Alaska is a state with endless possibilities. Its landscape is vast and widely uninhibited by human civilization. Its culture is unique and intriguing. And, best of all, its opportunities for discovery are boundless. While we often favor using Alaska SUV rentals to explore the state, we also know that there are countless other ways to uncover the great secrets of this land. We’d like to share them with our Alaska SUV rentals clients now.
Below you will find different ways to discover Alaska. These will show you uninhibited glimpses into the wildlife and natural world of the state and are guaranteed to astonish you. Whether you want to find a free new route or are willing to pay for a tour, there’s a little something for everyone. All we ask in return is that you embrace the landscape with your eyes wide open.
While there are the usual ways to explore the state – kayaking, hiking, boat tours, etc. – we wanted to offer a few that you may not have thought of. The Majestic Alaska Tour and a road trip on the Seward Highway show other sides of Alaska, or in the case of the tour offer a comprehensive Alaskan experience.
Majestic Alaska Tour
The Majestic Alaska Tour begins in 2017, but if you opt for this route, you’ll want to book now. Early payment is required, and they only accept bookings up until January – assuming there are still spots available by then. The tour spans 8 days and shows you nearly every aspect of Alaskan culture and landscape. However, we will warn that it is certainly not for those looking to see Alaska on a budget. This tour is $2498 per person during its cheapest season, and goes up to $2696 per person in peak months. Optional experiences are also available, but it’ll cost extra.
Yet, you’re not paying that price for nothing. This trip will take you from Fairbanks to Denali National Park, over the Alaska railroad to Anchorage and down to the Kenai Fjords National Park before arriving in Seward. Final destination in Anchorage, as it is the most convenient travel hub.
This trip will include many of your meals and hotels, but it will also offer you a chance to explore the state with some guidance. You can miss a lot of important history when simply driving through in your Alaska SUV rentals. This tour will teach you of the indigenous peoples of the state and their cultural heritage. It will let you taste the local flavors of each city, and glimpse the wildlife native to that land, and many other unforgettable opportunities.
If you’re unwilling to spend the money, however, our Alaska SUV rentals agents would be happy to offer you a list of must-see spots and restaurants where you can gain a similar experience. Much of Alaska’s beauty is outlined on this blog already.
Take your Alaska SUV rentals down Seward Highway
As we mentioned, we tend toward the ways we can discover Alaska in our car rentals. The Seward Highway is one such way to uncap the mysteries of this state while enjoying a drive.
This road stretches from Anchorage to Resurrection Bay in Seward at mile 0, and traverses through numerous villages, towns, and passes on the way. Because of the adverse weather in the winter, we’d advise driving this 127-mile road in the summer. While it is entirely possible to take this trip in a single day, why not make a weekend of it? Explore the finer details and quirky sights of Alaska.
The Seward Highway will give you the benefit of seeing all of the wildlife that Alaska has to offer, as well as mountains and foothills, oceans and cliffs, icebergs and ice fields, rivers and green fields. You’ll find beavers, belugas, waterfowl, sea lions, moose, black bears, marmots, and many other creatures. Along the way are great spots for fishing including what is known as the fisherman’s paradise at Bird Creek.
We could go on about the incredible and awe-inspiring diversity on this route, but it could take an entire novel. You’ll just have to see for yourself.
Explore Alaska this fall with the help of Avis Alaska SUV rentals. Reserve your vehicle today to make sure you don’t miss out on discovering this great state.
Must-See Events this November!
The days may be getting darker and colder, but who ever said Alaska dies down in winter? This is the perfect time to be out and about in the North of the 49. Our Alaska winter rentals offer you the flexibility and mobility you need. All you need now is a place to go.
We’ve put together a little list of events around the state. A few of these are for Ducks Unlimited, which means you can be charitable to waterfowl conservation (and therefore hunting) while having a blast.
Ducks Unlimited Events
We’ll get started with these – they’re always a blast and they’re for a good cause. As avid hunters here at Avis Alaska, we want to make sure our hunting isn’t without a sustainable foundation.
If you’re a Waterfowl hunter, then check out the Mat-Su Waterfowl Hunters Party on November 5. With games and raffles you may just end up winning something while contributing to sustainable waterfowl hunting! If you’re looking for something a little more traditional and elegant, buy tickets for the Anchorage Fall Banquet on November 12, the Dillingham Banquet on November 19, or the Valdez Banquet also on November 19.
