Looking at a possible trip to Alaska around Christmastime-ish.
Question:
Is it a stupid idea to even think of driving to Valdez that time of the
year?
Obviously, the nearby Thompson Pass has heck of a reputation as being a
major snow generator. The last car I rented in AK in the winter couldn't
handle little hills without literally sliding backwards down. So I have
to seriously wonder if I'm foolish in even considering Valdez as an
option?
I've been there once, years ago, in the shoulder season -- when the road
was dry and devoid of snow. I remember that descent, all right... 7
degree slope or some such steep thing. Dry road, no problem. But flat
snow-packed road, might as well as be ice, in the winter gives me pause.
Is it realistic if I rent a proper vehicle and put on chains, or should
I just save Valdez for another time of the year?
I'm not looking to plan a suicide mission, after all! This trip will
have me AND a first-timer to Alaska along, so I don't want to put anyone
in serious danger. I'm willing to accept some risk of danger, but less
willing to knowingly expose others to the same. Especially a first
timer; don't want to leave a bad memory.
I drive regularly in the winter where I live in somewhat similar road
conditions, but the difference is, I don't contend with hills or
mountains where I live.
So I'm looking forward to a reality check. Thanks. :-)
-Dan
P.S. ACA's been quiet without Richard Keebler. Did he finally graduate
from elementary school and attend junior high school?
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