Is staying in northern Wasilla/Hatcher Pass a mistake?
Hi, I'm planning a visit late Sept (23-27th) for a special birthday/romantic couple visit. I live in a desert, so the idea of rain, cold misty weather, autumn colors, and wildlife VERY much appeals to me (I'm so sick of the sun and heat)
I was thinking of taking a day trip to AWCC (I love animals) and Portage Glacier on the actual birthday, and hiking on the other days, with the home base being northern Wasilla/Hatcher Pass since Girdwood didn't have many accommodations that I was wanting (privacy, hot tub, forest or mountain view, etc). I found an awesome secluded (refundable) Airbnb there, but I'm second guessing the location since Wasilla may not be a great home base for hikes.
We're not crazy advanced hikers, but rather beginners and enjoy scenery (will have bear spray, waterproof hiking boots, windbreakers, etc). Also the chance of seeing northern lights under a hot tub is very romantic, but I know it's not a guarantee with the clouds.
Am I making a mistake with my home base? Would another location be better? All the reviews of AWCC say it's 100% worth a visit so I prioritized that over Denali. Flights are booked to Anchorage and we will have a rental car as well. Thank you in advance