How hard is it to backpack for a few months in Alaska?

camping backpack guide image

liv

Not as in living out in he middle of nowhere, just only having a backpack and not having a car or anything, moving around though all the towns and cities slowly. I'm thinking of doing it after a few months in Europe. Any tips or suggestions, things I should know about?

Answer
Hitchhiking is still relatively safe in Alaska, and it is not uncommon to meet backpackers exploring the state for a summer vacation. And there is good train transportation to major areas, but in general Alaska is not known for its public transport.
Alaska railroad has a few options as to type of coach and trip:
http://www.akrr.com/
and they are cheaper then the commercial tourist packages.

But Alaska is way more spread out then people expect:
http://www.tongass-seis.net/media/tong_USA.html

The best hands down travel guide for getting around the road system, and accurate information is, hands down, The Milepost
http://milepost.com/

and you will want to check out information about the parks and public lands, they have info on camping and back country parks:
http://www.nps.gov/state/ak/index.htm
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/units/


hostels are available in some communities, here are listings:
http://www.hostelworld.com/travel-features/73/hostels-in-alaska/?source=googleadwordsusstates&gclid=CKqInfmo9Z0CFSUsawod7QjcJA
http://www.alaskahostel.org/html/alaska_hostels.html

and can be a nice alternative to outside camping. Are you talking about backpacking from place to place and renting rooms/ hostel (Europe style), or from place to place and camping (backcountry style), both can be done here, matter of choice.

Another fun option is to rent a car and live out of that as you explore along the road system, but remember just cause there is a dot on a map with a name doesn't mean there are store, services or hotels. Not all highways are paved (and none have exits with convenience stores) and enjoy the journey.

hope this helps, you can email me if you have specific questions

Do you have recomandations for a good dog backpack?

triviatlt

I have alaskan huskies trained to pull a sled and scooter. I was thinking about taking them camping (no sled) this summer and need recommendations for a good dog pack that distributes the weight correctly. Thanks
Also mail order is prefered since I am living in a remote village.

Tips on mesureing and sizing would be apriciated.

Answer
Yes, I do have some recommendation for you! They're pretty expensive but I hear they can last 10+ years through intense backpacking:
They have a little guide on how to measure, also you can call them for advice too. Enjoy

http://wolfpacks.com/

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