2009 Summer Visitors Guide by Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

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Eric Engman/News-Miner

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

A Fairbanks welcome Whether you’ve flown, cruised or driven the notorious Alaska highway here, welcome to the Golden Heart City of Fairbanks, the hub of Interior Alaska. The Summer Visitors Guide is a labor of love for the staff of the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, and we have put forth our best efforts to offer you an introduction to life in the Far North. Inside, you will find the best bets on what to see, do and experience during your visit. Most of us Alas-

kans are full of opinions on what you should take in during your visit, and we’ll be quick to share those opinions with you — just ask any sourdough you meet. Welcome, and enjoy your stay and our city. — Gary Black, Summer Visitors Guide 2009 editor gblack@newsminer.com Cover photo by Eric Engman, News-Miner photographer.

index Alaska Highway ........................... 55 Alaska Railroad ............................ 11 Anderson ...................................... 13 Auorora borealis .......................... 38 Campgrounds ......................... 53-54 Chena Lakes Recreation Area .... 70 Chena Hot Springs Resort ........... 61 Chicken ......................................... 75 Creamer’s Field ............................. 22 Coffee shops ................................. 47 Community Museum ................... 39 Dalton Highway ........................... 71 Dawson City .................................. 56 Delta Junction .............................. 64 Denali National Park ............... 8-10 Dog musing .................................. 39 Downtown shopping .................. 28 El Dorado Gold Mine .................. 48 Eagle .............................................. 74

Elliott Highway ............................ 76 Ester ............................................... 13 Farmer’s Market ........................... 38 Fox ................................................. 62 Felix Pedro .................................... 21 Fishing in the Interior .................... 5 Georgeson Botanical Garden ..... 60 Golfing .......................................... 37 Hiking ............................................ 15 Knotty Shop .................................. 69 Large Animal Research Station .. 36 Midnight Sun Festival .................. 26 Midnight Sun Game .................... 32 Midnight Sun Run .................... 15 Nenana .......................................... 12 North Pole .................................... 66 Outdoor activities .......................... 4 Pioneer Park ................................. 23 Religion and worshipping .......... 17

Restaurant guide .................... 42-47 Riverboat Discovery ..................... 40 Rules of the Road ........................ 52 Shakespeare Theatre ................... 35 Steese Highway ............................ 63 Summer Arts Festival ................... 18 Summer calendar of events ........ 33 Summer discounts ........................ 24 Tanana Chief Riverboat ............... 19 Tok ................................................. 76 Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline ............. 49 University of Alaska Fairbanks ... 58 Whitehorse ................................... 57 Wildlife viewing ........................... 59 World Eskimo-Indian Olympics .. 31 Wrangell-St. Elias ......................... 77 Yukon Quest ................................ 25 Valdez ............................................ 78 Visitors Center ............................... 29

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Land of the Midnight Sun Staff Report

Link to Outside

Building bases Military planners recognized that Fairbanks was centrally located between Tokyo and New York. Years of prodding led to the decision in 1937 to set aside 6 square miles near Fairbanks for a cold weather test station to train pilots and mechanics. The events of Dec. 7, 1941, gave new urgency to the work at what became known as Ladd Field. Fairbanks emerged as a military outpost, and cold-weather training took a back seat to a more strategic goal. The United States agreed to help the Russians fight Hitler by supplying airplanes

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and other equipment. Fairbanks became the transfer point for nearly 8,000 aircraft picked up by Russian pilots. The military has remained a vital part of the local economy, supplemented by the expansion of the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the oil boom on Alaska’s North Slope. The building of the trans-Alaska pipeline brought thousands of construction workers to the town along the Chena and new residents looking for opportunities. Today, nearly 32,000 people live within Fairbanks city limits and 97,000 people are estimated to live in the Fairbanks North Star Borough.

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Federal construction of the Alaska Railroad made large-scale gold mining possible in the 1920s. The railroad provided yearround economical transportation of goods to Fairbanks and it brought coal to Fairbanks, to be used in the power plant that provided energy for gigantic floating gold dredges. The Fairbanks Exploration Co. built power lines, mining camps and an industrial complex that became the economic backbone of Fairbanks until World War II. By then, the advance of aviation had again revolutionized transportation in Alaska. Fairbanks not only became an important center for flights within Alaska, but a key stop on roundthe-world flights for pilots such as Wiley Post and Howard Hughes.

Eric Engman/News-Miner

Felix Pedro, played by R.C. Rothermel, and his mule, Guido, announce striking gold in Fairbanks as they help kick off the 2008 Golden Days Celebration at Pioneer Park. Pedro Dome, north of Fairbanks, bears the name of the Italian immigrant who put the Interior's gold rush days on the map starting in 1902.

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The founding of Fairbanks was, well, an accident. Trader E.T. Barnette was trying to get a load of goods to the gold fields up the Tanana River when the steamer Lavelle Young got hung up in the shallows upstream from the Chena River. Barnette, his wife and his stock of goods were left on the banks of the Chena in August 1901 until he could find a way to continue his journey. The following July, however, Italian immigrant Felix Pedro struck gold in the hills just a few miles away. Barnette stayed and the fledgling town he founded was named after Charles W. Fairbanks, an Indiana senator and future vice president. Because the gold was buried deep underground, the rush was slow to materialize and the city wasn’t founded until 1903. By 1906, $6 million in gold was produced in the region. By 1910, nearly $30 million had been produced from Cleary, Ester and Fairbanks creeks, almost two-thirds of the gold mined in the region.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Get outside and play hard Top 10 outdoor things to do in Interior Alaska You may not have the time or gumption to climb Mount McKinley or float the Yukon River during your trip to the Last Frontier, but there are plenty of other outdoor adventures you can tackle during your visit to Fairbanks and Interior Alaska. News-Miner outdoors editor Tim Mowry mapped out a checklist of 10 things visitors should do during their trek to the Interior. You may not be able to accomplish all of them, but try to check one or two off the list before you leave. Happy trails. 1) Take a hike. The best way to get a feel for the country is to walk across it. That’s not always easy to do in Alaska, but fortunately there are several hiking trails in the Interior that lead the way to spectacular, panoramic views of Alaska’s heartland. 2) Catch an arctic grayling. They’re not as big and tasty as the salmon and halibut Alaska is famous for but arctic grayling are the bread and butter of fishing in the Interior. They’re one of the prettiest fish you will ever see and are known for their cooperative nature. The Chena River, which flows through downtown Fairbanks, is one of the best grayling fisheries in the state. Anglers beware, however, it is restricted to catch and release. 3) Visit a dog musher. Dog mushing is the official state sport so you might as well get a sniff of it while you’re here. Whether you take an organized tour of a dog lot or just track down a musher to check out his or her operation, a trip to a genu-

ine Alaska dog mushing kennel is an eye-opening experience. 4) Ride the bus into Denali National Park and Preserve. It means a long day on a bus but the sights that you may see are worth it. In addition to 20,320-foot Mount McKinley, bus riders have a good chance to see grizzly bears, wolves, Dall sheep, moose and caribou. There are tourists who see more wildlife on one bus ride into the park than some Alaskans do in their lifetime. 5) Drive across the Denali Highway. You might not want to mention this if you’re renting a car — most car rental companies don’t allow driving across the Denali Highway — but the 135-mile trip across the Denali Highway may be the prettiest, wildest drive in Alaska. 6) Go whitewater rafting in Denali Park. You’ll spend almost as much time learning how to get into your dry suit as you will on the water, but once you hit the chilly gray glacial water of the Nenana River you’ll be glad you have it. The trip down the Nenana River, which features Class IV rapids, is a wet and wild ride. 7) Drive to the end of a road. Isn’t that what Alaska is famous for? Well, the Interior offers the best chance of anywhere to do it. Take your pick of a half dozen roads that come to an end. Drive up the 130-mile Steese Highway to the Yukon River in Circle. Head up the 160-mile Elliott Highway, which ends in the town of Manley. You

can always take a drive out the 55-mile Chena Hot Springs Road and take a soak in the springs. There’s also the 160-mile Taylor Highway to Eagle, which offers another chance to see the mighty Yukon. For the really adventurous, take a drive up the 414-mile Dalton Highway to Deadhorse on the North Slope. 8) Climb — or drive — to the top of a dome. For Interior flatlanders, domes are the equivalent of mountains elsewhere in the state and there are any number to choose from. Both Ester Dome (2,323 feet) and Murphy Dome (2,930 feet) are located just outside Fairbanks and have roads leading to the top. There is also Wickersham Dome Summit (3,806 feet), about 30 miles north of Fairbanks in the White Mountains National Recreation Area, and Donnelly Dome (3,910 feet), located off the Richardson Highway about 120 miles south of Fairbanks. 9) Kill a mosquito. Actually, kill as many as you can. There is no bag limit on mosquitoes in Alaska and, unlike moose, caribou and salmon, local residents have no qualms about Outsiders coming in and killing them. Swat away until your heart’s content, or you run out of blood, whichever comes first. 10) Find a moose. Moose are one of the true symbols of Alaska and they’re not all that hard to find if you keep your eyes open as you drive down the road, which is a good idea so you don’t hit one. Remember, though, don’t feed them and don’t approach them. — Tim Mowry

Travel in the know by phone or web

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MOUNTAIN SPORTS

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Gone fishin' Arctic grayling rise to the top for Interior anglers By TIM MOWRY tmowry@newsminer.com

take a dry fly or chase a spinner. • Tackle: A lightweight (4or 5-weight) fly or spinning rod. • Flies/lures: Any number of dry flies — Adams, elk hair caddis, Griffith’s gnat, mosquitoes, black ants, stimulators — or small spinners will attract the attention of grayling. • Where to go: Chatanika River, Chena River, Delta Clearwater River, Salcha River, Tangle Lakes.

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Please see FISH, Page 6

• Description: With its sail-like dorsal fin dotted with large iridescent red or purple spots, the grayling is one of the most unusual and beautiful fish of Alaska. Colored slate gray, they have varying numbers of black spots scattered along both sides. • Size: Usually 8 to 18 inches. • Diet: Grayling aren’t picky eaters, and they feed on all kinds of insects. They are known for their voracious appetites and willingness to

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ou won’t hook into the bright, shiny salmon in the Interior that anglers brag about in Southcentral or Southeast Alaska. Neither will you find yourself posing next to a barn-door-sized halibut that are famous in the fishing ports of Homer and Valdez. What you will find in the Interior is arctic grayling. Lots of arctic grayling. “That’s what I tell people to focus on when they call me,” Audra Brase, area management sport fish biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in Fairbanks, said. “We’ve got a lot of grayling, they’re a great fish to catch, they’re easy to catch and we’ve got road accessible rivers with grayling in them.” And they are uniquely Alaskan. “You don’t catch grayling in the Lower 48,” Brase said. As the name implies, Arctic grayling survived in unglaciated areas of Alaska in the Yukon River valley and the North Slope. From there, they have spread throughout Alaska but are most common in the Interior. Their tolerance of low dissolved oxygen levels allows grayling to survive long winters in areas where many other salmonids would die. An elegant cousin of the trout, arctic grayling are distinquished by their iridescent, sail-like dorsal fin, which is dotted with green and purple spots. The slate gray fish are famous for their voracious appetites and willingness to attack dry flies, making them a favorite of fly fishermen using lightweight tackle. “They’re beautiful fish, and they’re aggressive feeders,” Fairbanks fly fishing instructor Shann Jones said. “Grayling don’t ever miss an opportunity to take a dry fly.” Grayling range in size from 8 to 18 inches and can be found in most freshwater streams along the road system in the Interior. The Chena River, which flows through downtown Fairbanks, is a blue-ribbon grayling fishery. The upper Chena River east of Fairbanks parallels Chena Hot Springs Road for several miles

ARCTIC GRAYLING

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

FISH

IF YOU GO FISHING

News-Miner file

Arctic grayling are the fish of choice for Interior Alaska fishermen. tion of grayling. If bait is allowed where you’re fishing, grayling will readily take salmon eggs. As for taste, grayling have flaky white meat that is best if cooked and eaten as soon as possible. They do not keep well frozen. The best thing you can do is bring a frying pan with you and cook any fish you catch on the riverbank next to you. Be careful, though, some grayling fisheries, including the Chena River and Delta Clearwater River, are restricted to catchand-release fishing only. There are also restrictions on using bait and treble hooks in some rivers. As always, check the fishing regulations before you wet a line.

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• Who needs one? To fish in all Alaska fresh and salt waters, an Alaska sport fishing license is required for all nonresident anglers 16 and older, and most residents from 16 to 59. A resident is a person who has lived in Alaska for at least one year. Alaska residents 60 and older are not required to purchase a sport fishing license but must apply for a Permanent Identification Card, which is a lifetime hunting, fishing and trapping license. Anglers under 16 do not need a license. • How much do they cost? A resident sport fishing license costs $24 for a season. Nonresident licenses come in many forms and prices, ranging from a 1-day license for $20 to a season license for $145. There are also 3-, 7- and 14-day licenses that cost $35, $55 and $80, respectively. • What about king salmon stamps? Residents and nonresidents must purchase a king salmon stamp to fish for king salmon. Like licenses, nonresident king salmon stamps come in many forms and prices, ranging from a 1-day stamp for $10 to an annual stamp for $100. A resident king salmon stamp is $10. • Where do I buy a license and king salmon stamp? Licenses are available at Alaska Department of Fish and Game offices, vendors around the state (i.e. sporting goods stores, hardware stores, gas stations, etc.), by mail from the ADF&G Licensing Section, 1255W. 8th Street, P.O. Box 115525, Juneau, AK 99811 or online at www.admin.adfg.state. ak.us/license.

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in the Chena River State Recreation Area and offers multiple access points to the river, as well as campgrounds to pitch a tent or park an RV. “You can spend the whole day on the upper Chena and not see anybody,” Brase said. “You can have your bonfire on the beach, a picnic and enjoy the day.” The Delta Clearwater River, located about 100 miles south of Fairbanks and accessible from the Richardson Highway, is another popular place to find big grayling. Fish up to 20 inches are common in the Delta Clearwater, which serves as a summer feeding ground for grayling before they migrate to other rivers in for the winter. Fly and spin fishing for arctic grayling is similar to fishing for trout. A four- or five weight fly rod or light spinning rod is all you need. Favorite flies include elk hair caddis, Adams, mosquitoes and black ants. For spin fishermen, any number of small Mepps or Blue Fox spinners will attract the atten-

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Continued from Page 5

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

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MERRELL • SMITH • LOWA • EX OFFICIO • OAKLEY • CROCS • MERRELL • SMITH • LOWA • EX OFFICIO • OAKLEY • CROCS • MERRELL • SMITH • LOWA • EX OFFICIO • OAKLEY

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• JETBOIL • DANSKO • THERMAREST • PEARL IZUMI • BRIDGEDALE • EAGLE CREEK • SMARTWOOL • BIRKENSTOCK •

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Denali National Park Wilds of Alaska herald state’s most-loved site By KRIS CAPPS For the News-Miner

hen an Alaskan says “the mountain is out,” there is no doubt which mountain is filling the horizon. It is Mount McKinley, or “Denali” as most Alaskans call it. The 20,320-foot massif is the tallest mountain in North America. It is often covered by clouds, but when visible, it is a magnificent sight. The mountain is not the reason Denali National Park and Preserve was created, however. In 1917, the park was created to protect the wildlife. Eventually expanded to 6 million acres, the park is home to moose, caribou, Dall sheep, wolves and bears. More than 650 species of flowering plants eke out a living here, along with a variety of mosses and lichens. Only plants adapted to long, cold winters and short growing seasons can survive in Denali’s subarctic climate. In addition, Denali is home to 39 species of mammals, 167 species of birds, 10 species of fish, and one amphibian, the wood frog. There are no reptiles recorded at Denali National Park. There are dinosaur tracks, however, just recently discovered in 2005, showing for the first time that those prehistoric creatures lived here.

Sam Harrel/News-Miner

Anyone can drive the first 15 miles of road in Denali National Park and Preserve to Savage River. After that, traffic is limited. The only way to get deep into the park is by taking a park bus. Get to the park by train, car, bus or by chartering a small airplane. A single, winding, primarily gravel road, winds through the mountains and across rivers for about 90 miles to the old mining community of Kantishna, now a visitors haven. The only way to get there is by taking a park bus. Anyone can drive the first 15 miles of road to Savage River. After that, traffic is limited. This is deliberate. This park is managed for the wildlife, not for people. Photography is encouraged at the park, but be careful when photographing wildlife. There

are guidelines on how close you should approach animals. There are also guidelines for hiking, to help preserve the fragile tundra plans that cling to life during the short season on sunny slopes. Take special measures to enjoy wildlife from afar and avoid chance encounters with bears. For a close-up view of how the park operates, visit the Denali kennels, where a team of sled dogs lives year round. During the summer, these working dogs welcome visitors and their handlers provide an informative program on life with the dogs, who patrol Denali during winter months.

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Daily, June 4 thru September 12 $135.00 per person • $10 park entrance fee

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Denali National Park Outdoor opportunities await Denali’s visitors The 90-mile road into Denali National Park runs from the George Parks Highway to the former mining community of Kantishna. The first 15 miles are paved and open to the public. Past that point, however, vehicle travel is restricted on the narrow, winding gravel surface. Buses shuttle tourists in and out of the park and drop off hikers and campers. Bus trips range from two to 12 hours and visitors can take either a tour bus or a shuttle bus. Shuttle buses are less expensive and have fewer amenities, but travel farther into the park and visitors can get off and then back on, if seats are available, whenever they want to go hike for awhile. Visitors planning to hike, bike, camp, backpack or picnic in the park should take a shuttle bus. The shuttle is available for folks who just want to enjoy the scenery. But be sure and bring along food and water. There are no convenience stores along the way. Those who prefer a more deluxe trip can opt for one of the tours. A variety of lengths, prices and options are available. Fees vary in addition to the park entrance fee. On the Tundra Wilderness

GETTING INTO THE PARK Visitors to Denali National Park have several options to enter the park. They can drive to the Savage River, 15 miles down the park road, and the park runs a free shuttle to that point. However, all access beyond that point is restricted to the park’s shuttle buses and tours run by concessionaire Doyon/Aramark. Check the Web site at www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit for schedules and details. Visitors have five options to make a reservation for a bus. 1. Visit the park Web site, www.reservedenali.com. 2. Fax the reservation form available at www.nps.gov/dena/ planyourvisit to (907)264-4684; 3. Mail it in Doyon/ARAMARK Joint Venture, 241 West Creek Ave., Anchorage, AK 99501; 4. Call (800) 722-7275 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Alaska time; 5: Make a reservation in person at the Wilderness Access Center Reservation Desk up to two days in advance. Fees depend on the length of the trip. Campers can take the bus to their site for a fee. Tour buses are designed to be more comfortable with a more structured program. All fees are in addition to the park entrance fee of $10 per person or $20 per vehicle.

Tour, visitors can take home a DVD of their own tour. Recorded footage of the animals and experience from their own tour will be offered beginning when the park opens. Reservations for shuttles and tour buses can be made by calling (800) 622-7275 or www. reservedenali.com. You can also make a reservation in person at the Wilderness Access Center reservation desk, up to two days

in advance. Permits are required to hike into the backcountry and are available at the Backcountry Information Center, adjacent to the Wilderness Access Center. Established campgrounds welcome visitors in the entrance area and at the end of the park road at Wonder Lake. To make camping reservations in advance, call (800) 622-7275.

— Kris Capps

The Denali Highway By ASHLEY BRIGGS News-Miner intern

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Take a leisurely drive on the Denali Highway through one of the most scenic, unspoiled areas in Interior Alaska. The 135-mile mostly gravel road passes through alpine tundra and taiga for much of its route, with breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and glaciers. It links two of Alaska’s major byways, the Richardson Highway and the Parks Highway at Paxson and Cantwell. It is closed between October and mid-May. Completed in 1957, the Denali Highway provided motorists with access to Denali National Park and Preserve (the road through the park is called the Denali Park Road and is usually only accessible by tour bus or a special permit.) In 1971, after the paved Parks Highway offered more convenient access to the park, the Denali Highway became a tourist

byway into the backcountry. Glaciers have left their mark on the region and the road travels along eskers and moraines and around shallow kettle ponds. Be sure to have a full tank of gas, as there are no gas stations along the route. Several lodges offer food and minor repairs. Campgrounds and information areas are available along the way and include Tangle Lakes Campground, the Delta National Wild & Scenic River Wayside, the Clearwater Wayside and Outhouse, and the Brushkana Creek Campground. Leaving Paxson, the first 21 miles of the highway are paved. The route then becomes gravel

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, Saturday, May 2, 2009

Exploring the Denali area By KRIS CAPPS For the News-Miner Riding a bus into Denali National Park is not the only way to enjoy the wilderness and its surrounding area. Check out opportunities outside the park boundaries. About a mile from the park entrance is a strip of hotels, restaurants and gift stores that offer every comfort imaginable. Other restaurants and campground are located a few miles south of the park entrance, where most of the area’s year-round residents live. There are many easy to moderate hiking trails near the park entrance and the park offers ranger-guided hikes. Check for details at the Denali Visitor Center and the Wilderness Access Center. Seven miles south of the park entrance, the Denali Education Center offers community programs throughout the summer that are worth investigating. See the schedule on post office bulletin boards or at www.denali.org. All programs take place at the Charles Sheldon Center. Before you get to Healy, you’ll reach Otto Lake Road. Turn left. Just a mile or so west is Denali Outdoor Center headquarters. This company offers scenic camping, raft and kayak trips down the Nenana River, bicycle rentals and kayak lessons. See www.denalioutdoorcenter.com or call (888) 3031925 or (907) 683-1925. Across the lake, the Black Diamond Resort Co. offers a fine restaurant, a nine hole golf course where you can tee off at midnight, a mini-golf course, allterrain vehicle tours and horsedrawn carriage tours. See www. blackdiamondgolf.com or call 907 683-4653.

Other activities • Artistic director Todd R. Norris wrangles a troupe of actors recreating Gold Rush-era life in the park at the Alaska Cabin Nite Dinner Theatre at McKinley Chalets, 238.9 Mile Parks Highway. “Fannie’s Roadhouse” is based on the life of Fannie Quigley, who ran a roadhouse in the park. The theater hosts two shows nightly at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., seven days week, from May 13 to Sept. 16 and shows include dinner. Call 907-683-8200, or visit www.denaliparkresorts.com, then click on activities and events. Tickets are $60 per person. • Denali ATV Adventures offers excursions into the Bush with single, two-person or side-byside ATVs for those with kids or for a spouse who doesn't want to drive. Each helmet has an intercom so the guide can provide live, narrated tours. Call 907-683-4288 or e-mail info@DenaliATV.com. • Horseback tours at Denali Saddle Safaris, (907) 683-1200 at Mile 3.9 Stampede Road, just north of Healy. Rides last from one hour to half-days. See www. denalisaddlesafaris.com. • Earth-Song Lodge and Denali Dog Sled Expeditions also on Stampede Trail, offers tours lodging on the tundra of the Alaska Range and tours of its dog sled kennel. The proprietors provide slide shows of sled dog expeditions and offer a coffee house as well. See www.earthsonglodge.com or call 907 683-2863. • Husky Homestead Tours. Another activity well worth doing is visiting the champion dog sled kennel of four-time Iditarod Sled Dog Champion Jeff King on Goose Lake, just south of the entrance to Denali National Park. The 1 1/2

hour narrated tour takes visitors on the Iditarod Trail and shares stories from the race. See www. huskyhomestead.com or call 907 683-2904. The Nenana River runs through the valley and several operators offer rips ranging from calm and scenic Class II with just a few ripples to exciting Class IV hold-on-to-your-hat waves. All companies now provide drysuits to put on over your clothes. Options include: • Nenana Raft Adventures — whitewater rafting trips through the Nenana River gorge, excursions on the calmer upper section of river, and multi-day backcountry options. Call (888) 789-7238 or (907) 683-7238 or see www. alaskaraft.com. • Denali Raft Adventures — two-hour, four-hour and all-day excursions on the Nenana River. Call (888)683-2234 or (907) 6832234 or see www.denaliraft.com. • ERA Helicopters offers flightseeing tours, some of which include glacier landings. See www. flightseeingtours.com or call 907 683-2574 or (800) 843-1947. Denali Air takes passengers up in fixed-wing airplanes that take off from a private airstrip, 8 miles south of the park entrace. See www.denaliair.com or call 907 683-2261.

What to wear Weather at Denali can change in an instant. Summer temperatures range from 33 to 75 degrees, and it is not uncommon for snow to fall in July. Park rangers suggest visitors dress in layers and bring a raincoat that can also serve as a windbreaker. Mittens and a warm hat are a good precaution. Don’t forget mosquito repellant. Alaska mosquitoes are notorious, especially in certain areas of the park, like Wonder Lake.

• 21⁄2-4 Hour Guided Tours w/Live Narration Through Helmet • All Riding Gear Provided • Family-Oriented, Single and 2-Person, Side-by-Side ATVs

Denali ATV Adventures 907 683-4ATV (4288)

www.DenaliATV.com Email: info@DenaliATV.com

21349954-5-2-09VG

Mile 238.6 Parks Hwy, Denali

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Alaska Railroad adventures Line offers special deal to celebrate statehood By ASHLEY BRIGGS News-Miner intern Turning 50 in 2009? To celebrate Alaska’s 50th birthday, the Alaska Railroad is offering anyone who turns 50 in 2009 a free ride on the Alaska Railroad for a day. Not turning 50 this year? The Alaska Railroad is still a great way to get out and see Alaska. New double-deck luxury dome cars allow you to travel in style and comfort through the wilderness of Alaska. The new cars, which have upper-level outdoor platforms and an open air viewing deck, are the first of their kind on any trail service in the world. The Alaska Railroad also is the last full-service railroad in the United States, meaning it handles freight, passenger and commercial trains. Built between 1914 and 1923, its 500-mile main line stretches from Seward, on the Gulf of Alaska, to Fairbanks. The Alaska Railroad has several summer trains, including the Coastal Classic Train, Glacier Discovery Train, Hurricane Turn and the Denali Star Train.

Alaska residents celebrate the opening of Fairbanks' new railroad station in 2005. The modern facility is a tourist destination as well as a great way to get around. The Denali Star train, which runs between Fairbanks and Anchorage with stops in Talkeetna, Denali and Wasilla, and the Coastal Classic train, a day trip from Anchorage to Seward with views of the Chugach Mountains, offer the new GoldStar service. GoldStar Service includes a confirmed seat in the upper-level dome car, complimentary beverages, priority check-in and boarding, priority seating in the lower-

level dining room, and a private outdoor viewing deck. The Alaska Railroad offers Peak and Value fares. Value fares are in place from May 15-31 and Sept. 1-14. Peak fares run June 1- Aug. 31. The Alaska Railroad allows guests to customize their trip with destinations, services and optional excursions including day Please see RAILROAD, Page 14

Alaska Railroad Vacations AlaskaRailroad.com Celebrate Alaska’s 50th Anniversary! Save up to 50% on Denali rail & hotel packages.

