Alaska Road Trips: The Ultimate Guide to Driving in Alaska
Alaska has various wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, elk, caribou, whales, and wolves. With grand mountains, tundra, glaciers, and rivers as the backdrop, an Alaskan road trip will be unforgettable. Alaska has been a popular tourist destination for hundreds of years due to its natural beauty and distinctive landscapes.
Coastal fishing villages with whale watching and temperate rainforests, long, beautiful drives to rural towns and distant locations, national parks, and large glacier viewing experiences are all included in our list of the top road trips in Alaska.
Discover our travel advice, fascinating discoveries, and numerous hidden treasures along the amazing paths via various landscapes below. Before you know it, you will be experiencing the most amazing journey of your life, taking in all of Alaska’s natural grandeur and life-changing events.
| Road trip | Rating |
| 1. Juneau to Point Briget State Park and Mendenhall Glacier (1 hour, 40 miles) | Easy |
| 2. Nome to Council (2 hours, 45 minutes, 70 miles) | Moderate |
| 3. Anchorage to Seward (3 hours 15 minutes, 150 miles) | Easy |
| 4. Tok to Dawson City (4 hours 20 minutes, 190 miles) | Ambitious |
| 5. Anchorage to Denali (4 hours, 230 miles) | Easy |
| 6. Anchorage to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (4 hours 45 minutes, 250 miles) | Ambitious |
| 7. Fairbanks to Anchorage (6 hours 20 minutes, 360 miles) | Moderate |
| 8. Fairbanks to Valdez (6 hours 40 minutes, 360 miles) | Ambitious |
| 9. Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay (11 hours, 500 miles) | Ambitious |
| 10. Ultimate Alaska Road Trip (20 hours 30 minutes, 1,130 miles) | Ambitious |
1. Juneau to Point Briget State Park through Mendenhall Glacier (1 hour, 40 miles)
Via Glacier Highway
1 hour (40 miles)
Difficulty level: Easy
Why you should take this trip: Only a few miles from the important capital Juneau and farther along the Glacier Highway sits the Mendenhall Glacier, one of Alaska’s most accessible and strikingly beautiful glaciers.
Main stops on this road trip: You will explore Lena Beach, Glacier Highway, and Point Bridge State Highway from Juneau to the Mendenhall Glacier.
How to get there: Head north on Egan Drive/AK-7 to leave Juneau, then right onto Mendenhall Loop Rd and travel through verdant surroundings. Proceed until you arrive at Glacier Spur, then turn back onto Back Loop Road/Mendenhall Loop Road.
Take the first exit onto Glacier Hwy after you arrive at the traffic circle. Continue traveling north on AK-7 until you reach Point Bridge State Park, encircled by rugged beaches and mountains. You will be greeted with breathtaking views of the ocean.
Our highlights: Visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Centre en route and climb to the observation deck and shoreline overlooks for stunning views of the glaciers. Hiking to Nugget Falls, which is a mile long, is another way to take in the breathtaking vista of the glaciers.
In addition to the breathtaking beauty at the destination, you will travel over the well-known Glacier Highway, which offers views of the Tongass National Forest and glaciers.
You’ll arrive at Point Bridge State Park at the end of the highway, which has views of the inner passage and a ton of hiking paths for the more ambitious.
We recommend you picnic and savour food while seeing the charming sea lions. Here, you can also try salmon fishing.
Local gems: Juneau is also known as “the Primrose City” because of how well primroses grow there. Before embarking on this road trip, stop by the Jensen-Olson Arboretum to take a tour of a world-class collection of plants.
You can make a quick stop at Lena Beach and the Picnic area to avoid the throngs forming to take in Mendenhall’s magnificence. You may explore the waterfront, stroll along the beach, and even go fishing.
Visit the Shrine Chapel’s distinctive Catholic chapel and the surrounding trail if you want a little quiet.
Best time to visit: In the summer, Mendenhall Glacier usually attracts many visitors, shuttles, and cruises. Go in the spring or autumn for a more sedate retreat. However, remember that summertime brings more sunlight, making the glacier easier to see.
