We crossed from Sumas, Washington the 3rd week of May and returned into Montana near Glacier Nat'l Park the first week of Sept. We took our time for the whole trip and had plenty of time to do everying.
The only reservations we made for our 40' motorhome was the July 4 weekend (Alaskans like to camp, too) and for 5 nights in Denali's farthest campground you can drive, Teklanika. For those we made reservations a few weeks prior. As it was, we got into the Denali area a little early so on a whim we stayed nearby at a lovely boondocking spot and pulled into the park early morning. We easily go an additional 5 nights in the front campground, Riley Creek. We spent 10 nights in the park and saw 'THE' mountain 7 of 10 days and every one of the big animals residing there - more than once. This was the first week of August.
We saw many animals and babies on our drive up in May/June. We returned via the Cassier Hwy and saw the grizzlies at Hyder late August.
Purchase online the 'Milepost' which is great for maps and history. We read to each other as we took turns driving. Get Mike and Terri Church's book 'Alaskan Camping' which includes Canada and the Yukon. They lived in Fairbanks and traveled back and forth to the lower 48 all the time so they include every park and also great boondocking areas. Also get the TourSaver 2/1 coupon book. One glacier cruise will pay for the book.
Have fun planning! Check this site when winter begins for the 2017 group going. They'll be communicating back and forth previous and during the trip. It'll be labeled 'Alaska 2017' or similar.
