My wife and I were on a short trip to Fairbanks and were on the lookout for a fun and unique adventure to go on when we saw this tour pop up. We really wanted to go to the Arctic Circle and see the Yukon River and options were limited due to our timing. We typically do the larger tours, which are a bit cheaper and with more reviews available, however Ian's tour was the only one available, so we went with it. Let me say this was well worth the money and an amazing experience! Ian has been in the area for many years and is very familiar with this route. He was extremely prepared and very informative about the area.
For those that don't know, this trip is quite lengthy and Ian prepared wonderfully, ensuring he had extra gas cans for that extremely comfortable 4Runner and we didn't have any issues at all getting around. The Dalton Highway is very remote, with difficult driving conditions (don't go on your own!) and no cell reception, so you need someone that knows what they're doing. Ian is that person! He was very accommodating for when we wanted to stop for pictures, even assisting with looking for the Aurora despite it not being listed on the trip.
Also, while other tours list the Trans-Alaska Pipeline as part of the tour and Ian's doesn't, you will see it. You drive along side it for most of the way and there are a few spots you can pull off to see it, which Ian was more than willing to do. While we went in the middle of winter, the views were still spectacular and left us wishing we could see it in the Summer as well.
To sum it up , this tour was well worth the money and time invested in it. This area can be very dangerous and treacherous, but we felt safe and secure the whole time with Ian. He is a great tour guide and this is highly recommended. Don't get stuck on a bus full of people; go for the more personal experience and get your money's worth!