The weather on this route is often mild throughout the year, and the journey is rather easy despite Alaska’s reputation for cold weather.
2. Nome to Council
2 hours 45 minutes (70 miles)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Why you should take this trip: You can take this brief, beautiful, and historic drive if you’re on the western boundary of the United States. Because it is not connected to the rest of Alaska’s road system, this drive is a hidden gem that offers adventurers a fantastic opportunity to explore.
Main stops on this road trip: After arriving in Nome, you will learn about the local history before going to Council, Niukluk River, and Last Train to Nowhere.
How to get there: You must use a boat or an aeroplane to go to Nome because it’s somewhat remote from the rest of Alaska.
From Nome, travel east on the Nome to Council Road, taking in the stunning vistas of the ocean to your right. Although the travel is brief, many interesting sights are along the route.
Our highlights: You can visit the Nome Visitor Centre and museums in Nome. The Iditarod dog sledge race attracts many tourists to Nome in March.
The famous abandoned locomotive car, Last Train to Nowhere, is another important attraction you should not miss. It is a must-see artefact that is kept intact by local tourists.
The Niukluk River’s beaches are renowned for their untamed beauty. When visiting the river, remember to bring or rent fishing gear because you can fish for Arctic Graylings.
We advise you to take in the breathtaking wildness and tundra landscapes of Council, an abandoned gold mining town, after you arrive—of course, after you have taken pictures to preserve the moment!
Local gems: You can drive to several isolated locations from Nome. Additionally, you can board charter planes to places inaccessible by land, such as Russia and Alaska. For additional information, see our guide on how to get from Alaska to Russia.
You can try your luck and see if you can locate some nuggets by following the few roads that lead to abandoned gold panning dredges.
Enjoy the chance to eat mouthwatering Norton Sound King Crab straight from the boat while you’re there.
Our travel tips: Like many others in Alaska, this route is closed in the winter. You must book airline tickets to Nome in advance if you are planning this road trip.
Best time to visit: We recommend this trip during summer to fully enjoy the route.
Additionally, you can arrange to attend the Iditarod in March, the sledge races in April, and the summertime gold panning, fishing, and wildflower bloom.
3. Anchorage to Seward
Via Seward Highway
3 hours 15 minutes (150 miles)
Difficulty level: Easy
Why you should take this trip: You may enjoy the fishing culture and discover the aquatic ecosystems of the Kenai Peninsula by travelling south on the Seward Highway until you arrive at the shoreline of Resurrection Bay and the North Pacific.
Main stops on this road trip: Alyeska, Tern Lake, Whittier, and Seward are all on this route.
How to get there: Drive the AK-1 S along the Turnagain Arm after leaving Anchorage. Admire the serene river to your right and the magnificent Chugach State Park on your left.
Continue traveling south after turning onto State Highway 9 at Tern Lake. Before reaching Seward, travel the Seward Highway past the Kenai Lake, past immaculate bodies of water, and past gorgeous scenery.
Our highlights: There are several breathtaking glaciers in Alaska, and the majestic Portage Glacier is truly breathtaking. From Portage Lake, get a view of the glacier.
Visit this WWII settlement for a historic experience. Its fishing boats, charming harbour, and rustic charm will captivate you.
Seward is a great location for the quintessential Alaskan experience. There are local restaurants where you can taste fresh fish. This is the ideal road trip to start in Alaska if you’re excited by the whole extravaganza of dining, shopping, and cruising.
Not all of Alaska’s marine species can be seen in its native environment. However, you should definitely go to the Alaska SeaLife Centre to see the exhibits on marine life and the enormous aquarium.
Local gems: Alyeska Resort, surrounded by Mount Alyeska and the Turnagain Arm, is a fantastic location for summer hiking and winter skiing.
Enjoy water views and breathtaking views of seals and whales by kayaking or boating around Sunny Cove, Driftwood Bay, and Safety Cove if you want to spend some time outside.
You may picnic in the incredibly beautiful outdoors at Lowell Creek Waterfall, which is outside of Seward.
Our travel tips:
Remember to reserve your lodging in advance because there aren’t many hotels in the little town.