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2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Nenana, gateway to the Interior Fun and history collide at Alaska Railroad town By GARY BLACK gblack@newsminer.com Nenana’s strategic location at the confluence of two rivers fortifies the small town’s big role in Alaska. Just 65 miles south of Fairbanks, it sits on the Parks Highway along the Tanana River near the mouth of the Nenana River. Toghotthele Hill, an Athabascan word meaning “mountain that parallels the river,” is a local landmark, and the site has a long history as a Native gathering place. The construction of the Alaska Railroad around 1915 doubled the area’s population. The railroad crosses the Tanana River on the Mears Memorial Bridge, the second-longest single span bridge in the country at 706 feet long. President Warren J. Harding drove the golden spike to commemorate the railroad’s completion on July 15, 1923. In August 2008, Gov. Sarah Palin dedicated the Shirley Demientieff Memorial Bridge on the Parks Highway in honor of the community and Native activist from Nenana. Today, the town’s population is approximately 450 in winter but grows by about 150 to 200 in summer when the river swims to life with boats and barges. While visitors cannot tour the barges, they can watch the loading and unloading of food and supplies as the vessels prepare for voyages to Interior villages. “All those barge lines are what Nenana has depended on for income because we are the gateway to the Interior,” Joanne Hawkins, owner of Tripod Gift

Nora Gruner for the News-Miner

Rachel Davenport, 8 grabs her second potato during the potato race at the Nenana Fourth of July celebration. Shop, said. Hawkins has lived in Nenana since 1972. The River Daze festival in June celebrates river life and the return of salmon runs and fish camps. This year’s day-long event sponsored by the Lion’s Club of Nenana includes boat sprint races, a precursor to the Yukon 800 boat race; the steel drum band from the University of Fairbanks; a gun show and arts and crafts vendors. River Daze is June 6. The town also hosts a large Fourth of July festival in which motorcycle riders from across Alaska converge and ride en masse into town. The Fourth of July fest also includes a number of childrens events. Nenana’s greatest claim in Alaska lore stems from the Nenana Ice Classic, the annual lottery created by railroad workers in 1917 to guess when the ice covering the Tanana River would break up in the spring. Nenana is only place in Alaska where you can

TRIPOD GIFT SHO P and MINI MALL Call for complimentary city tours for groups of 20 or more

Art Lovers Gallery & Hand Crafts • Sweets & Treats Shop Ulu Factory Outlet • King & Queen Shop • Bargain Corner

(907)832-5272 • FAX (907)832-5556 Reservations (907) 223-8444

OFFICIAL STATE OF ALASKA

Authentically Restored

RAILROAD MUSEUM

Nenana Railroad Depot

Beautifully located on the river and filled with railroad memorabilia dating back to the beginning.

w w w.n e n a n a a l a s k a . n e t e - m a i l – t r i p o d g s @m t a o n l i n e . n e t

Bed & Maybe Breakfast Nenana ARR Depot, $89 and up tripodgs@mtaonline.net

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OPEN DAILY 9-6 (907) 832-5500/5556

buy tickets year-round for the Ice Classic, even in summer. Its second-greatest claim is the storied trek to stop a diphtheria outbreak in Nome in 1925 — the basis for the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. It began when the serum was unloaded from a train at the Nenana depot and sled dog teams took it overland to Nome. Today, mushers and snowmachiners in the Serum Run ’25 follow the original trail to continue the message of the importance of inoculations and other health issues and to keep the history of the Iditarod alive. Several Iditarod and Yukon Quest mushers live in the area. Main street and the vicinity includes some new and established businesses. Be sure to: • stop at the Nenana Visitors Center on Fifth and A streets. It’s open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily. The Taku Chief, the last of the wood-bottom tugs what worked the river, is on display. (Taku means “gust of wind.”) • check out Coghill General Store, 807 North A St. (the oldest business on main street complete with solid oak floors. It sells a little bit of everything). 907-8325422. • grab a bite to eat at Brandi’s Riverfront Diner, 711 A St., owned by Bob and Brandi Sirmans. The diner serves family style American grub, but Brandi’s specialty is Mexican food. “Complete with New Mexico chilies,” Brandi says. 907-832-5225. • stop in at the Monderosa Bar and Grill, just outside of Nenana at 309 Mile Parks Highway. It bills itself as having the best burger in Alaska and is open yearround. 907-832-5243. Please see NENANA, Page 14

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Anderson grooves during fest By REBECCA GEORGE rgeorge@newsminer.com About 55 miles southwest of Fairbanks is a small town with a big taste for bluegrass music. The quaint and quirky town of Anderson sees its 600-plus population nearly double each summer during the Anderson Bluegrass and Country Music festival, which draws crowds that would put a Grateful Dead concert to shame. A diverse range of bluegrass, Celtic, jazz and country music

bands come out for a fun-filled three days of music, camping and other festivities, creating the atmosphere one of the largest family gatherings in the Interior. This year’s festival is slated for July 31 through Aug. 2 at Riverside Park. The park offers complete facilities with host campgrounds, restrooms, showers, RV dumping, electrical hookups, telephones, barbecue pits and covered pavilions and shooting ranges.

Anderson was created in 1962 with the construction of the Ballistic Missile Early Warning System at Clear Air Force Station. The town is off the six-mile access road running west of the Parks Highway at mile 283.5. Bring your harmonica, washboard, jugs and kazoos (and don’t forget bug spray) for a live concert along the riverside. Wear whatever you wish: tiedye, Birkenstocks or your favorite garb — so long as you wear your dancing feet because you’re bound to have a good time.

Quirky Ester invites you Fairbanks neighbor contains vibrant arts community By GARY BLACK gblack@newsminer.com

ated by Rod and Ivet Hall. The store’s focus is on well-made and unique arts and crafts from Alaska. In addition the shop has some carving and knife making materials for sale. Ester has a well-used community park maintained by the Ester Community Association’s Park Committee and other volunteers. The park has an ice rink that doubles as a basketball court in the summer, a children’s playground, a picnic pavilion and a soccer field. The park, situated next to the Ester Volunteer Fire Department, is the site of numerous soccer games, Ester Football League games, a Fourth of July picnic, musical gatherings and other events throughout the year. The Calypso Farm and Ecology Center, 907-451-0691, is a nonprofit, educational farm in the area. It provide hands-on education and tours.

"Best Burger in Town" 3630 Main Street Ester, Alaska 99709 goldeneaglesaloon.com

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Ester could be considered a Fairbanks suburb, but locals prefer to keep it strictly independent. Just a jaunt down the Parks Highway, the laid-back community (the “People’s Republic of Ester” as they like to call it) was once a thriving gold rush town in the early 1900s founded on Ester Creek. Miners discovered gold there in 1903. By 1907, Ester City had a population of about 200. In 1929, the Fairbanks Exploration Company began mining on Ester Creek, and in 1933 they built a mess hall for their camp. That camp later became the Ester Gold Camp. In 1958, Fairbanks Exploration, then known as the F. E. Mining Company, sold the property to local entrepreneur Don Pearson. Flash-forward to 2009 and the community is still around, eking out a colorful, quirky existence. The burg is home to a collection of artists, recreational mushers and snowmachiners who are more than eager to chat it up with visitors. Its small, dirt streets are dotted with log homes ranging from simple to grand, adorned with what seems to be acres of flowers and packs dogs — lots of dogs, most of which are welcome at the local hangouts, like the Golden Eagle. The Eagle is one of the favorite watering holes in Ester, where you can grill your own

burger and peruse the vast photos on the walls which span decades of history. Note: don’t drop your burger or it’s likely to become dinner for someone’s pet before it even hits the floor. The Ester Gold Camp and Malemute Saloon, both closed this season for renovations, usually offer glimpses of mining life from the early 1900s. The community boasts its own newspaper, the Ester Republic, published by Deirdre Helfferich. Deirdre and her husband, Hans Mölders, also own Ester Designworks, and Hans is noted for his woodworking. The Ester Republic Press is located at studio No. 2 in the Annex, 2922 Parks Highway. The Annex also hosts art displays and gallery openings for Alaska artists. Call 907-457-6668 for a list of artists, openings, schedules and events. The community also hosts the John Trigg Ester Library and has hosted several fundraisers for a new building. One of the most interesting publications to come out of Ester is the Women of Ester calendar, featuring spreads of the locals. Ask around for a copy, which can provide an interesting perspective of life in Ester. Ester resident Judie Gumm and her staff of four create stellar jewelry at her shop, Judie Gumm Designs (907-479-4568 or judiegumm.com). The Alaska Village Arts Gift Store (490 Jeannette Way, 907-456-8090, www.alaskanvillagearts.com) is owned and oper-

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

NENANA: Attractions

RAILROAD

Continued from Page 11

• visit St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, built in 1906 as a mission and school for area children. • visit the railroad depot, which is on the national register of historic places; the Alaska Railroad Museum (907-8325500); the Golden Railroad Spike Historic Park and Interpretive Center; and wander through the Alfred Starr Cultural Center (907-832-5527) along the riverfront. Those are free and open daily. The Nenana Valley Visitor’s Center, (907) 832-5435, can provide information on local churches, accommodations and other activities. • grab a cold one at Jester’s Palace, a new watering hole opened by five Shriners at 802 A St. (907) 832-2033 RV camping is available at Nenana RV park (907-832-5230), owned by Larry and Judy Junge. The Tripod Gift Shop, 404 N. Parks Highway, (907-832-5556) has spots for RVs and tent camping behind the store. Tripod also has a working fish wheel

on display and picnic tables if you want to enjoy a leisurely lunch. Tour groups that make reservations with Tripod owner Hawkins will get a free city tour. “I’ll just hop on the bus with them and take them through town,” she said. And if you’re lucky, you might get some of Joanne’s accordion music. Nenana has air access with a 5,000-foot paved runway for float and ski planes. It also hosts the only gas station between Healy and Fairbanks. Nenana has a medical clinic, 806 East G St., open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (907832-5247.) The town boasts local radio station KIAM 630 AM and FM 91.9, and on the first Saturday of each month, locals gather for a freecyling day at George Hall. The town’s school recently hosted a beautification project along main street in which students spruced up garbage cans, and businesses along main street usually go all-out in summer with flowers and hanging baskets.

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trips or longer voyages. No matter which trip you choose, a tour guide will be available to locate scenic landmarks and help you learn about points of interest along the way. Adventure Packages are also available such as; Alaska Highlight, a seven-day trip through Anchorage, Whittier and Prince William Sound, Alyeska Resort, Girdwood, Seward and Talkeetna. The Arctic Circle to Glacier Bay is an 11-day excursion through Fairbanks, Denail, Talkeetna, Anchorage, Seward, Glacier Bay and Juneau with a flight to the Arctic Circle; and the Alaska Indulgence is a 12-day trip that allows you to visit Denali, the remote backcountry of Alaska, Anchorage, Seward and Kenai. The railroad also runs several cruise operations in the southern part of the state. For reservations, scheduling or information, call 800-544-0552 or visit www.alaskarailroad.com. Prices depend on length of voyage and destination.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Midnight Sun Run By MATIAS SAARI msaari@newsminer.com

LET’S RACE

Be it on roads or trails covering 1 mile to a marathon, Fairbanks offers a full calendar of races to satisfy both novices and more experienced runners. The highlight for many is the 27th annual Midnight Sun Run, a 10-kilometer event that typically draws upwards of 3,000 participants, from walkers to racers. It begins in full daylight at 10 p.m. on June 20 at the UAF Patty Center, travels through several neighborhoods with enthusiastic spectators and finishes at Pioneer Park. A howitzer cannon blast starts the masses off and a costume contest exhibits the community’s creativity. Other highlights in the summer running season include the Golden Mile, which is run just before the Golden Days parade on July 25; the 44th annual Gold Discovery Run on July 26; the 16th Santa Claus Half Marathon

• Midnight Sun Run 10K, 10 p.m. June 20, UAF Patty Center • Santa Claus Half Marathon, 9 a.m. Aug. 8, Flint Hills Refinery, North Pole • Equinox Marathon, 8 a.m. Sept. 19, UAF Patty Center For more information, visit www.runningclubnorth.org

Aug. 8 in North Pole; the Run for the Refuge at the University of Alaska Fairbanks trails on Aug. 16; and the 47th Equinox Marathon and three-person relay on Sept. 19. The Equinox was created in 1963 by members of the UAF ski team who figured the marathon wouldn’t last but they would at least have a 26-mile ski trail to fall back on. It has instead become a Fairbanks fall tradition and is

one of America’s oldest, most scenic and most difficult marathons. The Flint Hills Cup Series is comprised of eight races and offers rewards for the top overall and age-group runners at the Running Club North awards social in October. The Northern Trails Running Series has six events and is contested entirely off the pavement. Triathletes can also test themselves with several races, including the half-Ironman length Sourdough Triathlon July 11 on the Steese Highway. For more information and a full race calendar, visit www.runningclubnorth.org. There also a variety of cycling races, such as the Tour of Fairbanks June 11-14, and mountain bike events like the popular Tuesday Night Mountain Bike Rides. A schedule is posted at www.fairbankscycleclub.org.

Contact staff writer Matias Saari at 459-7591.

Take a hike! Interior trails abound and offer beautiful scenery Staff Report

shuttle back to your vehicle. The 15-mile Granite Tors loop at 39 Mile Chena Hot Springs Road is another popular and scenic trail. The trail winds through the woods of alpine country and granite rock formations at more than 3,000 feet. The trail gets its name from a series of granite outcroppings, or tors, that were formed millions of years ago when molten rock pushed upward, cooling before reaching the surface.

Breakfast now served daily! 6:00-11:00 a.m. • Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. • Saturday & Sunday

734 University Ave.

458-8020

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iking is a cheap, easy and relatively safe way to explore Alaska, and there are several popular day and overnight hikes within an hour’s drive of Fairbanks. There are $5 daily parking fees at five Interior sites, including the two most popular hiking trails: Angel Rocks and Granite Tors. There also are fees for some camping areas. Hike central in the Interior is the Chena River State Recreation Area, about 30 miles east of Fairbanks on Chena Hot Springs Road. The 250,000-acre state park features five different hikes ranging in length from 3.5 miles to 30 miles. The 3.5-mile Angel Rocks Trail begins at 48.9 Mile Chena Hot Springs Road and is probably the most-hiked trail in the Interior. It includes a spectacular view of the

Chena River valley less than two miles from the parking lot. The trail climbs 1,750 feet. Hikers can extend the Angel Rocks trail by turning east at the top and following a ridge-line trail to Chena Hot Springs Resort. The trail is a moderate 8.5-mile day hike (4-6 hours) with stunning views of the Chena River valley. Best of all, there is a hot springs at the finish so you can soak tired muscles. You need to arrange a

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Worship Directory – Visitors are always welcome!

Each Friday, the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner publishes additional local faith news.

Immaculate Conception Church

FAIRBANKS AREA Anglican Church of the Redeemer

115 N. Cushman Street 452-3533 Mass: Sat. 5:30 p.m., Sun. 7:30, 9:15, 11:00 a.m. Weekday Masses (Mon. through Fri.) 12:10 p.m. Church is open weekdays 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. at Church in Pioneer Park 457-5667 Episcopal Services (1928 Prayer Book)

Journey Christian Church

Regal Cinemas Movie Theater Services 10:00 a.m.

Bethel Church

www.bethelchurchak.org (Conservative Baptist) 479-4380 1310 Farmers Loop Rd. (2 miles east of Golf Course) Worship: Sat. 6:00 p.m., Sunday 9:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School: 11:00 a.m.

460-9290

McGrath Road Baptist Church

1100 McGrath Road Independent 457-4611 Sunday 9:45 a.m., 11 a.m. & 6 p.m., Wed. 7 p.m. Pastor Joel Smith www.mcgrathroadbaptistchurch.org

Sacred Heart Cathedral

452-1407 32 Adak Ave. 479-2197 Off the Steese Highway at College Road E.

Sun 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 6 p.m. & Wed 7 p.m.

Bible believing — Old fashioned singing Plenty of parking for RV’s Free transportation from motels & campgrounds www.BibleBaptistFairbanks.com Doug Duffett, Pastor (907) 388-9815

Christ Lutheran Church

Farmers Loop & Iniakuk Avenue (ELCA) 479-4947 Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m. www.clcfairbanks.org / clc@mosquitonet.com

Christian Science Church

811 First Avenue 456-2319 Sunday School & Services 10:30 a.m. Wednesday Evening Testimony Meeting 7:00 p.m. christiansciencefairbanks.org

2501 Airport Way Ph: 474-9032 Fx: 479-3327 Weekend Masses: May 30 - August 30 Sat. 5:00 p.m., Sun. 10:00 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. Weekday Masses: Tue. – Fri. 5:30 p.m. email: shc@mosquitonet.com

St. Herman Orthodox Church

2180 Goldstream Road 322-3231 Services: Sunday 9:00 a.m.

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church

1029 First Avenue 456-5235 Eucharists: Sunday 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. Wed. 9:30 a.m. & 7 p.m., Compline at 12 a.m. Sun. - Fri. www.stmatthewschurch.org

St. Paul Church

Church of Christ

Independent Traditional Methodist Worship Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship 11 a.m. City Lights Blvd. off Steese Hwy. Building with flag on top, second floor 479-7998 Elevator Available The Friendly Little Country Church

Congregation Or HaTzafon

1125 Old Steese Hwy. North 457-6603 Mass: Saturday 5:30 p.m. & Sunday 9:30 a.m.

645 11th Avenue 456-4921 Sunday 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. Wednesday 7:00 p.m. 1744 Aurora Drive 456-1002 The Jewish Congregation of Fairbanks Friday services 7:30 p.m. Torah & Bagels: Saturday mornings http://www.mosquitonet.com/~orhatzafon

Denali Bible Chapel

1201 Lathrop Street 456-5157 Service: 10:30 a.m. www.DenaliBibleChapel.org

Fairbanks First Church of the Nazarene

1524 Westwood Way, off College Road Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m., Wednesday Bible Study 7:00 p.m. www.ffcnazarene.org 479-6734

St. Raphael Catholic Church

University Community Presbyterian Church 3510 College Road • 9:30 a.m. worship (907) 479-6728 • www.ucpcfairbanks.com

Zion Lutheran Church (LCMS) 2982 Davis Road 456-7660 Worship with us Saturday 5:00 p.m. or Sunday 8:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. www.zionfairbanks.org

DELTA JUNCTION AREA Delta Presbyterian & Faith Lutheran

Fairbanks Lutheran Church

Mile 2661⁄2 Richardson Hwy. 895-4322 Sunday Worship Service (in summer) 10:00 a.m.

Fairbanks Seventh-day Adventist Church

HEALY AREA Holy Mary of Guadalupe Catholic Church

1012 Cowles Street (ELCA) 452-3425 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. Heritage 10:00 a.m. Celebration II www.fairbankslutheran.org / fairluth@gci.net

1811 Farmer’s Loop Road 479-6070 9:30 a.m. Saturday www.fairbanksadventistchurch.org

Farewell Avenue Christian Church

100 Farewell Ave. facc@farewellave.com

456-6123

Sunday: 10 a.m. Bible School & 11 a.m. Worship /Communion

www.farewellave.com

First Presbyterian Church

547 Seventh Avenue at Cushman 452-2406 Traditional 8:45 a.m. Contemporary 11:00 a.m.

First United Methodist Church

915 Second Avenue 452-2956 Traditional Services 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Contemporary Service 9:45 a.m.

Hamilton Acres Baptist Church 138 Farewell Avenue Independent Sunday 9:45 a.m., 11:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. Pastor Bruce Hamilton

Sunday 7:00 p.m. Healy Church 683-2535 Saturday Night Mass 6:00 p.m. at the Wilderness Access Center Theatre (1mi. on Park Road)

Valley Chapel - Assembly of God

Mile 249, Parks Hwy. Healy 683-2303 Sun. Sch. 9:45 a.m., Church 11 a.m. & 7 p.m., Wed. 7 p.m.

NORTH POLE AREA New Jerusalem COGIC

2515 Mission Road, North Pole (907)488-7320 Sunday Services: 11:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Northern Lights Free Will Baptist

2365 Richardson Hwy. (11 Mile) 490-0022 Services: 10:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

St. Nicholas Catholic Church

707 St. Nicholas Drive, North Pole 488-2595 Masses: Daily 9 a.m., Sat. 6 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m. & Noon Reconciliation: Saturday 5 p.m. or by appointment

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Bible Baptist Church

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Worshipping in Fairbanks Town’s religious history mirrors the Gold Rush

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Come & Join Us!

(907) 456-4923

Sunday worship at 10 a.m.

805 6th Ave., Fairbanks, AK 99701 www.firstbaptistfairbanks.com Pastor Mark Howdeshell

UCPC X

Hot Licks Ice Cream

Regal Cinemas on Airport Way

455-4433 www.journeyalaska.org

University Community Presbyterian Church Summer Worship 9:30 a.m. Childcare Provided

3510 College Rd.

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Sunday School 9:45 a.m. Worship 11:00 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study/Prayer 6:30 p.m. "Where we want to be your family."

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www.fairhillchurch.com 101 City Lights Blvd., Fairbanks, AK 99712 907-457-5522 • 907-457-2167

Contact staff writer Mary Beth Smetzer at 459-7546.

Journey Christian Church

University Ave. Community Church of God and Christian School

members walked 12 miles in 50 below zero temperatures to attend. Today, the First Church of Christ, Scientist is located at 811 First Ave., on the vacated homesite of Fairbanks’ founder, E.T. Barnette. After the initial gold rush, Fairbanks’ population dwindled considerably. During the 1930s and the advent of modern rail and air transportation, the development of a new land grant college and military interests, the town slowly started expanding again. World War II and the building of the Alaska Highway dramatically opened up Interior Alaska, and with the new pioneers came a new influx of religious denominations. Today, Fairbanks is home to followers of a wide variety of religions, including Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam and more.

aptist Chur B t s ch Fir Schedule

College Rd.

Christian missionaries followed closely on the heels of gold seekers heading into the new Fairbanks gold camp at the beginning of the 20th century. Evangelists, preachers and priests joined the stream of miners, prospectors and traders stampeding into Fairbanks in early 1903 after rumors of a rich gold strike spread throughout Alaska and the Yukon. Among the first to arrive was an Episcopal priest, the Rev. Charles E. Rice, who was accompanied by a young Athabascan, Esias Joseph, who guided Rice from Circle to the Fairbanks camp. According to Episcopal church records, Rice and Joseph left Circle City on the Yukon River on March 13, well-prepared for the journey. The pair encountered a blizzard and a snow-drifted trail, and the 200-mile journey took 12 days. Four days after their March 25 arrival, Rice was purported to have hosted the first service on March 29, 1903, at the Fairbanks Saloon, located at First Avenue and Cushman Street. It is said that the saloon proprietor respectfully covered the glasses and decanters with a white sheet. James Wickersham’s account of the first service in his book “Old Yukon: Tales-Trails and Trials,” said the entire population of the new town turned out and that the service was conducted by Rice along with a Presbyterian minister, the Rev. C.F. Ensign. Under the direction of Archdeacon Hudson Stuck, the Episcopalians built the first church in town and opened it for worship on Sunday, Oct. 16, 1904. Presbyterians and Roman Catholic missionaries followed suit, and by the close of the year, services were held by all three denominations. Both the Episcopalians and Catholics built hospitals in tandem with their churches.

S. Hall Young arrived in Fairbanks in July 1904, finding it a town of approximately 500 inhabitants living in tents and cabins, and quickly put up a Presbyterian church at Seventh Avenue and Cushman Street. The original church was moved to Pioneer Park in 1966, and it can be rented for weddings and interdenominational services. The Rev. Francis Monroe, a Jesuit priest, arrived in Fairbanks the same year, and built Immaculate Conception Church on the corner of First Avenue and Dunkel Street. In 1911, the priest decided to move the church across the river, next to St. Joseph’s Hospital. After the Chena River froze, a crew of men and horses skidded the building to the opposite bank where it stands today and is known as “the little white church.” Also in 1903, a Christian Science Reading Room was opened near Seventh Avenue and Barnette Street. The active community opened its first public church on Thanksgiving Day in 1906, and the church history states that two congregation

Rev. Sandy Faison

Fairbanks, AK 99709 907-479-6728

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By MARY BETH SMETZER msmetzer@newsminer.com

www.ucpcfairbanks.org ucpc@acsalaska.net

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Summer Arts Festival Fairbanks celebrates 30 years of the arts By ERICA GOFF egoff@newsminer.com Thirty festivals. That takes a lot of dedication. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the now worldfamous Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival. Co-founder and soon-tobe retired director Jo Scott said even though she was told her idea wouldn’t work — “People thought no one would go to classes during the summer because everyone is so busy,” she recalled — she had faith. That faith paid off. Accordion players, dancers, scrapbookers, writers, ice skaters and painters will gather at various locations on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus from July 19 to Aug. 2 to practice their crafts with experts from near and far. Scott, a self-proclaimed “life long educator,” said teaching is a passion for all volunteers at the festival. “We hear every year about how these classes have changed people’s lives. It’s just such a joy,” she said. Scott partnered with Edward Madden in 1980 to offer a oneweek jazz festival. The next year, classical musicians wanted in, so Scott and Madden produced Jazz to Classics in 1981, the first twoweek summer festival. The name was changed to Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival because dance,

Sam Harrel/News-Miner

Bassist Paul Sharpe joins cellist Lars Hoefs for a duet during the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival. opera, theater, musical theater and visual arts enthusiasts asked to be included. In 1990, in response to requests, ice skating was added. The trend has continued, with such classes as creative writing, accordion, blue grass and, this year, Irish fiddle and harp classes added by demand. According to the Web site, www.fsaf.org, the original purpose of the festival was to offer educational opportunities to local residents involved in performing art groups. It since has become a

48th Annual

World Eskimo Indian Olympics The WEIO Board of Governors invites you to attend WEIO 2009 in Fairbanks! TRADITIONAL GAMES, DANCING, ARTS AND CRAFTS! The World Eskimo Indian Olympics is proud to host a drug & alcohol free event!

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WEDNESDAY–SATURDAY • JULY 15 –18, 2009 Carlson Center • 2010 2nd Avenue • Fairbanks For more information, contact: WEIO Office: 907.452.6646 • Fax: 907.456.2422 • www.weio.org Cell: Cathy: 907.978.8084 • Email: cathy@weio.org

nationally recognized organization, bringing people from all over the world to participate as learners or leaders. The wide variety of classes — literally everything from American Roots folk music and cabaret singing to creative writing, dance, Brazilian Percussion Ensemble and beyond — brings such artists as Doug Cox, a multi-insturmentalist from Vancouver Island, B.C. Cox will perform during the American Roots Music class; Joe Smiell from Oakland, Cali. who will lead a button box class; Irish fiddler Caitlin Warbelow from New York; trumpet player Burnette Dillon from Vida, Oregon; actor/director Graham Watts of London, England, former director of the Royal Shakespeare Company and Global Theatre; vocal coach JoAnn Kulesza of Stevensville, Maryland together, along with many others. Some teachers and guest artists don’t have to travel as far. Among Fairbanksans participating are cellist Karl Knapp; Dorli McWayne, principal flutist for Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra and founder and director of the Fairbanks Flutists; Judy Kreith, music educator, Dance with Drums, artistic director; Davy Anderson, a member of Brazilian Ensemble; Barbara Short, art educator, leading Arts and Education class; Susan Stitham, retired teacher leading Shakespeare. While some classes are geared toward higher experience levels, there are beginning level classes. Prices vary. Information is available at www.fsaf.org or by calling 474-8869.

SUMMER HOURS:

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Tanana Chief Riverboat cruise Relaxing evening tours of the Chena River By DANNY MARTIN dmartin@newsminer.com Sometimes, a customer gets to take the wheel on the Tanana Chief. It’s not that you’ll guide the stern-wheeler for its entire twohour round-trip on the Chena River to the confluence of the Tanana River. Rather, customers are allowed to visit the wheelhouse, and captain Rusty Nigl might let one or a few take the wheel. However, a customer’s turn at the wheel usually lasts for no more than five minutes, said Susan Kramer, sales manager of Greatland River Tours, which operates the Tanana Chief. “He’ll tell them to go right or go left, and he’ll also let them know if there’s a rock or branch coming up,’’ Kramer said. “He’ll

THE

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The stern-wheeler operates from May 10 to Sept. 13. It features one cruise per night, starting at 6:30 p.m. and returning to dock between 8:30 and 9 p.m., depending on how the current in the Chena is moving, Kramer said. There is one run on Sundays, starting at noon and scheduled to be back at the dock by 2 p.m. The cost is $24.95 per person or $49.95 each with a prime rib and salmon buffet dinner. There is no narration during the cruise. “Most people, when they’re eating dinner, don’t want to be disrupted,’’ Kramer said. “What they want is to see the homes and the wildlife along the river.’’ For more information, call 452-8687.

