and rules.

While many people may not have thought of Alaska as a place to live or even visit, for some Alaska is a place near and dear to one’s heart. Alaska has earned many different nicknames throughout the years and some of them are interesting terms of endearment.

Land of the Midnight Sun

While many people are aware that it can get and stay quite dark for several months out of the year from around November to January in Alaska, there are many more that don’t focus on the fact that it can stay light just as long.

Imagine living or visiting such a place where you can see the sun at midnight (hence the name Land of the Midnight Sun) or where the sun can stay up longer than you can! Certain parts of Alaska can see the sun up between 18 and 20 hours. There’s a lot of time in there to get your to-do list checked off, go for a hike or get some night fishing in – all while the sun is till high in the sky.

Seward’s Folly

Secretary of State, William H. Seward back in 1867 struck an agreement with Russia to buy Alaska for more than seven million dollars. There was quite an undercurrent of curiosity and conversation around why the plan was so secretive and of what use would Alaska be to the United States. That’s where the nickname of Seward’s folly came into play.

With continuing support, the treaty was approved; however, it was not until one year later that funds were approved making the Land of the Midnight Sun not so much of a folly after all.

The Last Frontier

Another term of endearment for Alaska is that of The Last Frontier and understandably so. Alaska is considered to be separate and apart enough from the other states that it is a frontier all on its own. Moreover, there is so much uncharted land in Alaska, truly allowing it to earn its title of last frontier.

There are numerous areas that are inaccessible by traditional vehicles – only by boat or air – and weather conditions that are not conducive to everyday life in Alaska.

With vast lands undiscovered, unchartered and untouched, Alaska truly does earn the special title of The Last Frontier.

The Great Land

Out of all the terms of endearment for all the states, The Great Land has to stand tall among the rest. Starting from the beginning, the Aleutian word, “Aleyska,” means, The Great Land.

If you’ve never been to Alaska, this title is surely befitting. Alaska has unchartered territories and its land pays homage to the wildlife that thrive there. A visit to Alaska might find you in awe of the untouched and preserved natural settings that make Alaska, what it truly is, The Great Land.

There are typically two sides to every coin, and relocating is no different. You may be excited and exhilarated or overwhelmed and anxious. You may even be a combination of a little of both. Any relocation is a big step no matter what you are feeling. In between all those feelings – well, there’s work to do. That’s why it’s important to have a checklist – and maybe even a checklist for your checklist.

If you are relocating to Alaska, chances are this is a big change for you and your family. Whether or not you are married with family or have extended family and friends, there are some common sense tips to know before you relocate. These will make your to-do list seem to flow a little easier.

What’s the Weather Like?

This will probably be one of the most common questions you are asked after you relocate. However, it is best for you to have some idea for yourself before you relocate. Winters in Alaska can seem longer due to the lack of sunlight during the months starting in November and until the beginning of February. Be aware of Seasonal Affective Disorder.

After that, though, there is a glimmer of light – sunlight that is. Summers in Alaska are enjoyable because as the days go on, they get longer. The sun shines brighter longer and you can enjoy daytime activities at night, as well. Of course, there’s snow. Know the part of Alaska where you will be living in intricately. Each section tends to have its own snowfall rate.

Traffic Time

One of the great and wondrous bonuses about being in Alaska is in its abundance of scenic drives. Wildlife, mountains and off-the-beaten path destinations are just a few choices you have when it comes to driving in Alaska. Throw in long stretches of highway and some wildlife taking their time crossing the road and you’ve got a bit of traffic.

Just like any other state, avoid busy hubs like Anchorage during rush hour. And avoid the most tourist populated roadways such as Seward Highway and Parks Highway.

Wildlife

Every so often, you may see a bear or a moose meandering around the city. Don’t be shocked because it does happen. Moreover, don’t be surprised if you have to yield the right of way to some wildlife crossing while driving to your destination.

Be aware of the eagles that habitat Alaska. They may think that your miniature poodle is something for them to swoop down upon as a snack. Keep pets on a leash and keep an eye out on walks. Also be aware of how you throw out your trash. You never know when a bear is looking for food.