Finally, park your Alaska winter rentals for the night and join in on the fun at the Cooper Landing Bar Night! Fun, raffles, and a taco bar! It’s a great way to escape the cold and relax after a day enjoying the winter sports of Alaska.
Great Alaska Shootout
Despite Alaska’s reputation for hunting, the Great Alaska Shootout isn’t quite what it sounds like. This event occurs annually in Anchorage and brings together collegiate teams for a Thanksgiving weekend of friendly basketball competition.
The Great Alaska Shootout involves two women’s sessions and six men’s sessions, each involving two games. Games begin on November 22, 2016 and run until November 26, 2016. Tickets can be found online here.
Haines, Alaska Bald Eagle Festival
Do you want to show your patriotism? Are you proud to be an American, and proud of our strong national symbol – the bald eagle? Then take your Alaska winter rentals down to the Haines Bald Eagle Festival.
The Haines Bald Eagle Festival begins on November 7, 2016 and goes through November 13, 2016. Around this time of the year, thousands of bald eagles crowd around the Chilkat River to feed on the chum and Coho salmon that flock to the four mile region of the river that remains unfrozen. This has become the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. It draws in huge crowds of people to see a rare sight – bald eagles in large groups, flocking around one area. It’s truly breathtaking.
While here you’ll get a chance to learn more about American bald eagles, and take part in the scientific and artistic cultural sides of this species.
Christmas bazaars and festivals
While you’re out and about Alaska, keep an eye out for the various holiday bazaars that will pop up across the state. With Thanksgiving almost upon us, Alaska has a great number of festivals and holiday markets to keep even Santa’s Elves busy. ‘Tis the season!
While not ever bazaar will begin opening really until December, you will catch a few of the early birds. For instance, the Coffman Cove Holiday Bazaar runs on November 5. The Ketchikan Winter Arts Faire is open from November 25 until November 27, and shows off ice sculpture talents from more than 75 artists in the area. During the same days, the Juneau Public Market kicks off the holiday season with a variety of vendors. Be careful – you may leave with your Alaska winter rentals considerably fuller than before! Also on November 25, “Christmas Comes to Kenai: North Pole on Ice” also begins and runs through until December.
No matter what, there are plenty of activities to get you into the holiday spirit!
But nothing can make your trip more complete than the perfect Alaska winter rentals. Avis can help you there. Reserve your vehicle from us today for great deals, safe winter handling, and friendly service.
Get into Winter with Snowmobile Tours Around Alaska
Welcome back to one of the most glorious times of the year! The time of freezing weather, thick snow, and winter sports! Here at Avis Alaska, we live for the various sports that begin once the snow starts. One of our favorites? Snowmobiling. And with your Alaska winter car rentals, the world is your oyster. So pack up your Alaska winter car rentals with warm clothes and hit up one of these top snowmobiling experiences.
Start with a tour
One of the best ways to get to know snowmobiling in Alaska is with a tour. We list a variety of tours below, but first we’re going to let you know why this is a viable option.
The thing is that a well-seasoned and life-long Alaskan is always going to know the trails better than visitors are. And the Alaskan wilderness isn’t always a safe space. So why not get to know the trails with an experienced snowmobiler before renting one yourself?
Not only that, but these tour guides will be able to show you parts of Alaska that you may not otherwise see. It’s one thing to know that there are sites to see – it’s another to know where these are and exactly how you should see them. Tour guides can help with that. Once you’ve discovered the site, you can always go back for more on your own time whether on a snowmobile or in your Alaska winter car rentals.
Finally, tours may offer you the chance to meet other people while traveling. This can be a fun way to bond with other travelers about two things we love most – machines and the Alaskan winter wilderness.
Tours an option
There are a few fun tours that we’d recommend. One is the snowmobile Gold Mine Tour. This tour is great for early season snowmobiling, and its well-groomed trails allow for a great experience for both beginner and expert snowmobilers. The groups are always small and manageable – around 5 to 6 people – which allows you to connect with both your guide and other tour takers. However, if your group is larger we’d advise you to speak to someone at the company as they may be able to offer larger tours.
The tour includes reindeer hot dogs on the campfire. Cost is $200 for 3.5 hours offered by Glacier City Snowmobile Tours. You’ll even see sites that were used in Hollywood films!
Also offered by the same company is the Real Deal Blue Ice Tour. For $250, you get a 5.5 hour tour that traverses across the Chugach Mountains. But be warned – this is an intense tour. The Real Deal Blue Ice tour is challenging and can be difficult. It will lead you inside of glaciers – but only times approved by the US Forest Service.
