[recycled sixtie]

I have no idea of the restrictions crossing the border from the US to Canada. Whenever I have camped by myself or with others I carry bear spray, a knife and sometimes a filleting knife when fishing. I have never carried a firearm although if the law permitted it I would carry something compact.

Wayner is the one to ask about travel to Alaska as he did it a couple of years ago on a motorbike. It has been over fifty years since I was north of Whitehorse in the Yukon working in a mining camp. Never saw one critter in the few months I was there.

The distance to be covered driving from the US/Canadian border is immense. To be honest the drive through Northern BC and the Yukon is not that spectacular. Have never driven in Alaska but looking at Wayner's pics it looks spectacular. Taking the ferry up to Alaska as mentioned above is a good thought. Having said that if you have not done it before then it is worth driving.

The only bad experiences I have had when hiking has been the weather. Getting caught on mountain plateaus or mountains when lightning strikes is no fun. Carrying a backpack and being the most exposed object with no trees around is not a great feeling.

Cheers, Guy