Calling All Toronto Loonies! How to Escape the Muggles and Reach the Alaskan Wilds
So, you're itching to trade the six-pack abs on your Tim Hortons cup for a six-pack of glacier views? Ditch the sensible shoes for hiking boots? Swap the TTC for a chance encounter with a grizzly bear (don't worry, we'll get to that later)? You're officially afflicted with the Alaska bug! But fear not, fellow hoser, this guide will be your moose-stache-smoothing roadmap to the Last Frontier.
How To Get To Alaska From Toronto |
Taking Flight: Soaring Over the Great White North (Without a Goose on Your Plane)
There's no Batman swooping in for this adventure, but several airlines offer flights from Toronto to Alaska. Be prepared for a layover or two, because unless you're Superman in disguise, a direct flight just isn't in the cards. Pro tip: Channel your inner Wayne and snag a window seat – the Canadian Rockies are worth the price of admission alone (unless you're Batman, then everything is probably free).
Hitting the Snooze Button: Flights can range from 12 to 15 hours, so pack some entertainment! Download some killer moose documentaries (research, people!), or brush up on your Canadian trivia to impress your fellow passengers. Who knew poutine was once considered a poor man's food?
QuickTip: Repetition reinforces learning.
Facing Your Fears (of Baggage Fees): Alaska's all about adventure, so pack light! Think you'll need five different parkas? Think again – layers are your friend. Besides, who needs fancy clothes when you'll be out-lumberjacking lumberjacks in your flannel shirt?
The Road Less Traveled (Unless You're Following a Caribou)
For the truly adventurous souls (and those who enjoy singing along to endless playlists of Nickelback), there's the road trip option. Buckle up, because we're talking about 4,000+ miles of highway stretching across some of Canada and the US's most scenic landscapes.
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
Warning: Nature's Backseat Drivers: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – moose, bears, and rogue Tim Hortons cups (seriously, folks, dispose of your garbage properly!).
Packing the Essentials: Pack for every weather condition imaginable – Alaska's got it all, from sunshine to snowstorms. Don't forget the bug spray – those Alaskan mosquitoes are no joke (and way bigger than anything you'll find back home).
QuickTip: Reading regularly builds stronger recall.
Finding Your Inner Mechanic (Hopefully You Don't Need It): Basic car maintenance skills are a plus, but don't worry, AAA (or CAA, as we call it here) can be your knight in shining armor...well, probably a rusty pickup truck, but hey, it gets the job done!
How to Get to Alaska: FAQ
How to avoid a grumpy grizzly bear encounter? Make noise while hiking, don't approach wild animals (no matter how cute those bear cubs look!), and carry bear spray (just in case).
Tip: Reading carefully reduces re-reading.
How to pack for all types of weather? Layers are your friend! Pack thermals, waterproof gear, a hat, and sunglasses.
How to survive a long flight? Download movies, podcasts, or audiobooks. Pack comfy clothes, an eye mask, and a refillable water bottle.
How to avoid those pesky mosquitos? Pack insect repellent with a high DEET content.
How to enjoy the best poutine in Alaska? (Sorry to disappoint, but...) Head back to Toronto! However, Alaska has some pretty stellar fresh seafood to try.