Contact staff writer Danny Martin at 459-7586.

CRAFT MARKET

T SHIR E T IC L

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explain, too, that it can’t go super fast because it’s a sternwheeler.’’ Kramer said half the visitors on the Tanana Chief visit the wheelhouse. The replica of stern-wheelers that moved through Interior Alaska waterways between 1865 and 1955 has a capacity for 150 people, including 96 in its downstairs area. The Tanana Chief, which has operated since 2000, is docked on the Chena River and can be seen off the Parks Highway if you’re heading southeast, when the highway becomes the Mitchell Expressway. One way of getting to the Tanana Chief is to take Airport Way west to Sportsman Way. Turn right on Sportsman and then left on Boat Road, and take Boat to Rosebud Lane and turn right.

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2009 Summer Visitors Guide

P I O N E E R P AR K Visit Real Alaskans

Native American Folk Art Inc. Presents

BUSH BABIES & COMPANY “Unique Gifts from the Alaskan Bush”

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Memorial Day to Labor Day Admission FREE, but donations are welcome. For additional information, please call

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Interior & Arctic Alaska’s Aeronautical History. 16 Aircraft, 31 Engines, Memorabilia, Artifacts, Photos, Stories & More.

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PIONEER MUSEUM GOLD RUSH TOWN • PIONEER PARK

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$2.00 Single, $5.00 Family Children Under 12 FREE

Email: tyhs@acsalaska.net www.fairbankshistory.org

PIONEER MUSEUM

BIG STAMPEDE SHOW

Artifacts, photos, and other displays of Fairbanks’ golden past. OPEN DAILY 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Featuring: Chilkoot Pass, Shooting the Rapids, Dawson and on to Fairbanks...Gold Rush paintings by C. Rusty Heurlin. Narrated by poet laureate, Ruben Gaines.

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• Gold & Ivory Jewelry • Native Masks • Totem Poles • Slippers • Native Artifacts • Eskimo Dolls

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Felix Pedro: Prospector Staff Report In 1881, 23-year-old Felice Pedroni came to the United States to find his fortune. The Italian immigrant, whose Americanized name is Felix Pedro, spent many years in the restless pursuit of gold in the Klondike and Alaska. In 1902, his dream was fulfilled when he discovered gold about 12 miles from where E.T. Barnette had a cache of supplies on the Chena River. Pedro wasn’t the only pros-

pector looking for gold, but the hardy miner’s discovery started the rush that brought thousands to the Tanana Valley from all over the world. “Since that time, Mr. Pedro has been a resident of Fairbanks, devoting all his time to looking after his interests, which are very large,” a 1908 report stated. That year he had five groups of men working on parts of his claims and reports noted $140,000 had been taken from one of them. Pedro died in 1910 of heart disease brought on by

overwork, the news reports said. His death came on the eighth anniversary of his gold strike, but his name was not forgotten. On the 52nd anniversary of his gold find, pioneer Gus Conradt said Pedro deserved a special tribute. “His discovery started the wheels of progress moving toward the development of the vast Interior of Alaska,” Conradt said. “So let us not forget that all this has been brought about through the efforts and ability of one great man, Felix Pedro.”

PIONEER PARK Alaska’s Only Historical Theme Park

Airport Way & Peger Rd. • Fairbanks, Alaska • 459-1095 Visitor Information www.fnsb.us/PioneerPark • email: pioneerpark@co.fairbanks.ak.us Park Office: (907)459-1087 • 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99701

• Gold Rush Town (Shops) • Pioneer Aviation Museum • Mini Golf & Carousel • Native Culture Exhibits • Kayak & Bicycle Rentals • Crooked Creek & Whiskey Island Railroad • Square & Round Dance Hall

• Palace Theater Show • Alaska Salmon Bake • Pioneer Museum & Big Stampede Show • Railroad Museum • National Historic Landmarks • Picnic Shelters & Playground • Free WiFi parkwide

June 1 – August 31 • GAZEBO NIGHTS - Live entertainment nightly at 7p.m. - FREE

• MONTHLY LITERARY READINGS 1st Saturdays at 7p.m. - FREE

• FINE ARTS GALLERY & GIFT SHOP open Noon. - 8p.m. daily - FREE

• TIPS – Totally Impromptu Performance Series

Relive the past and explore the treasures of the Golden Heart.

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All Activities are in the Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts-Bear Gallery, Theater or outside at the Gazebo. For info call Fairbanks Arts Association 456-6485

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Creamer’s Field delights Bird refuge provides wildlife viewing and nature trails in abundance

News-Miner file photo

Sandhill cranes flock to Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge during the summer. By CHRIS FREIBERG cfreiberg@newsminer.com

CREAMER’S FIELD

For nearly four decades, Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, 1300 College Road, has been delighting Fairbanks visitors with miles of trails and numerous feathered visitors. Originally a homestead, the property was converted into a dairy in 1908. “It was the most successful dairy to date in Alaska until 1966,” said Melissa Sykes, program director for Friends of Creamer’s Field. The dairy buildings were starting to fall into disrepair and the owner needed to pay his debts, but he wanted the property to go to a good use. A few years later, it was purchased by the state of Alaska, which still owns the refuge. There are five miles of trails in the refuge that visitors can explore on their own or take a Farmhouse Visitor Center & Giftshop Summer Hours: M - F 10am - 5pm Sat & Sun 10am - 6pm Guided Nature Walks leave from the Farmhouse Mon - Fri, 10am & Wed. evenings - 7pm

Tanana Valley Sandhill Crane Festival Fri., Aug. 21st - Sun., Aug. 23rd Full schedule and events listing at www.creamersfield.org

guided tour hosted every weekday at 10 a.m. and Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. Beginning May 15, the visitors center will be open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The cost is free, but “we’re always accepting donations,” Sykes said. Tours for larger groups can be scheduled with at least a week’s notice. Flocks of cranes, geese and ducks visit the refuge throughout the summer, though August is the best time to see them in large numbers. “Some are nesting, but some aren’t breeding, they’re just bidCenter for Education & Research and Gift Shop

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Additional walks can be arranged for groups of six or more with a minimum of one week advance notice.

• Location: 1300 College Road • Phone number: (907) 452-5162 • Cost: Free, but donations always are accepted. • Open: Visitors Center, May 15-Sept. 15; trails, year-round • Hours: Visitor's center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Guided tours begin every day at 10 a.m., 7 p.m. on Wednesdays. Larger groups can schedule tours by appointment with at least a week’s notice.

www.alaskabird.org (907) 451-7159 Located at Wedgewood Resort 418 Wedgewood Drive Fairbanks, AK 99701 The mission of the Alaska Bird Observatory is to advance the appreciation, understanding, and conservation of birds and their habitats through Research and Education.

“Creamer’s Field is worth the stop. It should be part of anybody’s plan to visit.” — Melissa Sykes

ing their time here,” Sykes said. Song birds such as warblers and swallows also call the refuge home during the summer, though the best time to view them is in May or June. “Creamer’s Field is worth the stop,” Sykes said. “It should be part of anybody’s plan to visit, because it’s a jewel in the middle of Fairbanks.”

Contact staff writer Chris Freiberg at 459-7545.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Fun at Pioneer Park Recreation area holds Fairbanks’ historic heart and is the site of fun events By GLENN BURNSILVER gburnsilver@newsminer.com Fun and history meet at Pioneer Park, a 44-acre entertainment zone located at Airport Way and Peger Road. Originally called Alaskaland, the park offers a variety of activities relating to the history of Interior Alaska. The park is home to the area’s largest Fourth of July celebration. The park is open daily from noon to 8 p.m. from May 24 through Labor Day. Entry to the park is free, though some attractions charge admission. For more information, call 459-1087 or visit www.fnsb.us/pioneerpark.

Family activities • Crooked Creek and Whisky Island Railroad — trips around the park are available several times a day. $2 adults, $1 children. Multi-ride discounted punch cards also are available. • Gold Rush Town — A dramatized gold rush town consisting of 35 pioneer cabins relocated to Pioneer Park from their original locations. Now renovated, some offer a variety of items including souvenirs, sweets and snacks. • Miniature golf — play 18 or 36 holes at the outdoor mini golf course. Call 452-7888 for

Sam Harrel/News-Miner

Children participate in a sack race during Fairbanks Day (June 27) at Pioneer Park. more information. • Red and Reola’s Carousel — old-time carousel with painted horses and carnival music. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Museums • Bear Gallery — located on the third floor of the Pioneer Park Centennial Center for the Arts. The museum includes exhibits from local artists and a gift shop. Free. • Native Village — an outdoor museum representing Alaska Native architecture and artifacts. Free.

T RADITION IS OUR

M ISSION !

Please see PIONEER PARK, Page 24

T ANANA V ALLEY S TATE F AIR

A UGUST 7–15, 2009 F AIRBANKS , A LASKA

Attention, ! ap H py Campers

TANANA VALLEY

CAMPGROUND AND RV PARK

Tanana Valley Fairgrounds • Summer 907-456-7956 1800 College Rd. • Fairbanks, AK 99709 • Winter 907-452-3750 http://www.tananavalleyfair.org Fax: 907-456-7971

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OYY NJJO EEN E E M M O C O EESSTT F AAIIRR RRLLDD! TTHHEE B W O O E N TTHH E IIN

• Pioneer Air Museum — a collection of aircraft memorabilia managed by the Interior and Arctic Alaska Aeronautical Foundation. $2 adults, free for children under 12 accompanied by an adult, $5 family. • Pioneer Museum — a collection of pioneer artifacts. Free, but donations are welcome. • S.S. Nenana Riverboat — Active for 21 years, the boat now hosts a historical diorama of the Tanana and Yukon rivers. The boat is listed as a National Landmark.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Discounts abound this summer Retailers slash prices to attract visitors By RENA DELBRIDGE rdelbridge@newsminer.com A struggling global economy has people tightening their purse strings, but it also could net some stellar deals for travelers to Alaska this summer. More than half the Interior’s annual summer visitors reach Alaska via cruise ship, yet bookings are down this year. That means some visitor services operators — from hotels to river rafting guides, from flight-seeing businesses to tundra tours — could be offering some sweet deals. Visitors looking for the most

bang for the buck should surf the Web, suggests Deb Hickok, executive director of the Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau. From the bureau’s comprehensive site, www. explorefairbanks.com, click on “Value Vacations” on the left for super deals. “The best way to get information is from these types of Web sites and to go online and check their favorite places to see if they’re offering something right now,” she said. The Alaska Travel Industry Association has so many members with great deals that it has developed a special Web

site to showcase those bargains, spokesman Dave Worrell said. “We have always offered travel specials, but this year, given the economic situation and hearing from our members about concerns for the upcoming season, we developed a special campaign,” he said. “Alaska does offer good deals.” Most years, 10 to 12 operators want to post specials, he said. This year, more than 125 participated. Look for two-for-one specials, price breaks and other offers at www.alaskashottestdeals.com.

PIONEER PARK: Hosts dozens of events Continued from Page 23

• Tanana Valley Railroad Museum — features the Tanana Valley Engine No. 1, the oldest operating steam locomotive in Alaska and the Yukon Territory, initially put into service in 1899. The train runs half a dozen times during the year. Visit www.fairnet.org/agencies/tvrr/ tvrr.html for more information. Free. • Wickersham House — dedicated to Judge James Wickersham, the first territorial

representative for Alaska, the house is furnished the way it would have looked in the early 1900s. Free.

Entertainment • Gazebo Nights — an hour of live music at the white gazebo near the park entrance. Starts at 7 p.m. every evening, June through August. Free. • Golden Heart Revue — a musical comedy about pioneer life in early Fairbanks. Shows are offered at 6:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. from May 18 to Sept.

Since 1974

Welcome Visitors!

479-2563

10-6 M-F; 10-5 Sat

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We hope you enjoy Fairbanks and will include our gallery of fine art and craft by Alaskans on your “be sure to visit” list... 3677 College Rd., Fairbanks, AK 99709

FAIRBANKS URGENT CARE CENTER Treatment of Acute Minor Illness & Injury

No appointment necessary Mon. • Fri. 7a.m. - 9p.m. Sat. Sun • 10a.m. - 7p.m. 1867 Airport Way, Suite 130B (next to Super 8 Motel)

Fairbanks • (907) 452-2178

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Fairbanks, AK 99701

11 at the Palace Theatre in Gold Rush Town. $18 adults, $9 children. Reservations required by calling 452-7274. • The Big Stampede Show — a 45-minute presentation located at the Pioneer Museum. Presented several times a day. $4 adults; $2 children, under 4 free. Call 456-8579 for more information.

Salmon Bake Alaska Salmon Bake sets itself apart from other buffets by offering all-you-can-eat Alaskan halibut, salmon, Bering Sea cod or slow-roasted prime rib. In addition to the main course, the Salmon Bake experience includes a salad bar, side dishes and deserts. But the Salmon Bake isn’t quantity over quality. The salmon sauce, beer batter and prime rib are perfected homemade recipes, and all the fish is wild Alaska caught. The restaurant is open from 5-9 p.m. daily from May 10 to Sept. 11 in Pioneer Park. Started in 1979, the Salmon Bake also has beautiful gardens with Alaska Native carvings for diners who wish to eat al fresco. Be sure to visit the Pick ‘N Poke Gift Shop located next door. The gift shop offers souvenirs and Native crafts. The all-you-can-eat dinner is $31 for adults and $15 for children and includes unlimited nonalcoholic beverages. For more information, call 452-7274.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

The Yukon Quest Eric Engman /News-Miner

By MATIAS SAARI msaari@newsminer.com The Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race travels more than 1,000 miles between Fairbanks and Whitehorse, Yukon, and is widely regarded as the toughest mushing race in the world. What makes the event, which began in 1984, such a challenge is extreme temperatures that can reach 60 below zero; difficult terrain that includes climbs such as notorious Eagle Summit or jumble ice on the Yukon River; distances as long as 200 miles between checkpoints that forces mushers and their dogs to haul sleds loaded with supplies and camp in the wilderness; and unpredictable weather and trail conditions that can slow down or even strand mushers. Much of the route follows historic Klondike Gold Rush, mail delivery, transportation and trade routes. The midway point of Dawson City, Yukon, is the only checkpoint where mushers can receive assistance from their handlers during a 36-hour break. A team of veterinarians also examines the huskies in Dawson City as well as at several of the other nine checkpoints. The 27th race is scheduled to begin Feb. 6, 2010, in Fairbanks, with a winner expected in Whitehorse about 10 days later. Big crowds typically see the 20-40 mushers and their 14 dogs set off on an adventure that can last as

Race veteran Sebastian Schnuelle of Whitehorse, Yukon, is seen driving his dog team down the finish chute on his way to victory in the 2009 Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race in Fairbanks on Feb. 24. long as two weeks. Sebastian Schnuelle, a German living near Whitehorse, won the 2009 race in come-from-behind fashion by four minutes over Hugh Neff in the closest Quest ever. The 2009 race also saw Englishman Mark Sleightholme place 11th and Jamaican Newton Marshall take 13th. Most years, about a third of those who start the race fail to reach the finish line. While celebrating his 2009 win, Schnuelle said he would not return to defend his title in 2010. Many others, however, will be hungry for a win and a prize of $30,000 or more, including perhaps Lance Mackey of Fairbanks. Mackey, a cancer survivor, won the Quest from 2005-08 and in 2007 became the first to accomplish what had previously been considered impossible: Win the

COME BACK IN WINTER ... ... For the 27th Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race. • What it is: A 1,000mile sled dog race between Fairbanks and Whitehorse, Yukon. • When: Starts Feb. 6, 2010, in downtown Fairbanks. • For more info: visit www.yukonquest.com

Yukon Quest and Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race back-to-back. For good measure, Mackey repeated the feat in 2008.

Contact staff writer Matias Saari at 459-7591.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Eric Engman/News-Miner

Break dancers stay loose between rounds by entertaining the crowd at the annual Midnight Sun Festival downtown.

Midnight sun sparks big party Pat Michels/ News-Miner intern

By CHRISTOPHER ESHLEMAN ceshleman@newsminer.com The longest day of the year, June 21, will blanket Fairbanks in sunlight. And the Midnight Sun Festival will grow through cracks in the downtown concrete, offering the city’s largest singleday event of the year. Between 40,000 and 50,000 regularly show up for the 12hour festival, which starts at noon. The festival draws well more than 160 booths. It hosts, among other attractions, a climbing wall, basketball tournament, pony rides and an obstacle course. Organizers from the Downtown Association of Fairbanks set up three stages for live music and performance. The venue is set to draw 30 performers or groups of all stripes including dancers from Dance Theatre Fairbanks, Tundra Caravan and Tribal Wallah

A sea of people descend on the Midnight Sun Festival each year. Dance Troupe. One of last year’s most popular events, a competitive breakdancing competition that draws dancers from around Alaska and occasionally outside the state, fell short of coming together at the last minute. But the Downtown Association’s Kara Nash said the this summer’s lineup remains impressive compared to festivals through history. “With over 160 booths, three stages of live entertainment, the addition of a 12-hour long

VISITORS GUIDE ADVERTISING Act now for 2010 If your business is interested in placing an ad in the 2010 Visitors Guide, fill out and return this coupon.

3-on-3 basketball tournament, and activities for all ages, we are anticipating the biggest Midnight Sun Festival ever,” she said.

Contact staff writer Christopher Eshleman at 459-7582.

SUMMER SOLSTICE • Fairbanks sits at 64.838 degrees north, 147.716 west • Longest day (2009) — June 21st: sunrise at 2:29 a.m. sunset at 12:48 a.m. on the 22nd • Shortest (2009) — Dec 21st: sunrise at 10:59 a.m. sunset at 2:41 p.m.

Name ______________________________________________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________________________________

Mail to: Promotions Manager P.O. Box 70710, Fairbanks, AK 99707-0710

21349974-5-2-09VG

City __________________________State ____________ Zip ___________Phone ______________________

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Business Name______________________________________________________________________________

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

/ vAM

is no coincidence.

No one knows Alaska like Alaska knows Alaska. In fact, we’ve been part of this great land for over 75 years. And as Alaska celebrates 50 years of statehood, we’re prouder than ever to oﬀer more jet service to, from and within the Last Frontier, including daily f lights to 20 communities throughout the state, from Ketchikan to Barrow. Not to mention, convenient nonstop service to the Lower 48. To learn more, visit alaskaair.com.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Downtown shops offer options third floor. If a college tour is on the agenda, take a few hours Whether it’s an Ulu or fine to stroll through the outer Alaska beadwork, gold jewelry boundaries of the University of or a T-shirt, stores in downtown Alaska where visitors can find Fairbanks offer a wide variety specialty Alaska tea shops, an of authentic Alaska souvenirs Alaska bookstore and fine jewto spark elry made the interfrom gold est of mined even the right here pickiest of in Fairshoppers. banks. A gold The mine of University Alaska of Alaska goods can Fairbanks be found also has a along bookstore Fairoffering a banks’ wide array historic of UAFmain themed streets, merchanFirst and dise and Second reading avenues material. and in On the several western surroundridge of ing the uniblocks. versity, Many visitors local busishould nesses not miss Mike Webb, owner of Gold Rush Jewwelcome out on lery, displays a collection of gold nug- the Unitourists’ gets in his downtown shop. quesversity’s tions and awarda casual winning chat, if a mellow stroll is what’s Museum of the North. Inside on the agenda. the museum is a gift shop Just a mile west along the bound to engage the senses and Chena River banks is Pioneer imagination. Park, where guests can find a Whatever your interest, Fairwide array of specialty items banks shopping allows visitors and gifts in original Fairbanks to take home a unique piece landmarks and historic cabins. of the Arctic — whether it’s a The Centennial Center holds an bumper sticker, a fine piece of art gallery and gift shop on the gold or some tasty Alaska fish. RAW FU R KA AS

SHOPS TO VISIT • Alaska House Art gallery, 10th Avenue and Cushman Street, 456-6449 • Alaska Gold N’Gems, 541 Second Ave., Suite B, 452-6461 • Alaska Rag Co., 603 Lacey St., 451-4401 • Alaska Raw Fur Co., 4106 Boat Street, 479-2462 • Arctic Travelers Gift Shop, 201 Cushman St., 456-7080 • Beads and Things, 537 Second Ave., 456-2323 • Co-Op Plaza, 535 Second Ave. • The Stash, 535 Third Ave., 457-8274 • The Craft Market, Fifth Avenue and Noble Street, 452-5495 • The Great Alaskan Bowl Company, 4630 Old Airport Road, 474-9663 • If Only—A Fine store and gift shop, 215 Cushman St., 457-6659 • New Horizons Art Gallery, 519 First Ave., 456-2063 • TCR’s Ivory, 555 Second Ave., 452-1817

Friends of Creamers A nonprofit organization.

Become a member at

www.creamersfield.org Gift shop located in the farmhouse open Saturdays Noon to 5 p.m. Our trails are always open.

452-5162

1300 College Rd.

Alaska Raw Fur Co.

. CO

By REBECCA GEORGE rgeorge@newsminer.com

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

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The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. By MATT HAYES mhayes@newsminer.com The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is a new addition to downtown Fairbanks. The center is located at 101 Dunkel St. on the banks of the Chena River adjacent to Griffin Park and bike and walking paths. MTCVC offers ample parking, restrooms, a 100-seat theater with free films daily on Alaska natural history and culture, a historic pioneer cabin restored to its original 1905 period and, scheduled to open in August, a

9,000 square foot exhibit hall featuring the people and land of Interior Alaska. The visitors center is a partnership of four entities, and inside you will find:

Convention and Visitors Bureau There is much to do and see in Interior Alaska, and the folks at the Fairbanks Convention and Visitors Bureau will help you plan an itinerary of local attrac-

tions that fits your schedule. The staff is all locals and can answer questions and share personal stories of year-round life in Fairbanks. Staff fluent in German and Japanese are available to assist international travelers. The FCVB offers more than 400 brochures for attractions, dining, shopping, camping and outdoor adventures in the Interior and across Alaska. Please see VISITORS, Page 30

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2009 Summer Visitor's Guide

VISITORS: Center is home to several groups Also available from FCVB are: • Free courtesy phones for local and credit card calls • Public computers for visitors to make travel arrangements and check e-mail • Maps of the Fairbanks area • Daily listings of available accommodations • Open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily in winter, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily in summer • For more information call 456-5774 or visit explorefairbanks.com.

vices. The center also has a reference library and sponsors daily films in the theater. Each Sunday from June 1August 21, at 6:45 p.m., the public lands center will host a multi-media presentation on Gates of the Arctic National Park. The cost is $12. The center is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. For more information call 459-3730 or visit alaskacenters. gov. The Fairbanks Alaska Public Lands Information Center is affiliated with:

Alaska Public Lands Information Center

Alaska Geographic bookstore

Continued from Page 29

For more adventuresome visitors, the Public Lands Information Center is dedicated to promoting knowledge and use of “natural, cultural and historic resources on Alaska’s public lands.” The information center has resources for hiking and fishing, and can help with backcountry trip planning The information center’s services include resource education programs, interpretive services and fee collection ser-

Alaska Geographic is a nonprofit bookstore dedicated to “connecting people to Alaska’s parks, forests and refuges.” Browse Alaska reading material from children’s books to wilderness adventure, Alaska history to collections from some of the state’s finest photographers. You’ll also find detailed maps of Alaska’s wild areas, DVDs covering a wide range of Alaska history and culture and Native arts and crafts.

The bookstore will be open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily during the summer months. For more information, call 459-3710 or visit alaskageographic.org.

Tanana Chiefs Conference The Tanana Chiefs Conference, a consortium of 42 villages of Interior Alaska, promotes Native unity and self-determination. TCC Cultural Programs hosts hourlong evening programs, Monday through Friday, June 1-August 21, that will feature Native dance and beadwork, old-time fiddling with Gwich’in musician Bill Stevens and the “Evolution of dog mushing.” The events cost $12 and begin at 6:45 p.m. at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. For more information, call 459-3741, visit tananachiefs.org or stop by the visitors center.

Denakkanaaga The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center also houses the offices of Denakkanaaga Native Elders organization.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Let the Games Begin WEIO showcases feats of strength, endurance Staff Report A group of extraordinary athletes from Eskimo, Haida, Tlingit, Tsimshian, Aleut and Athabascan cultures will gather at the Carlson Center on July 15-18 for the World EskimoIndian Olympics. The athletes will display their prowess in events such as the knuckle hop, kneel jump, one-and two-foot high kicks, ear-

weight, ear-pull, four-man carry and drop-the-bomb â&#x20AC;&#x201D; athletic feats that are derived from skills necessary or useful in traditional Native lifestyles. To better appreciate the background of these games, envision yourself in a village hut 300 years ago with the temperature outside at 60 degrees below zero, and everybody celebrating a successful seal hunt. While the young men are demonstrating their athletic prowess and strength, the umialiks, or whaling captains, are on the perimeter of the hut looking with great interest at the young adults â&#x20AC;&#x201D; one or more of these

young men would be incorporated into their whaling and hunting crews â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the fastest, the strongest, the one showing great balance and endurance to pain would be the top pick. Throughout the Olympics, particularly in the evening sessions, traditional Native dances are performed between events. In addition, contestants in the Miss WEIO pageant spend the weekend proving themselves good representatives of the Alaska Native community. Native artisans will be selling traditional hand-crafted art and jewelry. Visit www.weio.org.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

John Wagner/News-Miner

Jeremy Gillian waits on a pitch as the Alaska Goldpanners faced the Southern California Running Birds in the 103rd Annual Midnight Sun Baseball Classic Saturday evening, June 21, 2008, at Growden Memorial Park. The one-of-a-kind game starts at 10:30 p.m. on summer solstice and is played entirely with out artificial lighting.