Social Life

There’s plenty to do in Alaska depending on your location:

• Rock climbing
• Skiing
• Water sports
• Fishing/boating/kayaking
• Theater/symphony
• Festivals/brewery

Work Life

You may want to opt to live in Juneau and try to snatch a state job since Juneau is the state capital of Alaska or head toward Anchorage as it is a major city and the largest in the state of Alaska. While it may seem like you will get more bang for your buck at the end of the week in your paycheck in the form of higher salaries, you need to be aware that the cost of living is equally high, as well.

With so much to do, one of the things you don’t want to waste a microsecond of worry on is shipping your car to Alaska. Alaska Car Transport values your time, understands your situation, and delivers your auto shipping needs with integrity.

What comes to mind when you think of sweeping roads, one-of-a-kind views, and spectacular landscapes? What about crystalline hues of ice blue glaciers, winding rivers and massive park land?

Do you think of Alaska? If not, maybe it’s time you should. Get to know all that is Alaska and consider taking an awe-inspiring scenic drive through some of its jaw-dropping
landscapes. From majestic mountains to off-the-beaten path side roads, a scenic drive through some of Alaska’s iconic roadways is sure to leave you in awe.

Want to Drive Your Own Car in Alaska? Consider Car Shipping

Perhaps you are planning an extended stay or even relocating to a new city there, such as Fairbanks or Anchorage. If that’s the case, why not consider having your car shipped to Alaska? If you haven’t tried car shipping yet, there is no cause for concern.

Auto transport is an effortless and fearless endeavor when you find a company you can trust. You can enjoy the comfort, convenience and the familiarity of your own vehicle as you venture off the beaten path.

If you are planning a scenic road trip in Alaska during the summer months, you are in luck. You can take advantage of all that extra summer sunlight without having to worry about being home before dark, making your drive all the more enjoyable.

Enjoyable Road Trip Options in Alaska

 Turnagain Arm Drive

With the essence of an untouched, pristine combination of beauty and nature, you never truly know what’s just around the bend on this scenic drive. Wildlife, mammoth mountain tops and scenic views that leave you speechless await you here.

Turnagain Arm Drive is known as one of the world’s most scenic drives. This is a well-deserved title. The Seward Highway stretches out for about 50 miles offering you a fountain of waterfalls courtesy of the Chugach Mountains on one side with a possible beluga whale sighting in Cook Inlet on the other. You can start in Anchorage and wind up in Portage Glacier. Make no mistake, you will wind up with a scenic drive you will not be quick to forget.

There are spots to pull over and breathe it all in as you drive along.

• Take awe-inspiring photographs
• View different types of wildlife; moose, sheep, eagles to name a few
• Maybe even spot a beluga whale in the Cook Inlet.
• Start with a visit to Chugach State Park first and go for a hike, fishing, rafting, kayaking and so much more
• Take a hike on the Turnagain Arm Trail

Take a drive on Turnagain Arm Trail and you will get to boast that you too took a ride on one of the world’s most scenic pathways.

Hatcher Pass

When you feel like turning to your partner and saying, “Road Trip,” you may want to consider Hatcher Pass. If you are heading out from Anchorage and seeking to spend a couple of hours on a scenic road trip, then Hatcher’s Pass is perfect for you. It should not take more than three hours for a round trip drive and you will partake in some of the most breathtaking scenery along the way.

Mountains, scenery, hiking and skiing – those are just a few of the exciting amenities you will enjoy when you take a scenic drive through Hatcher Pass. Better yet, whether you are a budding photographer or a seasoned professional with a lens, Hatcher Pass is sure to delight every level of the senses. It is like a photographer’s utopia.

You can choose a variety of things to do and see while taking your scenic drive:

• Hiking
• Picnicking – recommended to bring a picnic lunch as it is a long drive and no place to stop and buy anything.
• Photography
• Camping along the way at various campgrounds

Independence Mine State Historical Park

An old deserted gold mine in one of the most pristine settings there is, Independence Mine State Historical Park is a nice stop along the way. The gold mine and the abandoned town make for a fun tour. Climbing trails, taking photos, exploring the gold mine and its town, are just a few more reasons why Hatcher Pass is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Matanuska Glacier

Imagine the wonderment and delight on your family’s face when you tell them you are taking a drive to see a glacier up front and personal and maybe even walk across its blue ice. Wonderment is what happens when you head about two hours from Anchorage to view a glacier that is just about 27 miles long and four feet wide.

