Train and Ferry Travel Booked
I’ve booked two tickets in the last forty-eight hours, as my plans take shape following the North Star tour cancellation.
The state of shifting plans as of 11 March 2021… as with any adventure change is inevitable.
First of all, the adventure officially begins on 21 April 2021 with a two-day train trip from New York City through Chicago to Minneapolis. I’ll arrive late on April 22 and, weather permitting, be ready to ride the following day in the direction of South Dakota and Wyoming.
This is now fixed!
No longer tied to a set departure date in Missoula and still uncertain whether the US-Canada border will be open in June, I’ve decided grab a spot on the MV Kennicott, one of the mainline ferries in the Alaska Marine Highway System. These boats fill up early and I didn’t want to miss getting a ticket, so I’ve booked a voyage from Bellingham, Washington to Skagway, Alaska. My bike will be stowed away below with the autos and I’ll set up my tent on deck, which is a thing.
When I get to Skagway I’ll have several options. If the border is open, I can take the train to Carcross and cycle to see friends in Atlin, a few days ride away. If the border is still closed, I’ll ferry between Skagway and Haines or Juneau before proceeding by ship further up along the coast to Whittier to take the train through Anchorage to Mt. Denali to begin cycling. I’ve ridden the amazing Denali Highway several years ago and would be keen experience it again. In particular, I’d like to explore Maclaren Valley where we laid over for two nights in mid-July 2017.
Lots of options and many places to explore. But, for now, I have at least two fixed dates… 21 April leaving NYC and a ferry heading to Alaska on 23 June 2021.
Maclaren Valley, east of Mt. Denali
Maclaren Lodge bunk house, marginally better than a tent!
