How to Get Around in Alaska

Alaska is a large state with only 10 percent of its area served by roads. While you can get around the state on snowmobiles, cross-country skies or a dog-sled, most people prefer to travel by the more comfortable and popular options that follow.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Travel by air. Rural aviation is the most practical way to travel to the interior of Alaska. There are 256 rural airports under the Office of Statewide Aviation. You can travel by bush plane, air taxi or helicopter. Obtain a list of pilots and companies that service specific areas from the Federal Aviation Administration's Flight Standards Division, located at 222 West 7th Avenue #14 in Anchorage, Alaska 99513. You can also call the division at [phone].

2. Ride the Alaska Railroad, a full service railroad that allows you the opportunity to view wildlife and scenic beauty as you travel the state. The railway covers Alaska from the tidewaters in Seward and Whittier to the interior of Alaska. It has three levels of service: Standard, Private Dome and Gold Dome. The route to and from Anchorage often passes through Potter's Marsh, which is the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge. Trains travel daily between Anchorage, Seward and Whittier.

3. Drive a car. The roads in Alaska are generally easy to navigate and maintained. The Scenic Byways connect the state along routes that have been designated All American Roads for their regional and national significance to cultural and beauty. Whether you rent a car or drive your own, use these highways to get around the state. You need to check with the Department of Transportation for road conditions during the winter.

4. Take a ferry on the Alaska Marine Highway System to get around Alaska's coastal communities. Eleven ferries including two fast vehicles ferries, Fairweather and Chenega, shuttle people and vehicles throughout Southeast and Southwest Alaska. Bring your tent and camp on the deck for longer trips.

5. Tour by motorcoach if you want to leave the driving to a native. The Park Connection is a daily service provided by Alaska Tour and Travel to help you get around the National Parks like Denali National Park or Kenai Fjords National Park. Local experts point out highlights as they drive.

Resources

• Book transportation through Alaska Travel.
• Get transportation updates at Alaska's Department of Transportation website.

[penair]

on 8/12/2009 Great info! For flight information to Southwest Alaska contact us at www.penair.com or 1-800-448-4226. Also, check out our facebook fan page at http://tinyurl.com/pl9s55 for pictures and the latest news. Got pictures of your trip??? You can post them as well.