Finally, we’d recommend the expeditions and day tours offered by Snow Safaris. These range from one to 5 days and even offer custom tailored tours. There are a variety of opportunities for filming and photo shoots, if you’re looking for a new group shot.
Multiple day expeditions include overnight stays and all meals. They take care of any driving needed to and from your hotel so your Alaska winter car rentals can stay safe and sound in your hotel garage.
Snowmobile rentals
If you’re ready to rent a machine and head off, you’re in luck. Alaska is full of snowmobile rentals companies. The tour companies listed above offer rentals with each of their tours and individual rentals. Other rental companies include Alaska Backcountry Access, Alaska Toy Rental, and Alaska Snowmobile Tours and Rentals.
However, if you’re setting off on your own, make sure you go prepared. Bring a pack with an emergency kit including snacks, water, candles, flashlight and extra batteries, GPS AND paper map, flares, full charged cell phone, and a thermo-blanket. Better to be safe than sorry.
Winter is a glorious time in Alaska. Don’t believe us? Let us show you. Reserve your Alaska winter car rentals from Avis today for an unbelievable Alaskan experience.
Want a New Fall Sport? Test Out Archery
In Alaska, we love sports. We especially love sports that involve the great outdoors, and a certain amount of skill. Archery is one such sport that is not only useful, but a fun way to spend an afternoon. There are plenty of archery spots to be found around the state if you’re ready and willing to take your Alaska fall car rentals out for a drive.
Not looking for an outdoor sport? No problem. Archery isn’t just to be enjoyed in the great outdoors. You’ll also be able to take part in indoor archery training and games. Below we’ve listed a couple of spots to check out as well as tips for first timers. Most places allow you to rent equipment, so you won’t need to bring anything but warm clothes and maybe a lunch in your Alaska fall car rentals.
Archery range options
Our first recommendation for archery range and shop won’t take you any further than Anchorage. Backcountry Archery in Anchorage is owned by an experienced and knowledgeable archer. Whether you’re going in as an expert or as an amateur, he’ll make sure you feel right at home. He’ll help you find anything you need, and offer advice for anything you don’t know.
If you’re looking for an indoor event, Screaming Eagle Archery of Alaska in Palmer is a good option. If you’re already an archery fanatic, then you’ll be impressed by the shop alone. There’s plenty of top-rated archery gear for purchase to improve your current stock.
For archery, they offer 20 20-yard lanes and 4 10-yard lanes. You also have the option of shooting at one of their 2 movable targets for closer range archery – if you’re feeling up for a challenge. A parking lot is provided for your Alaska fall car rentals.
Full Curl Archery LLC is another archery shop in Anchorage on Old Seward Highway that we’d recommend. They have top-quality, friendly service and a decent sized range with both 10- and 20-yard lanes.
Full Curl Archery also offers archery leagues and special events. Once you gain a little more experience, you’ll have a hard time resisting taking part. There’s even a Virtual Hunting Range, a.k.a. the Techno Hunt, which allows you to “hunt” for a variety of animals on screen with a blunt tip. It’s definitely a challenge, but one that will keep you coming back for more. For the beginner, Full Curl offers lessons in both private and group settings.
Tips for first timers
Shorter isn’t better. In the case of bows, bigger does mean better – at least in terms of accuracy. The longer and heavier your bow, the more accurate your shot will be. Despite the argument that smaller bows are lighter and easier to maneuver, the weight difference isn’t that significant, and it will cost you in accuracy.
While faster is often better in order to catch the game, if you can’t shoot quickly and accurately, don’t. The most important quality is accuracy. Sometimes that means you have to sacrifice speed. This will simply take some trial and error, and advice from a proper archer. That’s where classes can help.
Keep your eye on the prize. You want to look up the arrow shaft through the sight pin throughout your shot. This will allow you to practice with a better follow-through. It also prevents you from dropping your bow arm and losing accuracy.
Finally, be safe. Learning to shoot with lessons and in an archery range is a good way to make sure you have safe practices. Archery can be dangerous if you don’t engage in proper technique and if you aren’t in a safe zone when shooting.
Get involved in Alaskan culture and sport. Reserve your Alaska fall car rentals from Avis today.
