Camping Gems  |Alaska Tips

Wildlife Viewing

Alaska is one of the most wild states in the country. Visitors to Alaska need to be aware of certain wildlife viewing precautions. Throughout the state there are a vast number of species of wildlife. always remember to remain a safe distance from all wildlife. There are a few species of animals that you should be particularly cautious of and prepared for in the event of an encounter.

Bears

There are thousands of bears living in Alaska, from populated areas to the backcountry. Alaska is home to Polar Bears, Brown Bears and Black Bears. Polar Bears live in the far north of the state and are the largest of the bear species found in the state, they are also the most aggressive, and will see humans as a good food source. It is best to remain as far away from Polar Bears as possible. Brown bears are a more common species of bear in Alaska, and Black bears are the smallest and most common. Black bears are commonly spotted in more populated areas.

When traveling in Alaska be prepared to see bears. You can carry bear spray as a precaution, which is an effective deterrent, but does not permanently harm the bear. Here are a few tips to help avoid a bear encounter. Be prepared and aware of any bear activity, look for signs about bear activity. Also take some time to learn about the different species of bears in the area. It is better to hike with others rather than alone, and make plenty of noise as you hike. Most bears are wary of humans and avoid them. Keep your dog leashed or leave it at home while hiking in Alaska, dogs can lead bears to the hiking group. If you see a bear that does not see you, turn around and walk away from the bear, and take a wide circle around the bear.

There are also some tips for camping in bear country. Do not leave food out at your campsite, food will attract bears. Store food and garbage in bear-proof containers, and keep a clean campsite. Also do all of your cooking away from your tent.

In the event that you do see a bear close by that does notice you remain calm and continue to act normally. Speak to the bear in a normal low and loud voice and wave your arms to let the bear know what your are. Do not run away from the bear, instead back away slowly and diagonally. Stop if the bear follows. Humans cannot outrun bears, so don't run away if the bear charges, bears have an instinct to chase running animals. Instead continue to stand your ground and wave your arms, speaking in a loud voice. If these tactics do not discourage the bear from attacking, play dead and assume the fetal position. Most of the time playing dead will tell the bear that you are not a threat. If the bear continues to attack long after you started playing dead, fight back as hard as you can using any tools like sticks and rocks available.

Moose

Moose, especially moose with calves can be dangerous. Stay far away from a moose and never feed them. Be aware of the warning signs of a stressed moose, including ears laid back and raised neck hair. Dogs also stress moose, so keep your dog under control and preferably leashed. In the event that the moose charges, hide behind something solid like a nearby tree. If you have a head start you can run from a charging moose. If the moose catches you, assume the fetal position and remain still until the moose leaves.

Low Temperatures

Alaska's northern location means that low temperatures persist throughout the year, making hypothermia possible throughout the year. Always dress in layers, so that when you begin to feel warm you can remove layers and replace them when you become cold. Remember to stay hydrated and well fed. If someone in your party begins to show signs of hypothermia stop and warm any cold areas and put on extra clothes.

Alaska is particularly cold in the winter and frostbite as well as hypothermia is a possibility. If anyone in your party begins to show symptoms of frostbite seek medical help immediately.

When hiking and camping in the cold wilderness of Alaska always be sure to alert someone of your travel plans ahead of time. Bring plenty of supplies especially water, as well as layering clothes. You should also have knowledge of basic survival skills whenever venturing into any wilderness hike or camping trip. Also be sure to bring enough supplies to get you through any unexpected delays.

Water and Wild Plants

Never drink unfiltered water from streams and rivers while camping. These water sources, no matter how clean they look can carry diseases. Also never try wild berries and plants unless you are an expert in identifying edible foods. Trying wild plants and berries is always a risk, and people often confuse poisonous species with similar looking edible plants.

Avalanches

When hiking in the backcountry areas of Alaska it is important to be aware of the danger of avalanches. The most important factor in avalanche safety is prevention. The best way to learn about avalanche safety and prevention is to take a class. There are many avalanche safety courses offered at various locations throughout the state. These classes will teach you about the types of slopes, snow and weather most likely to present avalanche danger. Classes will also teach you about warning signs for avalanches.

