Quote Originally Posted by Jaidjen View Post
Although, here in Juneau there are plenty of bears and the first time I saw one was in the parking lot of Costco!
Fantastic story and a fantasticly helpful post... thanks so much! It has allowed me to start formulating a little bit of a plan in my head for my post Anchorage trip. There is no better advice than that of a local so I thank you.

The cruise looks awesome but, sadly, is a little out of reach both in terms of time and (particularly) money. I definately plan on finding a cheaper alternative for this however. Glacier Bay looks very interesting indeed.

I'm kinda hoping to see some of the wildlife in its natural surroundings (though hopefully not too closely!) but the zoo sounds like it has potential. Thanks for the tip.

What is in Skagway? Is it worth a visit? I was told that I had to visit but I think they may have been talking about the area in general rather than the town in particular?

What I was thinking, based on the advice offered, is maybe something a little like this:

30th July (am) - Fly: Anchorage - Juneau
31st July - 1st August Juneau
2nd August - Glacier Bay
3rd August (pm) - Fly to Skagway
4th August (pm) - 8th August (am) - Ferry: Skagway - Bellingham
9th August - Fly: Bellingham - Las Vegas

Do you think that would work?

I wasn't particularly planning on renting a car if I could help it. Do you think I would benefit from doing this (and in which towns?) or will I get by just fine with public transport and/or a good pair of hiking boots?

Do you think I will need a cabin on the ferry? It has been suggested that I could just pitch my tent in an area on the deck of the ferry. What are your thoughts on that? I will be on foot and will only have my backpack with m. How many ferries run south each week? Is it possible to get off one ferry for the night and then hop on another the following day?

Thanks again for the help and suggestions!