Sorry, been pretty sick with COVID since OSH, including pneumonia, but thought I would chime in here.
Having flown to Alaska 4 times in the last 9 years, my experience is that it's really getting to be too late to head there this year. I know I talked to one of you regarding the timing, and want to thank you for listening.
Alaska can test the best of us. We were witness to 3 people pushing the weather on one of our trips and they paid with their lives. It can be quite sobering.
It is also the penultimate destination/journey for flying your own aircraft. You will see things that can only be seen from the air, and create a lifetime of memories. I assure you that most of the rest of your flying will be boring after having gone to Alaska.
It takes planing and patience. We usually start about 8-10 months in advance. Be prepared for the schedule to to not mean anything. The weather systems are numerous, with lots of localized conditions, due to high mountains, cold waters, and the usual solar heating, and the weather will change from forecasted good VFR when you depart to low IFR upon your arrival.
I've written a series of columns that are being published in Sport Aviation on how to plan, prep, and fly to/from Alaska. I think the first one may be published already, but watch for the remiander over the next few months. Hopefully, they will be of value to those of you planning to go in the near future, meaning next year at the earliest.
As for the Trench vs. the coast, there are pros and con's on each. The trick going up the coast is to go at low tide and with tailwinds. It's still about 3.5-4 hours to Ketchikan from Bellingham, WA. The Trench certainly keeps you over land, but it is very unforgiving in it's own way. Plus, inland there are the fires to contend with. They are huge. The first time I saw one I thought it was a nuclear explosion. Flying in the smoke is not an option, as visibilities can go to zero instantly.
Will all of it's risks and stress, flying Alaska is one of the very best aviation adventures. The Alaskans are super friendly, and I have yet to see a picture that does the scenery justice.
Just take the time to plan it properly, have patience, and did I tell you enough to not be on a schedule???
Vic