Pack a Rod and Reel in Your Fall Alaska Rental Cars
The Homer Halibut Derby may have wrapped up mid-September, but the fishing season certainly has not yet come to a close. Fall in Alaska is the perfect time for salmon and trout fishing – and what a delicious time it is. Here in Alaska, we love fish. Trout and salmon pack enough flavor and meat for a full autumn of fishing. So if you haven’t already equipped your fall Alaska rental cars with your fishing gear, then you better start now. Because if you love to fish, and you love salmon, then now is the perfect time to bring out the rod and reel.
Beware of bears
There’s a reason that you can see more wildlife and bear sightings in Alaska throughout the fall. Bears are stocking up for their winter hibernation, and salmon is one of their favorite foods. The salmon running upstream are abundant. It’s almost as if they’re waiting to be caught, and certainly, you’ll have a much easier time capturing them.
However, with more bears out and about trying to catch their own stock of salmon, you’ll want to remain vigilant. Keep an eye and an ear out for brown bears. While black bears are often skittish enough to be scared off, brown bears have a bit more bite. Though many of our fall Alaska rental cars clients love to catch a bear sighting, it’s best done from a distance and from the inside of your vehicle. Brown bears definitely get grizzly, especially when they’re looking for their winter stock.
Bring along bear mace, and don’t be afraid to make loud noises to scare off bears. Keep food in an airtight container. And again, make sure to keep an eye out. Don’t stray too far from your fall Alaska rental cars, just in case you need to hop in quick. We want to make sure all of our clients stay safe. If you have concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to ask one of our representatives upon picking up your fall Alaska rental cars.
Best time of year for salmon
As we mentioned, this time of the year offers abundant salmon populations in Alaska. While September is supreme prime time for salmon fishing, we know that many of our clients were busy trying their hand in the Homer Halibut Derby. However, you’ll still find plenty of fish in the stream throughout the month of October.
Silver salmon are the most abundant. Your best bet for catching salmon is along the Kenai River running up to Sitka. And remember – the early bird gets the worm. The earlier in the day you can go, the more likely you are to beat out any crowd and to catch the morning upstream movements of salmon.
Fat trout waiting to be caught
Salmon isn’t the only fish that can be found in abundance in October. There are Rainbow trout and Dolly Varden trout just waiting to be caught. These species have spent the summer fattening up and are now making their way through the river.
Right in the middle of the Kenai you’ll find the fishing conditions to be perfect. Remember that these fish pose different fishing opportunities. Dollys are bottom swimmers. They stick to the riverbed and refuse to show their faces for anyone but the most ardent fishermen. But Dolly are important to our fisheries and diet – you’ll soon discover why. Dollies are incredibly tasty, but are better eaten when fresh and don’t freeze as well as other fish. That’s why we suggest catching them while you still have the chance!
Rainbow trout, though similar in flavor to dollies, freeze better. They’re good fare for catching to freeze for winter meals. You’ll want to load up your fall Alaska rental cars. This variety of trout sticks closer to the surface. They know they’re beautiful, and want to be seen!
So load up your fall Alaska rental cars with your fishing gear, and head out for a thrilling end to the fishing season. Reserve your fall Alaska rental cars from Avis today.
The Benefits and Pleasures of Fall in Alaska
The arrival of fall in Alaska means that winter isn’t too far behind. Temperatures drop, days shrink, and the threat of snow is just around the corner. But believe it or not, here at Avis Alaska, we love every season. And we think that our Alaska rental car clients will learn to love fall too. We see the beauty in the chill; the incredible opportunity in the dark. It’s about learning to adjust and learning to appreciate weather that doesn’t boast of beaches and tanned forearms.
In fact, with a slight change in mindset, you’ll rapidly uncover the splendid atmosphere of Alaska in autumn. Just in case, though, we’ve taken this opportunity to outline the wonders of Alaska in the fall for you – as well as a few pointers.
Prepare yourself
The most important thing you need to do is prepare yourself. Understand that the weather won’t be conducive to t-shirts and shorts, and that you may want to carry an extra flashlight in your Alaska rental car. In fact, you may want to invest in a headlamp in case the light fades while you’re still out and about.
Some Alaskans also recommend an increase in Vitamins D and C intakes. Whether it’s with little supplements, or an increase in your orange juice supply, this can help combat the reduced exposure to sunlight.
Finally, add a few layers. You don’t need anything big and bulky yet, but a couple extra cardigans or a robust scarf can go a long way. Extra padding will ensure you can continue to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the season. Not sure how many to bring on an outing? Pack a couple extra hoodies in your Alaska rental car, and perhaps a pair of gloves and a hat. Just in case!