There, you can choose to discover the intricacies of certain parts of the glacier on your own or opt for a guided tour.

• Explore the glacier
• Take a hike
• Plenty of photo opportunities
• Picnic and even camp at the recreation site

Perhaps you are seeking to get in your own vehicle and take a day trip from Anchorage Alaska to the Matanuska Glacier Scenic Drive. If you have never driven this scenic route with the end goal of viewing a glacier, then having your own car to do so is a wise choice indeed. You will be awe-inspired by the magnificence of the Matanuska Glacier. You can even travel a bit further and spend your time picnicking, hiking, camping and simply walking at the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site.

What better way to enjoy all of these things than in the comfort and familiarity of your own vehicle? If this sounds intriguing, why not consider hiring a specialist for your auto transport needs?

Each road trip has its own journey; each journey creates its own memories. Why not explore all that is Alaska and see for yourself. Take a drive, make a memory, and hit the road in Alaska.

Many restaurants throughout Anchorage are offering special Pre-Fixe menus for New Year’s Eve tonight. There will be firework shows and plenty of spots for dancing down at Town Square or more exclusive parties at the Dena’ina Center. More of a relaxed mood? Join in on “Auld Lang Syne” In local bars. The flame dancers Celeste Kelly with the Church of Flaming Funk will perform in the annual celebration downtown in Town Square, staring at 5 p.m. tonight.

Here’s a list of top spots for New Years Eve 2015!

Fire & Ice New Year’s Eve in Town Square: is classic and family-friendly even with firework displays.

Great Gatsby’ New Year’s Party:  Party like it’s the roaring ’20s at the Dena’ina Center. Full-service beer, wine and liquor. All VIP singles are $80. 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Alyeska Torchlight Parade: Skiers and snowboarders will parade down the mountain with torches in hand, creating a beautiful display of lights from top to bottom. The viewing starts at 9 p.m. and the event ends with fireworks.

Rewind 2014: DJ Lefty will play tracks from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s and there will be games and a light buffet. Tickets are $65 per person the event starts at 7p.m. at the Hotel Captain Cook’s ballroom.

Crow’s Nest: Prix fixe meal with two seating’s at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. $175 with wine at the Hotel Captain Cook.

Snow Goose: all-inclusive New Year’s special $65. 3-10 p.m.

Alaska Car Transport wishes you a very happy and healthy new year!!

The beauty of Alaska lies in its awe- inspiring natural attractions. Its uninhabited wilderness overwhelms the comparatively small cities in the state. Main cities are Juneau a small city with no road access and Anchorage, the most commercial minded. Alaska is known for its calving glaciers, beautiful mountain ranges, landscapes and the intensity of its northern lights. Its home some of the largest national parks in the United States. Alaska’s wildlife create the ultimate outdoor experience for travelers. Whether you’re moving to Alaska or just visiting take advantage of the nature it has to offer.

Here is a list of Alaska’s top tourist attractions.

 Denali National Park

Located in Northern Alaska, Denali National Park is the one of the largest parks in the United States. Mount McKinley, North America’s highest mountain is located in the park.  There are about 12,206 lakes and ponds in Denali and 18,679 miles of streams. Glaciers cover 17 percent of its land area. A single road leads into the park, and only park-approved buses are permitted to travel beyond Savage River. Take one of Denali National Park’s bus tours and you’re likely to see grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and wolves.

Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay, northwest of Juneau is the largest marine sanctuary in the world. During the Ice Age a 5,000 foot layer of ice covered it. It appears blue when the sun light hits its compact crystals. The Park is bigger than the state of Connecticut, however it contains less than one percent of Alaska’s land mass. There are cruise ships, tour vessels and charter boats that are available for visitors.

Kenai Fjords National Park

South of Anchorage, Kenai Fjords National Park offers some of the best sightseeing in Alaska. It covers over 600,000 acres of the Kenai Peninsula in the southern part of Alaska. The park’s main attraction includes the Harding Ice field which consists of 38 glaciers.  A Day cruise will allow you to see a wide range of marine life. Otters, puffins, harbor seals, bald eagles, sea stars, orcas, Minke whales, and Dall’s porpoises can all be seen throughout the park.