Here is our comprehensive information to help you feel more at ease if you’re unsure about the safety of the travel from Anchorage to Seward.
Best time to visit: We advise scheduling your vacation for somewhere in May or June if you’re there to see whales. Drive to Seward in the shoulder seasons for a more sedate getaway.
Only travel during the day for a hassle-free excursion. Additionally, Seward experiences heavy traffic on weekends. You might want to go during the week if you don’t like crowds.
4. Tok to Dawson City
Via Top of the World Highway
4 hours 20 minutes (190 miles)
Difficulty level: Ambitious
Why you should take this trip: Exploring the expansive tundra-like hills along the Top of the World Highway is worth the difficult drive.
Nothing is higher (found further north) than you, giving you the impression that you are on top of the globe. This is what we adore most about this trip. That’s something very few people can say!
Main stops on this road trip: You will see the commercial Tok, the unique Dawson City, and the gold mining at Chicken.
How to get there: After restocking food and travel gear, head east on AK-2 to depart Tok. To get north, turn left on State Hwy 5 at Tetlin Junction.
Take the YT-9 S road across the US-Canada border. The route is lined with breathtaking scenery and is very attractive. After that, travel to Dawson City via ferry over the Yukon River.
Our highlights: The peculiar name of Chicken, which may be the sole inhabited town along this route, comes from the fact that the pioneers pronounced the local bird, Ptarmigan. In addition to being a former gold mine town, it is home to roughly 10 locals.
Stop at the Chicken Creek Café for cinnamon buns and other small stores to restock before continuing on your solo journey into the woods.
Dawson City is another gold rush settlement from the late 19th century that may be reached by ferry from the roadway over the Yukon Valley. In addition to visiting nearby museums, theme parks, and souvenir shops, you may witness the buildings of the Klondike era up close. Remember to get a memento for your loved ones to remember your incredible journey!
Local gems:
During this road trip, you can even try gold panning. You won’t be able to purchase a gold pan close to the West Fork River, so if you want to try your hand at this unusual activity—which could make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time—bring your own.
Because of its abundant creatures and ecological diversity, you can explore the Fortymile River system and the Fortymile National Wild and Scenic Rivers.
Our travel tips: You should use a 4×4 car with all-terrain tyres because this road trip follows a gravel route.
Since there are no petrol or service stations along the route, fill up your tank and supplies.
Best time to visit: You have limited options for when to visit between May and October because the road is only open in the summer. Also, remember that the road is far away, and any serious warning could cause delays.
5. Anchorage to Denali
Via George Parks Highway
4 hours (230 miles)
Difficulty level: Easy
Why you should take this trip: The tallest peak in North America may be reached on this quick and daring journey through the heart of Alaska. Many tourists fly to Alaska to see the breathtaking Denali National Park and Reserve.
Main stops on this road trip: This dream trip includes stops at Denali Park before boarding a bus to the National Park, a breathtaking view from the Hurricane Gulch, and unparalleled views of Denali Mountain from Mile 63.
How to get there: It’s an easy drive from Anchorage to Denali. After leaving the city, drive on the AK-1 until you reach the Knik River.
Turn left, get on AK-3 N, and travel through charming villages and scenic waterways. Until you get to Denali, keep stealing looks at the mountain.
Our highlights: Although there are many amazing views and breathtaking landscapes along the George Parks Highway, Denali National Park and Preserve is, without a doubt, the trip’s highlight. There are two ways to get there: drive to Denali Park via Park Road or take a bus from the canyon.
Remember that you cannot drive your vehicle past Mile 15. Conveniently, you may explore the park using a transit bus, tour bus, or park bus shuttle, which will drop you off at various locations.
Head to Talkeetna, a little town with lakes, trails, and an educational museum, to taste local culture. If you want to stay toasty indoors, this is the ideal place to spend the day.
If you’re visiting in the winter, the Murie Science and Learning Centre offers an additional indoor option.
Local gems: There is a comparatively level, non-mountainous area for trekking and exploring right beside the highway. Near Willow, beside a lovely lake, is Nancy Lake State Recreation Area.