The aurora borealis is back
Ahhh we’ve dearly missed the aurora borealis. This exquisite natural phenomenon has made its way back to the skies for your enjoyment. Unfortunately our summer Alaska rental car clients missed it, and trust us – it’s definitely a regret. If you haven’t seen the aurora, then you’re in for a treat. The undulating lights and colors will almost have you believing in magic again.
For the best aurora sightings, you may want to consider an Aurora Borealis tour. These viewings ensure you get a full experience of the famous lights. If you’d rather see them on your own, one place we’d recommend for a good view is atop the Alaska Range in Denali National Park.
In general, the sky may be darkening quicker and for longer periods, but it has many more lights than throughout the summer. Alaskan summer nights don’t bode well for the stars. Now that the dark nights have returned, you’ll catch far more star sightings. Head out for a night of star-gazing in your Alaska rental car, or stay in beside a booming camp fire.
Out come wildlife
Fall in Alaska is the perfect time to see all kinds of wildlife! Bears are out and about berry hunting. It’s time for them to fatten and stock up for winter hibernation. Of course, you’ll want to keep a bit of a distance from these Alaskan inhabitants. While black bears can be frightened away, brown bears are best seen from the inside of your Alaska rental car.
Moose are also out wandering in the cooler weather, alongside horned sheep. Graceful tundra swans sweep over the land. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the wildlife sightings you’re sure to have. For many of our Alaska rental car clients, this is the first opportunity to see a moose. You won’t be disappointed. Their massive size is even more impressive in person. Make sure you don’t startle them, however, as they may attack when scared.
In general, we’d highly recommend Denali National Park for many of these fall sights. Its vast expanse has a lot to offer, ranging from wildlife and aurora sightings to outdoor activities and hiking.
Start planning your fall trip to Alaska with a reliable and comfortable Alaska rental car. Reserve your vehicle with Avis today.
New Ways to Discover Alaska
Alaska is a state with endless possibilities. Its landscape is vast and widely uninhibited by human civilization. Its culture is unique and intriguing. And, best of all, its opportunities for discovery are boundless. While we often favor using Alaska SUV rentals to explore the state, we also know that there are countless other ways to uncover the great secrets of this land. We’d like to share them with our Alaska SUV rentals clients now.
Below you will find different ways to discover Alaska. These will show you uninhibited glimpses into the wildlife and natural world of the state and are guaranteed to astonish you. Whether you want to find a free new route or are willing to pay for a tour, there’s a little something for everyone. All we ask in return is that you embrace the landscape with your eyes wide open.
While there are the usual ways to explore the state – kayaking, hiking, boat tours, etc. – we wanted to offer a few that you may not have thought of. The Majestic Alaska Tour and a road trip on the Seward Highway show other sides of Alaska, or in the case of the tour offer a comprehensive Alaskan experience.
Majestic Alaska Tour
The Majestic Alaska Tour begins in 2017, but if you opt for this route, you’ll want to book now. Early payment is required, and they only accept bookings up until January – assuming there are still spots available by then. The tour spans 8 days and shows you nearly every aspect of Alaskan culture and landscape. However, we will warn that it is certainly not for those looking to see Alaska on a budget. This tour is $2498 per person during its cheapest season, and goes up to $2696 per person in peak months. Optional experiences are also available, but it’ll cost extra.
Yet, you’re not paying that price for nothing. This trip will take you from Fairbanks to Denali National Park, over the Alaska railroad to Anchorage and down to the Kenai Fjords National Park before arriving in Seward. Final destination in Anchorage, as it is the most convenient travel hub.
This trip will include many of your meals and hotels, but it will also offer you a chance to explore the state with some guidance. You can miss a lot of important history when simply driving through in your Alaska SUV rentals. This tour will teach you of the indigenous peoples of the state and their cultural heritage. It will let you taste the local flavors of each city, and glimpse the wildlife native to that land, and many other unforgettable opportunities.
If you’re unwilling to spend the money, however, our Alaska SUV rentals agents would be happy to offer you a list of must-see spots and restaurants where you can gain a similar experience. Much of Alaska’s beauty is outlined on this blog already.
Take your Alaska SUV rentals down Seward Highway
As we mentioned, we tend toward the ways we can discover Alaska in our car rentals. The Seward Highway is one such way to uncap the mysteries of this state while enjoying a drive.