University of Alaska Museum of the North

Located in Fairbanks, in the University of Alaska, is the Museum of the North which offers over one million historical artifacts and natural history pieces. The museum covers each region of the state with history on both humans and natural history. Major highlights include the coverage of mammoths and mastodons and the display of gold.

Alaska Native Heritage Center

The Alaska Native Heritage Center is t known for its programs, life-sized village displays, craft-making workspaces and friendly staff. The museum presents 11 distinct cultural groups of Alaska within its 26 acres heritage center and is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring Alaska’s history and Native peoples.

 Anchorage Museum

The Anchorage Museum is immense its over 170,000 square feet with a collection of 25,000 objects and 500,000 historic photographs. Its pieces cover Alaska’s art, history, and science. Visitors can view contemporary and traditional art, learn about the state’s history and native peoples, and view presentations at the Thomas Planetarium.

Northern Lights

One of the advantages to Alaska’s long winters are the glowing Northern Lights that appear on nights from September to April. Some of the best viewing happens in the Fairbanks area. The peak time to watch is after midnight.

 Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is located just outside of Juneau. The Mendenhall Visitor Center overlooks the glacier and provides a warm and sheltered viewing space. The center offers exhibits on the science and history of glaciation in general. Trails are available that allow you to view the glaciers, landscape, and wildlife.

Air pollution has become a clear problem in Anchorage it has led to a demand for a reduction in air pollution. The Anchorage market is seeking the use of alternative fuel vehicles.  There are various vehicle options depending on what fuels are available in the Eagle River area.

These vehicles have both advantages and disadvantages. Anchorage car owners should research and have more knowledge about them before purchasing a vehicle that uses alternative fuel.

Flex Fuel Vehicles

Flex fuel vehicles can run on gasoline or on a combination of both ethanol and gasoline. Ethanol is made from corn, so flex fuel vehicles lessen our dependency on fossil fuels. These vehicles have lower exhaust emissions than gasoline-powered vehicles which is less harmful. In Eagle River E85 is less expensive than regular gasoline.

Diesel

Diesel engines are common in Alaska and the great fuel economy is beneficial. Diesel fuel can be made from vegetable oil and other renewable sources. A diesel fuel made from algae will soon be on the market in Eagle River.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is less expensive than gasoline in Anchorage and burns more cleanly. There are special pumps that can be installed in a home gas line that can be used to fuel your vehicle. The disadvantage is the lower fuel efficiency and lack of refueling stating in Alaska.

 Hydrogen

The appeal in using Hydrogen is that its exhaust is composed of water vapor. Hydrogen represents a clean-burning fuel. However hydrogen vehicles won’t come into widespread use until refueling stations become available here in Anchorage and throughout Alaska.

Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles are great for the environment. However the wont be widely used until research is done to improve battery life. They are easy to recharge, since they can be plugged in at home, but there are many researchers working on improving the battery technology in these vehicles.

 Hybrids

Hybrids uses both gas and diesel engine and has an electric motor. They have become one of the most successful alternative fuel vehicles in Alaska. Full-hybrid vehicles rely on the electric motor for power, but the gas or diesel engine generates power for the battery.  While it still consumes fossil fuels, it uses less of them than a standard automobile, and also reduces harmful pollutants. It also avoids the common issues all electric vehicles face.

There are numerous alternative fuel vehicles throughout the Eagle River area today, and more are now being developed.

Kelley Blue Book recently listed the ten most affordable cars. Although many have low sticker prices, their considered most affordable because of their resale values, fuel economy and costs to insure.

2014 Hyundai Accent
Price: $14,645 – $16,395
Fuel Economy: 27 mpg City, 38 mpg Highway

The Hyundai Accent is a practical buy because it combines a low starting price with great fuel economy and a comfortable interior. The Accent is available in several trims: GS or SE on the hatchback and GLS on the four-door sedan. A six-speed manual transmission is standard; a six-speed automatic transmission is optional.

2014 Toyota Prius c
Price: $19,080 – $23,360
Fuel Economy: 53 mpg City, 46 mpg Highway

The Toyota Prius c has a higher price than most of the other cars on this list, but it makes up for it with fuel savings and reliability.The Prius c is available in four trim levels: Prius c One, Prius c Two, Prius c Three and Prius c Four. All trim levels employ Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, a hybrid technology that unites a 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine with a powerful electric drive motor to generate 99 combined horsepower.

