Drive time --Fairbanks to Chitina

[ARBORGUY]

Need help...

We'll be in Fairbanks and driving to Chitina to get a flight to Wrangell-- St.Elias and staying at Kennicott Glacier Lodge for two nights.

 

Now the question....is it reasonable to drive Fairbanks to Chitina to catch the 5:45 flight? This would allow us to have two nites in Fairbanks.

How long should we plan that the drive will take?

 

My original plan was to stay one nite in Fairbanks ---drive to Copper Center stay over nite and then tale an eariler flight to Kennicott.

 

Any suggestions are GREATLY appreciated!!

Bill

[GMoney]

According to Wrangell Mountain Air's website, the drive takes 6.5 hours. I would always allow a cushion for traffic, construction and unforeseen events.

I'm assuming this is based on a route of AK2 > AK4 > AK10. I did the ride from Anchorage, so I do not have personal experience.

 

I can tell you that you will love the flight from Chitina to McCarthy; it's so scenic it's an excursion in itself. I also really enjoyed by time at KGL - very nice place and staff with amazingly good food for the middle of nowhere. ;)

 

Be sure to do a walk on Root Glacier. It's very accessible from KGL. The old mining town is fascinating. And best of all - you'll find no crowds in Kennicott.

 

Congrats on a great choice.

[ARBORGUY]

Thanks Patrick for your response...I'll plan accordingly...

 

Thanks to you and Nancy (NancyIL) for sharing your experiences at Kennicott, It's the reason I added it to our plans....

 

I'm using the Toursaver coupon, so the lodging expense is only $165 total for both nights. AND there is NO additional tax!.... what'a bargain!!:D

 

Also, your website is AWESOME and thanks for sharing the comprehensive list of websites and resources (really helpful).

 

Bill

[GMoney]

I'm glad the info was helpful; have a great time!