INSTRUCTORS: John and Liz Plaxton

This class was a trip into the Yukon and Northwest Territories of far northern Canada. We followed the Plaxtons by photograph as they enjoyed the scenic beauty of this huge area, from entering the Yukon to the attending the Great Northern Arts Festival, held the third weekend in July in Inuvik, NWT. (Where I intend to go, as soon as reasonably practical).

Among the many tips they gave for this sort of trip were the following: Take your time. If you have less than 6 weeks, do the Yukon or the Territories -- not both. There is too much to be seen to be in any kind of hurry.

Repairs can be expensive, so drive slowly, and take spare tires and any tools you think necessary. Repairs are not impossible, but parts may have to be flown in from "outside". "Spending time in garages is boring" (John).

Food prices rise as you go north. ($5.00 for a loaf of bread does indeed sound high.) Get alcoholic beverages in Alberta, and take soft drinks with you.

Gas/Diesel is also expensive, but a must for the trip, so budget for it.

Camping. You can boondock anywhere. Don't be afraid to camp by yourself. However, private parks are reasonably priced. and the Territorial/Provincial Parks are very well maintained, especially in the NWT. Here there is a push to attract RVers, and their parks and roads, while gravel, are in excellent shape.

Inuvik is the northern terminus of the Dempster Highway, with its southern end just outside Dawson City, YT. If you drive this road, you will cross the Arctic Circle, and become eligible for a certificate stating same.

The Northern Arts festival is held in Inuvik each July. It attracts native artists from all over the Arctic. The Plaxtons volunteered to assist in the festival, and met many of the artists -- at the same time enhancing their own enjoyment of the event. And, they said, "they (the festival organizers) are always looking for volunteers." From Inuvik, you can fly to Tuktoyatuk, out over the huge delta of the Mackenzie River.

Mosquitoes, etc.: While many stories are told about the size and the numbers of Arctic bugs, their trip was relatively mosquito free. Which does not mean leave the repellent at home. Get a good one containing DEET, apply it, and go enjoy Arctic Canada.