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Old 01-13-2017, 04:03 AM
 
30 posts, read 52,914 times
Reputation: 36

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Hello. I'm planning a short trip to Alaska in February, and I need some guidance on getting to Fairbanks from Anchorage. I really wanted to take the Alaska Railroad's Aurora Winter Train up, though unfortunately the train is sold out on my travel date. I've heard the route is beautiful, and I love train travel. I don't really want to fly (I may have to). I want to see scenery, and flying is not very comfortable. Bus service is quite limited in the winter. Driving is also an option. You can stop at places and you have the most freedom. How are the roads in February? Thanks for any suggestions.
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Old 01-13-2017, 10:10 AM
 
Location: Deltana, AK
863 posts, read 2,065,621 times
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The Parks Highway between Anchorage and Fairbanks is well maintained, but there is always a little bit of uncertainty in the winter. A heavy snowfall or freezing rain can leave it distinctly less than enjoyable for at least a day or two, until the road crews get on top of it. Check the Alaska 511 road conditions page before heading out. I'd avoid it if much of the drive is any worse than "fair," and if any of it is worse than "difficult." Personally, I think it's much easier driving the open highways than driving in Anchorage or Fairbanks in winter. In any case though, I wouldn't do it unless you have some winter driving experience. Also, consider taking the route through Delta and Glennallen on the way back. It's an extra 100 miles, but really beautiful, and saves you from having to retrace your steps.
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Old 01-13-2017, 12:00 PM
 
Location: Anchorage
1,952 posts, read 1,588,103 times
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The highway will almost certainly have some ice and snow on it. They plow it regularly but never get it all off. It's not bad unless, as heathen said, you try to drive it during or right after a winter storm. Then it can be a real challenge just to figure out where the road is.
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Old 01-13-2017, 01:14 PM
 
30 posts, read 52,914 times
Reputation: 36
Thanks. I actually decided to fly up and take the train back. This is a long train trip though at 12 hours. I'm staying a few nights at the Chena Hot Springs.
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Old 01-13-2017, 10:52 PM
 
Location: Fairbanks
404 posts, read 747,591 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by AwesomeTravel View Post
Thanks. I actually decided to fly up and take the train back. This is a long train trip though at 12 hours. I'm staying a few nights at the Chena Hot Springs.


You will get to meet our Japanese friends.
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Old 01-14-2017, 04:12 PM
 
Location: Interior Alaska
2,383 posts, read 3,066,061 times
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Quote:
Originally Posted by mitgreb View Post
You will get to meet our Japanese friends.
Don't be shocked when you see they are wearing respirators.
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