What is the hunting, fishing, sightseeing, and housing like at Ft. Wainwright?

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 19:15:24 -0400

Any tips/advice on what there is to do in Fairbanks, such as hunting, fishing, sightseeing, etc.?
I am set to graduate from AIT Oct, 22nd (35F) I am married and have been looking at off-post and on-post housing, what are the pros/cons of both? Any help will be appreciated.

Response by MSG Gary Eaker made Sep 29 at 2019 7:51 PM

MSG Gary Eaker — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 19:51:45 -0400

On post housing is some of the best in the Army, and Alaskan architecture is ... different. So live on post first until you get to know the area. If you like hunting and fishing you are going to love it. Interior AK is well known for Moose, Black Bear and Caribou hunting. Lots of fishing lakes and rivers all over. It is not a big city, so the city life is rather limited; but if you like the outdoors it is hard to beat Ft Wainwright.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2019 8:06 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 29 Sep 2019 20:06:54 -0400

As a new Soldier and a newlywed(congratulations) I would highly recommend on post housing. The on-post housing is pretty good in Alaska. Alaska is a beautiful place!! Keep in mind, when it’s hot outside, it’s really hot (no A/C) and when it’s cold, it’s REALLY cold (-45 or colder).

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 1 at 2019 6:22 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 18:22:15 -0400

HIGHLY advise you get on post housing. Get in touch with North Haven asap and let them know you will be arriving within a month. I’ve been to wainwright twice and both times had a 4 bedroom house with attached heated garage. I have 2 children. First time my wife was pregnant with our first and I was a SPC. Second time I was a SGT with 2 kids. As far as outdoors, you can call outdoor recreation and they’ll answer any questions you have. Alaska can be the greatest or your worst duty station. Most units there have a high optempo - you will be busy! Make the best of it, learn and grow from your leadership and I’m certain you will thoroughly enjoy your time in the last frontier. Arctic Tough!

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2019 12:04 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 12:04:27 -0400

Check out MWR. They have great trips you can do from fishing to berry picking. Check with other soldiers and civilians who live there for recommended things to do. Chena Hot Springs, farmer’s markets, Murphy Dome, and Angel Rocks are a few to start.

Response by SGT Brandon Phillips made Oct 14 at 2019 6:16 PM

SGT Brandon Phillips — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 18:16:30 -0400

At your pay grade, I would definitely look at living on post. Your BAH here wouldn't get you very much. (I am a Realtor). Was you dad a DS by any chance?