K’esugi Ken Denali State Park is a stunning but frequently disregarded location that provides camping areas, lovely hiking trails, breathtaking mountain views, and an insight into the local way of life. You will love this state park if you want to get back in touch with nature without being surrounded by people.
Our travel tips: Since summer is Denali National Park and Preserve’s busiest season, we advise making reservations for lodges and bus trips well in advance to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Landslides are common in the area. Therefore, before starting this journey, check the website for park closures.
Best time to visit: Although the park is available year-round if you are not a skilled driver, it would be wise to avoid winter.
There are many festivals and events in the summer that you might wish to attend, such as the Denali Film Festival. However, be advised that summertime brings rain and that hiking might be difficult due to flies and pests.
6. Anchorage to Wrangell
Via St. Elias National Park
4 hours 45 minutes (250 miles)
Difficulty level: Ambitious
Why you should take this trip: From Anchorage to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, discover the breathtaking wildness of untamed peaks, glaciers, tundra, and abundant animals. This is your opportunity to experience life as if you were in a Jack London novel, free from human intervention.
Main stops on this road trip: On this eastward excursion around the south of Alaska, you’ll visit the small hamlet of Glenallen, the quaint and historic Chitina, and lastly, the legendary Wrangell-St Elias National Park.
How to get there: Take AK-1N outside Anchorage and arrive in Palmer. From there, proceed along the Matanuska River on the Glenn Highway while taking in the stunning views of the glaciers.
Head south on AK-4S at Glenallen. To get to Chitina, cross the river towns along the route and, after passing Willow Creek, turn left on AK-10/Edgerton.
Our highlights: With its distinctive landscapes, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, despite its relative remoteness. There are two options for getting to the park: you either drive all the way to McCarthy or take a trip from Chitina.
Of all the glaciers and hikes available, Root Glacier is our favourite. You can trek the McCarthy Trail or Fireweed Mountain, take the rafting tours and see Root Lake and River.
Spend a little more time exploring this quaint village that dates back to the railway boom if you are on a tour from Chitina. Outside of Chitina, the Liberty Falls State Recreation Site offers a camping area and a waterfall.
You can also fly out of McCarthy in a small plane or helicopter to explore the area from above.
Local gems: You may stop at the Matanuska Glacier to take in the view if you have the time.
The abandoned Kennecott Mine in Alaska can be visited if you drive to McCarthy.
Our travel tips: The park is closed from September to October once snow begins to fall. If you drive to McCarthy, be aware that the gravel route is isolated. Therefore, pack your food and camping supplies, GPS, satellite communication devices, spare tyres, and auto repair kits.
Best time to visit: This park is not as well-known as Denali, even though summer is the busiest travel season. Therefore, you can even go in the warm spring and autumn.
7. Fairbanks to Anchorage
Via Parks Highway
6 hours 20 minutes (360 miles)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Why you should take this trip: This journey will take you through the Parks Highway, which offers expansive views of Denali National and State Park, from the Midnight Sun City to the centre of Alaska.
Main stops on this road trip: The delightful city of Wasilla, the stunning Denali Parks, and charming Healy will all be on this beautiful road trip.
How to get there: Take the airport road and board an AK-3S to leave Anchorage. You’ll travel through some of Alaska’s most breathtaking scenery along what is often referred to as the Parks Highway.
Prior to reaching Denali Park, take a drive through Healy’s countryside and explore the rural outdoors. Continue on the route to Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali State Park.
Turn onto an AK-1S after Wasilla and drive along the Knik Arm to Anchorage.
Our highlights: Denali is the first big stop on this road trip in Alaska, where you can take in the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding untamed mountain range.
There are accessible hiking locations and lower elevations in Denali State Park for those who are less daring or dislike heights.
We suggest visiting Denali’s dog sledging and breeding homesteads for dog enthusiasts like us. Even a dog sledge tour through the stunning Alaskan wilderness is an option.
Local gems: Healy is a great place to stop for a quick snack and drink. The brewers offer coffee, local cuisine, and maybe a pint of beer.
The Iditarod Headquarters is located in Wasilla, where you may enjoy dog sledging and tour the museum.