Home run tradition Midnight Sun Game a top 10 'must-see' event in baseball By JOSH ARMSTRONG jarmstrong@newsminer.com

IF YOU GO

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umor has it that the lights at Growden Memorial Park aren’t even wired. Who needs them anyway? Fairbanks’ round-the-clock light ensures that no summer games are called for darkness. And then there’s the Midnight Sun Game, which indeed is being played at midnight without the aid of artificial lights. The 104th annual game will begin at 10:30 p.m. on June 21, the longest day of the year, and continue into the morning of June 22 — all without artificial light. This year, former National Football League quarterback Dan Pastorini is scheduled to be on hand to throw out a ceremonial pitch at midnight. The first game was an impromptu affair sparked by a bet. California Bar (the “Drinks”) won 7-4 over Eagles

• What: 104th Midnight Sun Game • Who: Alaska Goldpanners vs. Lake Erie Monarchs • Where: Growden Memorial Field • When: June 21; gates open at 9 p.m. (early bird ticket holders can get in at 8); first pitch at 10:30 p.m. • Seats are first-come, first-served. • Tickets are $10. www.goldpanners.com

(the “Smokes”) in seven innings. These days, there’s a little more baseball talent on the field, as the Fairbanks-based Alaska Goldpanners host the event every year. The Goldpanners are a summer league team comprised of college players. This year, they will face the Lake Erie Monarchs. Over the years, nearly 200 former Panners have played Major League Baseball, including Tom Seaver, Dave Winfield and Barry Bonds. In 2005, it was the focus of a four-minute feature on ESPN’s “SportsCenter.” That same year, sports writer Jim Caple listed the game as the No. 8 experience in baseball. In 2005, Fairbanks native Sean Timmons was the winning pitcher. He is now the winningest pitcher (3-0) in the his-

tory of the Midnight Sun game. Immediately after the game, his No. 33 jersey was shipped to the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, N.Y. The 2008 game certainly lived up to the hype. Sixty-twoyear-old former Red Sox pitcher Bill Lee won the game — legitimately, with six innings of work. As the game inched into the wee hours of July 22, the stands filled to the point that latecomers climbed atop the Fairbanks Curling Club across the street to get a look. To purchase a $10 ticket or for more information on the Midnight Sun Game or the Alaska Goldpanners, go to www. goldpanners.com. Gates open at 9 p.m., but early entry tickets can get you in at 8 p.m. Seats are first-come, first-served.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Summer Calendar of Events Fairbanks summers are short, so residents try to cram as much into them as possible. It’s a good thing it’s light around the clock for most of it. All-summer shows: • “The Golden Heart Revue” musical comedy about Fairbanks Palace Theatre at Pioneer Park The “Golden Heart Revue” plays seven nights a week, May 18-Sept. 11. Showtime is 8:15 p.m. Additional shows are added at 6:45 p.m. when needed. All seating is assigned by the Palace Saloon. Adults: $18; children: $9 To make reservations please call: 1(800) 354 7274 • Leroy’s Zimmerman’s aurora photo symphony, 8 p.m. daily at the Fairbanks Ice Museum on Lacey Street. The light show gives viewers a chance to experience Alaska’s wondrous northern lights, which are visible during the winter months. • Each Sunday from June 1-August 21, at 6:45 p.m., the Alaska Public Lands Information Center in the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center will host a multi-media presentation on Gates of the Arctic National Park. The cost is $12.For more information call 459-3730 or visit alaskacenters.gov. • Tanana Chiefs Conference Cultural Programs hosts hourlong evening programs, Monday through Friday, June 1-Aug. 21, that will feature Native dance and beadwork, old-time fiddling with Gwich’in musician Bill Stevens and the “Evolution of dog mushing.” The events cost $12 and begin at 6:45 p.m. at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. For more information, call 4593741, visit tananachiefs.org JUNE • June 6: Nenana River Daze A small-town festival celebrating the beginning of summer on the river. Nenana is at 305 Mile Parks Highway, about an hour south of Fairbanks. • June 12-13: Chickenstock Music Festival Chicken Gold Camp & Outpost - 66 Mile Taylor Highway

SUMMER LEAGUE BASEBALL ALL GAMES AT GROWDEN MEMORIAL PARK JUNE Goldpanners vs. Fairbanks Adult All-Stars, 7 p.m. Goldpanners vs. Black Sox, 7 p.m. Goldpanners vs. Black Sox, 7 p.m. (UAF Alumni Day) Goldpanners vs. Black Sox, 4 p.m. Goldpanners vs. Lake Erie Monarchs, 7 p.m. 104th Midnight Sun Baseball Classic: Goldpanners vs. Lake Erie Monarchs, 10:30 p.m. 22: Goldpanners vs. Lake Erie Monarchs, 7 p.m. 23: AIA-Fire vs. Goldpanners,7 p.m. 24 (DH) AIA-Fire vs. Goldpanners, 5 p.m., 7 p.m. 25: Goldpanners vs. AIA-Fire, 7 p.m. 26: Goldpanners vs. AIA-Fire, 7 p.m. 28: AIA-Fire vs. Mat-Su Miners, 7 p.m. 29: (DH) AIA-Fire vs. Mat-Su Miners, 5 p.m., 7 p.m. 30: AIA-Fire vs. Mat-Su Miners, 7 p.m. 16: 17: 18: 19: 20: 21:

JULY 1: Goldpanners vs. Mat-Su Miners, 7 p.m. 2: Goldpanners vs. Mat-Su Miners, 7 p.m. (Bank Night) 3: (DH) Goldpanners vs. Mat-Su Miners, 6 p.m., 8 p.m. 4: Goldpanners vs. Mat-Su Miners, 2 p.m. 6: Goldpanners vs. Anchorage Bucs, 7 p.m. 7: Goldpanners vs. Anchorage Bucs, 7 p.m. 8: (DH) Goldpanners vs. Anchorage Bucs, 6 p.m., 8 p.m. 9: Goldpanners vs. Anchorage Bucs, 7 p.m. 10: AIA-Fire vs. Anchorage Bucs, 7 p.m. 11: AIA-Fire vs. Anchorage Bucs, 7 p.m. 12: (DH) AIA-Fire vs. Anchorage Bucs, 5 p.m., 7 p.m. 13: AIA-Fire vs. Anchorage Bucs, 7 p.m. 14: AIA-Fire vs. Glacier Pilots, 7 p.m. 15: (DH) AIA-Fire vs. Glacier Pilots, 5 p.m., 7 p.m. 16: AIA-Fire vs. Glacier Pilots, 7 p.m. 17: AIA-Fire vs. Glacier Pilots,7 p.m. 18: Goldpanners vs. Anchora ge Glacier Pilots, 7 p.m. 19: (DH) Panners vs. Anchorage Glacier Pilots, 5 p.m., 7 p.m. 20: Goldpanners vs. Anchorage Glacier Pilots, 7 p.m. 21: Goldpanners vs. Anchorage Glacier Pilots, 7 p.m. (The Famous Chicken) 22: Goldpanners vs. Peninsula Oilers, 7 p.m. (Kids Day) 23: (DH) Goldpanners vs. Peninsula Oilers, 5 p.m., 7 p.m. 24: Goldpanners vs. Peninsula Oilers, 7 p.m. 25: Goldpanners vs. Peninsula Oilers, 7 p.m. (Stroecker Night) 26: AIA-Fire vs. Peninsula Oilers,7 p.m. 27 (DH): AIA-Fire vs. Peninsula Oilers,5 p.m., 7 p.m. 28: Athletes in Action Fire vs. Peninsula Oilers,7 p.m. 29: AlA-Alaska Fire vs. Goldpanners,7 p.m. 30: (DH) Goldpanners vs. AIA-Fire,5 p.m., 7 p.m. AUGUST 1: AlA-Fire vs. Goldpanners, 7 p.m. 2: AIA-Fire vs. Mat-Su Miners, 7 p.m.

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Chickenstock 2009 is a gathering of global ‘chickenites,’ ‘chickenuts’ and local bluegrass music. (907) 590-268, chickenite@ hotmail.com • June 13: Fairbanks Summer Folk Fest Bring your lawn chair to Pioneer Park, settle in on the lawn and take advantage of a whole day of free live music — Folk, Bluegrass, Blues, Jazz, Celtic,and much more. More info at www. alaskafolkmusic.org • June 20-21: Yukon 800 Boat Roace Billed as the longest, roughest and toughest speed boat race in the world. More info at www. yukon800.com • June 20-21: Summer solstice celebrations. See the schedule on Page 34. JULY • July 4th celebration at Pioneer Park Community celebration including food, family activities, craft bazaar, entertainment, military colors ceremony, Air Force flyover, and much more. More info at www.co.fairbanks.ak.us/ParksandRecreation/PioneerPark. 4591087 • North Pole Community Fourth of July Celebration www.northpolealaska.com; 488-2242 • July 10-12: Midnight Sun Intertribal Powwow Dancing, drumming and more to be held in the open field behind the Carlson Center www.themidnightsunpowwow.net • July 15-18: World EskimoIndian Olympics www.weio.org.

SUMMER SOLSTICE June 20 MIDNIGHT SUN RUN 10K. 10 p.m.: Thousands of people dress up and run or walk the course, which starts at the UAF Patty Center and ends at Pioneer Park. The neighborhoods along the route join the fun too. www.midnightsunrun.us June 21 SUMMER SOLTICE CELEBRATION: The largest one-day event in Fairbanks offers music, food and family fun on the longest day of the year. Vintage and classic car show, children's rides, petting zoo, gold panning, military display, Alaskan craft vendors, strolling entertainment and much more! Downtown fun under the Midnight Sun! More info at www.downtownfairbanks.com; 104TH MIDNIGHT SUN BASEBALL CLASSIC: Baseball played under the Midnight Sun without artificial lights. Goldpanners vs. Lake Erie Monarchs at Growden Park. Gates open 9 p.m.; first pitch 10:30 p.m. • July 19-Aug. 2: Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival. http://www.fsaf.org • July 21-26: Fairbanks Golden Days. A celebration of Fairbanks gold rush roots more than a century ago. — July 21: Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce general membership kickoff luncheon and Relive the Past costume contest. — July 22: Golden Days KickOff Party; 6 p.m. Felix Pedro gold weighin at Pioneer Park; A re-enactment of Felix Pedros’ walk into town after his discovery of gold on July 22, 1902. 5:30 - 9 p.m. Show ‘N Shine Classic Car Show at Pioneer Park 6:30-10 p.m. Golden Heart Utilities Old Tyme Games at Pioneer Park. — July 23 Golden Citizen’s Senior Luncheon & Theatre Thursday — July 24 Young Pioneer’s Day & Golden Days Comedy Night — July 25

AT&T Golden Days Grande Parade; Golden Days Street Fair; Rubber Duckie Race; Blues, Brews and Burlesque — July 26 Rededication of the Felix Pedro Monument •July 31-Aug. 2 Anderson Bluegrass and Country Music Festival Riverside Park in Anderson, 283.5 Mile Parks Highway. AUGUST • Aug. 7-15: Tanana Valley State Fair Nine days of fun for the entire family. www.tananavalleyfair.org 452-3750; info@tananavalleyfair.org • Aug. 21-23: Tanana Valley Sandhill Crane Festival Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. www.creamersfield.org; 907-452-5162 • Aug. 22: Chena Hot Springs Resort Renewable Energy Fair Chena Hot Springs Resort, 56.5 mile Chena Hot Springs Road 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 907-451-8104

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CALENDAR

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Troupe Takes a Tragic Turn Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre to stage 'Othello'

FAIRBANKS SHAKESPEARE THEATRE

By CHRISTOPHER ESHLEMAN ceshleman@newsminer.com

airbanks Shakespeare Theatre holds its outdoor summer productions — this summer’s is “Othello,” running through the bulk of July — at Jack Townsend Point on the university campus in northwest Fairbanks. The company is probably best known locally for annual nonstop, weeklong public readings of Shakespeare’s complete work of poetry and plays, but its collection of impressive professional resumes has quietly grown to impressive scale. The company has paired associate artistic directors Rebecca Eddy and Anne Thibault to help guide the project under the eye of long-time organizer Bruce Rogers. Eddy first worked with Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre 15 years ago on a production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and has since been involved with a half-dozen productions or tours. A founding member of The Hyperion Theatre Project in New York, she recently performed at The Stand In and directed “The Complete Works of William Shake-

• Founded: 1992 • First performance: Chena River banks, downtown • Production activity: Year round Outreach program (lead): Bard-a-thon (2000-present) • Highlighted tours: Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Scotland, 2003 (“Hamlet”) 'Othello' Shows July 9-26 • Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays 2 p.m. Jack Townsend Point on UAF campus • July 9 — Canned food night. Bring two cans of food and get half-priced ticket • July 10 — Gala Night — join cast and crew for gala reception after show • July 11 — Meet the cast and crew after show. • Tickets: $18 for adults; $15 for seniors, UAF students. Free for youth under 18. • Information: http://fstalaska.org/ or (907) 457-7638

speare” at Gotham Comedy Club. Thibault last year played the lead role of Kate in “The Taming of the Shrew” and, on her own time, performed her one-woman show, “I Wrote This Play to Make You Love Me.” She has also performed and consulted extensively in New York and around the country, and has taught in New York City schools for a dozen years. FST’s “Romeo and Juliet” sold out its opening weekend in mid-April; Thibault was director. The group has chalked up Graham Watts to direct “Othello,” a tragedy in which a good man falls to ruin after an evil man inflames him with jealousy.

With Watts comes more than 25 years of experience with more than 100 professional theater productions including a handful in Fairbanks. Watts’ production of “Much Ado About Nothing” ran for a season in Washington Square Park, New York, four years ago, and he has worked around the world including with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre of Great Britain and the English Theatres in Vienna and Frankfurt. FST’s productions and educational programs reach 10,000 or more people a year. Contact staff writer Christopher Eshleman at 459-7582.

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2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Arctic Survivors Musk oxen, reindeer, caribou star at LARS By ASHLEY BRIGGS News-Miner Intern

he Arctic is a difficult place to live, but several species of animals have made it their home for thousands of years. Today, researchers are studying those animals to see how they not only survived, but thrived in the far north. Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks, the Robert G. White Large Animal Research Station is home to herds of musk oxen, caribou and domestic reindeer. Thousands of tourists visit every year to see the animals, which are used for research in nutrition, metabolic, physiological and behavioral studies. Scientists estimate there are about 4,000 musk oxen in Alaska, descendants of the 33 musk oxen reintroduced to Alaska in 1930. They like extremely cold temperatures and are usually found as far north as possible. The animals are protected by thick coats and a thick woolly underfur called qiviut. There are nearly 500,000 caribou in Alaska. Tours are given by trained presenters who have a background in natural sciences and are trained in the biology of the animals. They offer descriptions of the natural history and ecology of the animals, specialized adaptations and an overview of

Eric Engman

A musk ox at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Large Animal Research Station.

IF YOU GO • Where: Large Animal Research Station, 2220 Yankovich Road, Fairbanks • When: Every day June through early September hourly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. • Cost: Adults $10; seniors $9; students $6. • Special rates are available for groups of more than 20, which should be scheduled in advance.

research. The tour is a 45-minute outdoor walk of about onequarter mile and is conducted regardless of weather. No reservations are needed unless you are part of a group

larger than 20. A gift shop also is located at research center that sells qiviut, (musk ox wool), hand-knit scarves and hats, T-shirts, coffee mugs, jewelry and books. For more information, call (907) 474-5724 or e-mail fylars@ uaf.edu.

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Endless daylight gives golfers plenty of opportunities to hit the links.

Swing into Summer Play a round of golf under the midnight sun By JOSHUA ARMSTRONG jarmstrong@newsminer.com

Chena Bend Golf Course on Fort Wainwright For non-military members, nine holes cost $29 and a full round costs $35. Any military member with a Department of Defense ID — rank E1 through E5, nine for $14 and 18 for $18; E6 and above, nine for $24 and 18 for $29. If you’re staying at a campground, ask about possible discounts with Chena Bend. Monday through Friday, the course is open from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. It opens at 6:30 a.m. on Saturdays Sundays and holi-

days. At 10 p.m., you can pay greens fees and walk the course. A coin-operated driving range will be open 24 hours per day. For more information, call the clubhouse at 353-6223. A valid ID, vehicle registration and proof of insurance are required to enter the base (expired registration and insurance will not do). If you need to sneak in a quick practice round — or just feel like staying inside for the day — Indoor Golf and Batting Cages has three golf simulators that can replicate dozens of courses from across the globe or practice areas. The simulators cost $10 per hour. Indoor Golf and Batting Cages is located behind Play It Again Sports at 160 Old Steese Highway. For more information, call 455-4368. Contact the News-Miner sports department at 459-7581.

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he golfing season is short and intense in Fairbanks, and there are plenty of options if you’re itching to play a round. The ground usually isn’t dry enough to tee off until mid-May and conditions dictate when courses open. The best way to find out when the links are ready is to call the clubhouse or pro shop with the numbers provided. The North Star Golf Club, 330 Golf Club Drive, is the northernmost United States Golf Association-rated course. The clubhouse can be reached at 457-4653 or visit www.northstargolf.com for more information. Its hours of operation will expand with the daylight hours — from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. around the summer solstice in June. Greens fees are $20 for nine holes and $30 for 18. Carts cost $25 per cart for 18 holes. Club rental is $20 a round. A visitors special is available: $69 for 18 holes, a towel, logo ball, cart and club rental. The Fairbanks Golf Club is

located at 1735 Farmers Loop with normal summer operating hours of 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., but the course will open earlier and close later as the days get longer. The driving range will be open about a week before the course is ready to play. It costs $20 for nine holes and $30 for 18. Cart fees are $10 per person for nine holes and $15 per person for 18. For further information, the pro shop can be reached at 4796555.

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Farmer’s Market By REBECCA GEORGE rgeorge@newsminer.com The state’s oldest established farmer’s market sits right here in Fairbanks. Showcasing unique handcrafted Alaska arts and produce since the mid-1970s, the Tanana Valley Farmer’s Market draws thousands of visitors each summer, starting May 9 and running through September. Fresh produce and plants proudly don the Alaska Grown

label as the season’s bounty is hand picked and grown by farmers across the Tanana Valley— an area larger than the state of Indiana, according to the market’s Web site. Russian baked goods, wild berry jams, honey and other local temptations are just some of the tasty treats sold at the market in addition to a wide variety of soaps, candles, wreaths and Alaskan wildflower bouquets. Local artists add to the venue with handcrafted pottery, glasswork, beadwork, woodwork,

paintings and other designs that represent the Alaskan Interior.

If you go The market is open Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is at the corner of College Road and Caribou Way at the 2600 block of College Road. For more information, visit the market’s Web site at www.tvfmarket.com. Contact staff writer Rebecca George at 459-7504.

The Aurora By CHRIS FREIBERG cfreiberg@newsminer.com Fairbanks’ location in the far north makes it an ideal place to view the aurora borealis, more commonly known as the northern lights. Of course, because the near constant sunlight Fairbanks receives in the summer visitors won’t actually get to see any aurora, but if you come back in the winter, you can look forward to an incredible display of nature’s beauty. “Fairbanks is a nice location with good weather to view the aurora,” said Dirk Lummerzheim, a research professor who studies the aurora borealis for the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. “You need a dark sky and a clear sky, and here in Fairbanks because we’re in the middle of the continent, it’s often clear because we’re dominated by a high-pressure system.”

Long ago, Alaska Natives believed the aurora was made up of their deceased ancestors, and the wavy motion of the green, purple and red hues was their relatives trying to remind the living of their presence. Today, scientists know the lights are caused by particles, mostly electrons, that are carried to Earth by solar winds. The particles become trapped by Earth’s magnetic field, which causes a ring of light around the polar regions of the planet, Lummerzheim said. This halo usually is positioned slightly to the north of Fairbanks. While the aurora often can be spotted from within the city, the best place to view it is a few miles out of town. Favorite locations of aurora watchers include Cleary Summit Road, Ester Dome and Murphy Dome. “It looks best if you’re not in an area dominated by city lights.” Lummerzheim said.

“The slightest bit of haze will reflect the city lights back.” Unfortunately, this past winter was not a good one to view the aurora. The sun goes in 11year cycles of intense activity folllowed by another 11 years of lesser activity. During the winter, the sun went through “exceptionally long and low period of activity,” that resulted in “particularly dim and uninteresting” sightings over Fairbanks, Lummerzheim said. He said it was the worst year in a century to view the Northern Lights. However, it looks like there’s a bright future ahead for the aurora. “There are indications that the minimum cycle has come to an end,” Lummerzheim said. “That means that in the next year or two we might have the usual spectacular aurora.”

Contact staff writer Chris Freiberg at 459-7545.

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Summer Mushing By JULIE STRICKER jstricker@newsminer.com In the winter, Alaska goes to the dogs. Even in summer, when it’s generally too warm to hook up a team of thick-furred huskies, visitors can still get a taste of Alaska’s state sport, mushing. Several businesses in Fairbanks and the Denali National Park area offer kennel tours and talks with long-time mushers. • Mary Shields, the first woman to finish the 1,049-mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race has shared her Tales from the Trail with visitors for 25 years. She has written five books and has been featured by PBS. Meet Mary and her big friendly huskies as she talks about her experiences racing, mushing and living in Alaska. Bring your curiosity and questions about a “path less traveled.” This two-hour tour is designed for adults and children over 8. It begins daily at 7:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Group size is limited. Groups of 10 or more may want a customized tour during the day.

Adults $28; children (under 12) $20. Visit www.maryshields.com or call 455-6469. • Meet the Miller family at Sun Dog Express in their winter dog yard and enjoy a dog sledding demonstration. The presentation includes history, equipment and stories from the trail and lasts 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Call 907-479-6983 or visit http://www.mosquitonet. com/~sleddog/ for times. Reservations are required. Cost is $25 per person, with special rates for larger groups. • Head out to Chena Hot Springs Resort for a dip in the springs and a dog cart ride through the resort. Chat with mushers and about their mushing lifestyle and hear their stories. Dog kennel tour — $15; dog cart ride, all ages, $60 per person, about 20 minutes. www.chenahotsprings.com • The sled dog kennel at Denali National Park and Preserve are world reknown. These are the only sled dogs in the United States that help protect a national park and the wildlife, scenery, and wilderness, and it

has been this way since the park’s beginning. Demonstrations are given at 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. every day during the summer. Visit www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/ kennels.htm for more information. • Just down the road from the park entrance, join an intimate group for a personal tour of the homestead and kennel of fourtime Iditarod champion Jeff King and his wife, well-known wildlife artist Donna Gates King. Meet King’s champion sled dogs and see summer training in action. Reservations are required for the 7 p.m. daily tour and transportation is provided from area hotels. $49 for adults; $29 under 12 years old (not recommended for children under 3 years.) http:// www.huskyhomestead.com/ • On the famous Stampede Road just outside Healy, stop by Earthsong Lodge for an informal tour of Jon and Karin Nierenberg’s sled dog kennel. $10. For more information, visit www. earthsonglodge.com or call (907) 683-2863

Community museums Staff Report The black-and-white photos and newspaper clippings outnumber anything else at the Dog Mushing Museum at 410 Cushman St. But something else, the oldest item, might draw the most questions. It’s a toboggan, make in the traditional Athabascan style. The sled dates at least as far

back as 1920, originally bought by Interior trapper Fabian Carey, according to the museum. Its petrified moosehide sideboards are cracked and yellowed with age, and its wooden bed is tinted gray from dust. The toboggan and rest of the exhibit are tucked into a back room at the larger Fairbanks Community Museum in downtown Fairbanks. Collectively, the

Mushing Museum’s exhibits cover the broad history of sled dog racing in Alaska, from the 408mile All Alaska Sweepstakes in 1908 through the rugged Yukon Quest and the famous Iditarod. The museums are open from Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free, and the museum accepts donations. Call (907) 457-3669 for more information.

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2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Riverboat Discovery Cruise offers journey into Alaska culture, history Staff Report

earn about Interior Alaska, from the past to the present on the Riverboat Discovery. The sternwheeler riverboat travels the Chena and Tanana rivers twice

daily and gives passengers a glimpse of what life was like along the rivers from the pregold rush days to today’s fastpaced society. The Riverboat Discovery is owned and operated by the Binkley family, who have been offer-

ing riverboat tours since 1950. The 3 1/2-hour cruise takes passengers back 100 years when rivers were the main mode of transportation for people and supplies in Interior Alaska.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

41 Sam Harrel/News-Miner

The Riverboat Discovery I, left, leads the Riverboat Discovery II, right, and Riverboat Discovery III down the Chena River during a summer cruise celebrating 50 years in business.

Please see DISCOVERY, Page 41

IF YOU GO • Dates: May 12-Sept. 19 • Times: 8:45 a.m. and 2 p.m. • Cost: Adults $54.95 Children $37.95; infants under 3, free

Discovery Continued from Page 40

Many Interior communities still rely on summer barges plying the Tanana and Yukon rivers to deliver fuel and other supplies to sustain them through the long winters. The adventure begins at Steamboat Landing, a replica gold rush town complete with a gift shop, museum and ice cream parlor. As the cruise winds downriver passengers will see a bush pilot take off and land a small airplane on the river. These hardy, pioneering airmen transformed travel in rural Alaska, delivering medical supplies, food and mail among other items to the most remote areas. Passengers will see historic cabins along the riverbank and hear a short talk on dog mushing, including a demonstration, with a stop at the late Susan Butcher’s Trail Breaker Kennels. The sternwheeler also stops for a one-hour land tour of a replica Athabascan village. Native Alaskan hosts regale visitors with stories of Alaska life and their culture and history. Passengers experience an Athabascan fish camp complete with a fishwheel and techniques of catching and drying salmon. At the confluence of the Chena and Tanana rivers, passengers will see the demarcation line where the clear waters of the spring-fed Chena River meet the silt-laden waters of the glacier-fed Tanana River.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Restaurants Downtown • Bobby’s Downtown Greek food 609 Second Ave. 456-3222 Entrees: Lunch: $12; dinner $8.50 to $32 • Lavelle’s Bistro American bistro and wine 575 First Ave., 450-0555 for reservations Summer hours (starting May 14) Lunch: Monday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner: Sunday and Monday 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Entrees: $12 lunch, $25 dinner • Soapy Smiths Pioneer Restaurant Burgers, sandwiches, soups, prime rib, steaks, halibut, salmon and seafood 543 Second Ave. 451-8380 Summer hours (starting May 15) 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Usually closed on Sundays Entrees: $8 to $12 lunch; $12 to $29 dinner • Co-op Diner Breakfast, hamburgers, sandwiches, wraps

Steaks, seafood and homemade desserts 731 Second Ave., 456-7597 Open Tuesday-Saturday 4-11 p.m. Entrees: $25

Note: While this is by no means a complete list of restaurants in Fairbanks, we have tried to be as inclusive as possible in providing information on local eateries. Thank you.

535 Second Ave. (in the Co-op Plaza). 457-4907 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily Take out and delivery available. Entrees: $6.95 (breakfast) to $16.95 • Gambardella’s Pasta Bella Italian entrees, pizza, subs and salads 706 Second Ave., 457-4992 Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday 4-10 p.m. Take out and delivery available Entrees: $6.95 to $24.95 • Big Daddy’s BBQ and Banquet Hall BBQ pork, beef, ribs, chicken, sandwiches, burgers 107 Wickersham St., 452-2501 Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Entrees: $15 to $22; sandwich combos, $8.75 to $12.75

• The Diner Breakfast, lunch and dinner, diner fare 244 Illinois St., 451-0613 Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m, Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entrees: breakfast $6.50 to $11.25; sandwiches $6.95 to $9.95; dinner $7.95 to $15.95 • The Pomegranate Freshly prepared soups, sandwiches, salads, entrees and desserts 414 Second Ave. 451-7505 Summer hours (start midMay): Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and some holidays, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Entree: $6.50 to $12 • Bahn Thai Restaurant Thai cuisine 541 Third Ave. 452-8424 Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Closed Sunday

• Aviator Steakhouse

Continued on Page 43

WOK n’ ROLL Chinese Food

Including Sucrose-free

Specializing in Wild Alaska Blueberry and Cranberry

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DINE-IN • CARRY-OUT • MON–SAT

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Continued from Page 42

Entrees: $10-15 Takeout available • Thai House Thai food 412 Fifth Ave. 452-6123 Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Closed Sunday. Takeout available Lunch: $8.95; dinner: $13.95 • Pizza 4 Less Pizza, spaghetti, chicken, subs and wings 246 Illinois St. 451-6060 Open daily 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Takeout and delivery only • McCafferty’s Coffee House Espresso bar, soup, pastries and desserts; roast their own coffee 408 Cushman St. 456-6853 Monday-Thursday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Live music Friday and Saturday evenings

soup, sandwiches, baked goods Hot Licks ice cream offered during summer 523 Second Ave. 456-6242 Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sunday

Espresso bar, soups, sandwiches, ice cream, fudge and gift shop 515 First Ave. 456-3834 Summer hours: Monday -Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Prices vary

• Iris Cafe & Saloon Hamburgers, sandwiches, steak and seafood; breakfast on weekends until about 2 p.m. 900 Noble St. 455-4747 Monday-Friday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Bar open until 12 a.m. Sunday-Thursday. Friday and Saturday open until 1 a.m. Expect longer hours during the summer. Prices vary.

