RE: North to Alaska
You have a good start, also bring a headnet for mosquitos and make sure your dope is 100 percent Deet.
As for the smartwool, I use it and love it in the fall when I go way up north above the arctic circle. In the spring, I prefer fleece. It dries out quicker than wool. I think wool cuts the wind better than the fleece which is why I use it exclusivley in the fall.