Travel Tips
General Information For Alaska Travel
If you are riding to Alaska, you need to know that there are three ways to get here. You can ride the entire way by taking the Alaska-Canadian Highway (ALCAN) through Canada or you can take a detour and drive up the Cassiar (less traveled) which is Highway 37 through British Columbia. The House of Harley® recommends that you go to a local bookstore and buy a Mile Post. This is all you need to plan your trip to Alaska via the road system. Your third choice is a ferry up the Inside Passage to Haines, Alaska, then up to Haines Junction Yukon Territory and then on to Alaska via the ALCAN.
Note: Bikes are not permitted to drive on the Alaska Marine Highway. They sink!
Note: Handguns are not permitted in Canada. If you carry a gun, you will most likely lose it. The laws can change so you should check with Canadian Customs if you intend to take a gun with you.
Good gear is a must! Leather riding gear is recommended for maximum protection. Layers are the name of the game for comfort. It gets cold when it rains or when the sun goes behind the clouds. The air is almost always cool to cold. You also need good rain gear. You will be glad you have all of the proper riding gear. It is always best to overpack and be prepared for all weather conditions.
Helmets are required in Alaska for the passenger, but not the driver, however, the House of Harley® always recommends helmets for all riders! All Fly & Ride customers are required by law to wear a helmet. You cannot leave the dealership on a Fly & Ride bike unless you have a helmet for both the driver and the passenger. We do not rent helmets here. If you need to ship your gear on ahead in the case of a Fly & Ride, you may do so. Contact us by email or phone to make the proper arrangements.
We don't have bugs in Alaska. That is a running joke... don't believe it! If you bring bug repellent make sure it is 100% DEET. It is the only thing that works here!
Summer is the time for road construction and repair crews throughout the entire Northern world. You will run into construction sites on your trip. You can expect mud, gravel, and dust along your travels. Be alert and take your time through construction areas.
It is good practice to keep your tank filled with fuel at every opportunity. You never know when the next time you will be able to stop for gas.
Animals
Alaska has many great animals that most people don't even know about like the Musk Ox for example. You won't see one of these in the wild because there are no roads where they live. However, grizzly and black bears are plentiful. Despite popular belief, you won't encounter any Polar Bears in Alaska unless you visit the Anchorage Zoo. Wolves, coyotes, fox, porcupines, dahl sheep, rabbits and marmots are animals you may see along the roads as you ride. Moose, Bison and Caribou are the ones you need to be very aware of as you ride. Moose are the number one roadside hazard second only to gravel. These animals are large and have virtually no fear of you, your horn, or the hog® you rode in on. They can and will ruin your day if you let one walk out in front of you. Mountain goats live high and are along the water's edge. If you take one of the marine tours you will see mountain goats from the boat. Seldom will you see one from your car or bike. Bald and Golden Eagles, along with Ravens, are abundant here in Alaska and can be seen along the waterways and highways.
There are many roadside campgrounds in Alaska, however, most of the campgrounds require a fee to camp for the night. If you are not experienced in the wilderness, please be sure to take extra precaution to avoid running into brown or black bear in the area.
Contact the House of Harley® if you are interested camping in Anchorage. We offer free camping sites to bikers, along with free shower facilities that are available 24/7. Please contact the House for additional information on how to access these facilities after normal business hours.
In the event of a mechanical problem while on the road, there are a few things to remember. Fly & Ride bikes are serviced and inspected after every time out. It is very rare that you will have a problem, but if you do it is a good idea to always pay attention to the last town or landmark passed to help navigate for help. If you are on a Fly & Ride bike and need service along the road, please refer to the Road America card (provided by H.O.G.®). Road America will contact a local outfit to pick up the bike and get it to the nearest Harley® Dealer. You may have to pay for repairs and turn the receipts into H.O.G.® on your return home for reimbursement. This is covered in your contract. If you are riding your own bike and need service, it is our policy to service traveler's bikes ahead of others when possible. We make every effort to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Bring whatever you are comfortable traveling with on your bike. You can always use binoculars, cameras, and a pocket knife, etc. The House recommends that you pack a small first aid kit with bandages, aspirin, or equivalent pain reliever as well.