• Trapper’s Bar & Grill Diner food 1347 Bedrock St. 456-6430 Restaurant open 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bar open until 2 a.m. weekdays, and 3 a.m. on weekends. Entrees: $8 to $18

• Red Lantern Steak & Spirits Prime rib, fine dining 813 Noble St. in Westmark Hotel. 459-7725 Lunch 11 - 2 p.m.; Dinner 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. $20 to $25

• River City Cafe and Espresso Espresso bar, coffee, smoothies,

• Regency Cove Restaurant Fine dining 95 10th Ave. 459-2709 Mon.-Fri. 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Sat.-Sun 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

• Taco King Mexican 200 Old Steese Highway. 4588226 Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Prices vary

East Fairbanks • Mayflower Buffet Chinese, American and Japanese Cuisine and sushi 414 Third St. (at Eagle Plaza Mall). 452-3399 Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to

• The Fudge Pot

Continued on Page 44

mbardella’s a G Pasta Bella

Breakfast Mon–Fri 7 a.m. Lunch & Dinner Daily

Restaurant • Bar • Discount Liquors Great prices, NY Steak & King Crab Legs all summer.

Pasta, Pizza, Salad, Seafood

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tion:

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2009 Summer Visitors Guide

44 Continued from Page 43

9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sunday noon to 9:30 p.m. Carryout available • The Chowder House Soup, sandwiches, salads, pastries. 206 Eagle Ave. 452-2882 Monday- Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Sunday Prices vary.

Airport Way /South Cushman • Lin’s Asian Bistro Chinese, Thai, sushi, beer and wine. 1900 Airport Way 479-8866, 479-8865 Open Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday 12-9:30 p.m. www.linsasianbistro.com • Alaska Salmon Bake All-you-can-eat wood grilled salmon, beer-battered halibut and cod and slow-roasted prime rib; includes salad bar, dessert and drinks. Located in Pioneer Park. 4527274. Open daily 5 to 9 p.m. midMay to mid-September $31 (for the all-you-can-eat special) • Souvlaki (in Pioneer Park) Located in Pioneer Park, Cabin No. 25 Open daily 12-8 p.m. Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day 456-3672 • Bamboo Panda Chinese food 1235 Airport Way, Suite 3

458-8885, 458-8886 Monday-Friday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday noon to 9:30 p.m. Lunch: $6.75, combination plate: $9.45

10 p.m.; Saturdays 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sundays 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Entrees: $15 to $30

• Airport Way Family Restaurant. All-American food 1704 Airport Way. 457-5182 Open 24 hours per day, seven days per week Entree: $10 to $20 • Deb’s Cafe Comfort food 3513 Industrial Ave. 456-7829 Monday-Saturday 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Delivery available MondayFriday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Specials: $9.25; $7.25 for sandwich special with soup • Seoul Gate Korean cuisine 958 Cowles St. 456-2060 Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday 1:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Koreana Restaurant Korean 1528 S. Cushman St. 451-0651 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. • Sweet Basil Thai Restaurant 1450 S. Cushman St. 456-2170 Open Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 1-8 p.m. Lunch: $8.95, dinner: $11.95 • The Round Up Steakhouse Steakhouse featuring seafood and cheesesteak 2701 S. Cushman St. 479-3663 Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. to

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• Wolf Run Restaurant Fine dining and desserts 3360 Wolf Run. 458-0636 Monday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tues. to Thurs. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Sunday 12 p.m. - 9 p.m. $8.50 lunch; $20 dinner

1634 Cushman Street Fairbanks, AK 99701

Fine Dining Restaurant & Solarium

Call for reservations - 488-6815

• Zach’s Restaurant at Sophie Station DC Fun, creative Alaskan cuisine 1717 University Ave. 479-3650 Monday to Sunday 6 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5:30-9 p.m. $15 to $30

AMERICAN LEGION POST 57

Two Rivers Lodge Casual Dining in the Trapline Lounge & Tuscan Garden

• Oasis Restaurant and Lounge Steaks, ribs, halibut, salads, burgers and hot sandwiches. 734 University Ave. 458-8020 Breakfast: 6-11 a.m. MondayFriday; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Monday through Saturday kitchen open until 10 p.m., 9 p.m. Sundays. Lunch $8-12; dinner $14-20.

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remium Super P atch ice b ll sma ade in cream m since a k s Ala 1986

University Avenue

Continued on Page 45

Denali Princess Lodge 3453 College Rd. near UAF & 695 Chena Pump Road Chena Pump Plaza

• Los Amigos Steakhouse and Mexican food 636 28th Ave. 452-3684 Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday breakfast buffet 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; lunch buffet $11.75. Sunday buffet $14.75

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

45 pastries and pies 69 College Road. 456-8600 Monday through Saturday 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. $10 to $12

Continued from Page 44

College Road /Johansen • Azucar Latin, Cuban cuisine 3677 College Road, Suite 9 456CUBA Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday, 5-9 p.m. Take out and delivery; vegetarian options. • Geraldo’s Italian food and pizza 701 College Road 452-2299 Summer hours: Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday noon to 11 p.m., Sunday 3-10 p.m. Lunch $10; dinner $20 • Hot Licks Ice Cream Homemade ice cream, floats, sodas and cakes to order 3453 College Road — open daily at noon • Gallo’s Mexican Restaurant Mexican 60 College Road 455-9225 Open daily 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Entrees: up to $18

• Panda Garden Chinese 29 College Road 452-3355 Takeout and delivery only Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday 4-9 p.m. Entrees: $5.95 to $14.75 • Siam Square Classic Thai cuisine 59 College Road, Suite 202, 458-7426. Open daily 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. $15

College Coffee House Espresso, baked goods, sandwiches. 3677 College Road (Campus Corner Mall). 374-0468 Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to midnight; Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to midnight

• Cookie Jar Restaurant Homestyle cafe and family dining 1006 Cadillac Court 479-8319 Breakfast, lunch, dinner, bakery on site, espresso bar, chocolates and desserts. Open seven days a week. Delivery Available M-F 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Outdoor dining. $10-$20 Continued on Page 46

the

Vallata

Excellent Steaks, Seafood, Italian Dishes & New York Style Pizzas!

• Bakery Restaurant Homestyle cafe, fresh baked

10347561-2009VG

TEAKS

2190 Goldstream Rd.

Tues.-Sun. 5:30-10:30 Closed Monday

One Welcome! Visit of Our

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Locations! Fort Wainwright 3703 Neeley Road 356-1481 Eielson AFB 451 Broadway 372-1166

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Walmart Location 374-7817 514 Old Steese 456-8686 227 N. Santa Claus Lane (North Pole) 488-7444

Reservations recommended

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• Sandwiches • Salads • Soups • Baked Goodies • Espresso • Free Wi-Fi! • Kaladi Bros Coffee & Hot Licks Ice Cream Hours: M–Th 7am–9pm (45-MOCHA) Call for delivery! Fri 7am–10pm • Sat 9am–10pm Sunday Closed 523 2nd Ave.

1800 Airport Way 452-5415 2301 South Cushman 452-6000 3574 Airport Way 479-8688

• College Town Pizzeria Pizza, calzones and salads and fresh-made gelato and Italian ice 3549 College Road. 457-2200 Mon.-Sat. 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Closed Sunday • Gulliver’s Second-Story Cafe Sandwiches, pastries, espresso 3525 College Road. 474-9574 Monday to Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.' Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Ichiban Noodle House Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese 400 College Road. 455-9116 Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to midnight. Entrees: $10.75

• The Food Factory Call Burgers, chicken, seafood 44 College Road 452-3313 Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday Sat. 11 a.m. to midnight Sunday Noon to 10 p.m. $12

456-6242

• Wok N’ Roll Chinese 3535 College Road 455-4848 Monday to Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Sunday $6.75 to $12.50

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

46 Continued from Page 45

• Pad Thai Authentic Thai Food 3400 College Road. 479-1251 Summer hours: Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 1 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. dinner $12 and $13; lunch $8.95

West Fairbanks • Marty’s Bake Shop Bread, pastries, sandwiches 1896 Marika St., Suite 4. 4558660 Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Not open on weekends but at the Farmers Market on Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. $7 • Finish Line Steaks and seafood 4920 Dale Road, next to the Alpine Lodge. 328-6380 $20-$30

Dinner: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday brunch 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. $10 to $30 • Chena’s Fine Dining and Deck Fine dining/American cuisine 4200 Boat St. 474-3644 Monday to Sunday 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. • Lemongrass Authentic Thai Chena Pump Plaza 456-2200 Monday to Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. $8.95 to $10.95 dinner: $11.95 to $15.95 • Brewsters Burgers, ribs, chicken 354 Old Steese Highway (North Gate Square) 374-9663 3578 Airport Way (Teddy Bear Plaza) 456-2538 Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. $10-$20

Pike’s Landing • Steaks, seafood 4438 Airport Way./ 479-6500 Lunch: 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday Sunday brunch: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dinner: Monday through Sunday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. $20

• Lulu’s Bread and Bagels Breads, bagels, pastries, coffee 475 Riverstone Way, Suite 1. 374-3804 Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.

• The Pump House Restaurant Seafood, steaks Mile 1.3 Chena Pump Road. 479-8452 Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Fairbanks vicinity

A Gallery of Global Goods clothing, jewelry & gifts you will love!

www.themagiccarpet.net Mon.– Sat., 10 a.m.– 6 p.m.

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Stop in & see us today!

479-2433 • 380 Old Chena Pump Rd

• The Vallata American/Italian Cuisine 2.5 Mile Goldstream Road. 455-6600 Tues.-Sun. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations recommended $20-$30 • Ivory Jack’s Restaurant Steaks, ribs, seafood, pizza, burgers 2581 Goldstream Road. 4556666 Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

• Turtle Club Prime rib, seafood 2098 Old Steese Hwy, 457-3883 Monday through Saturday 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Reservation recommended. $23 - $30 • Chatanika Gold Camp Steaks, seafood, 28 Mile Steese Highway, 389-2414 • Hilltop Truck Stop Diner food, home-baked pies 3711 Elliott Highway. 389-7600 Daily 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. breakfast, lunch and dinner all day. $9

Continued on Page 47

VISIT OUR STORE FOR UNIQUE GIFTS AND ANTIQUES

Expires 12/30/09 Not Valid With Any Other Offer. Limit 1 Coupon Per Item Purchase

Airport Road Antique Mall

Airport Way Sourdough Fuel Across from Regal Cinemas

3206 Airport Way, Fairbanks

907-457-6700

Hours: 11a.m.–6 p.m., Mon.–Sat.

Sourdough Fuel Beaverbrook 3330 Badger Rd., North Pole

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Farmer's Loop Sourdough Fuel Corner of Farmer's Loop & Steese Hwy.

• Mt. Aurora Fairbanks Creek Lodge Home-cooked, bistro style featuring Alaskan ingredients, 2320 Fairbanks Creek Road., 389-2000. Thursday-Sunday, lunch and dinner, brunch on Sunday. $20

• Two Rivers Lodge Fine dining. Mile 16 Chena Hot Springs Road. 488-6815. Open 5 p.m. - 10 p.m daily. Lounge is open 3-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Entrees start at $20.

TAKE $1 OFF ANY HOT STUFF PIZZA™ HOT SUB, MEGARITO® CHICKEN SANDWICH OR WRAP

Van Horn Sourdough Fuel Van Horn & Lathrop

• Silver Gulch Brewery and Restaurant 2195 Old Steese Highway. 4522739 Brewery & restaurant featuring recipes incorporating fine ales, lagers & speciality beers. Open daily at 4 p.m. www.silvergulch.com

• Chatanika Lodge Steaks, seafood Mile 28.3 Steese Highway. 3892164 Daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. $8 to $24 Live music every Sunday and on holidays

WE'VE GOT THE HOT STUFF! Sourdough Fuel Danby Corner of Danby & Johansen

Friday and Sat 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Breakfast served on Saturday and Sunday until 4 p.m. $10 lunch and breakfast $20 dinner

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Coffee’s Common Grounds By BETSY MATHIS bmathis@newsminer.com Get a taste for Fairbanks by touring the city’s local coffee shops. With shops located around town, you can drink your java, while you tour local hot spots.

Downtown • McCafferty’s, A Coffee House — McCafferty’s, A Coffee House blends coffee with music and art. Owners Bill and June Rogers bought the building, located at 408 Cushman St., to house their recording studio, which is in the basement of the coffee shop. The shop offers live entertainment Friday and Saturday nights from 8:30-10:30 courtesy of Sand Castle, a band made up of the Rogerses and bass player Dave Anderson. Works from local artists can be found throughout the shop, which “helps visitors get an idea of what local artists are doing,” June Rogers said. McCafferty’s offers coffee, espresso, Italian soda, tea, soup, baked goods and desserts. The shop is located by the Fairbanks Community Museum and the bus depot, not too far from the Westmark Hotel and the SpringHill Suites Marriott downtown. Open Monday-Thursday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and

Continued from Page 46

• Chena Hot Springs Seafood, steaks, chicken, salad Mile 56 Chena Hot Springs Road. 451-8104 Daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. $15 to$20 for a dinner entree

Fast food/chains Fairbanks also has many of the same national chain restaurants found in the Lower 48. So,

Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phone: 456-6853. • Mocha Dan’s Café — Located in the Co-op Plaza downtown, Mocha Dan’s is a short trip from many local souvenir shops. Along with coffee and espresso, the shops offers specialty sandwiches, paninis, soup, fruit smoothies and baked goods from Ray’s Bakery. Mocha Dan’s also features a breakfast menu, which includes breakfast burritos and sandwiches. The shop is located at 535 Second Ave. Suite 101. Open MondayFriday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free Wi-Fi available. • River City Café and Espresso — The newest of the local coffee shops, River City Café and Espresso has been open 3 months in what used to be Two Street Station. According to owner Bobbi Eller, a lifelong Alaskan, the building River City is housed in was built in 1931 and contains natural wood floors that “add a lot of character to the building.” The shop offers soup, sandwiches, salads, coffee, espresso and smoothies and on Fridays, the special is white chicken chili. Hot Licks ice cream will be featured during summer. Plan for longer hours and live entertainment during the summer, as well. River City is located at

if you’re in the mood for something fast and familiar: • McDonald’s: 1930 Airport Way (with Playland for kids); 38 College Road; 3905 Geist Road • Wendy’s, 1859 Airport Way • Taco Bell: 87 College Rd.; 1450 University Ave. • Taco Del Mar, 930 Old Steese Hwy • Pizza Hut: 4001 Geist Road; 1990 Airport Way; 89 College Road • KFC: 69 College Road

University • College Coffee House — Located near the University of Alaska Fairbanks, College Coffee House can cap off a visit to the UAF Museum of the North or the Georgeson Botanical Gardens. Along with coffee and espresso, the shop offers bagels, cinnamon rolls, sandwiches, quiche, soup and waffles. If you’re in the mood to surf the Web while you sip your espresso, free Wi-Fi, as well as pay-to-use desktop computers, is available. Live entertainment is scheduled throughout the month and includes musical groups playing everything from Celtic and folk to acoustic and rock, as well as poetry readings. A schedule can be found on the store’s Web site at www.collegecoffeehousefairbanks.com. The shop is located at 3677 College Road Unit 4. Open Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to midnight and Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. midnight. Phone: 907-374-0468. Please see COFFEE, Page 49

• A&W/KFC, 3428 Airport Way • Carl’s Jr., Merhar Avenue • Chili’s, 506 Merhar Ave. • Boston’s Pizza, 1243 Old Steese Highway • Denny’s, 1929 Airport Way • Bruegger’s Bagels, Bentley Mall Annex • Subway, 1800 Airport Way; 3574 Airport Way; 514 Old Steese Highway • Quizno’s, 607 Old Steese Hwy

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479-8080

1908 Chena Landings Loop Fairbanks, AK 99701 www.comfortinnfairbanks.com

523 Second Ave. downtown, a block from Golden Heart Plaza and a couple blocks from Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. Open Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed Sunday. Phone: 456-6242. Free Wi-Fi available.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

El Dorado Gold Mine Finding gold in the 19th century was hard work. Back then prospectors chipped away at the ground with pick axes and slowly washed the dirt away from the gold — if any — in their pans. Gold miners can still do that, but the El Dorado Gold Mine has made it a little easier for the rookies. El Dorado is located in Fox, about a 20-minute drive north from Fairbanks on the Steese Highway. A tour of the mine gives visitors the chance to see how early miners practiced their trade, see a permafrost tunnel and take a train ride on a replica of the Tanana Valley Railroad. The route is near the gold rush train route that took

freight and passengers from the Tanana and Chena rivers to more than a dozen gold camps in the Interior. The tour begins with the locomotive. Passengers hop on and travel through a permafrost tunnel and past the steam winch that once carried the buckets of paydirt from the ground to be processed. The conductor is accomplished fiddler Earl Hughes, who entertains riders by playing such songs as the “Wabash Cannonball” and other favorites. While in the tunnel, visitors get a quick lesson on underground mining. The passengers then arrive at the gold camp and are greeted by Yukon Yonda and her husband, Dexter Clark. The duo

gives a demonstration on mining techniques and swaps old mining stories. The mine also educates visitors about modern gold mining and its importance to Alaska’s economy. After the two-hour tour ends, everyone gets a shot at panning for gold. It is suggested that visitors dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes and a jacket. Transportation options: A shuttle ride is available from the Riverboat Discovery, River’s Edge RV Park, River’s Edge Cottages, Pike’s Waterfront Lodge, and the SpringHill Suites by Marriott hotel, downtown near the visitor’s center. www.eldoradogoldmine.com (866) 479-6673 or (907) 4796673.

A laska Bird Observatory

Our gift shop carries unique items for the nature lover in your life. Your purchase helps support ABO in its mission to advance the appreciation, understanding and conservation of birds and their habitats through research and education. 418 Wedgewood Dr. • www.alaskabird.org • 451-7159

• Santa Claus House •

From College Rd go north on Margaret Ave., right on Wedgewood Dr., left just past Visitor Center. Watch for signs.

M-F 9:30-5

• Farmer’s Loop • North Pole

RIDE THE BUS! MACS – Metropolitan Area Commuter System

Arrives & Departs from the Transit Center • 501 Cushman St.

Info Hotline: 459-1011 or 459-1196 VanTran Scheduling: 459-1010 Check out our maps & schedules online: www.fnsb.us/transportation

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Employment • Airport • Hotels • RV Parks • Recreation

See Fairbanks –

• Medical Centers • Education • Riverboat Landing • Entertainment •

Staff Report

• Pioneer Park • University of Alaska • Shopping Malls • Library • Fairgrounds

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Trans-Alaska Pipeline

of rivers and creeks. Even though it is only a few feet wide, the pipeline covers more than 16 square miles of Alaska. Much of the pipeline is buried and special ventilators are used to keep the permafrost frozen and the line stable. While small plane operators will offer aerial tours of

the pipeline, the Fairbanks area boasts several spectacular places to view the pipeline by car. • A small turnout eight miles down the Steese Highway between Fairbanks and Fox is one of the best places to get close to the pipeline. Visitors can get out and touch the pipeline and read about the construction effort on several informational displays. • The Richardson Highway near Big Delta offers an impressive view of the pipeline crossing the Tanana River on a custom suspension bridge. • The gravel Dalton Highway connects Fairbanks with Deadhorse on the North Slope an offers several viewing opportunities along the 414-mile trip. Known locally as “the Haul Road” because it remains a busy thoroughfare for supply trucks heading north, the Dalton Highway is now open to the public and provides many opportunities to view the pipeline. The pipeline also is visible in many places as it parallels the Richardson Highway between Fairbanks and the end of the line at tidewater in Valdez.

at Lu Lu’s, located at 475 Riverstone Way No. 1. in the Chena Pump Plaza. The shop also features Kaladi Brothers coffee, quiche and salads. On the weekends, locals flock to Lu Lu’s for its cinnamon rolls and sourdough sticky buns. For those looking to enjoy the weather while they sip their coffee, the shop will offer outdoor seating during

the summer. Lu Lu’s is located off Geist Road near the Parks Highway, which makes it easy to stop by before a trip to Denali National Park and Preserve. Open Tuesday-Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. The inside of the store is closed Mondays, but a drivethru is open 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Phone: 907-374-3804.

Staff Report

COFFEE Continued from Page 47

West • Alaska Coffee Roasting Co. — If you’re looking for something exotic, Alaska Coffee Roasting Co, is the place to stop. The shop, located at 4001 Geist Road Suite 2 in the West Valley Plaza not far from UAF, features coffee beans from around the world. Kosher hot dogs, muffins, scones, cookies and cakes are available. The shop also features flatbreads made in a wood-fired oven. Open Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Phone: 907-457-5282. • Lu Lu’s Bread & Bagel — Fresh bagels and artisanstyle bread steal the show

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COME JOIN THE FUN!

Reader’s Choice 2006 #1 COCKTAIL LOUNGE #1 DANCE CLUB

Dancing ! Concerts ! Outdoor Festivals Bands & DJs ! Feature Films on the Big Screen WILD Parties! ! Great Food ! WI-FI Internet

457-LOON

Save money. Live better. TM

537 Jo h an sen E xpy.

Al Grillo/The Associated Press

The trans-Alaska pipeline takes crude oil on a nearly 800-mile journey from Alaska’s North Slope on the Beaufort Sea to the port of Valdez on Prince William Sound.

(5666) www.theblueloon.com 2999 PARKS HWY (MI. 325.5), FAIRBANKS, AK 99709

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The trans-Alaska oil pipeline is a marvel of modern engineering that has been the lifeblood of the state’s economy for more than three decades. The pipeline takes crude oil on a nearly 800-mile journey from Alaska’s North Slope on the Beaufort Sea to the port of Valdez on Prince William Sound. When workers from around the country completed the pipeline in 1977, the project represented the largest privately funded construction effort in history, costing $8 billion. The Alyeska Pipeline Service Co., created by a consortium of oil companies, built the pipeline and still operates it today out of a main office in Anchorage, with field offices in Fairbanks and Valdez. Although production on Alaska’s North Slope has been in decline since 1988, the pipeline still supplies about 17 percent of America’s oil needs and has pumped more than 15 billion barrels since oil began flowing on June 20, 1977. The 48-inch pipeline crosses an active fault line, three mountain ranges and hundreds

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Fairbanks Convention & Visitors Bureau For information on Fairbanks and Interior Alaska call (907) 456-5774, visit www.explorefairbanks.com or stop by the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center located at 101 Dunkel Street in Fairbanks, open 8 a.m.–9 p.m. daily during the summer.

Locally owned hotel with spacious suites and rooms, cable TV, free local calls, non-smoking and air conditioned rooms Cafe & Saloon available, and… …one of Fairbanks' favorite restaurants.

Iris

Wed. 11-4 • Sat. 9-4 May–September

(907) 452-5141

900 Noble St., Fairbanks, AK 99701 www.golden~nuggethotel.com

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479-4546

Choose from our complete selection of yarn, buttons, needles, patterns & books for your next special project!

INUA WOOL SHOPPE A SPECIALTY SHOP FOR KNITTERS Mail orders welcome! • www.inuawool.com

3180 PEGER RD. SUITE 160 • FAIRBANKS, AK 99701 11 - 5 Mon.-Sat. • 479-5830 or 1-800-478-9848

Come watch us weave!

410 Cushman Street Fairbanks, AK 99701 Historic City Hall 10 a.m. — 4 p.m.

Gift Shop Features Alaskan Made:

Monday — Friday

Handwoven Rag Rugs created from recycled clothing pottery • jewelry hand-crafted wood soap • soy candles syrups/jams • art cards and more!

Downtown

Phone/Fax (907) 451-4401 603 Lacey Street • Fairbanks, AK 99701 www.alaskaragco.com Mon.–Thur. 10–6, Fri. 1–6

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www.fairbankscommunitymuseum.com www.fairbankshistorymuseum.com

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Exhibits • Winter in Fairbanks • Flood of 1967 • Klondike Gold Rush • Early Fairbanks • Dog Mushing Museum GIFT SHOP 457-3669

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Original Artwork Alaska Raw Honey Underground Chocolates

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2600 College Road Fairbanks, Alaska 99709 456-3276 www.tvfmarket.com tvfmarket@gmail.com

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Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

America’s Northernmost Visitor Special • Green Fees – 18 holes • Golf cart & club rental • Logo ball & towel • Certificate from America’s Northernmost Golf Course

COURSE & GIFT SHOP

NORTH STAR GOLF CLUB, 330 Golf Club Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99712 457-4653 www.northstargolf.com • Email: northstargolf@alaska.net

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Directions: Steese Exp., take Chena Hot Springs Exit, • Practice range LEFT to Old Steese Hwy, Right 3⁄4 mile to Golf Club Dr. • Daily wildlife sightings

Wow!