Camping Gems - Places to Eat in Alaska

Best of Anchorage
Crow's Nest bar, Upscale Pub grub with an awesome view .  Location: Top of the Hotel Captain Cook, 939 W. Fifth Ave., Hours: 5-11 p.m. Monday-Saturday, Phone: 276-6000 Web: www.captaincook.com
Turkey Red, The med meets the Pacific Northwest.  Bistro Style restaurant featuring local produce, fish and meats.  Location: 550 S. Alaska St., Palmer, Hours: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday, closed Sunday, Phone: 1-907-746-5544 Web: www.turkeyredak.com
Kincaid Grill, Innovative food with an ever changing menu. 6700 Jewel Lake Road, Anchorage, AK, 99502, Phone: (907) 243-0507
Zorro Burger - Cheap eats -Cost: $3.80, Location: Fox's (Northway Mall, Suite J-6), Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday

Homer

Cafe Cups - innovative, creative cooking.  Featuring local seafood and produce.  Plus, the best burger in town - 1/2 prime rib and 1/2 filet ground on site.  Amazing.

Land's End - not the best restaurant in town, but definitely the best view

Fat Olives - Special, but the local know thi is the best pizza in Alaska!

Worth the Trip

Otter Cove - take a ferry ride across Kachemak Bay from Homer and  dine in what feels like a tree house.  Pricey but worth every penny.

The Saltry - Halibut Cove.  board the vintage Danny j and head to Halibut Cove for lunch or dinner.  Bonus is a beautiful boardwalk and severl artist studios.  Ask how to get to the Arch - it's a nice way to walk off dinner. 

Camping Gems - Alaska

Visit Cordova via the Marine Highway
Cordova is a uniquely Alaskan community, shaped by its dramatic natural setting, rich cultural heritage, and colorful residents. Cordova is a working town, nestled in the heart of a spectacular wilderness, that still looks to the ocean and forests for its livelihood.
Visit Cordova for the best of both worlds, the pleasures of a sophisticated small town and step-out-the-door access to adventure. Visitors from around the globe trek to Cordova to amble across the Million Dollar Bridge, enjoy the magnificent Childs Glacier up close, fish for salmon in the Copper River Delta, explore Orca Inlet, or be surrounded by tens of thousands of shorebirds at Hartney Bay. The town is the perfect compliment to the wilderness. It is a comfortable place to stroll, shop, visit a museum, or linger over a cup of coffee and admire the view of our busy harbor.

Cordova is easy to reach (but not too easy) and pleasantly off the main roads of Alaska Tourism. We are less than a one hour plane flight east from Anchorage, with daily jet service as well as regular ferry service . Designated as an "All American Road" in 2005, the Alaska Marine Highway links Cordova with the road systems in Alaska via the ports of Whittier or Valdez. For summer 2009 the Marine Highway implemented?a substantial travel incentive - "Driver Goes Free" on any 'mirror' round trip in the AMHS system. See www.ferryalaska.com for details.

Seldovia

A great destination for families, groups, single travelers, and romantic outings. It has fun to offer for everyone. Children can safely explore our small town on bicycles or foot. There are hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. Our local fishing hole offers non-stop action during fishing season. Our beaches have some of the best tidepooling around. Visitors can choose from many recreational activities such as kayaking, boat tours, air tours, bicycle rentals, ATV rentals, fishing guide services, deep sea fishing charters and more!

Seldovia is SECRET! Once you arrive in secluded and charming Seldovia you'll know it's the best kept secret around! Hidden in the protected waters of beautiful Seldovia Bay our town has retained its original beauty and character throughout the years. Visitors to Seldovia can get a real taste of what small town Alaska is really like, while still enjoying the modern comforts and hospitality that Alaska's larger destinations offer. Seldovia's serenity gives Alaskan visitors a chance to slow down and relax. There are no lines, no hustle & bustle, and none of the typical commercialism of larger Alaskan cities. Once you discover Seldovia you'll wonder why more people aren't talking about this secret and beautiful place.

Pribilof Island

Visualize an island draped with curtains of ocean mist, rolling hills of green grass; surely there must be an abundance of wild life accompanying this unique island.  During the early spring and into the summer the drama of the nestlings emerge on the dramatic scale tight cliffs of the Pribilof Islands.  This is a photographer’s paradise, committed with mystic colors of Arctic flowers.

