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Hey Buck,
I am writing this from Bettles, AK, on the south slope of the Brooks Range, where I have spent the winter dog mushing. I am writing to you because I am seriously contemplating a traverse. Last summer, I spent 50 days guiding a backpacking trip in ANWR and now I am contemplating going back. My question is simple: what would you estimate the TOTAL cost of the traverse including the all gear/food/resupplies/flights (including borrowed gear) ? Between $6,000-$10,000? Over $10,000? I am beginning to research for a potential attempt this summer starting mid June. Love to hear from you!
Hi John,
Sounds like you’ve been having a great time exploring Alaska already! The cost of a traverse is really hard to estimate for someone else. It all depends on how much new gear you plan to buy, how expansive those purchases are, whether you’ll be eating expensive freeze dried foods or grocery store foods, how carefully you compare flying options, etc. That said, I think $6,000 to $10,000 is a good estimate.
Have a great summer!
Buck
Good afternoon Buck,
My name is Paul ( FB page pkumar ghosh) from Calgary, AB. I am currently working on a plan, equipment list, logistics, sponsorship requirements and the budget. The most important thing at this point of time is to find a paddling partner (man/woman) who would have the zeal to join me. I hv talked to Louisiana Police in Baton Rouge and have been advised that I need a gun for safety against croc; I am planning a 90-100 day trip with stops at heritage towns and a few nights at Nashville ( bluegrass). I am also in touch with MRWC in Madison ; I received the hard copies of the maps; in addition, I hv got lots of information from all the 10 states along the river. I had planned this since 2016 and was hoping to do the trip this year( but was laid off) . The unenviable task is to compile them and produce something palatable. Needless to say, I have taken the liberty of considering you as my key advisor. And finally, as I say in every man there is a Huck Finn who would always be blessed by Mr Twain, but sadly, the reality is at 1.2 miles /hr , I would be paddling and not lazing. Very soon , I shall post my kayaking pictures on San Juan, on FB, hopefully you will enjoy them. Cheers, Paul , Calgary,Canada
Hi Paul,
Planning is half the fun, isn’t it? For finding a partner, the Mississippi River Paddlers group on Facebook is a place to try. I didn’t see any alligators myself but there must be some on the lower river.
good luck!
Buck