Ah, Rose Marie B&B DOWNTOWN

Year 'Round $90 + Tax (907)-456-2040

www.akpub.com/akbbrv/ahrose.html email: ahrosemarie@yahoo.com

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302 Cowles St., Fairbanks, AK, 99701

AAAA Care B&B/INN

• Plush, Comfortable, clean rooms • Full Kitchen, living room, phones • Private or shared bath • Private, furnished guest home • Military families welcome/pets? • Breakfast your way • Satellite or cable TV in each room • Beautiful decks • Close to train, downtown, UAF, airport & restaurants • Free pick-up airport or train • 24 Hour High Speed Internet Access

Privacy of a Hotel without the price! Hospitality of an Alaskan Log Home

Pat

479-2447

1-800-478-2705

In the heart of downtown Fairbanks Between 2nd & 3rd Ave. • 215 Cushman Street 457-6659 • www.IfOnlyAlaska.com June-Sept Mon-Sat 10-7 • Sun noon-5 Oct-May Mon-Sat 10-6

• We Pack & Ship • Alaskan Gifts & Cards • Handcrafted Jewelry • Pens •

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557 Fairbanks St. (off Geist Rd.) Fairbanks, Alaska 99709 www.aaaacare.com

Vera Bradley • Bags • Lotions • We Pack & Ship • Alaskan Gifts!& Cards • Handcrafted Jewelry

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Alaskan Gifts & Cards • Handcrafted ! Jewelry • Pens • Inks • Journals • Pottery • Vera Bradley •

Alaskan Gifts & Cards • Handcrafted Jewelry • Pens • Inks • Journals • Pottery •

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Driving in Alaska 101 By BETSY MATHIS bmathis@newsminer.com

veryone likes a good road trip, and what better way to see Alaska than hitting the road for your own adventure? But know the rules of the road before you go so an unexpected accident or ticket doesn’t put the brakes on your fun. • Look behind you — By law, if you are going under the speed limit and have more than five vehicles following you, you have to pull over to let them pass. Alaska State Troopers Sgt. Chad Goeden said the thing locals get most upset about regarding tourists are those who don’t pull over to the side of the road when they are going under the speed limit. RVs are the biggest culprit for not pulling over to let people pass, he said. • Watch out — Many of the state’s highways — such as the Dalton, Steese and Denali highways — are only partially paved, so prepare to drive on gravel. Many rental companies do not allow their vehicles to be driven on gravel roads, so check your contract before you go. On all roads, watch out for frost heaves — areas of road in which continual freezing and thawing has forced the pavement upward, causing a bump in the road. • Be aware of the time — The long hours of daylight can be a blessing and a curse to travelers. The extra sunlight allows for easier navigation and more time

OTHER RESOURCES • “The Milepost” is a must-have for those who plan to tour the state by road. The book provides travelers with a mile-bymile guide to Alaska’s roadways. It includes helpful tips for motorists as well as sidetrip planners and maps. You can pick up a “Milepost” at bookstores and supermarkets throughout Fairbanks. • The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities’ Web site, www. dot.state.ak.us, also offers helpful information for travelers, including safety tips and information about Alaska’s scenic byways.

to enjoy the view for those visiting Alaska for the first time. But the extra light also can be dangerous for you as well as other vehicles on the road. Goeden said, “Don’t let the long hours of daylight fool you; your body still needs sleep. Driving drowsy is just as dangerous as driving under the influence.” • Watch for critters — Driving the state’s highways is a great way to see wildlife. Moose and caribou are just some of the animals that pop up along the road. They can be dangerous to unaware motorists, so keep your eyes peeled. And don’t stop in the middle of the road to take

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626 5th Avenue • 452-4834

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pictures. • What to bring — Make sure to bring a cell phone in case of emergencies. Just remember you won’t get reception everywhere. Goeden suggested drivers make sure they always have three other things with them — a phone charger, a map and common sense. If every driver had those four things, it would cut down on a lot of work for the troopers during the summer, he said. • If you go during the winter — The snow and ice provide for some beautiful scenery in Alaska during the winter but can lead to problems for drivers. Remember to drive slowly and give plenty of room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Keep in mind that harsh conditions force many side roads and passes to close throughout the winter, so know before you go whether the road you want to travel is open. The Web site 511. alaska.gov provides up-to-date information on road closures and construction throughout the state. The National Weather Service Web site, www.arh.noaa.gov/hazards.php, lists current winter advisories. Near winter solstice, Fairbanks gets few daylight hours, so keep that in mind when planning winter excursions. Bring plenty of warm clothes, food and water with you when traveling during the winter, too. You don’t want to break down on the side of the road with nothing but a winter coat when it’s negative 40 outside. Snow, ice fog and the lack of sunlight contribute to reduced visibility during winter, so headlights are essential.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Fairbanks area campgrounds Picnic areas, boat launch, playground, trail system. No showers. • Ice Alaska Park and RV Campground 1925 Chena Landing Loop. 451-8250 or 388-6388 Total of 52 campsites available including 15 with full hookups. Tent spots also available. Dump station and potable water on site. Rates: $15 a night for tents; $15 to $26 a night for RVs. Internet connections, laundry facility, showers and bathrooms. • River’s Edge RV Park 4140 Boat Street, Fairbanks. 474-0286. A total of 188 spots, from dry sites to full service. Dump station on site. Rates: $20.95 for tents, $31.95 for partial hookups, $34.95 for full hookups. Good Sam discounts. Free showers, and shuttles to Fairbanks destinations available. Gift shop, RV wash station and laundry facility on site. • Riverview RV Park 1316 Badger Road. 488-6392 Campground offers 161 spots including full hookups, 30/50 amp service, tent sites. Most spots can accommodate RVs up to 70 feet long. Rates: Start at $34.95 per night. All site are full hookups. Good Sam discounts available: $31.65 a night, $34.35 with full hookup. Cable TV, showers, laundry, phones, complimentary WIFI Internet and a free vehicle wash are available. Grocery store with ATM and DVD rental kiosk.. River fishing access and three-hole golf course. • Road’s End RV Park 1463 Wescott Garden Lane. 488-0295 Sixty-five campsites with full

hookups and additional spots for tents. Dump station on site. Rates: $120 weekly; $430 monthly. Discounts available. $20 nightly for full hookups. Showers and laundry on site. WIFI on site • Santaland RV Park 125 St. Nicholas Drive, North Pole. 488-9123 More than 80 spots ranging from self-contained to full hookup as well as 50-amps. No tents Dump station on site. Rates: from $24.95 to $34.95 a day. Good Sam and military discounts available. Free showers, cable TV and free WIFI. Daily shuttle service to area attractions. Next to the Santa Claus House. A North Pole city tour also is available.

JUST HAIRCUTS

$ 00

OFF

REGULAR PRICE Men’s.........$10.95 Boy’s............$9.95 Sr. Citizens. . .$8.95 Military.........$7.95 THESE PRICES GOOD WITH THIS COUPON 1 COUPON PER PERSON

452-4487 Mon.-Sat. 9am-7pm

23rd & S. Cushman Across from WILLIAMS

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• Pioneer Park 2300 Airport Way, Fairbanks. 459-1087 The paved parking lot has 80 spots for RVs. No hookups. No tents allowed. No dump station on site. Potable water available. Rates: $12 per night for a maximum stay of four consecutive nights. Register at the information booth just inside the park’s front gate. • Chena Lake Recreation Area Mile 346 Richardson Highway. 488-1655 A total of 86 campsites, including locations near the lake and along the Chena River. Spots for tents and RVs. No utility hookups. Drinking water available in hand pumps. Dump station on site. Rates: $10 a night for tents; $12 a night for RVs. A 10-night maximum stay is enforced. No reservations allowed. An annual camping pass is available for $120. Canoe, rowboats, kayaks and paddle boats rentals available. Lake has designated swimming area without lifeguard. Lake is stocked with fish. Playground, horseshoe pits, volleyball nets and basketball courts available. • Chena Marina RV Park & Resort Long-term sites only all season. 1145 Shypoke Drive. 458-7368 Laundry and RV wash on site and more • Chena River State Recreation Site 221 University Avenue, Fairbanks. 452-7275 Campground has 61 sites with some hookups. Spots for tents and RVs. Dumpstation and potable water on site. Rates: $10 for tents, $17 for dry spots, $25 for hookups.

Let nature work wonders

©Aveda Corp.

Salon • Day Spa Experience breakthrough botanical formulas that deliver powerful therapeutic benefits. Aveda spa facials, Massages and body treatments reconnect you to the Earth through the power of touch and the life force of plants. Book your personalized spa treatment today.

419 Mehar Avenue Suite B Aurora Mall • next to Barnes & Noble, Fairbanks, AK 99701 • 907-456-8877

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Find other Aveda locations at 800.328.0849 or aveda.com

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Private area campgrounds Denali Region

S. Richardson Hwy.

• McKinley RV Park Mile 248 Parks Highway (907) 683-2379 Open May 1-Sept. 24 75 sites, 13 with full hook-ups Sani-dump, laundry, restrooms, showers • Denali Riverside RV Park Mile 240 Parks Highway (907) 388-1748. Open June 10-Aug. 25 with 72 sites, 61 with partial hook-ups Sani-dump, restrooms, laundry, showers • Denali Rainbow Village & RV Park Mile 238.6 Parks Highway (907) 683-7777. Open May 15-Sept. 15. with 70 sites, 20 full hook-ups, 50 partial. Internet, TV, Sani-dump, restrooms, showers, laundry • Denali Grizzly Bear Resort Mile 231 Parks Highway (866) 583-2696. Open mid-May - mid-Sept. 63 sites, 34 tent sites, 29 sites with partial hook-ups. TV, Internet, Sani-dump. Restrooms, laundry, showers • Cantwell RV Park Mile 209.9 Parks Highway, Cantwell. (800) 940-2210 Open May 15-September with 79 sites, 76 partial hook-ups. Internet, laundry, Sani-dump, restrooms, showers

• Kenny Lake Mercantile & RV Park Mile 7.2 Edgerton Highway Off the Richardson Highway. (907) 822-3313. 19 sites, 10 with partial hook-ups. Diner, Internet, nine tent sites. Sani-dump, laundry, showers, restrooms • Bayside RV Park, Valdez 230 E. Egan Drive. (907) 8354425. Open May 1-Sept. 15 with 96 sites, 70 with full hook-ups. TV, restrooms and showers. Laundry, Sani-dump • Bear Paw Camper Park, Valdez 101 North Harbor Drive. (907) 835-2530. Open May 1-Sept. 30 with 113 sites, 87 with full hookups. Internet, TV, 20 tent sites. Sani-dump, restrooms, showers, laundry • Eagle’s Rest RV Park & Cabins, Valdez 139 East Pioneer Drive. (907) 835-2373. Open May-October with 296 sites, 182 with full hook-ups. 50 tent sites, phones Laundry, showers and restrooms, TV and Internet

Noel Wien Library 459-1020 1215 Cowles Street - Fairbanks 10 AM 10 AM 10 AM 1 PM

– – – –

9 6 5 5

PM PM PM PM

Monday-Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday (Sept - May)

Tok/Taylor Highway • Chicken Gold Camp, the Original 66.4 Mile Taylor Highway. (907) 235-6396. Open May 15-

North Pole Branch Library 488-6101 601 Snowman Lane – North Pole 11 AM – 9 PM 11 AM – 6 PM 11 AM – 5 PM

Tuesday & Wednesday Thursday & Friday Saturday

! Bright, cheerful air conditioned areas to sit, read, listen, converse, and compute - while sipping your favorite covered beverage

! Children’s Story Garden, glorious flower beds, and neighboring park with wildflower garden at Noel Wien

Free Internet!

• Computers with high-speed access • USB support for most cameras and thumb drives • Wireless and hardwired access for personal laptops

Plus:

Temporary Library Cards – $20 non-refundable fee Local newspapers from the early 1900’s +, old phone books Local history & travel information Newspapers – local, regional & international Photocopiers & printers Free paperback exchange & used books for sale Special summer children’s activities and events Artwork by well-known Alaskan artists throughout Noel Wien Phone books for all of Alaska & northwest Canada and pay phones

Visit us on the web: www.fnsblibrary.org

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• • • • • • • • •

Sept. 15. 24 RV sites, four pull-thrus, four partial hook-ups, Sani-dump. Laundromat, Internet, showers. Chickenrvpark@gmail.com • Chicken Creek RV Park 66.8 Mile Taylor Highway (907) 883-5081. 38 sites, 24 sites with electrical only. Sanidump, restrooms, gift shop. travelalaska@starband.net and www.townofchicken.com • Border City RV Park & Hotel Mile 1225.5 Alaska Highway (907) 774-2205. With 32 sites, 31 pull-thru sites. Full hook-ups, 20 tent sites. TV, Internet, Sanidump, restooms, showers. • Sourdough Campground No. 1 Prospector Way, Tok. (907) 883-5543. 78 RV sites, 10 tent sites, cafe 22 sites full hookup. TV, Internet, laundry, showers. • Tok RV Village 1313.4 Alaska Highway. (907) 883-5877. With 162 sites, 103 full hook-ups, restrooms, showers, TV, Internet, Sani-dump. • Gakona Alaska RV Park, Gakona Mile Post 4.25 Tok Cut Off (907) 822-3550. Open May 1Sept. 30 with 85 sites, 48 with full hook-ups, six cabins, 16 tent sites, TV, Internet, Sani-dump, laundry, restrooms and showers. • Grizzly Lake Campground, Slana Mile 53 Tok Cut-Off (907) 822-5214. Open May 1Oct. 1 24 sites, no hook-ups, restrooms, showers. Sani-dump

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Experience Alaska’s wild side by driving the Alaska Highway By JILLIAN ROGERS For the News-Miner

he Alaska Highway, also referred to as the Alcan Highway, runs from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction via Whitehorse, Yukon. The end of the highway, completed in 1943, is near Milepost 1422, where it meets the Richardson Highway in Delta Junction, about 100 miles southeast of Fairbanks. All of the Alaska Highway is paved, although highway improvement projects often mean motorists have to drive on miles of gravel road through construction areas. Also, frost heaves, especially between Destruction Bay and the AlaskaCanada border have made the road bumpy, so be prepared to drive cautiously. But the Alaska Highway is much improved from what is was even 20 years ago. During the 1980s, many of the rerouting and paving projects were completed. By 1992, the 50th anniversary of the Alaska Highway, the last section of original gravel road had been rerouted and paved. Gas, food and lodging are found along the Alaska Highway an average of every 20 to 50 miles. The longest stretch without services is about 100 miles. Not all businesses are open year round nor are most services available 24 hours per day, so be prepared by taking food and even extra fuel. The Milepost, www. milepost.com, is the definitive guide to the Alaska Highway and other highways in Alaska. Remember that you will be driving in two different countries that use two different currencies. For the best rate, exchange your money at a bank. There are banks in Dawson Creek, Fort St. John, Fort Nelson, Watson Lake,

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• Beaver Creek The last Canadian community on the Alaska Highway is Beaver Creek. Beaver Creek has a general store that operates only in the summer. There are three gas stations offering gasoline and diesel fuel. One inn has a gift shop selling Yukon crafts. Individual First Nation members also sell authentic local crafts. There are three inns with restaurants, two of which operate year-round. There is also a summer-only hostel that provides beds, TV and flush toilets. Have documents, identification and your passport ready for the border crossing. If driving with your pet, have vaccination records ready.

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in the Shakwak valley, on the perimeter of Kluane National Park. In Destruction Bay, Sejah’s Services and RV Park and the Talbot Arms Motel offer a range of accommodations, RV parking, restaurants, laundromat services, a general store and a service station. The Burwash Landing Museum is a must-see in the region and Duke River Trading, located in Burwash Landing, is a general store carrying mostly groceries. The store also sells souvenirs, provides laundry facilities and operate an RV park with full hook-up and showers. Burwash Landing Resort provides hotel/motel accommodation, camping, RV park with hook-up, restaurant, and lounge. Burwash Landing also has a cafeteria that caters to bus tours.

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• Destruction Bay and Burwash Landing Along the western shore of Kluane Lake, the largest lake in the Yukon, are two of the territory’s smaller communities, Destruction Bay and Burwash Landing. Both are on the Alaska Highway and located

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• Haines Junction/Kluane National Park Reserve Haines Junction, Yukon, established in 1942 during construction of the Alaska Highway, is on the eastern boundary of Kluane National Park Reserve, and the park visitor center is located in town. The preserve features extensive ice fields and mountains, and is a world-class adventure, travel and wilderness destination. You’ll find hiking trails of various difficulty, helihiking, fishing and trail rides. Haines Junction also is the headquarters of Tatshenshini-Alsek Wilderness Park, created in 1993 and known for its whitewater rafting.

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Whitehorse, Tok, Delta Junction and Haines Junction and ATMs in Destruction Bay and Beaver Creek. Haines Junction has a banking service at the general store. Upon entering the Yukon Territory from British Columbia, the signpost forest in Watson Lake should be your first stop. The often-photographed forest was started by a U.S. Army soldier working on construction of the Alaska Highway in 1942 and is home to more than 30,000 signs from all over the world. You can bring a sign from home to post, or pay to have one made on the spot if you’re there during the main tourist season. You also can learn about the aurora borealis at Watson Lake’s new Northern Lights Centre.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Strike gold with Dawson City By JILLIAN ROGERS For the News-Miner

Photo by Julie Stricker

Gold seekers still visit Dawson City searching for gold, while others seek northern adventure under the midnight sun.

Must-sees

hall is an exciting entertainment experience that features casino gaming, live can-can girls and a complete food and beverage service, all presented in true gold rush style. Diamond Tooth Gertie’s regular season runs from May 11 until Sept. 23. The doors are open from 7 p.m. until 2 a.m., seven days per week, and there is a $6 admission fee. From June 3 until Sept. 3, Diamond Tooth Gertie’s is open from 2 p.m. until 2 a.m. on weekends. The Palace Grand Theatre offers nightly shows during the tourist season. Learn about characters of the Yukon in amusing skits filled with song and dance at the Gaslight Follies. From golfing at the farthestnorth golf course in Canada to taking the Yukon Queen up the river to Eagle and back to just walking along the Yukon-River dike, Dawson has something for everyone. For the more adventurous types, try the Sourtoe Cocktail at the Sourdough Saloon. But remember, you can only become a member of the Sourtoe Club if that toe touches your lips.

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The Dawson City Museum is a great place to start on your trip. Learn about the town that was the capital of the Yukon Territory until 1953. With exhibits ranging from gold fever to the present day, the museum is an interactive and fun learning experience for the entire family. On the walking tour are the Jack London Interpretive cabin; Berton House, the childhood home of famed author Pierre Berton; and the Robert Service Historical Cabin. Jack London’s original log cabin was built on the North Fork of Henderson Creek, 70 miles south of Dawson City, just prior to the gold rush of 1898. London entered the Yukon in September of 1897 as a 21-yearold prospector looking for gold. While he didn’t strike it rich, he later turned his Klondike adventures into fame and fortune with

his legendary short stories and books. The original Berton House was built in 1901. Mining recorder Frank Berton bought it for $500 in 1920. For 12 years, it was the home of Frank and Laura Berton, their son Pierre and daughter Lucy, until they left Dawson in 1932. The dwelling was acquired by the Yukon Arts Council in 1989 thanks to a donation of $50,000 from author Pierre Berton and is now the official home of the Berton House Writer’s Retreat Program. Berton’s “The Klondike Fever: The Life and Death of the Last Great Gold Rush” is considered a definitive history of the era. The two-room log Robert Service cabin was home to Robert W. Service, bard of the Klondike, from November 1909 to June 1912. During this time, he wrote his novel, “The Trail of NinetyEight,” and composed his third and final volume of Yukon verse, “Songs of a Rolling Stone.” Of course, no trip to Dawson City would be complete without a trip to Diamond Tooth Gertie’s. The famous gambling

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awson City’s rich Klondike Gold Rush history is enough to engage visitors young and old. But that’s not all it has to offer. Situated on the mighty Yukon River, the town is home to just 2,000 permanent residents. Each year, Dawson City draws more than 60,000 visitors from around the world to discover the spell of the Yukon, but it all started with just three men. In August 1896, George Carmack, Dawson Charlie and Skookum Jim found gold in Rabbit Creek, now called Bonanza Creek, and changed the history of the Yukon forever. Their discovery triggered what was arguably the world’s greatest gold rush stampede as almost 100,000 souls tried to strike it rich in the Klondike gold fields. Many died on the arduous journey from Skagway over the Chilkoot Pass, then by boat over two lakes and down the treacherous Yukon River. By 1898, Dawson City was a muddy metropolis of nearly 40,000. Gold seekers still visit Dawson City searching for gold, while others seek northern adventure under the midnight sun. Many historic wooden buildings still stand, some tilted at crazy angles because of the thawing and refreezing of the permafrost on which they were built. Others are undergoing rehabilitation.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Explore the Yukon capital History, hot springs steal the show in Whitehorse

Photo by Julie Stricker

The S.S. Klondike National Historical Site in downtown Whitehorse pays tribute to paddlewheeler days of the Yukon.

By JILLIAN ROGERS For the News-Miner

hitehorse is located approximately 550 miles from Fairbanks via the famous Alaska Highway, on the banks of the Yukon River. It is named after the Yukon River rapids that, more than 100 years ago, capsized boats and claimed lives of those hopeful gold-seekers heading to Dawson City for the Klondike Gold Rush. The whitecaps were said to look like raging white horses. The town was born just past those churning waters where exhausted stampeders would stop to regroup. By 1901, as the gold rush in Dawson was fizzling out, Whitehorse had the makings of a bustling town with stores, churches and the famous White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad. Named the capital of the Yukon Territory in 1953, Whitehorse is a city of 20,000, and those notorious rapids no longer exist. In 1957 and 1958, the Whitehorse Dam was built and the rapids disappeared under Schwatka Lake, which along with the equally notorious Miles Canyon is just a short walk from downtown via a paved walking path along the river.

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When visiting Whitehorse, start with a walking tour hosted by the Yukon Historical and Museums Association. The tour starts each day at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. from May until August at the corner of Third Avenue and Wood Street in LePage Park. The MacBride Museum on First Avenue offers visitors the chance to learn about the rich and colorful history of Whitehorse through photographs and interpretive displays. The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the summer and costs $8 for adults. Just down the street is the historical White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad Depot.

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2009 Summer Visitors Guide

CAPITAL Continued from Page 57

The Yukon Transportation Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days per week, the museum contains artifacts from different eras and many different modes of transportation. Admission is $6 for adults. The museum will be open May 13 through Aug. 31. Back downtown, the S.S. Klondike National Historical Site pays tribute to paddle-wheeler days of the Yukon. The S.S. Klondike was built in 1929 but sank just seven years later. It was rebuilt in 1937 and is touted as the largest and last of the sternwheelers. It is open daily for tours. Call (800) 661-0486 for hours and more information. For the more adventurous types, rent a canoe, kayak or mountain bike downtown at Kanoe People. Phone (867) 6684899 for more information or email info@kanoepeople.com. Also check out the Frantic Follies vaudeville revue at the Westmark Whitehorse on Wood Street, the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre (with a cast of the largest woolly mammoth skeleton ever recovered) on the Alaska Highway, a botanical garden, a wildlife preserve and museums. Located 18 miles from downtown Whitehorse, Takhini Hot Springs offers a range of activities year round, including, of course, swimming and soaking in the natural mineral springs. For more information, see www.takhinihotsprings.yk.ca.

Sam Harrel/News-Miner

The University of Alaska Museum of the North is located on the west ridge of the Fairbanks' campus.

UA museum’s fare is anything but typical By ERICA GOFF egoff@newsminer.com

hat’s the best place to go to enjoy contemporary and historic art, learn about the geography, history and wildlife of Alaska and experience the aurora? How about a “not your typical” museum. “This is the type of museum that would appeal to visitors even if they’re not the type who typically go to museums while traveling,” said Kerynn Fisher, communications director of the University of Alaska Museum of the North.

Order online, or by phone @ 474-6344 Museum-quality reproductions of historical maps and photographs from the collections of the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Watch for our annual Golden Days sale event at Sadlers Home Furnishings, 610 Cushman St., Thursday, July 23 – Saturday, July 25. The Alaska History Store is a nonprofit service of the Elmer E. Rasmuson Library of the University of Alaska Fairbanks. All proceeds are used to continue the preservation and access work of the Rasmuson Library.

Often noted as a dynamic visual component on the University of Alaska campus, the Museum of the North is more than a striking building. For instance, it is the only place in the world to see Blue Babe, a perfectly preserved steppe bison mummy found by gold miners northeast of Fairbanks in the 1970s. Fisher said the museum offers a great introduction to Alaska for both first-time visitors and returnees wanting to continue learning about the state. The Gallery of Alaska, the original gallery, offers a look at the state’s five major geographic regions with displays of artifacts, wildlife, people, geography and history about each region. While some of the displays can be anticipated — what Alaska museum would be complete without a giant grizzly bear? — others are surprising, such as the internment of Aleut display in the southwest section. “That is one of our more surprising exhibits. A lot of people know about the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, but many know little or nothing about what happened to the Aleut population,” Fisher said. “People really respond to that.” The Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery also is “not your typical art gallery,” Fisher said. Dubbed “a model for 21st century art and anthropological display” by the National Endowment for Humanities, the gallery has Western art mixed with Alaska archaeological artifacts and Alaska Native art. The displays combine “craft and Please see MUSEUM, Page 59

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Wildlife viewing the safe way Staff Report

ne thing that makes Alaska special is the chance to see bears in the wild. That opportunity brings with it the responsibility to take care while in bear country, so that neither bears nor humans get hurt. Bears are curious, intelligent and potentially dangerous animals, but undue fear of them can endanger both bears and people. It’s important to realize that most bears tend to avoid people. Many bears live in Alaska, and many people enjoy the outdoors, but surprisingly few people even see bears. Of those, only a tiny percentage are ever threatened by a bear. A study by the state epidemiologist showed that during the first 85 years of the 20th century, only 20 people died in bear attacks in Alaska. Remembering the following facts can help you stay safe: • Bears don’t like surprises. If you are hiking through bear country, stay alert and try to avoid bears before they detect you. But give bears every chance to avoid you too. Make noise so you don’t take an unseen bear by surprise. • Bears, like humans, use trails and roads. Don’t set up camp close to a trail they might use. Avoid areas where you see or smell carcasses of fish or animals or see scavengers congregated. • Don’t approach or crowd bears. Some bears are more tolerant than others, but every bear has a personal “space” — the distance within which a bear feels threatened. If you stray within that zone, a bear may react

aggressively. When photographing bears, use long lenses; getting close for a great shot could put you inside the danger zone. • Bears are always looking for something to eat. Bears have only about six months to build up fat reserves for their winter hibernation. Don’t let them learn that human food or garbage is an easy meal. It is both foolish and illegal to feed bears, either on purpose or by leaving food or garbage that attracts them. • Cook away from your tent. Store all food away from your campsite. Hang food out of reach of bears if possible. If no trees are available, store your food in airtight or specially designed bearproof containers. • Keep a clean camp. Wash your dishes. Avoid smelly food like bacon and smoked fish, and keep food smells off your clothing. Burn garbage completely in a hot fire and pack out the remains. Food and garbage are equally attractive to a bear, so treat them with equal care. Burying garbage is a waste of time. Bears have keen noses and are great diggers. • If a bear approaches while you are fishing, stop fishing. If you have a fish on your line, don’t let it splash. If that’s not possible, cut your line. If a bear learns it can obtain fish just by approaching fishermen, it will return for more.

Close encounters • If you see a bear, avoid it if you can. Give the bear every opportunity to avoid you. If you do encounter a bear at close distance, remain calm. Attacks are rare. Chances are you are not in

danger. Most bears are interested only in protecting food, cubs, or their “personal space.” Once they decide you are not a threat, they will move on. • Identify yourself. Let the bear know you are human. Talk to it in a normal voice. Never imitate bear sounds or make a highpitched squeal. Wave your arms. Help the bear recognize you. If a bear cannot tell what you are, it may come closer or stand on its hind legs to get a better look or smell. A standing bear is usually curious, not threatening. You may try to back away slowly, diagonally, but if the bear follows, stop and hold your ground. • Don’t run. You can’t outrun a bear. They have been clocked at speeds up to 35 mph, and like dogs, they will chase fleeing animals. Realize that bears sometimes charge to within 10 feet of their adversary without making contact. Stand your ground, and continue waving your arms and talking calmly to the bear. • Try to determine if the bear is reacting defensively, or if it is seeking food. A defensive bear is one you have surprised or encountered on a carcass, or a female bear that seems to be protecting cubs. It will typically appear agitated. Once reassured that you’re not a threat, it’s likely to leave you alone. • A non-defensive bear is one that calmly approaches you or your campsite; it is more likely curious or seeking food. You may want to yell aggressively if it’s acting pushy and tries to closely approach. If you’re at a campsite, you can try banging pots and pans to discourage a food-seeking bear.

MUSEUM: Outhouse, paintings featured Continued from Page 58

cultural material with things made purposefully for art,” Fisher noted. In the gallery, an oil painting of Mt. McKinley, painted by a white man named Syndey Laurence in the early 1900s, is sandwiched between a parka made of wolf, arctic ground squirrel and wolverine made by an Eskimo woman and an Eskimo carving made more than 2,000 years ago. And, of course, there’s the outhouse. “That is a whole different experience for Alaskans than for visitors, but it is fun for both,” Fisher said of the unique display of a life-size outhouse, made in collage construction, by an Alaskan artist. Another popular attraction is The Place Where You Go To Listen. The sound-proof room allows visitors to experience lights and sounds represent-

ing the natural environment of the state. Created by composer John Luther Adams, the room “takes his vision and artistic impression of the sun, moon, earthquakes and aurora and converts them into sound and light.” Because summer visitors will be unable to see the famous Northern Lights during their visit, they can go to The Place to hear them. The summer special exhibit in 2009 is a polar bear photography exhibit created by Steven Kazlowski. Two summer shows — “Dynamic Aurora” and “Winter,” each a half hour long — will be shown periodically throughout open hours during the summer. The UA Museum of the North is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days per week from May 15 to Sept. 15. For information, call 474-7505 or visit www.uaf. edu/museum.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Georgeson Botanical Garden

I N

F A I R B A N K S

Open late in ! summer

By GLENN BURNSILVER gburnsilver@newsminer.com

IF YOU GO • Admission: $2 for adults; children 6 and younger, free • Hours: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily; gift shop 9:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. • Location: 117 W. Tanana Drive, University of Alaska Fairbanks campus • Information: www. uaf.edu/snras/gbg

Award-winning exhibits and architecture make the museum an extraordinary destination. Explore 2,000 years of Alaska art in the Rose Berry Alaska Art Gallery. Discover fascinating stories about Alaska’s cultures, places and wildlife in the Gallery of Alaska. Experience our summer shows Dynamic Aurora and Winter. Visit the special exhibit The Last Polar Bear: Facing the Truth of a Warming World. Shop for Alaska Native art and fine gifts in the Museum Store. Enjoy our audio guide and Museum Café. 24-hour information: 907.474.7505 www.uaf.edu/museum

Photo by Patricia Fisher/Fisher Photography

lants need to be tough to survive the Interior Alaska winter, and the Georgeson Botanical Garden offers a glimpse at many of the hardy vegetables and flowers that are up to the challenge. The garden, located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, adds new plants every year and features more than 1,000 trees, shrubs and other perennials, along with vegetables and flowering plants. The nationally recognized garden is dedicated to the study and conservation of northern plant species. Tours are available, and each year more 30,000 visitors explore the garden. Georgeson began as the horticultural demonstration garden in 1905. From the beginning, the purpose of the garden was to give researchers a chance to determine which crops would grow best in the harsh climate of the Interior, which features short, intense summers and long, dark, cold winters. Throughout the years, it has transformed from an annual flower and vegetable garden to a landscaped botanical garden. Techniques for crop production are studied at Georgeson, with the results passed on to local Alaskans. The garden includes areas for children, a pond, peony beds and areas for quiet reflection and wildlife viewing. Many of the plants in the garden have been collected on trips to China, Russia and Iceland. New in 2009 is the nearly 2acre hedge maze. The maze is located in the children’s garden but is open to all.