This road stretches from Anchorage to Resurrection Bay in Seward at mile 0, and traverses through numerous villages, towns, and passes on the way. Because of the adverse weather in the winter, we’d advise driving this 127-mile road in the summer. While it is entirely possible to take this trip in a single day, why not make a weekend of it? Explore the finer details and quirky sights of Alaska.
The Seward Highway will give you the benefit of seeing all of the wildlife that Alaska has to offer, as well as mountains and foothills, oceans and cliffs, icebergs and ice fields, rivers and green fields. You’ll find beavers, belugas, waterfowl, sea lions, moose, black bears, marmots, and many other creatures. Along the way are great spots for fishing including what is known as the fisherman’s paradise at Bird Creek.
We could go on about the incredible and awe-inspiring diversity on this route, but it could take an entire novel. You’ll just have to see for yourself.
Explore Alaska this fall with the help of Avis Alaska SUV rentals. Reserve your vehicle today to make sure you don’t miss out on discovering this great state.
Take your Alaska Rental Car to Hike at Alyeska
After driving in your Alaska rental car, you may be looking to stretch your legs a bit. Fortunately, Alaska is known for its incredible hiking trails and mountain paths. The landscape is unique in comparison to the other states, and it is often by foot, bike, or water that our Alaska rental car clients choose to uncover its secrets. Because Alaskans are proud of our state, we prefer ways to discover its interiors without invading too much upon its natural workings. The beautiful resort of Alyeska is no different.
Alyeska Resort in Girdwood is renowned for its fantastic ski courses. Throughout the summer months, however, after the snow has melted and drifted off into the rivers, these mountains become a haven for hikers. In fact, the mountains are riddled with surprise paths and unexpected offshoots from the trail.
The Alyeska resort has even ensured there are trails and paths for all levels of hiking. Below we will outline the trails that are available, as well as those within each skill level. All you need to do is make sure to pack your Alaska rental car with a lunch, a sweater, and proper walking shoes.
Looking for a work out?
If you’re an experienced hiker who is looking for a bit of a challenge, then the North Face Trail is the one for you. Stretching 2000 feet vertically and spanning 2.2 miles, it is America’s longest double black diamond ski run. This trail is certainly not for the faint of heart. It offers a steep, unrelenting journey to the top and rewards you with a spectacular view and a mighty workout. You’ll definitely make sure you want to bring a camera for this one – the views from the top of the trail are breathtaking.
After such a hike you’ll likely be a little peckish. Fortunately, you’ll find a chalet at the top where you can enjoy a meal. Not up to hiking all the way back down? Take the Alyeska Resort gondola to the bottom for free.
Easy hikes
The easiest hiking trail is up and around Chair 7 lift. Following the chair lift up you’ll see many offshoots and other trails that can be trekked. Follow the one closest to Chair 7, and at the top, turn right to grab lunch in the Bake Shop at the Bear Cub Quad. When you turn back to Chair 7, you’ll be able to trace it back down to bottom.
If you’re looking for an intermediate hiking experience, there are other trail options that you’ll see when you reach the top of the trail at Chair 7 lift. Rather than turn right, take any of these other options and you’ll be given a slightly more challenging path. If you want to avoid super difficult, though, do not take the trail marked as Spoon Line, which offers trails of the hardest skill level.
Start from the base
If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, your best bet is to grab a map of the trails and start off on one of the many paths that begin at the base of the mountain. These include: Winner Creek Trail; Upper Winner Creek Trail; Winner Creek Extension Trail; Multi-Use Nordic Loop; Girdwood to Indian Bike Bath; Upper Tram Terminal Trails; The North Face Trail; and South Bowl Trails. Be warned: the last three on this list are more challenging.
Once you start on a trail, you’ll find myriad forks and marked paths that will take you through the labyrinth of the mountain. Why not wander? As long as you bring a map, you can find your way back. We advise bringing a marker to make note of your route on your map as you go – just in case. And of course, make sure you don’t forget your water bottles in your Alaska rental car!
Hiking around Alaska is a top-notch way to learn its secrets. Start off on a hiking road trip around the state this year when you reserve your Alaska rental car from Avis.
Where to Take Your Alaska Rental Car Golfing
While Alaska isn’t particularly known for being the golf state, it certainly has its share of greens that are worth a visit. As the golfing season is beginning to wind down, we thought we’d outline our favorite spots to tee-off from this summer. Perhaps you’ll be able to catch a few holes on the greens listed below – if you haven’t already. After a day exploring the more rugged sides of the state, you’ll need a little relaxation and tranquility. So load up your Alaska rental car with your best irons, and get ready for a few hours of down time on the green.
