I expect to have the same energy and enthusiasm as my Dad, who is now 96 so I am planning for at least 2045. Basically, years divisible by 5 (2020, 2025, 2030, etc.) will be extended trips, lasting four or more weeks, taking in much of Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Alaska -- including Fairbanks, Prudhoe Bay and optional excursions via plane or boat to remote Eskimo villages, places where you can walk on glaciers, feel earthquakes, soak in hot springs, etc.
All other years (years ending in 2 or 7 i.e. 2017, 2022, etc. will be 600+ mile days) will be to Hyder, Alaska as our main destination with leisurely 350-450 mile days. Here are the reasons: 1. Many younger bikers are working and can't take off too much time so going directly to Hyder is the shortest, fastest route AND 2. It is gravel free AND 3. Hyder has more spectacular topography in just 30 miles than you will see driving 5,000 miles on the Alaska Highway to Fairbanks and back. Oh, and did you know that in 2009 you could buy a brand new home next to Hyder for less than $30,000? Think of summer home investment! Last time I saw it, the Bitter Creek Cafe Hotel was for sale for $300,000. Now, that's a jaw-dropping investment!
In practically all of these trips, you can arrange for family members, friends, etc. to fly into Calgary, Alberta and rent cars to follow you or in 2015, 2020, etc. trips, rent a RV at the airport in Anchorage or Fairbanks and follow you.
In general, these trips will begin around the end of the 2nd week of July.