The Aleut’s of the Pribilof Island have occupied this mystic island for approximately 200 years.  The Unangan Aleuts were at one moment in time residence of the grand Aleutian Chain.  The Pribilof Islands are well known for their abundance of birds, the northern fur seal, and a picturesque view of rolling hills with a variety of tundra flowers.

Brooks Range

Thousands of caribou migrate through the Brooks Range area each year. They travel through millions of acres of wilderness park lands in the Cape Krusenstern National Monument, Kobuk Valley National Park, Noatak National Preserve, Selawik National Wildlife Refuge, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Backpacking in these isolated mountains or floating down the unspoiled rivers are unparalleled wilderness experiences.

From Fairbanks or Bettles, the headquarters for many Alaskan backcountry guides, visitors can fly to wilderness lodges scattered throughout the Brooks Range.

Another great Alaskan experience is to drive the gravel Dalton Highway (North Slope Haul Road) to Deadhorse. This 414-mile road parallels the northern most portion of the trans-Alaska pipeline. Few services are available, but wildlife is abundant and fishing for Arctic grayling is superb. For road conditions and public access restrictions contact the Alaska Department of Transportation (http://511.alaska.gov) or (907) 456-7623, 511.

Alaska Highway

As visitors head north via the Alaska Highway, the first town encountered is Tok. Located between the Tanana River and the Alaska Range, Tok is a trade center for several Athabascan Native villages. While in Tok, visit the Tok Public Lands Information Center for museum displays, a wildlife film and trip-planning information. The Tok Chamber of Commerce "Main Street Alaska" Visitors Center also provides helpful advice for accessing local hiking, fishing, flightseeing and bicycling attractions.

Take the Taylor Highway north to visit the gold rush transportation center of Eagle and park headquarters for the Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve. From Eagle, you can take a weeklong float trip down the Yukon River to Circle or take a cruise to Dawson City in Canada’s Yukon Territory.

The Alaska Highway officially ends in Delta Junction. From here you can arrange to visit glaciers, pick wild berries, fish for Arctic grayling or even observe a head of American bison at the Delta Bison Range East of town, the Clearwater State Recreation Site offers fishing, camping and boat access to the Tanana and Goodpaster rivers.

Travel nine miles north of Delta Junction on the Richardson Highway to visit the Big Delta State Historical Park, featuring vintage photographs, pioneer relics and Athabascan Native artifacts. Nearby, Quartz Lake State Recreation Area offers camping, boating and fishing for rainbow trout and silver salmon.

Kodiak and Surrounding Islands

Kodiak is the principal town on Kodiak Island and the home of Alaska’s largest fishing fleet. From 1792 t 1799, the town of Kodiak was the capital of Russian America and reminders of their residency can be found at the Russian Orthodox Church and the Baranov Museum – formerly a fur storehouse and one of Alaska’s oldest wooden structures.

The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge covers two-thirds of Kodiak Island, offering protected habitat for world-famous Kodiak brown bears – one of the world’s largest carnivorous land mammals. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game distributes pamphlets explaining the safest methods for responsible viewing methods.

Originally a World War II coastal fortification, Fort Abercrombie State Park was one of the first secret radar installations in Alaska. It is now a national historical landmark and provides a forest setting for picnics and camping adventures.

On nearby Afognak Island, you can watch or participate in archaeological digs of Native sites, view wildlife or enjoy excellent hunting and fishing opportunities.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan serves as Alaska’s southern most port of call for the majority of Inside Passage cruises. Visitors can tour the Tongass Historical Museum, which offers exhibits of traditional native culture, a history of the fishing industry and an example of a timber camp bunkhouse. A major center for sport fishing, opportunities abound for fishing from shore or aboard one of many charter boats. Visit the world’s largest collection of totem poles in Saxman and Totem Bight State Park, just outside of town. Or glimpse Ketchikan’s frontier days at "Dolly’s House," a former brothel located downtown.

From Ketchikan, an excursion boat or plane can take you into the 2.3 million acre Misty Fiords National Monument. The coastal rain forests and glacial fjords shelter many species of land animals and sea life.

