Note: This information is also available as part of the PDF file following the Detailed Itinerary

Accessibility/Fitness

This is a participatory winter trip and though not strenuous, clients should be moderately physically fit and not completely averse to cold temperatures. Clients are provided supplementary arctic clothing and boots, and while comfort is our overriding concern, by nature of our activities we will be outdoors a considerable amount of time, and temperature is a very definite factor. Dog mushing in these circumstances is not overly strenuous, though some of the optional activities such as cross country skiing and snowshoeing can be if pursued vigorously. We will also be traveling by bush plane to and from Skwentna and our remote homestead, and those apprehensive about small plane travel will want to take this into account.

Weather/Temperatures

Always a subject of great interest and occasionally, a few choice words. By early March, Old Man Winter has begun loosening his hold on things, but has been known to come back with a good swipe or two, to remind us just why bananas don't grow very well here. Temperatures could be in the upper thirties, or, they could be minus thirty. Most typical would be from ten to twenty five degrees Fahrenheit, generally being much milder near Homer and the ocean where we will be mushing, and potentially colder at the remote homestead. Being well prepared is of course the key, allowing one to enjoy why winter is actually the favorite season of many. Weather is of course a factor in the flying portions of the trip, and it is advisable to allow an extra day in Anchorage in case of possible delays. Besides, when was the last time you had being trapped in a remote winter cabin in Alaska as an excuse . . .

Clothing/Equipment

Because this is a winter trip and due to the fact that conditions this time of year can on occasion be severe, personal clothing should be chosen very carefully to ensure comfort. Adventure Alaska will provide you with the supplementary arctic outer wear to complement the basic clothing that you probably already have, or might need to supply. We provide the following: arctic coveralls (very stylish!) for the very coldest weather; arctic pak boots for the feet; arctic mittens; and a cold weather hat. Items that the client will need to supply include the following:

Clothing

Two to three changes of warm but versatile clothing are recommended (please refer to luggage restrictions in another section) which can be layered if needed. This is a time to throw thoughts of fashion to the wind and consider above all else, the function of each item. Besides, if you're stylish in the Bush in winter, you'll stick out like a sore (and cold!) thumb. Relatively loose clothing is warmer than skin tight, with wool or polar fleece pants and sweaters ideal. Long underwear (can be purchased in Anchorage if coming from a warmer clime) should be of medium weight or heavier, preferably polypropylene. Several pairs (to allow for changes) of heavy wool and/or polypro socks will help keep your feet happy, and work best if layered.

Outerwear

A good, warm winter jacket is a must, with down and some of the synthetics having the best warmth-to-weight ratio. This, coupled with sweaters or pullovers and other clothing, should be sufficient and allow needed flexibility for most of our activities, with the coveralls handy for those times when it is colder or we are inactive. A medium weight hat or stocking cap that covers the ears is a must, as well as a pair of medium weight gloves. A thin pair of glove liners are also helpful. An additional scarf or neck gaiter is also preferred by many.

Footwear

Sorel-style arctic pak boots are provided for each participant if needed for our outdoor activities (please specify men's shoe size in advance). If you already have your own they probably fit well, and you should consider bringing them. Those subject to chronically cold feet might want to consider a supply of the disposable chemical heat packets sold at many sporting goods stores. Footwear for indoors and travel should be comfortable and warm, many preferring to throw in an additional pair of down booties or warm slippers to lounge around in.

Sleeping "Equipment"

Most prefer to sleep in their long underwear as opposed to pajamas (after all, you want to dress the part).

Miscellaneous

Personal toiletries (toothbrush, soap, etc.); small flashlight; water bottle (quart); sunglasses (UV cutting); camera, any prescription or nonprescription drugs that you might need. Earplugs are also helpful, as individual bedtimes and noise levels can vary considerably.

Luggage

Suitcases: Will be fine for travel to and from Anchorage but gear will need to be transferred to soft-sided bags or duffel bags for the actual trip. As dog sleds and small airplanes have limited space, total amount of personal gear for the trip should not fill more than approximately two standard grocery sacks (four cubic feet); suitcases, extra clothing, etc., can be stored in Anchorage during the trip.

Accommodations

Include a remote lodge, log cabins in Hope, and the remote family cabins. All established facilities are set up for double occupancy but the remote sites will sometimes necessitate more of a "slumber party" approach, flexibility being the rule in the Bush. Bathroom facilities at the remote locations are "rustic", sometimes of the tried and true, non-running water type (part of the experience!).

Legal Requirements

Insurance:
Health: Adventure Alaska cannot require participants to provide proof of insurance but it is more than strongly recommended to retain and review your personal policy; NOTE: Adventure Alaska cannot be expected to and will not assume payment liability for medical care or treatment of any kind.

Traveler's: It is likewise strongly urged to carry traveler's insurance in case you have to cancel or cut short your trip for any reason as the cancellation policy is quite strict; or, though remote the possibility exists also of a delay in our return to Anchorage due to weather. Cancellation of activities or additional costs incurred due to weather or safety concerns will not necessarily result in refund for that segment, and may require additional payment.

Pre/Post-Trip Lodging

Many types are available in Anchorage as are independent extensions after the trip. Please advise us well in advance so that we are able to guarantee suitable accommodations. Do remember that the bush plane flight to and from Skwentna is dependent on the vagaries of weather --at least a day should be left open at the end of the trip before unchangeable travel arrangements.
 

Suggested Reading

The Far North is a story teller's dream of history, wildness, and people. Each client's appreciation will be immeasurably heightened by gaining some background beforehand of Alaska and the activities of interest through these books and others. A free catalog of these books and many others is available from:   Alaska Natural History Association 605 W. 4th Ave. Ste. 105 Anchorage, AK 99501
telephone: (907) 274-8440

"Fan's Guide to the Iditarod"  Mary H. Hood/Alpine Publications
"Iditarod -The Great Race to Nome"  Alaska Northwest Books
"Iditarod Spirit"   Kim Heacox/Graphic Arts Publ.
"Travelers of the Cold"      Dominique Cellura/AK Northwest
"Alaska's History"   Harry Ray Ritter, Jr.
"Alaska's Native People"  Alaska Geographic

Disclaimers

Adventure Alaska reserves the right to make changes to any itinerary based on external factors or safety concerns.  Costs of associated services caused by weather or factors beyond our control will be the responsibility of our guests.  Cancellations or changes by individual service providers will not necessarily result in refunds for promised services.  We also refuse the right to refuse or discontinue service to anyone. As travel and Life in general are not inherently risk-free, guests will be required to fill out a medical form and waiver prior to participation.  Enough of the legal stuff...we do look forward to you joining us!