I understand the layering part with shirts and jackets. But how do you layer pants for Alaska weather? We are leaving Vancouver on Sept. 7, 2009 to Whittier. Will be driving up to Denali for a few nights. Any layering suggestions would be appreciated.

I've never heard of anyone layering pants. Temperatures in September will still be reasonably moderate. The layering is more about being ready for the off and on rain and chill in the air.

So you'd say there is no need to wear thermals under jeans?

No need for thermal underwear. Plus, if it is warm out then you are stuck with them. A good website about clothing and average temperatures for Alaska is located here

We start our Alaska Cruise July 1st. I have been watching the Webcams. The weather is ever changing. This morning the people getting off the ship in Juneau, and Skagway loked well dressed for the winter. It was raining at the 3 ports were are going to visit. checking the ports a very minutes ago it looks fairly warm and sunny.
BTW i usually take a pair of hiking jeans that I can unzip and convert into shorts in a hurry, or not.

We went to Alaska in May 2008. There were a couple times when I wore "CuddleDuds" under my jeans. However, I tend to get cold easily, so I dressed accordingly. My husband is warmer blooded and was comfortable without thermals. I imagine the September weather will be a little warmer than May, although most of the time we had beautiful weather.

Nadine