Camping Gems  | Alaska Tips

Wildlife Viewing

Alaska is one of the most wild states in the country. Visitors to Alaska need to be aware of certain wildlife viewing precautions. Throughout the state there are a vast number of species of wildlife. always remember to remain a safe distance from all wildlife. There are a few species of animals that you should be particularly cautious of and prepared for in the event of an encounter.

Bears

There are thousands of bears living in Alaska, from populated areas to the backcountry. Alaska is home to Polar Bears, Brown Bears and Black Bears. Polar Bears live in the far north of the state and are the largest of the bear species found in the state, they are also the most aggressive, and will see humans as a good food source. It is best to remain as far away from Polar Bears as possible. Brown bears are a more common species of bear in Alaska, and Black bears are the smallest and most common. Black bears are commonly spotted in more populated areas.

When traveling in Alaska be prepared to see bears. You can carry bear spray as a precaution, which is an effective deterrent, but does not permanently harm the bear. Here are a few tips to help avoid a bear encounter. Be prepared and aware of any bear activity, look for signs about bear activity. Also take some time to learn about the different species of bears in the area. It is better to hike with others rather than alone, and make plenty of noise as you hike. Most bears are wary of humans and avoid them. Keep your dog leashed or leave it at home while hiking in Alaska, dogs can lead bears to the hiking group. If you see a bear that does not see you, turn around and walk away from the bear, and take a wide circle around the bear.

There are also some tips for camping in bear country. Do not leave food out at your campsite, food will attract bears. Store food and garbage in bear-proof containers, and keep a clean campsite. Also do all of your cooking away from your tent.

In the event that you do see a bear close by that does notice you remain calm and continue to act normally. Speak to the bear in a normal low and loud voice and wave your arms to let the bear know what your are. Do not run away from the bear, instead back away slowly and diagonally. Stop if the bear follows. Humans cannot outrun bears, so don't run away if the bear charges, bears have an instinct to chase running animals. Instead continue to stand your ground and wave your arms, speaking in a loud voice. If these tactics do not discourage the bear from attacking, play dead and assume the fetal position. Most of the time playing dead will tell the bear that you are not a threat. If the bear continues to attack long after you started playing dead, fight back as hard as you can using any tools like sticks and rocks available.

Moose

Moose, especially moose with calves can be dangerous. Stay far away from a moose and never feed them. Be aware of the warning signs of a stressed moose, including ears laid back and raised neck hair. Dogs also stress moose, so keep your dog under control and preferably leashed. In the event that the moose charges, hide behind something solid like a nearby tree. If you have a head start you can run from a charging moose. If the moose catches you, assume the fetal position and remain still until the moose leaves.

Low Temperatures

Alaska's northern location means that low temperatures persist throughout the year, making hypothermia possible throughout the year. Always dress in layers, so that when you begin to feel warm you can remove layers and replace them when you become cold. Remember to stay hydrated and well fed. If someone in your party begins to show signs of hypothermia stop and warm any cold areas and put on extra clothes.

Alaska is particularly cold in the winter and frostbite as well as hypothermia is a possibility. If anyone in your party begins to show symptoms of frostbite seek medical help immediately.

When hiking and camping in the cold wilderness of Alaska always be sure to alert someone of your travel plans ahead of time. Bring plenty of supplies especially water, as well as layering clothes. You should also have knowledge of basic survival skills whenever venturing into any wilderness hike or camping trip. Also be sure to bring enough supplies to get you through any unexpected delays.

Water and Wild Plants

Never drink unfiltered water from streams and rivers while camping. These water sources, no matter how clean they look can carry diseases. Also never try wild berries and plants unless you are an expert in identifying edible foods. Trying wild plants and berries is always a risk, and people often confuse poisonous species with similar looking edible plants.

Avalanches

When hiking in the backcountry areas of Alaska it is important to be aware of the danger of avalanches. The most important factor in avalanche safety is prevention. The best way to learn about avalanche safety and prevention is to take a class. There are many avalanche safety courses offered at various locations throughout the state. These classes will teach you about the types of slopes, snow and weather most likely to present avalanche danger. Classes will also teach you about warning signs for avalanches.