Kathy: I have no idea what would work and appreciate all your efforts. As I have so far to fly, the longer post-cruise the better, bearing in mind I do have to watch my 'pennies'. I've read about the McKinley Explorer train to Fairbanks and was wondering if Fairbanks would be easier to fly out of than Anchorage? I'm sure if I looked, I would find out why no-one wants to do a train trip but thought it may be an option for me.

I've heard that the chance of seeing wildlife isn't as good late in the season - can someone confirm that?