Do you want to learn more about the region’s gold mining history? The Independence Mine State Historical Park is a worthwhile diversion after that.
Best time to visit: Most facilities along this road are open only from spring to autumn; therefore, tourism is seasonal.
The weather needs to be dry and warm in order to enjoy the outdoors. Thus, schedule this trip during the spring or autumn. Additionally, compared to the snowy seasons, this is a better time of year to drive.
However, One advantage of winter travel is that you can only go snow dog sledging during that season. You can still see the dogs and do track sledging in the summer.
8. Fairbanks to Valdez
Via Richardson Highway
6 hours 40 minutes (360 miles)
Difficulty level: Ambitious
Why you should take this trip: From Fairbanks, travel almost half the way along Alaska’s oldest roadway to the charming fishing community of Valdez, where you may kayak or boat through the sparkling waters.
Main stops on this road trip: This wonderful journey is its destination. Paxton, Copper Centre, Worthington Glacier, and Valdez are some of the major destinations along the route.
While visiting Valdez, stop at Peter Wolf’s Trail of the Whispering Giants totem pole statue.
How to get there: From Fairbanks to Valdez, you only have to take one roadway. Take the Richardson Highway, also called the AK-4 S, and continue traveling until you arrive in Valdez.
Our highlights: You can get a close-up look at the amazing ice creation at Worthington Glacier from its lovely visitor area.
The Copper Centre is another attraction that we find irresistible. Work with a local guide to set up your fishing location and capture some of the king salmon that Alaska is known for.
You can kayak, boat, and fish at Valdez if you enjoy water sports. You might even see a whale or two, who knows!
The lovely Paxson Lake is one of the less-travelled locations. You can visit fishing lodges, mushers, and dog kennels on your own.
Canoe the Delta National Wild and Scenic River from Tangle Lakes Campground to the Richardson Highway to discover Alaska’s waterways. Only experienced paddlers are advised to use this canoe route.
The appropriately called Bridal Veil Falls can be found in Keystone Canyon on the route to Valdez. There is a hiking area with a breathtaking view of the waterfall. It transforms into a gigantic tower of ice in the winter, which is a sight to behold.
Our travel tips: Due to its popularity as a fishing location and small size, lodging and fishing trips must be reserved well in advance.
Best time to visit: In the winter, Fairbanks has a lot of snowfall. Because of the snowy road, the drive can be challenging.
9. Fairbanks to Prudhoe Bay
Via Dalton Highway
11 hours (500 miles)
Difficulty level: Very Ambitious
Why you should take this trip: You will feel as though you are driving to see Santa at the North Pole on this journey from the heart of Alaska to the entrance to the Arctic Circle via the most northern highway!
Main stops on this road trip: You will pass via Livengood, the Yukon River Bridge, Arctic Circle 66°N, Finger Mountain, Coldfoot, Wiseman, Atigun Pass, and Deadhorse as you travel over the vast area of northern Alaska.
How to get there: Take AK-2 out of Fairbanks and go north. Change on AK-11N at Liven Good and keep driving until you reach Prudhoe Bay.
Our highlights: You can go along the AK-11N, constructed as the sole route to the Trans Alaska oil pipeline, or the picturesque Dalton Highway.
Over the years, the vulnerable tundra ecosystem has been protected in numerous national refuges and parks along this path.
We recommend you visit some of them, such as Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge, Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge, Gates of the Arctic National Park, and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.
Before arriving at your destination, your journey will lead you to the Atigun Pass, Alaska’s highest highway pass.
The two primary attractions of Deadhorse and Prudhoe Bay are the captivating Northern Lights and dropping feet in the arctic water.
Finger Mountain or Finger Rock, where you can see the granite protrusion or tors, are ideal hiking destinations if you want to spend some time outside in the summer.
Our travel tips: Coldfoot is a reliable location to stock up for the travel halfway. Stock up on drinks, petrol and other necessities.
We suggest making reservations well in advance if you plan to camp or stay along the route.
Not all rental companies will permit this drive because it’s a dirt road. Additional supplies, auto repair kits, and communication and emergency equipment are required.