Anchorage Golf Course
As many of our Alaska rental car clients end up staying in or near Anchorage (for part of their trip, anyway), we thought we’d start off with a course close to home. The Anchorage Golf Course offers a season running from around May 15 to October 15. For a full 18 hole set, juniors pay $25 and adults $65.
However, this course is not for the faint-hearted. Anchorage Golf Course was thoughtfully and artfully designed by architect Bill Newcomb to be both a challenge and a breathtaking experience for golfers. Surrounded by Chugach Mountains, Cook Inlet, and Mount McKinley, you’ll have plenty to look at while you’re tracking your ball. The stunning vistas are one of the aspects that makes this golf course so appealing and unique. Juxtaposed with the spectacular natural sights is the Anchorage skyline.
As we said, though, this golf course is certainly not for amateurs. It spans across 6,600 yards and forces its players to navigate water hazards and blind tee shots.
Bear Valley on Kodiak Island
If you’ve taken your Alaska rental car as far as Kodiak Island, then you’ll quickly discover that there is not a wide variety of golf courses in this region. Bear Valley Golf Course, then, will be your oasis. The nine-hole course is the only green on the island, and stays open from May until September. Amenities include a driving range and a full service pro shop.
During the summer solstice, you’ll find this course to be quite the gem. As its closing hour simply state that it closes “two hours before sunset” you’ll find plenty of flexibility with golfing hours with the midnight sun.
Black Diamond Golf Course
You may have realized by now that Alaska is home to many unique golf course designs. Well, the Black Diamond Golf Course definitely does not disappoint. Similar to Anchorage’s course, Black Diamond is bordered by mountains as well as a mountain lake. On your downtime, you’ll get a close glance at wildlife and wildflowers in this region. Singularly Alaskan, this course is located right on top of the Alaskan tundra. Many golfers have said that this is the closest they can find in North America to the traditional Scottish courses.
You’ll find the course by Alaska rental car on the George Parks Highway. But we must warn you to pack well – because of its location on the Alaskan tundra, this course doesn’t offer a warm tee-off in the sun. Wear a sweater and comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that will help you keep your grip as you traverse the 9-hole green in the 3.5 hours that you’re there.
The course is only open from May 24 to September 24, however. So get a move on and check out this incredibly unique Alaskan golfing experience!
These are just a few of our favorites. Of course, Alaska has many other golf courses that offer incredible views and a challenging golfing experience. What’s your preferred course? Why just try one? Pack up the irons and take a golf road trip around the state in your Alaska rental car. Reserve your vehicle today.
Catch the Jackpot in Homer’s Halibut Derby
Every year, Homer hosts a jackpot halibut derby in which hundreds of fishermen participate. The derby runs throughout the halibut fishing season, through August and into September. Our Alaska car rentals clients often take a chance at winning this jackpot derby, if not just for the fun of the fishing. It’s always a blast to see the other fishers out, and make a weekend trip of it.
This year marks the Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby’s 31st year running – here’s hoping to another 31 more! If you’ve never participated, we recommend setting out if not only to see the spectacle of fishermen across the lake, in a crowd of charters. It is a very “Alaskan” experience.
Homer, Alaska is located on Kachemak Bay and is the final destination on Sterling Highway. It is known as “The Halibut Fishing Capital of the World” and brings in hundreds every year just to experience the top quality fishing. But when you’re fishing here, you won’t just get the opportunity at delicious, abundant halibut. You’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring mountain vistas and elegant ocean views that you can’t get simply by staying in your Alaska car rentals for your entire visit.
Prizes available
The prizes are dependent on how the fish is tagged. Every year, officials in Homer tag more than 100 fish. Each one is tagged with a different prize tag. The largest fish tag is the GCI $50,000 in cash. The second largest prize is $35,000 towards your chosen vehicle from either Stanley Chrysler or Stanley Ford.
The jackpot prize is given to the fisherman who caught the largest fish that season. It is worth a base $10,000 award, as well as $0.50 per ticket sold that year. Don’t expect to be able to fit this halibut whole in your Alaska car rentals!
In fact, if you catch the winning fish, you’ll even be granting a prize to your charter captain. The Captain’s prize offers 10% of the prize to the charter captain who navigated the boat on which the winning halibut was caught. Furthermore, the ticket seller who sold the ticket to the winning fisherman will be awarded $1000. At the Homer Halibut Derby, we believe in sharing the wealth won.