2014 Toyota Corolla
Price: $16,800 – $21,300
Fuel Economy: 28 mpg City, 37 mpg Highway

The Toyota Corolla is one of the most popular small sedans on the market. People love it for its reliability, fuel economy and low starting price. The Corolla is available in four trims: L, LE, S, and new LE ECO. The powertrain for the L, LE, and S trims is a 132 horsepower, 1.8-liter dual VVT-I engine, matched with a six-speed manual, four-speed automatic, or new continuously variable transmission (CVTi-S). The LE ECO includes a 140 horsepower, 1.8-liter engine with Valvematic, combined with the CVTi-S transmission.

2014 Scion xD
Price: $15,920
Fuel Economy: 27 mpg City, 33 mpg Highway

The boxy Scion xD boasts a big cargo area, funky looks and good fuel economy for under $15,000.The xD is powered by a 128-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with either a standard five-speed manual or an available four-speed automatic transmission. Every xD is equipped with 16-inch wheels, air conditioning and cruise control, as well as power windows, exterior mirrors and door locks with remote keyless entry. The rear seats are split 60/40, and can be folded down flat for increased cargo carrying capacity; they can also be reclined up to ten degrees, as well as moved fore or aft up to six inches for increased leg room.

2014 Ford Fiesta
Price: $14,100 – $21,400
Fuel Economy: 28 mpg City, 36 mpg Highway

The Ford Fiesta is an attractive, economical and fun to drive little sedan or hatchback.The Fiesta is offered in three trims, S, SE, and a Titanium model. For 2014 there is the addition of the new ST trim to the hatchback lineup. Power comes from a 120-hp 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. An advanced six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission is optional. The ST gets a turbocharged, direct-injected version of the 1.6-liter that offers nearly 200-hp, mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

2014 Nissan Versa
Price: $11,990 – $16,890
Fuel Economy: 27 mpg City, 36 mpg Highway

The Nissan Versa is among the lowest-priced cars on the market right now. The Versa sedan is powered by a 109-hp 1.6-liter four cylinder engine that can be equipped with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

2014 Toyota Yaris
Price: $14,430 – $16,540
Fuel Economy: 30 mpg City, 37 mpg Highway

The Yaris is yet another car from Toyota that made the Kelly blue book list. It’s not the most engaging thing to drive, but it’s spacious and reliable. The subcompact front-wheel drive Yaris is available as a three-door or five-door hatchback. The Yaris is powered by a 106 horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which is mated to either a five-speed manual transmission, or a four-speed automatic.

2014 Scion iQ
Price: $15,665 – $17,850
Fuel Economy: 36 mpg City, 37 mpg Highway

The Scion iQ is a great car if you live in an urban area, as it can park almost anywhere, zip in and out of traffic and gets great fuel economy.
The iQ is powered by an efficient 94-hp 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Every iQ is equipped with 16-inch wheels, air conditioning, a leather shift knob and steering wheel and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, as well as power windows, exterior mirrors and door locks with keyless entry. The standard Pioneer sound system features HD Radio technology, 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen, Bluetooth audio streaming, MP3 capability and a USB port, along with a regular auxiliary jack for various types of portable music devices.

2014 Chevrolet Spark
Sticker Price: $12,170 – $16,385
Fuel Economy: 31 mpg City, 39 mpg Highway

The Chevrolet Spark is a cute, capable and practical small hatchback. The front-wheel drive Spark is offered in LS, 1LT, and 2LT trim levels. Power comes from an 85-hp 1.2-liter engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission, or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Notable features offered include: MyLink infotainment system, heated front seats, air conditioning, power windows, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth, OnStar, cruise control, and leather wrapped steering wheel.

2014 Chevrolet Spark EV
Price: $26,685 – $27,010
Fuel Economy: NA

The Chevrolet Spark EV is the only electric car offered by General Motors. It can travel about 82 miles on a full charge.The front-wheel drive Spark EV is offered in 1LT, and 2LT trim levels. The power comes from a 100kW electric motor and 20kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Standard features include: MyLink infotainment system, heated front seats, automatic air conditioning, power windows, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth, OnStar and cruise control.