Why Alaska by RV

Why Alaska

Alaskan Climate

Items for the RV

What to Leave at Home

Choosing an RV

Alaska RV Rentals

Caravan Tours

Alaskan Highway

RV Problems and Emergencies

North Alaska Activities

North Alaska Special Events

Nome Alaska Campgrounds

Interior Alaska Activities

Interior Alaska Special Events

Fairbanks Alaska Campgrounds

Southwest Alaska Activities

Southwest Alaska Special Events

Kodiak Alaska Campgrounds

Southcentral Alaska Activities

Southcentral Alaska Special Events

Seward Alaska Campgrounds

Inside Passage Alaska Activities

Inside Passage Alaska Special Events

Juneau Alaska Campgrounds

Alaskan Wildlife

Fishing in Alaska

Alaska Bear Safety

Alaskan Dogsled Races

Alaska's Glaciers

Getting to Alaska

Alaska by way of Canada

Enjoying Native Alaskan Culture

Insider's View of Alaska

An Insider's View of Alaska

Jane moved to Alaska from California when she was in her 30s - and she never left. Now in her early 60s, she shares some thoughts on Alaska with us:

What first attracted you to Alaska?
My husband got a job here. I always thought it would be nice place to visit, and my whole first year, I spent time seeing the sights. Over 30 years later, I'm still not done exploring Alaska.
When someone visits you, where are some of the main places you like to take them?
It may sound weird, but all of Alaska is that awesome experience. It's hard to choose just one. I definitely recommend a flight tour. They allow you to see as much as possible in a short time. I live in Anchorage, and there are plenty around here to take you up north or to Mt. McKinley.
Have you ever RVed through Alaska?
I can't say that I have. We've taken a lot of roadtrips throughout the years, though, and I have to say that this is the best way to travel as a family. I like being able to stop at lookout points. We've seen some really cool animals that way.
Really? What kind of animals?
The wildlife here is awesome. I mean, I live in the city, but a short drive, and you're face to face with bears and moose and who know what! I think the most awesome thing I ever saw was a black bear with two cubs. We watched them from a distance, and it was something I'll remember all my life.
What is the most common misconception you hear about Alaska?
Definitely that it is snowy all the time. Our summers are really warm! You can wear shorts and everything. Sure, we have some crazy winter storms, but it isn't Antarctica up here.

Kyla is one of Alaska's newest residents. After being in the state for just over a year, she has a new perspective on this state.

What made you choose Alaska for your place of residence?
I love the outdoors, and after graduating from college, I jumped from place to place working in the National Park system as a park ranger. Alaska seemed like a whole new adventure to me.
What is your favorite thing about Alaska?
I'm working at Glacier Bay, so I think that my all-time favorite thing is meeting people from around the world who are interested in glaciers. I like studying them and talking about them, and Alaska is the perfect place to do that.
Have you ever traveled through the state by RV?
Actually, I have! Last summer, my boyfriend rented an RV and we went with a bunch of friends on a massive tour of the state. Well, as massive as you can get in two weeks. It's a big state!
What are some of the best things you did?
I really liked visiting Denali National Park. Seeing Mt. McKinley up close was great, and we even did a little rock climbing. I also liked the fishing. I'm an outdoor girl at heart, so we took our rods and caught dinner a few nights. It was a rewarding way to travel.
What advice would you give someone else traveling through Alaska by RV?
Don't be afraid to stop! You might not see as much of the state if you spend a few hours here or there, but watching it pass by from the window is no way to travel. Get out of the RV! You can even do some camping. Just because you have a bed in the RV doesn't mean you have to use it. There's nothing like the thrill of camping in bear country!

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