Since the public cannot enter the area due to the oil fields’ security, reserve a specific shuttle excursion in advance if you want to explore the Arctic Ocean.
Best time to visit: Summertime is the safest season for this journey, particularly during the warm months of July and August. Remarkably, road repairs are also taking place during this period, so be ready to drive in one lane.
10. The Ultimate Alaska road trip
20 hours 30 min (1,130 miles)
Difficulty level: Ambitious
Why you should take this trip: On this once-in-a-lifetime journey, you will witness the finest of Alaska’s diverse landscapes. For a one-of-a-kind and amazing experience, drive to the vast tundra, famous glaciers, picturesque and untamed mountains, and seaside shorelines.
Main stops on this road trip: The charming village of Tok, which is situated directly on the Alaska Highway, Fairbanks’ rich cultural heritage, the beautiful Denali National Park, Anchorage’s Alaskan city life, and the charming seaside resort of Seward are all on your itinerary.
How to get there: From Tok, travel north on an AK-2 until you reach Fairbanks. Take AK-3S south to Denali National Park. After returning to Anchorage, take AK-1 and Seward Highway (State Highway 9). Then, return to Tok with AK-1.
Our highlights: This journey must include a diversion to Denali National Park off the main roadway. The Hurricane Gulch Bridge and the Gorge Parks Highway, which offers views of Denali Mountain at mile 163, are two of the park’s primary attractions. To get to the park, you can hike, take a bus, or even fly there.
From August to April, you can camp out and witness the Northern Lights when you reach Fairbanks, the trip’s northernmost point.
Our favourite among the numerous enjoyable activities in Fairbanks is going on a snowmobile tour. On dog sledges, you can traverse the polar tundra and enjoy snowshoeing. Enjoy a luxurious hideaway along a tributary of the enormous Tanana River by taking a river cruise up the Chena River.
Seward Highway offers a picturesque trip from Anchorage to Seward. There are many places to stop along the way, including Whittier and Portage, where you may take a boat excursion and quickly see glaciers.
Another option is to go from Seward to Kenai Fjords National Park to engage in whale watching, which offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get up close and personal with these amazing animals.
To discover more about the region’s varied aquatic life, nature and wildlife lovers can visit the Alaska SeaLife Centre, a waterfront park and fishing area.
Visit the unique and eccentric museum and activities at Mukluk Land amusement park in Tok whether you are travelling with family or want to let your inner kid go.
You can visit the North Pole near Fairbanks for everything that shouts Christmas, even though many people never get to see the real one.
Our travel tips: Although travelling in the snow can be challenging, you can visit Fairbanks at any time of year. Be ready to drive when there is fog and ice or snow.
Also, make travel arrangements well in advance because Denali gets extremely crowded during the northern lights season.
Best time to visit: When it stops raining and grows warmer, spring through autumn is the ideal time of year to go. Even while highways are open year-round and traffic is lighter in the winter, you might want to stay off the road when it snows.
The ideal time of year to enjoy the parks, activities, fishing, and salmon season is in the summer.
You can schedule this journey for any time between May and July if you want to see the midnight sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best road trip in Alaska?
- Seward Highway: Coastal views, wildlife, and access to Kenai Peninsula.
- Denali Highway: Remote wilderness with views of Denali and wildlife.
- Glenn Highway: Scenic drive with glaciers and Chugach Mountains views.
- Parks Highway: Connects Anchorage to Fairbanks, with Denali views and wildlife.
How many days do you need for a road trip to Alaska?
A road trip to Alaska from the mainland U.S. typically takes 2-3 weeks. Plan for 7-10 days to explore Alaska for a well-rounded experience.
What is the best month to drive to Alaska?
The best month to drive to Alaska is June for optimal weather and road conditions.
What is the most scenic drive in Alaska?
The Seward Highway is the most scenic drive in Alaska, offering breathtaking coastal and mountain views.
Can you drive from Anchorage to Denali?
Yes, you can drive from Anchorage to Denali, about a 4-5 hour drive along the Parks Highway.
If you need further details, kindly visit http://AlaskaRoadTrips.net