An AA/EO employer and educational institution.

EXTENDED SUMMER HOURS: 9 AM – 9 PM DAILY OPEN YEAR ROUND ON THE UAF CAMPUS IN FAIRBANKS

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Chena Hot Springs Resort A rejuvenating hot soak for weary travelers By ASHLEY BRIGGS News-Miner Intern If relaxing in an outdoor hot spring sounds good after a long day of touring Fairbanks, the closest place to go is Chena Hot Springs Resort. Just 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, the hot springs have been popular for more than 100 years. They first became famous in the 1890s for curing the aches and pains of prospectors. In 1911, the resort had a bathhouse and 12 small cabins for visitors. Today the 440-acre fullservice resort offers overnight stays in the Moose Lodge, signature rooms, family suites or a cabin by the creek, a full-service restaurant open every day, the Aurora Café and the Trails End Lounge. RV and camping facilities are also available. The resort includes the natural mineral hot spring adult rock lake and hot tub, open for those 18 and older, and indoor family pool and hot tubs. Both are open daily from 7 a.m. to midnight.

IF YOU GO • • • • • •

Natural Mineral Hot Springs open daily 7 a.m. to midnight Adult swim pass (ages 18 and up) $10 Seniors (ages 62 and up) $8 Youth swim pass (ages 6-17) $7 Children 5 and under free with paying adult. Family swim pass (10 swims) $60

“Chena Hot Springs is nature at its best,” said Bernie Karl, who owns the resort with his wife, Connie Parks-Karl. The resort offers other activities such as ATV tours, canoeing, fishing, flight-seeing tours, guided horseback rides and therapeutic massages. Chena Hot Springs Resort also offers several packages from which visitors may choose. The Evening at Chena is a six-hour tour that includes a Holland America Tours motor coach to and from Fairbanks, buffet dinner, Aurora Ice Museum tour and the natural hot springs swim and soak pass. The Day at Chena is an eight-hour tour including the natural hot springs swim and soak pass, Aurora Ice Museum

tour, lunch at the resort restaurant, a Geothermal Renewable Energy tour and a Chena shuttle to and from the resort. The Best of Chena is a twoday, one-night stay with an unlimited hot springs swim and soak pass, overnight stay in Moose Lodge, Ice Museum tour and Geothermal Renewable Energy tour. The Best of Fairbanks is a three-day, two-night stay for seeing popular attractions in Fairbanks such as the El Dorado Gold Mine and the Riverboat Discovery Cruise and Alaska Salmon Bake. For more information about the resort or to make reservations visits, www.chenahotsprings.com or call (907) 4518104, Ext. 1904.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Time to get down in Fox Good times and good food, just down the road By JEFF RICHARDSON jrichardson@newsminer.com It might seem like an unlikely spot to find fine dining and good times, but a trip off the beaten path to the community of Fox offers some of the best food and fun in the Fairbanks area. The hamlet, located about 10 miles north of Fairbanks on the Steese Highway, was established as a mining camp in 1905. Today, it boasts a handful of popular restaurants, drinking establishments and tourist destinations. Fox is home to the area’s only local brewpub, Silver Gulch Brewing and Bottling Company. Silver Gulch makes a dozen locally crafted beers inside a converted roadhouse, which boasts the distinction of being the northernmost brewery in North America. For the past two years the brewery has also been home to a well-regarded restaurant, offering upscale pub-style food — steaks, burgers, fish and chips, and pizza baked in a wood-fired oven. Brunch is available on weekends starting at 11 a.m. If you want to take home a souvenir or a six-pack, Silver Gulch has a gift shop that sells beer, clothing and other merchandise. Many Fairbanksans make the trip to Fox for a feast at The Turtle Club, which is consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the area in the Fair-

News-Miner file

Fox is home to Silver Gulch Brewing and Bottling Company, the only local brewpub in Interior Alaska. banks Daily News-Miner Readers’ Choice Awards. The Turtle Club boasts seafood selections and an impressive salad bar, but its is best known for its heaping servings of prime rib. For the truly ravenous, a Miner’s Cut of 20 ounces or more is available. The decor at the original log building carries a special quirk — a variety of turtles are scattered throughout the restaurant. Fox also boasts the Howling Dog Saloon, which delivers drinks and dancing packaged in an oldtime roadhouse bar. The Howling Dog shuts down

during the winter but boasts an eclectic mix of customers and live music from May through October. Live bands play “The Dog” on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, along with bonus performances on other days. Wednesdays are blues nights, with everything from reggae to rock ‘n’ roll bands taking the stage on other nights. The quirky ambience at The Dog also is an attraction, including items of donated clothing that hang from the ceiling. A horseshoe pit and beach volleyball area are in the back, along with 10 rental cabins for people who want an overnight stay. A menu of bar food, including burgers and pizza, and an espresso bar are also available. Owner Ralph Glasgow said The Dog always has an intriguing mix of customers — college students, businesspeople and bikers among them. “This bar has the most diverse clientele of any bar in the state,” he said. For those continuing down the Steese, the Fox General Store offers an opportunity to gas up, along with a small grocery store and liquor story. There are also a few attractions that display Fox’s importance in Alaska’s resource economy. Its mining past can be readily seen from the piles of tailings that remain from the dredges that once worked the area. And a pullout at 8 Mile Steese Highway offers an up-close look at the trans-Alaska oil pipeline, along with displays that explain the history and economic vitality of the pipeline.

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2160 (11 mi.) Old Steese Highway Fox, Alaska, 99712

99712

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Steese Highway Adventure starts where the pavement stops Staff Report The 160-mile Steese Highway retraces a century of historic gold mining. The first 53 miles are paved — the rest is an adventure. It offers road access to the vast White Mountains Recreation Area, where you can pan for gold at Nome Creek at 57 Mile and hike, fish and camp. Much of the area was burned by a massive wildfire in 2004, so use caution. The Steese Highway winds through the scenic Chatanika River Valley. The town of Chatanika, created by mining activity, was once 10,000 people strong. Chatanika Gold Camp is the site of the old Fairbanks Exploration Co. Camp, built in the 1920s. The camp is on the National Register of Historic Places. For more information, visit www.fegoldcamp. com. Just down the road at 28.5 Mile is a large rustic cedar lodge, across the street from Gold Dredge No. 3. The Chatanika Lodge was established in the 1930s as a trading post. The lodge’s Alaska decor showcases its hearty fare, with a full

DON’T FORGET ... to drive the winding road to Circle, on the banks of the Yukon River. Before gold was discovered in Dawson City, Circle, founded in 1893, was the largest gold mining town on the river.

kitchen serving breakfast, lunch and dinner from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Stop at Long Creek Trading Post at 45 Mile for an espresso or ice cream. The trading post offers canoe rentals, groceries, camping, liquor and local advice on good fishing and gold panning spots. RV parking and a dump station are available. A 2.5-mile loop offers access to the Davidson Ditch. The ditch is an 83-mile series of ditches, siphons and pipes once used to carry water from a small dam on the Chatanika River to the gold dredges of Fox and Chatanika. It was one of the largest engineering projects in the world when it was built in 1925. The road climbs well above the tree line at Twelve-Mile and Eagle

CHATANIKA GOLD CAMP RESTAURANT

LODGING

SALOON

Sunday Brunch

Historic Mining Camp Bunkhouse

CHATANIKA LODGE Across highway from Alaska’s 2nd Largest Gold Dredge!

Saloon•Country Cooking•Lodging

! Weddings ! Retreats ! Special Occasions

Fishing & Hiking Nearby 12348619-5-2-09VG

Live music by Theresa Bauer Sunday afternoons 4-8pm

907-389-2164 Fax: 907-389-2166

5760 (281⁄2 Mi.) Steese Hwy.

Enjoy an occasion of fine dining in a cozy, rustic atmosphere with air conditioned comfort RESTAURANT, SEAFOOD, PRIME RIB SALAD BAR & SERVER/WAITER

Fairbanks, AK 99712

chatanika.ak@att.net

SEAFOOD, P E RIB & SALADRIM BAR

Fox General Store

Featuring Our Famous

PRIME RIB GIANT PRAWNS & KING CRAB

in Beautiful Downtown Fox Junction of Hwys 2 & 6 Groceries • Propane • ATM Liquor • Beer • Wine Espresso • Soft Ice Cream Hunting/Fishing Licenses

Also Serving

Lobster Tail • Halibut

(Dinners Include Salad Bar)

457-3883

Open 7 Days A Week

Open 5:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. 7 days a week Last 24 hr. gas going North

2226 Old Steese Hwy. No.

907-457-8903

12348587-VG09

www.alaskanturtle.com

FOR RESERVATIONS

12348592-5-2-09VG

2098 (10mi) Old Steese Hwy. • Fox, Alaska 99712

12348774-5-2-09VG

Also plan to visit the original CHATANIKA SCHOOLHOUSE/MUSEUM, Open Fri/Sat 1–5 p.m. or by appointment 389-2414

Ron & Shirley Franklin

Rustic Alaskan Atmosphere

11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Open Daily 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. (Closed Mondays) 5550 (Mile 28) Steese Hwy (907) 389-2414

Summits, two popular places to watch the sun skirt the northern horizon on summer solstice. After coasting down Eagle Summit to the town of Central, about 128 miles north of Fairbanks, travelers enter the Circle Mining District, which features many active mines. Central has a post office, service stations, a few restaurants, a museum, a landing strip for small planes and lodging. Turning right at Central will point you in the direction of Circle Hot Springs (about 8 miles more); heading straight ahead will put you at Circle City. The road ends — eventually — on the banks of the Yukon River in Circle. The river is two miles wide at this point. Do not confuse the Circle Hot Springs, at one time a resort, with the town of Circle, which is about a 34 mile drive over rough roads from Central. Circle, founded in 1893, was the largest gold mining town on the river, at least until gold was discovered in Dawson City.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

D E L T A

Delta Junction

Rapids St

Farming community comes alive with activity

Deborah St

R I V E R

Kimball St

By BROOKELYN BELLINGER For the News-Miner

Nistler Rd

At the end of the 1,422-mile Alaska Highway sits the quaint farming town of Delta Junction. This small town of about 800 people welcomes visitors with stunning views of the Alaska Range and the Granite Mountains on clear days. This provides the agriculturally minded community a stunning backdrop for crops of straw, oats, grass seed, potatoes, livestock, dairy and exotic animals — a standout in Alaska’s frigid Interior. A drive out of town in any direction will give testament to the beauty of more than 130,000 acres of agricultural land surrounded by Alaska’s mountainous terrain. Sullivan’s Roadhouse, rescued from Alaska’s old trail system nearly 20 miles from Delta, provides a peek into life as it was back in the days when trav-

2 Al

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Please see DELTA, Page 65

DeeDee Hammond/News-Miner

IKA’S OADHOUSE

Milepost 275 Richardson Hwy Delta Junction AK, 99737

& LANDING

One-quarter mile from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Tanana River Crossing Tel. 907-895-4201 Fax 907-895-4787 www.rikas.com

Pavilion Restaurant & Bakery “Best food on the Alaska Highway!” –Seattle Intelligencer

RV PARKING Ample turn-around space Open 24 hours 7 days a week Roadhouse and Restaurant Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 7 days a week Park & Dump Station Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Roadhouse Centennial 1909–2009!

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Roadhouse Gift Shop

Alaska’s Friendly Frontier

DELTA JUNCTION Services & Attractions • Visitor Information Center Mile 1422 Alaska Highway Delta Junction 99737

2009 Events Friendly Frontier Days May 23

Deltana Fair July 31, August 1, 2

4th of July Celebration July 4

Halloween Bash October 24

For further information:

Delta Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 987 FDNM Delta Junction, Alaska 99737 (907) 895-5068 TOLL FREE1-877-895-5068

e-mail: deltacc@deltachamber.org http://www.deltachamber.org

End of the Alaska Highway

18349177VG09

• Historical Sullivan Roadhouse Museum • Highway’s End Farmers Market • Big Delta State Historical Park • State camping grounds, Private RV parks with full hookups • Great fishing, hunting in season, and hiking throughout the season • Gifts, Groceries, Motels, Bed & Breakfasts, Restaurants. • Largest free-roaming bison herd in Alaska • Quartz Lake: fishing, hiking, camping, picnics, cabins

Stop at the Visitor Center to see our displays and find out more about what to see and do in Delta! “End of Alaska Highway” Certificates available for $1.00

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

News-Miner photo

Delta Junction sits at the end of the Alaska Highway. The town offers stunning views of the Alaska Range and the Granite Mountains.

DELTA Continued from Page 64

els through Alaska demanded steely nerves and firm resolve. Situated next to the Visitor’s Center in Delta, Sullivan’s Roadhouse is the oldest original roadhouse in Interior Alaska and is home to an impressive roadhouse museum staffed by knowledgeable volunteers. The beautiful gardens outside are a showstopper. Right next to the roadhouse, enjoy viewing the ancient machinery that was used to build the Alaska Highway. The Delta Junction Visitor’s Center is the place to get your official certificate for surviving the long journey up the Alaska Highway. Don’t forget a picture with the giant mosquito outside and browse the myriad of dis-

plays and information inside. Nine miles northwest of town, visitors should not miss historic Rika’s Roadhouse in Big Delta. The roadhouse used to be an important stop for travelers and is now a beautifully restored site with many original buildings filled with artifacts from the era. A restaurant and gift shop is on site, along with geese, ducks, goats, a beautiful garden and a fantastic view of the Tanana River. Camping also is available. Recreation in the area is plentiful, from blue-ribbon arctic grayling fishing in the Delta Clearwater River to hiking Donnelly Dome or hunting

big game animals. Camping is available at Quartz Lake, Lost Lake, Fielding Lake and the Clearwater River. Make sure and stop for a buffalo burger at the locals' favorite Buffalo Drive-In, open only in the summer and always a good place to catch up with friends and enjoy an ice cream cone any time of the day. The IGA also is a local favorite, especially their deli items. And prepare yourself for their tasty bakery. Check in with friends and relatives before you get back on the road at the Delta Junction Library with free Internet access, open daily.

Tenderfoot pottery OPEN

9 a.m.–9 p.m. Daily Mile 294 Richardson Hwy. Between Fairbanks & Delta 18349180VG09

tenderfootpottery@gmail.com tenderfootpottery.com

9 MILES EAST OF DELTA JUNCTION

Mile 1413 Alaska Highway, beside the large Grain Elevators

18349170-5-2-09VG

907-895-4039

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Eric Engman/News-Miner

Santa might not visit North Pole all year long, but the spirit of Christmas sure does.

North to North Pole 5th Ave Ri

Laurance Rd

Ta n

ive

Nelson Rd

ar ds

Gordon Rd

Hurst Rd

La ur an ce

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Santa Claus Ln

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Although it’s only about 13 miles south of Fairbanks, North Pole is a world unto itself. Of course, how could it not be, since it’s the home of Santa Claus and all things Christmas? During the years, North Pole businesses and residents have worked at living up to the name of their town. Many stores are decorated with a Christmas theme year-round and streets bear names like Santa Claus Lane, Snowman Lane, St. Nicholas Drive, Kris Kringle, Holiday Road, North Star Drive, Blitzen and Donnor. Once visitors to the area learn about North Pole, about Santa Claus House, what it’s like to live at 60 below or colder, and living with moose in the

Plack Rd

Newby Rd.

Dyke Rd.

By JAN THACKER For the News-Miner

n Dawson Rd

Holiday-themed town is a huge draw in Alaska

North Pole

DeeDee Hammond/News-Miner

front yard, they are hooked. Visiting North Pole gets jotted onto their “must see” list. So, what is it really like living in North Pole? Residents here are frequently asked why they would choose to live in North Pole when they could luxuriate under the big-city lights of Fairbanks. Well, the theme “Where the Spirit of Christmas Lives Year Around,” pretty much sums it

up. It’s the people. It’s going to the post office and talking to at least nine people you know. It’s going for a walk and having half a dozen folks stop and ask if you need a ride. It’s driving down Santa Claus Lane or going into Safeway and knowing many of the people you pass. But beyond that, it’s the little things. It’s people looking out for one another and sharing each other’s burdens. If you live in North Pole, it doesn’t take long to know the mayor, city council members, fire department personnel and many of the store owners on a first-name basis. In fact, it’s hard to live in North Pole and not know most Please see NORTH POLE, Page 68

Interior Alaska Green Star www.iagreenstar.org

Interior Green Star is a non-profit organization that encourages businesses to practice waste reduction, energy conservation, pollution prevention and electronic recycling in Fairbanks.

Good for the environment is good for Business For more information contact us at: info@iagreenstar.org or visit us at www.iagreenstar.org; or phone 452-4152

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

NORTH POLE RESTAURANTS • Mambo Grill, Latin American cuisine, 300 N. Santa Claus Lane, 490-6868. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Sun. 5 to 9 p.m. Takeout and delivery available. • Pagoda, Chinese/Asian cuisine, 431 N. Santa Claus Lane, 488-3338. Sat.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Delivery available. • Fire Wok, Asian cuisine, 249 N. Santa Claus Lane, 488-8883. Mon-Thurs. 10:45 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat. 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Closed Sunday. • Elf’s Den, seafood, steak, pasta, pizza, 14 Mile Richardson Highway across from Santa Claus House, 488-8788. 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily. Deliver available. • Thai Cuisine Restaurant, 537 St. Nicholas

Dr., 488-8260, Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. • Mama C’s Moose Creek Kitchen, family dining, 3614 Old Richardson Hwy., 490-0145. Wed.-Thurs. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Dalman’s Restaurant, family dining, 3340 Badger Road in BeaverBrook Mall, 488-1463, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily; close at 3 p.m. on Tuesdays. • Country Café, family dining, 235 N. Santa Claus Lane, 488-8454, closed Mondays, Tuesday-Saturdy 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.. • A number of national fast food chains are also available in North Pole, including Wendy's, McDonald's, Subway and Taco Bell.

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

N. POLE

CHECK OUT:

Continued from Page 66

of them. We’re proud of our little town and the fact that Santa Claus lives here. Sometimes we might think it’s all a little hokey — the glitter and glitz of Christmas trappings in July — but deep down we’re proud. When we see a camera-toting tourist snapping pictures of Santa Claus House or posing in front of the reindeer pen it makes us puff up just a little bit. There’s something wonderful about sending letters postmarked “North Pole, Alaska,” and living on streets named Mistletoe Lane or St. Nicholas Drive. Life is a little slower and simpler in North Pole. You hardly ever see anyone in a suit, except for weddings and funerals. And over at City Hall, if you want to talk to the mayor you don’t need an appointment. You walk in and say, “Is Doug busy?” and if he isn’t, you sit down and chat.

• Santa Claus House, 101 St. Nicholas Drive. Open daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 488-2200. • KJNP. This missionary radio station that broadcasts clear to Russia. A great place for photos of sod-roofed log cabins. Located at 2501 Mission Road. Info: 488-2216. • Visitor Center Log Cabin, located the Richardson Highway and Mission Road Check it out for information and unique gifts. Open daily. 488-2242. • Knotty Shop, 18 miles south of North Pole and 31 miles south of Fairbanks, boasts wildlife displays, gifts and great ice cream cones. 488-3014.

So, how did this little community come about and how did it get its name? It shouldn’t surprise you to learn that it had a lot to do with toys. In 1944, before it was ever a town, the present site was the Bon Davis homestead. The town started when Davis subdivided and settlers bought lots and set up housekeeping. Old-timers wanted to name the fledgling town “Moose Crossing,” to which Davis stated it might just as well be named “Mosquito Junction” in honor of the trillions of insects

THE KNOTTY SHOP

Home of Santa Claus

visit our website www.mosquitonet.com/~KJNP

AM RADIO • 1170 • 50,000 watts FM RADIO • 100.3 • 25,000 watts TV-Channel 4, TV-DT 2 KJHA 88.7FM in Houston, AK

NORTH POLE, ALASKA

Bibles For Others P.O. Box 601 Grand Rapids, MN 55744 218-328-5873

CALVARY’S NORTHERN LIGHTS MISSION

2501 Mission Rd., P.O. Box 56359 North Pole, AK 99705 • 907-488-2216

16349768VG09

For more information write:

“Where the Spirit of Christmas Lives Year 'Round” (907) 488-2281 www.northpolealaska.com

SOD-ROOFED LOG CABINS in the TRUE ALASKA MOTIF

• Russian • Athabaskan

c o m es Y o u!

16349770-5-2-09VG

16322084-7-01-07

We welcome all to visit our community...featuring

• English • Inupiat

ity of North Po le

W el

Alaskan size ice cream cones at a small Texas price.

Broadcasting the Gospel in

Please see N. POLE, Page 69

eC Th

An Alaskan Gift Shop And Mounted Wildlife Display Unusual Burl Construction 32 Miles South of Fairbanks on Richardson Highway Phone: 488-3014 6565 Richardson Hwy., Salcha, AK 99714 knotty@alaska.net

that also call it home. The buyers of most of the homestead, the Dahl and Gaske Development Company, thought the name North Pole would attract a toy manufacturer. While that didn’t happen, it did become the official name and the city was incorporated in 1953 with James Ford appointed the first mayor. A small school was built in 1953 in a donated house and the city scraped up $100 a month to pay a teacher to edu-

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

69 John Hagen/ News-Miner

FACTS & FIGURES

The giant Santa statue is a large landmark visible from the Richardson Highway, which passes through North Pole.

• Population: About 2,100 in the city limits • Land area: 4.1 square miles in city limits • Record low: 78 below zero • Record high: 95

N. POLE Continued from Page 66

cate the 30 students. Before long, North Pole Trading Post opened its doors, KJNP radio station went on the air, churches were built, and businesses thrust up from the untouched earth like eager mushrooms. But it was Santa Claus House, started in 1952 and now celebrating its 56th year, that sealed the identity that would bring North Pole fame throughout the world. North Pole is now a theme city, and we all cherish that identity. North Pole is full of “gifts” that are just waiting for our visitors to discover them. The biggest, of course, is Santa Claus House which is full of all sorts of delightful treasures.

Eielson AFB Youth Activities

“

3112 Broadway Unit 6B 354, Eielson AFB 377-3194

Travelers on the Richardson Highway are often surprised to see a larger-than-life mosquito perched on the side of the road about 31 miles south of Fairbanks. The mosquito is part of a menagerie of critters made from wood burls at The Knotty Shop, a one-of-a-kind gift store in Salcha, featuring Alaskan crafts and gifts, a wildlife museum, gun collection and hand-carved antler

VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS

RV Parking • Canteen Pool • Darts 3159 VFW St. North Pole, AK 99705 488-9184

art. Mounted game birds are for sale, as well as gold nugget jewelry and diamond willow crafts. The Knotty Shop is a popular ice cream stop for travelers. It’s open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week. For more information call (907) 488-3014. 3rd Annual

Cruis’n North Pole Car Show Burn Outs Drive-In Movie Project Cars Car Part Swap

Kids Fest Girls w/Guitars Bon-Fire Fireworks

August 21–23, '09

www.CruisnwithSanta.com

16349787-2009VG

“ Positive programs for youth

Staff Report

16349771-5-2-09VG

A United Way of the Tanana Valley Member Agency

The Knotty Shop

HOURS OF OPERATION SUNDAY THRU THURSDAY 12:00 NOON TO 8:00 P.M.

RATES

FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 12:00 NOON TO 10:00 P.M.

REGULAR ADMISSION.............$7 MILITARY/SENIOR ...................$6 5 PUNCH CARD........................$30 10 PUNCH CARD .....................$50 PARTY ROOM...................$125 2 1/2 HOURS PLATES, CUPS, NAPKINS, PLASTIC SILVERWARE & 15 RIDE COUPONS Drivers 54 inches minimum Passengers 36 inches minimum to 53 inches maximum

GO-KARTSOFALASKA@gci.net

(907) 490-2672

www.GO-KARTSOFALASKA.com

16349774-5-2-09VG

PRIVATE PARTIES PRICE ON REQUEST

10.5 MILE BADGER RD. 2610 A Glacier State Dr. North Pole, AK 99705 Less than one mile from North Pole

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Chena Lakes Recreation Area When you want to get away from town and bask in some of Alaska’s wondrous beauty, you don’t have to hop a charter flight or drive for endless miles. You can travel just a few miles south of North Pole and visit the Chena Lakes Recreation Area. A popular recreation spot for residents and visitors alike, Chena Lakes Recreation Area covers more than 2,000 acres and is comprised of two different segments. The Lake Park, with a 260acre lake and broad sandy beaches, is where sunbathers and swimmers gather to relax and play under the midnight sun. This park has three volleyball courts, a horseshoe pit, playground, multiple day-use picnic sites, two covered pavilions, two changing room/warm up buildings, two designated swimming areas, a boat rental, two fishing docks (one handicap accessible), a lake boat launch, potable water stations and restrooms. The River Park covers four miles of the Chena River and boasts a volleyball court and horseshoe pit. There is a covered pavilion, a changing room/warm up building and a variety of picnic sites, restrooms and fire rings. The highlight of the area is the 4.5 kilometer self-guided nature trail and the river boat launch. Both sites have campgrounds. There are also five tent camping

Eric Engman/News-Miner

A beach in the middle of Alaska? Yep, it is true, and it can be found at the Chena Lakes Recreation Area swimming area. sites on the island located in the Lake Park. Access is only by boat. Chena Lake is stocked annually by the Alaska Deptartment of Fish and Wildlife with rainbow trout, silver salmon and arctic char. The Chena River, located in the River Park, has a fishing menu of grayling, northern pike, whitefish, burbot and an annual run of king salmon. Day-use fees are collected the Wednesday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, and fees entitle users to all parts of Chena Lake Recreation Area. Free hospitality passes for senior citizens and the handicapped are available upon request. Fees range

Pick up the Daily News-Miner for information on local community activities.

