As a birder who has traveled the alcan several times and having lived in
Anchorage for a bit I wanted to take the chance to comment. Brian's
suggestions on books were great and the new AK birding guide can be quite
useful once in the state. You might also check out birding on the net
http://birdingonthe.net/birdmail.html as AK has a list similar to tweeters,
actually 2 lists. One called Alaska birding is similar to tweeters, the
other Alaska is usually more of a posting of rarities being seen in the
state.

A cautionary notes, while we are still in the midst of summer here in
Washington, typically early august triggers the start of fall up there and
many birds are beginning to leave breeding grounds (or have already) and
begin to move southward. Homer and Anchorage can have decent shorebird
movement in the fall, but if seeking the typical AK breeders June or early
July is far better. The alcan drive is of course worth it alone. So when
reading the guides or focusing efforts I would look at fall target areas
instead of breeding areas unless leaving right now.

Glad to answer any questions if you need help and hope you have a great
trip!

Scott Downes
downess at charter.net
Yakima WA