If you catch a left-handed halibut, you’ll win $100. Kids are eligible to win ticket draws at the end of the season. There are prizes ranging from $125, $150, $200, $250, and $300. That’s a lot of cash for a kid 12 and under! Will your child be one of the lucky draw winners this year?
The released fish prize is another end of season draw worth $1000. You will be entered into this draw if you catch and release a halibut that measures 48 inches (4 feet) or longer – that’s a BIG halibut!
And of course, the tagged prizes offer every one a chance to win. There are 30 fish swimming these waters that are worth $50. Another 100 (plus some!) range in prizes from $250, $500, and $1000. If you catch a fish that was tagged the previous year, you will win $100 – so it’s definitely not a waste! You could walk out of this derby with your Alaska car rentals fees worth of prizes, plus plenty left over for a few luxury activities this trip.
Don’t forget to buy your ticket!
If you don’t buy a ticket, you can’t win! And the number of people who have caught prize-winning fishes but didn’t have a ticket to be able to claim the prize is just astonishing. You don’t want to catch a $1000 fish only to find out you can’t claim it. Tickets are only $10 to purchase.
Reserve your Alaska car rentals today and set out for your chance to win in the Homer Halibut Derby!
August Berry Picking in Alaska
Alaska is known for its wide variety of plant species dotted across the state. What you may not be aware of though, is that Alaska is rich in naturally and wildly growing food. Many natives of Alaska love to go berry picking in the summer to supplement their fresh Alaskan diet that is hunted and fished. Bring a few baskets in your Alaska car rentals to pick fresh wild berries right from the landscape.
Salmonberries
While the name doesn’t sound particularly appealing, salmonberries are an iconic Alaskan fruit as its name mixes two of the things that Alaskans love so much: salmon and wild berries! Berries are everywhere in Alaska, and as an added bonus, Alaskan wild berries are absolutely loaded with antioxidants. For some reason, there are far more antioxidants found in Alaskan wild berries than any berry you’ll be able to find in any store.
This is the perfect time to go salmonberry and crowberry hunting. Salmonberries get their name from their reddish pink hue and close resemblance to salmon roe. In fact, if you mix these two delicious treats together, you’ll get cured tasty snack. The berries are a little tough and not very juicy, so you don’t need to worry about accidentally smashing them in your Alaska car rentals. They are slightly sour, but are finished with sweetness to balance out the tartness of the first bite.
Common uses for salmonberries include pies or tarts, syrups, jams, and other preserves. However, they are absolutely delicious on their own, fresh and raw. Of course, you can also experiment by adding a sweet, tart flavor to savory entrées.
Lingonberries
Lingonberries are known for their Swedish origins, but they are also found in Alaska. They look similar to cranberries, but taste a little less tart and sour than the latter. These berries are simply delicious in jams, pies, and other preserves. They also taste delightful when made into syrup and poured over pancakes or crepes.
You’ll have to do a little hiking to find these berries. They are often found on mountain slopes, in the woods, and across the tundra. They ripen throughout August.
Other August berries
Many berries ripen throughout the month of August. Right now you’ll likely only be able to find salmonberries and crowberries. Crowberries are little bit boring when eaten raw alone, but they’re perfect for adding to a sweet pie or tart. They are purplish-blue like blueberries, without the full flavor that is offered by blueberries.
Other berries that you’ll be able to find later in the month of August are blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries.
Bring bear protection
Remember that you’re not the only one foraging for berries in the forest. Bears love to pick berries as a delightful dessert to compliment their fishing adventures. It is crucial that you bring something to protect yourself from the bears. Mace and bear-bells are good starts to ensuring you don’t get caught in a sticky situation. Make lots of noise as you wander around foraging, to scare bears off.
Stay on trails and highly populated areas. This isn’t always protection, though, as bears often come close to these areas as well – something you may have already noticed this in your Alaska car rentals. Pay attention to noises around you, and leave the headphones in your Alaska car rentals.
Bring a stool
Regardless of how tall you are, sometimes berries are just a little bit out of reach. Bring along a stool to help you reach those high up little gems.
A few good spots
Every Alaskan has their own preferred berry-picking spot which, as a visitor, you won’t have the advantage of knowing. However, there are a few spots around Alaska where we can guarantee you’ll find an abundance of berries. They are listed below:
Pack up your Alaska car rentals and get picking! Reserve your vehicle today.