Elf's Den Restaurant & Lounge

Best Prime Rib in North Pole! Open at 11:30 a.m. 7 days a week Across from Santa Claus House

So Much to Offer … at

14 Mile Richardson Hwy. North Pole, AK 99705 Next to North Pole Napa Auto Shop

• CABLE TV + WI-FI INTERNET

488-8788 or 488-3268

• FREE Showers with Private Dressing Rooms • Clean Restrooms • Laundry Facilities • Telephone room w/modern hook-up • Free Car Wash • Quiet Wooded Area • Bank Fishing • 3 Hole Golf Course

North Pole, Alaska

1316 Badger Rd, North Pole, AK 99705 10 minutes to Fairbanks or North Pole

• Big Rigs Most Welcome • Gift Shop • Many 70’ Pull Throughs • Scheduled Shuttles to points of interest • Full hook-up with 30/50 Amp Electric • Assorted activities indoors & out • Pets Welcome • Good Sam Park • DVD Rental Kiosk

“Where the Spirit of Christmas Lives Year Round” Summer Festival July 4

Visitor Center Log Cabin

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Open Memorial Day through Labor Day North Pole Community Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 55071, North Pole, Alaska 99705-0071 2550 Mistletoe Drive North Pole, AK 99705 (907) 488-2242 • 488-2281

www.northpolechamber.us email: info@northpolechamber.us

16349777-2009VG

www.riverviewrvpark.net riverview@acsalaska.net

16349763VG09

1-888-488-6392 (907) 488-6392

16349765-VG09

REASONABLE RATES!

•Gas & Diesel at Competitive Prices •Groceries •Spirits/Beer/Wine/Ice •ATM

from $1 for bikers and walkers to $4 per vehicle. Tent camping is $10/night and the fee for vehicle campers is $12. Firewood is available and pedal boats, rowboats, canoes and kayaks can be rented. Chena Lakes Recreation Area isn’t just for summertime pleasure. Residents use it year around, especially the groomed cross-country ski trails and trails for running and walking. It also is a popular site year around for horseback riding, dog mushing, skijoring, snowmachining, cross-country skiing, running and walking. Interior Alaska Gun Dog Association hunt tests, Fairbanks Retriever Club field trials, and the annual trebuchet and catapult competition are summertime events. In addition, part of the Yukon Quest Sled Dog Race traverses the area. For more information, call 4881655.

21350360-2009VG

By JAN THACKER For the News-Miner

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

News-Miner file

The Dalton Highway runs through one of the truly last frontiers in Alaska. But be warned: If you make the trek, which ends in Deadhorse, you will be sharing much of the unpaved road with semi-trucks loaded with supplies headed to Prudhoe Bay.

It’s just a drive up the Dalton By JAMES BROOKS jbrooks@newsminer.com Everyone comes to Alaska. In 2008, more than 1.7 million people visited Alaska between May and September. That’s nearly double the yearround population of the state. Fewer than 55,000 people visited the Arctic Circle, Arctic Ocean or the North Slope. If you’re unwilling to shell out the money to fly to Barrow, Prudhoe Bay, Nome or other places in the Far North, there’s no better way to visit Alaska’s Far North than by driving the Dalton Highway (or the Haul Road as locals call it.) Built in 1974 to help construction of the trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline and supply the Prudhoe Bay oil fields, the highway stretches for 414 miles from just north of Fairbanks to five miles south of the Arctic Ocean. It’s the only Alaska highway to cross the Arctic Circle and the only one that crosses the Brooks Range to the North Slope. Seventy-five percent of the road is gravel, and the remaining 25 percent alternates between sealed gravel and asphalt. The road is one of the most challenging in Alaska, but the opportunity it provides is unmatched. It crosses the ArcPlease see DALTON, Page 72

IF YOU GO If you want to see the Arctic Ocean from the Dalton Highway, you need to plan ahead. Between the end of the highway and the ocean shore are the oil fields of Prudhoe Bay. Since Sept. 11, 2001, increased security has been put into place. Visitors are required to take a guided tour from the Arctic Caribou Inn (907659-2368), and are required to provide a driver’s license number and book a reservation at least 24 hours in advance. Note: If you do not make advance reservations, you will not be able to see the Arctic Ocean.

EXPLORE ALASKA’S ARCTIC! Experience for yourself the legendary hospitality and authentic interpretation of Northern Alaska Tour Company’s one-day and overnight Arctic Circle Adventures®. Travel the famed Dalton Highway. Visit the Arctic Circle Trading Post. View the remarkable Trans Alaska Pipeline. Experience the mighty Yukon River. Cross the Arctic Circle. Explore up close the amazing arctic tundra. Tour the Nunamiut Eskimo village of Anaktuvuk Pass. Fly Alaska’s rugged wilderness airways. Arctic Circle Drive, Fly/Drive, Air, Native Culture, and Brooks Range Adventures available. OR extend your journey to the shores of the Arctic Ocean with our

ARCTIC OCEAN ADVENTURE™

All the highlights of our one day excursion PLUS Overnight in rustic Coldfoot. Visit the historic community of Wiseman. Travel through the majestic Brooks Mountain Range. Tour the Prudhoe Bay oil field. Optional Barrow extension tour also available.

Sharing Alaska’s Arctic With The World P.O. Box 82991-VG • Fairbanks, AK 99708

907-474-8600

www.northernalaska.com

800-474-1986

adventure@northernalaska.com

12348532-5-2-09VG

Explore life above the Arctic Circle via the Haul Road

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

DALTON Continued from Page 71

tic Circle, provides an opportunity to see unmatched vistas, isolated tundra, the industry of the Alaska oil fields and the ice-pocked expanse of the Arctic Ocean. The easiest way to experience the Dalton Highway is by bus. Tours regularly run between Fairbanks and the Arctic Circle and Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay. Dalton Highway Express ($448 two-way, 907-474-3555) offers two-day van trips to the Arctic Ocean; AlaskaTours features a three-day package tour of the Dalton Highway for $1,169 (907-277-3000); Northern Alaska Tour Company (907-474-8600) offers various package tours; and Holland America, Princess, and Grey Line do as well. If you want more flexibility than a guided tour and decide make the trip on your own, be ready for an adventure. Drivers should be prepared for flat tires, cracked windshields, and all the trials that come with a 15-hour trip on a road that is mostly gravel, has few facilities and is in one of the most remote areas of the United States. Stock up with food and water in Fairbanks,

Photo courtesy U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Caribou herds graze along the Dalton and inside the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, offering visitors a glimpse of the Far North's wildlife. carry an extra can or two of gasoline, and have two full-size spare tires already mounted on rims. Most rental agencies do not allow their vehicles to be used on the Dalton Highway or other gravel roads. A handful of specialty companies have vehicles intended for traveling to Prudhoe Bay and the Arctic Circle. Arctic Outfitters (907-474-3530) provides vehicle rentals based on a sliding scale depending on the number of days rented.

GoNorth Travel Center (907479-7272) also has gravel roadready vehicles for rent, including RVs and trucks. When you drive, expect to become familiar with the transAlaska Pipeline — it follows the highway for most of its length. Most of the other landmarks and attractions along the highway are natural: scenic overlooks, granite tors (outcroppings), ample wildlife, and so much beautiful scenery that Please see DALTON, Page 73

Visit one of Alaska’s original gold rush era roadhouses built in 1906 and share a cup of coffee with trappers, miners, dog mushers or fishermen. We serve fresh baked pies, giant cinnamon rolls and other delicious food. All served with traditional Alaskan hospitality. Spend the night in an original room, a new room, or a comfortable cabin (Can accommodate: singles, doubles, or any size group.)

See you soon! Robert Lee, Innkeeper Since 1971 Historic and Prehistoric Artifacts on display! • Full Bar • Group Rates • Gas ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

FAX (907) 672-3221 11349737-5-2-09VG

A lovely scenic drive from Fairbanks on Elliott Highway, just 152 miles Northwest!

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

73 repair halfway between Fairbanks and Prudhoe Bay. In Deadhorse, the town at the end of the highway, fuel and lodging are available from multiple sources. The Arctic Caribou Inn (907659-2368), Deadhorse Camp ($199 single/double, $219 triple, 1-877-474-3565) and Prudhoe

Bay Hotel ($150 single, 907659-2449) all offer rooms at the northern end of the highway. Visitors should expect motelstyle accommodations with an on-site cafeteria. Deadhorse has no restaurants outside the hotels, and the only shopping opportunities are at gas stations.

ARCTIC CIRCLE TOUR

Daily departures 9am & 1pm 1 ⁄2 Day $275/person One Hour flight to Bettles see Brooks Range & Koyukuk River, Gift Shop Full Day $499/person incl Riverboat tour & Lunch Photo courtesy Arctic Photo Safari

DALTON

Bettles Lodge & Air Service

6146 Old Airport Way, Fairbanks AK 99706 1-800-770-5111 www.bettleslodge.com Arctic Circle Certificates

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Want to see a polar bear? A number of Arctic charter flights take visitors on polar bear tours to points north along the Arctic Ocean.

!Fairbanks • Yukon River • Arctic Circle • !Wiseman Brooks Range • !Prudhoe Bay • !Point Barrow

Continued from Page 72

Let your High Arctic Adventure begin! !!

We specialize in selling Alaska’s Arctic!

! !

Experience Alaska’s Arctic on a guided adventure. Stop along the shores of the Yukon River, cross the Arctic Circle, enjoy the Brooks Mountain Range, land in the Gates of the Arctic National Park, or take a dip in the Arctic Ocean. Learn more on our website at: www.ArcticTreks.com

479-5451 (local) • 1-800-336-TREK (8735) (outside Fbks)

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If you drive yourself, be prepared to share the road with dozens of tractor-trailers. The Dalton Highway is primarily an industrial road supplying the oil fields, and you’ll be passing and being passed by trucks during the entire trip. Remember not to stop in the middle of the road, pull to the side to allow fast-moving trucks to pass and check your mirrors regularly. There are many blind curves and hills along the highway, so be alert. Construction also is a constant presence on the Dalton Highway, as continuous maintenance is needed on the highway. Delays are possible due to road repair. Limited rest and fuel facilities are available. Coldfoot Camp (907-474-3500) offers lodging, fuel, food and tire

ArcticTreks@Alaska.com • www.ArcticTreks.com

Alaskan Arctic Turtle Tours • Prudhoe Bay • ANWR • Arctic Circle • Travel Alaska with experience. 907-457-1798 Fax 907-456-1798 1-888-456-1798

Brooks Range *Wildlife* email: wildalaska@alaska.net

Alaskan Arctic Turtle Tours Inc. PO Box 60866 Fairbanks, AK 99706 USA www.wildalaska.info

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with Alaska’s Jim Winslow and Company

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See The Wonder of It All North!

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

A visit to historic Eagle By JAMES BROOKS jbrooks@newsminer.com

Photo courtesy Eagle Historical Society

St Paul's Episcopal Church in Eagle is listed by the Alaska Association for Historic Preservation as one of Ten Most Endangered Historic Properties.

ON THE WEB • Map of Taylor Highway: www.blm.gov/pgdata/etc/medialib/blm/ak/fdo.Par.10476.Image.-1.-1.1.jpg • Falcon Inn: falconinn.mystarband.net • Yukon-Charley Rivers Preserve: www.nps.gov/yuch • Eagle Canoe Rentals: www.eaglecanoerentals.com • Eagle Trading Co.: www.eagletrading.net

EVENTS • Memorial Day Observance: 3 p.m. May 25 at Eagle Cemetery • July Fourth Celebration: Potluck and auction on July 3, old-fashioned activities including a flag-raising, parade, games, booths, rifle shoot and more on July 4.

summer. Accommodations are available from the Falcon Inn Bed and Breakfast (907-547-2254), the Eagle Trading Co. ($60, 907-5472220) and a campground operated by the Bureau of Land Management (907-474-2358). Eagle Trading Co. and the BLM campground both offer RV hookups. Shopping is limited, but Telegraph Hill Services (907-5472261) and Yukon Services offer auto repair, Yukon Ron’s features hand-made gold and silver jewelry, Glacier Peaks ice cream (907-5473034) offers a summer treat, and visitors to Log Cabin Creations (907-547-2306) can find beadwork and other fine crafts.

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of the World Highway. The drive offers spectacular vistas and takes visitors over American Summit, a 3,420-foot mountain home to one of the most remote bars in the world. The road is closed during the winter, and travel during the summer can be rough. Visitors are advised to bring an extra spare tire already mounted on a rim. Air transportation to Eagle is available daily from Everts Air ($340 round trip, 907-450-2351) at Fairbanks International Airport. The modern Yukon Queen II catamaran riverboat ($90 one-way, 867-993-5599) travels between Eagle and Dawson City, Yukon, on a daily basis during the

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In 1905, explorer Roald Amundsen led the first expedition to sail through the ice-choked Northwest Passage that connects the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean north of Canada. Late that year, his ship became frozen in the ice, so he traveled more than 400 miles over land to reach the nearest telegraph station to spread news of his accomplishment. His goal was the bustling mining settlement of Eagle on the banks of the Yukon River. From Eagle, Amundsen’s message traveled along the 400 -mile telegraph line to Valdez, on to Seattle via freighter, and it soon was published in newspapers around the world. Today, Eagle isn’t the busy town that it was in 1905, but many artifacts from that period still remain. Amundsen’s message also lives on, commemorated by a small monument in town. For visitors seeking to experience the feel of Gold Rush-era Alaska, Eagle offers the chance to get off the beaten path and enjoy scenic views of the Yukon River. Many of Eagle’s original buildings have been preserved — the original 1901 city hall, a one-room school house and other Gold Rush-era buildings are in their original form and preserved by the Eagle Historical Society, which also operates a museum (907-547-2325). This unique collection of Gold Rush buildings has been collected into a historic district and is considered a U.S. national landmark. The remains of Fort Egbert, a U.S. Army post built in 1899, also are preserved by the historical society, which conducts tours of Eagle’s historic buildings daily at 9 a.m. Eagle also contains the headquarters of the Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve, a large area of protected wilderness that borders Canada. The preserve offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, canoeing and whitewater rafting. Canoes can be rented from Eagle Canoe Rentals (907-547-2203) for a nominal fee. A full listing of whitewater rafting opportunities is available from the Yukon-Charley Rivers preserve headquarters (907-547-2233). Eagle is located at the end of the Taylor Highway, about nine hours by car from Fairbanks and three hours from the Taylor Highway junction with the Top

Pick up the Daily News-Miner for information on local community activities.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Photo courtesy Julie Stricker

Visitors to Chicken take in one of the town’s more colorful local haunts.

Chicken, Alaska Where quirky meets cool out in the Bush Yu k

Eagle

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Taylor Highway Top of the World Highway

Chicken

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DeeDee Hammond/News-Miner

that routinely drive this area on their way to Eagle, Boundary and Dawson City, Yukon. For more information visit: • www.townofchicken.com • www.chickenalaska.com • www.chickengold.com • www.myalaskan.com/alaska-towns/chicken.html

Pick up the Daily News-Miner for information on local community activities.

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Located at Mile 66, Taylor Highway at the Chicken Creek Bridge, Chicken is perhaps the most quirky of all the small communities in the state. It got its name in 1902 when the town was officially incorporated. Lore has it that locals wanted to call it ptarmigan, because that was the wild bird of choice for prospectors in search of gold. But when it came time to officially name the town, no one could spell ptarmigan, so instead of being plagued with the humiliation of perhaps spelling their own town name inaccurately, they called it Chicken. About 20 to 30 people live in Chicken year-round, and the population has a large transient summer spike as miners and tourists come to town. There is no electricity, no phones and no plumbing. Mail arrives twice a

week by Bush plane. Chicken has several gift shops, cafes, a bar and a salmon bake. While there, take a tour of Tisha’s School House in the Old Town of Chicken. This summer boasts the third annual Chickenstock, billed as the “Top of the World” music festival, where you can get your fill of bluegrass and mingle with the locals. Chickenstock is June 12-13. Other tours are available of the historic buildings, which are privately owned. Ask at the Goldpanner Gift Shop. The Taylor Highway winds its way to Chicken from Tetlin Junction on the Alaska Highway, 12 miles east of Tok. Generally, rental cars are not allowed on the Taylor and Top of the World highways (the roads are not paved and can be a little rough on cars.) Hitchhiking isn’t recommended. There are commercial buses

CANADA

Staff Report

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

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If you arrived in Tok in the middle of winter, you would see why the Chamber of Commerce calls it “The coldest inhabited community in North America — with warm friendly people.” With winter temperatures of 30 below to 70 below, Tok has earned its reputation. Summer though, brings a warmer opportunity to explore this first major city as travelers enter Alaska via the Alaska Highway. Situated on the intersection of the Alaska Highway and Tok Cutoff to the Glenn Highway, Tok is a nice place to break yourself into the Alaska lifestyle, quirky and colorful as it is. The first thing you’ll probably notice about Alaska is the slow pace, and Tok is no exception. Although a haven for weary road warriors and RV adventurers, you can still find that quiet piece of Alaska heaven you’ve been looking for. Start off with a meal at the locals’ favorite restaurant, Fast Eddy’s. With extra big portions

Scoby Way

By BROOKELYN BELLINGER For the News-Miner

McKenzie Tr ail

Take a break in Tok

Post Office Park Visitors Center State Troopers DeeDee Hammond/News-Miner

and a friendly staff, you’re guaranteed to go away satisfied. If you’re looking for Alaska gifts and art, check out All Alaska Gifts & Crafts, located at the main intersection in town. Watch for the big yellow sign and check out the large stuffed moose in the glass gazebo next to the parking lot. The inside is filled with displays of Alaska wildlife, jewelry, native crafts and Internet access.

The Web site is www.allalaskagifts.com. If you’re looking for entertainment, check out the popular “Dave’s Live Alaska Show” — a combination of songs, poetry and stories from life on the Last Frontier. The show runs nightly from June 1 to August 10 at Tok RV Village. For more information: www.tokalaskainfo.com

Elliott Highway Staff Report

trail conditions is available at 907474-2372. The trailhead entrance includes picnic tables and basic restroom facilities.

24 Hour Gas • Diesel ATM • Showers Full-Service Restaurant Groceries • Ice • Liquor Propane • Phone Hand-Dipped Ice Cream Famous Homemade Pies! Use this ad for $2 Off any Meal Purchase*

*Limit 2 Per Visit – Not Valid With Any Other Offer Limit 1 Coupon Per Item Purchase exp. 12/09

5.5 mile Elliott Hwy. • 15 minutes from Fairbanks Open 5 a.m. – Midnight • (907) 389-7600

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The 152-mile journey up the Elliott Highway offers both an upclose view of Interior Alaska and a trip through the region’s gold mining history. The road, which includes both paved and gravel stretches, connects the community of Fox and Manley Hot Springs. Just five miles up the Elliott Highway is the Hilltop Truckstop, which offers the last chance to gas up for more than 100 miles. Big appetites will also be rewarded with heaping breakfasts and generous slices of homemade pie. The area north of Fox includes a handful of areas for fishing and outdoor recreation. Olnes Pond, which includes an unmaintained campground and a stocked lake, is at 10.7 mile Elliott Highway. The Lower Chatanika River is just down the road from the Olnes Pond turnoff. At 27.9 Mile is the Wickersham Dome Trailhead, which provides access to White Mountains National Recreation Area trailheads. About 200 miles of trails are available, including access to

Bureau of Land Management cabins that are available to rent. Most are accessible only in winter, but a recording with information about

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

Wrangell-St. Elias By TIM MOWRY tmowry@newsminer.com

get in the air. You get to see all these amazing glaciers, mountain passes and huge peaks. The glaciers are just huge.” McCarthy Air, based in the town of McCarthy, which sits in the middle of the park, offers flightseeing trips in WrangellSt. Elias and owner Gary Green said he has never had a dissatisfied customer. “Some of them say it’s the best thing they’ve ever done, it’s the highlight of their trip to Alaska,” he said. “We have some of the most fantastic glacier and vertical mountain terrain the state has to offer. It’s far more massive than most people can comprehend. You can’t help but be impressed.”

Gilpatrick's

Hotel Chitina

Historic hotel • Full Service restaurant All rooms with private bath

The Gateway To Wrangell St. Elias Nat'l Park Hotel (907) 823-2244 Winter (907) 835-5542 33 Edgerton Hwy, Chitina AK 99566

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Everything about WrangellSt. Elias National Park and Preserve is big. At 13.2 million acres, Wrangell-St. Elias is the largest national park in the United States. It is more than twice the size of the more-famous Denali National Park and Preserve and six times the size of Yellowstone National Park, the largest park in the Lower 48. It is the largest designated wilderness area in the U.S., with more than 9 million acres of designated wilderness. Nine of the 16 tallest peaks in the U.S. are in WrangellSt. Elias, including 18,008-foot Mount St. Elias, the secondhighest peak in the U.S. The park contains more than 150 glaciers, including the 76mile long Hubbard Glacier, the longest tidewater glacier in Alaska; the 75-mile long Nabesna Glacier, which is the longest valley glacier in the world; the Malaspina Glacier, which is bigger than Rhode Island and is the largest piedmont glacier in North America. “The superlatives just keep coming,” Todd Stoerberl, headquarters district interpreter for Wrangell-St. Elias, said. Yet, despite its status as the country’s largest national park,

Wrangell-St. Elias still stands in the shadow of Denali National Park and Preserve and 20,320foot Mount McKinley, which ranks as the top tourist destination in Alaska. “We think we’re just as special and beautiful as Denali is, with less development and less crowds,” Stoerberl said. While nearly a half million people crowd into Denali each summer, only about 100,000 visit Wrangell-St. Elias, he noted. Visitors to Denali are required to ride a bus into the park while visitors to Wrangell-St. Elias can drive their vehicles into the park on one of two roads. Unlike Denali, there is no fee to enter Wrangell-St. Elias and backcountry permits to go hiking or camping are not required n Wrangell-St. Elias like they are in Denali. “You definitely have more freedom (in Wrangell-St. Elias),” Stoerberl said. “People can do their own trips without notifying us they’re in the park.” The best way to see WrangellSt. Elias is from the air, Stoerberl said. Air taxis in Glennallen, McCarthy and Nabesna offer flightseeing trips in the park. “You have no idea of the enormity of this park until you begin to fly over it,” he said. “It’s so incredibly huge. You don’t have a concept for it until you

www.hotelchitina.com • info@hotelchitina.com

Join us on main street Kennicott, a ghost town overlooking the majestic Kennicott Glacier and 16,000-foot Wrangell Mountains. We offer you gracious hospitality, fine dining, comfortable guest rooms, and memories to last a lifetime. Drive or fly into the heart of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, and stay at: CALL TOLL FREE

www.KennicottLodge.com LOOK FOR OUR BROCHURE AT ANY VISITOR CENTER.

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1-800-582-5128

2009 Summer Visitor's Guide

Kelly Bostian/News-Miner

Visitors to Valdez are greeted by one of the most picturesque towns in the state, commonly referred to as “Alaska’s Little Switzerland” for the steep, snow-capped mountains surrounding the small port town.

Valdez: ‘Little Switzerland’ By TIM MOWRY tmowry@newsminer.com

For more information on Valdez go to www.valdezalaska.org or call the Valdez Convention & Visitors Bureau at 907-835-INFO.

and halibut, Valdez is one of the premier fishing destinations in Alaska. Thousands of anglers flock to Valdez each year in hopes of catching barn-door-sized halibut or thigh-sized silver salmon. The town plays host to halibut and silver salmon fishing derbies each year. The winning fish in last year’s halibut derby (May 23 to Sept. 6) weighed in at “only” 251.5 pounds, the first time in five years the winning halibut was under 300 pounds. The record for the halibut derby is 343.6 pounds in 2006. This year’s silver salmon derby is set for July 25 to Sept. 6. Last year’s winning fish was a record 22.14 pounds. The winning fish in each

Please see VALDEZ, Page 79

Travel in the know by phone or web

Dial 511 or online www.511.alaska.gov

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It’s been more than 20 years since the Exxon Valdez oil spill, but the historic disaster is still a popular topic with visitors to the Prince William Sound town of Valdez. “We do always get quite a few questions about it,” Dave Petersen of the Valdez Convention and Visitor Bureau. “A lot of people think there’s still going to be oil floating around in the water.” Thankfully, most evidence of the largest oil spill in North American history has been erased by time and nature. Visitors to Valdez are greeted with one of the most picturesque towns in the state, commonly referred to as “Alaska’s Little Switzerland” for the steep, snow-capped mountains surrounding the small port town. On a sunny day, there’s not a prettier place in Alaska than Valdez. While oil, as in the oil spill or the end of the trans-Alaska pipeline, is the first thing that comes to the minds of many people when they think of Valdez, the small town of 4,300 offers visitors the chance to experience Alaska on many fronts. With an extensive sport fishing charter fleet for both salmon

IF YOU GO

derby earns the lucky angler $15,000. While the excellent fishing lures many people to Valdez, scenery also is one of the town’s main draws. Tours of the Columbia Glacier offer visitors a chance to get an up-close look at one of North America’s largest tidewater glaciers, as well as a chance to see whales, sea lions, dolphins and otters on the boat ride to and from the glacier. Worthington Glacier, a 30mile drive north of Valdez on the Richardson Highway, also offers a chance to get a close-up look at a glacier and requires no boat ride or expensive tour. You can drive right up to the face of the glacier and walk on the ice. Glacier trekking tours are available in town. Keystone Canyon, about 15 miles north of Valdez along the Richardson Highway, also features spectacular views with several waterfalls pouring over the steep canyon walls. The biggest is 400-foot Bridal Veil Falls, a popular ice climbing spot

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner

VALDEZ Continued from Page 78

aboard the Dawn Treader

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(907)351-8853 or dave@sharktoothcharters.com

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DeeDee Hammond/News-Miner

almost daily to carry crude oil from the terminal to refineries in the Lower 48. In addition to fish and oil, Valdez is also known for snow. The city receives an average of about 300 inches (25 feet) of snow in the winter and Thompson Pass north of town receives more snow than any place in Alaska. The record for snow at Thompson Pass is more than 900 inches. Contact staff writer Tim Mowry at 459-7587.

! Welcome

Welcome !

“Feel at home in Valdez”

Glen & Sharron Mills

For Reservations Call: P.O. Box 184 1-800-478-2791 113 Galena Dr. or (907) 835-2791 Valdez, AK 99686 Fax (907) 835-5406 www.valdezdowntowninn.com or Email: onen2rs@gci.net

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with Mike McDaneld

Valdez

Meals Ave

Valdez Halibut Charter

Kelly Bostian/News-Miner

Valdez plays host to halibut and silver salmon fishing derbies each year.

Hazelet Ave

when it freezes in the winter. Whitewater rafting trips down the Lowe River through Keystone Canyon are another way to experience the canyon. Sea kayaking tours in Prince William Sound are also popular for those with an adventurous inkling. History also is a big part of Valdez. The town served as the start of the All-American trail during the 1898 Gold Rush and thousands of adventurer seekers, enticed by a promotion from steamship companies of a trail to gold in the Alaska Interior, flocked to Valdez in search of gold. There was no trail or gold to speak of, however, and most gold seekers either returned with nothing but tales of adventure and hardship. The city was hit by the greatest natural disaster in Alaska history on March 27, 1964, when an earthquake recorded at 9.2 on the Richter Scale — the second-largest ever recorded — devastated the town. The quake’s epicenter was located 45 miles west of Valdez and shock waves tore apart the town, killing 31 people. With parts of the town completely razed and having been built on unstable ground, the town of Valdez eventually was rebuilt four miles west on solid ground. While the city served as the starting point for gold seekers more than 100 years ago, it now serves as the end of the 800-mile trans-Alaska oil pipeline, which was completed in 1977. There are 18 crude oil storage tanks at the terminal in Valdez, with a total capacity of 9.18 million barrels. Tankers arrive

2009 Summer Visitors Guide

Let Alaskans Show You Alaska. Experience the icebergs of Columbia Glacier and the calving of Meares Glacier. See amazing wildlife. Relax on board our comfortable vessels as we entice you with stories of the past.

866-867-1297 Valdez 907-835-4731 www.stanstephenscruises.com