I am thinking of taking a trip to the last frontier Columbus day weekend. Basic plan is to fly into Fairbanks and return from Anchorage 3 or 4 days later. Crazy? I would like to drive up to Arctic Circle but the Dalton Highway looks impossible for a rental car. True? Otherwise, what else to do around Fairbanks?

Then, the Parks Highway drive should be nice. Is it in early-mid October? Any recommended stops.

On the other hand, should I simply fly into and out of Anchorage and visit a few places there?

Thank you.

Well the arctic circle isn't terribly far north of FAI but I wouldn't take a rental car up there. FAI is pretty boring and cold that time of year but you can go to Chena Hot Springs for a night - its about 60 miles away on a good road and you may get some decent aurora shows.

The area around Anchorage is gonna be kinda nasty around that time of year. It'll be around freezing, and probably pretty wet. Not the best time to be driving hundreds of miles.

Might as well stay up north near Fairbanks - gonna be cold everywhere.

OK, assuming I still do this trip and stay in one metro area, should I spend 4 days in Fairbanks or Anchorage? Thank you.

Advice from a former Alaskan: Anchorage.

ANCHORAGE!!! http://www.flyertalk.com/travel/fttravel_forum/smile.gif

FAI is small and cold! Anchorage gets snow around mid October many times although not always. Some octobers can get to zero even in Anchorage although not likely or for very long. Keep in mind that Fairbanks will be colder probably.