Alaska Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the beauty and grandeur of Alaska with an unforgettable road trip starting in Anchorage and ending in the same city. Along the way, you will pass through Denali National Park, Tok, Glacier View, and Homer. This route is approximately 2178 km long and is recommended to take 10 days to complete. The best time to drive this route is in the summer months when the roads are open and the scenery is at its most beautiful.
The journey will take you through breathtaking landscapes of mountains, tundra, boreal forests, and glacial valleys. You will also have the opportunity to spot some of Alaska’s natural wildlife, such as moose, caribou, and bald eagles. The roads are generally in good condition, though some sections may be curvy and there is the possibility of seasonal road closures due to weather conditions.
This road trip is an excellent way to experience the best of Alaska and create memories that will last a lifetime. It is suitable for all drivers and can be done on a high budget.
10
number of days
2,178 km
route length
high
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Anchorage
Distance 2,178 km
Driving time 24.4 h
Pace: fast
653.4 kWh
Airports
ANC
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Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, is the perfect starting point for the Alaska Road Trip. It is located in the south-central part of the state, on the Cook Inlet. In Anchorage, you can explore a variety of attractions, including the Alaska Zoo, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city's numerous parks and trails offer plenty of opportunity for adventure.
The closest international airport to Anchorage is Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (IATA: ANC). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to hit the road and explore the state.
Head north for a stunning drive along the Seward Highway, where you can take in breathtaking views of the Chugach Mountains and Turnagain Arm. Or, take the Glenn Highway east to the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, where you can explore the historic towns of Palmer and Wasilla.
No matter what direction you go, you're sure to find plenty of incredible sights and experiences during your Alaska Road Trip.
1
Anchorage
- Denali N.P.
Distance 262 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
78.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip from Anchorage to Denali National Park and experience the beauty of Alaska! This 163mi journey will take you fewer than 3 hours and you'll be able to enjoy some of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States. Follow the winding road to visit historical sites and take in the stunning views of the mountains and rivers. Make sure to watch the weather before you start your journey, as some sections of the road may be closed seasonally. Once you arrive at Denali National Park, you'll be able to explore the diverse wildlife, take a guided tour, or just relax and enjoy the natural beauty. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today and experience the beauty of Alaska!
Denali N.P. - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.nps.gov
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2
Denali N.P.
- Healy
- Fairbanks
Distance 326 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: fast
97.8 kWh
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Embark on an epic journey through the rugged beauty of Alaska's interior! Starting in Denali National Park, your road trip will take you through Healy and end in Fairbanks, a 203-mile drive that will take you fewer than 4 hours. This is one of the most scenic drives in the world, with breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, sprawling tundra, and lush forests. Along the way, you'll pass through the small town of Healy, where you can take a break and explore the local shops and restaurants. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of the region's incredible wildlife, such as moose, caribou, and bears. Some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and in some sections the road is very winding, so be sure to drive carefully. No matter what time of year you visit, you'll be sure to find something to love about this amazing journey. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Fairbanks - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Fairbanks
- Tok
Distance 326 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
97.7 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road-trip from Fairbanks to Tok! This 202mi journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, and you'll get to explore some of the most interesting places along the way. Start off by visiting the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where you can take a stroll through the beautiful campus and explore the museum. Then, head to the Delta Junction Visitor Center and learn about the history of the area. As you continue your journey, keep an eye out for the beautiful scenery of the Tanana Valley. You'll also get to explore the scenic Alaska Range, and the awe-inspiring views of the Alaska Range Mountains. Finally, you'll arrive in the small town of Tok, where you can take a leisurely stroll and explore the local shops and restaurants. Some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so make sure to check the road conditions before you start your journey. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Tok - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Tok
- Glennallen
Distance 224 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
67.3 kWh
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Ready for an amazing road trip? Get ready to explore the 139mi route from Tok to Glennallen! This scenic drive will take you less than 3 hours, and along the way you'll get to experience some of the most beautiful sights in Alaska. From Tok, you'll pass through the majestic Tanana Valley, home to some of the most breathtaking views the state has to offer. As you make your way to Glennallen, you'll also pass through the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, where you can take in the stunning mountain ranges and glaciers. Keep in mind that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so make sure to check the road conditions before you start. Whether you're on a larger tour or just taking a day trip, this route has something to offer everyone. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage. Enjoy the journey!
Glennallen - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Glennallen
- Glacier View
Distance 129 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
38.7 kWh
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Take a road trip from Glennallen to Glacier View and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Chugach and Wrangell mountains! The drive is just 80 miles and takes fewer than two hours, so you can easily fit it in a single day. Along the way, you'll get to see the gorgeous scenery of the Copper River Valley and the majestic Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Some sections of the road may be closed seasonally, so be sure to check the road conditions before you head out. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so you'll want to check out the itinerary for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So get ready for a beautiful, scenic drive and enjoy the amazing views of Glennallen and Glacier View!
Glacier View - United States - North America - Road Trip - Work and Travel
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6
Glacier View
- Anchorage
- Whittier
Distance 255 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: fast
76.5 kWh
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Embark on a 158-mile journey through the beautiful landscapes of Alaska, starting in Glacier View and ending in Whittier. Get ready to admire the stunning views of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, and the Chugach Mountains. The drive will take you less than 4 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places.
In Anchorage, take a break and visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center, where you can learn about the culture and history of the indigenous peoples of the region. Or, for a more adventurous experience, you can go to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and take a hike.
As you drive along the winding roads, keep an eye out for historical sites and scenic views. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for camping and fishing along the way.
When you reach Whittier, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Prince William Sound. Visit the Begich Towers, where you can learn more about the area’s history.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Whittier - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Whittier
- Homer
Distance 297 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: fast
89.1 kWh
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Welcome to the wonderful road trip from Whittier to Homer! This 185mi journey will take you less than 4 hours of driving, and you will be able to appreciate the stunning landscapes that Alaska has to offer. Along the road you will find picturesque landscapes and scenic roads, with some sections that are very winding. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the views!
The road trip will start in Whittier, a small city located in the Chugach Mountains. Here you can visit the Begich Towers and the Whittier Museum. The trip will end in Homer, a beautiful fishing town located on the shores of Kachemak Bay. Here you can take a boat tour to Gull Island, explore the Homer Spit, or visit the Pratt Museum.
Make sure to check out the itinerary of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a great trip!
Homer - United States - North America - Road Trip - pixnio.com
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8
Homer
- Anchorage
Distance 359 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: fast
107.6 kWh
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Welcome to the Homer-Anchorage road trip! This 223mi journey will take you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Alaska. You'll drive for fewer than 5 hours and pass through some of the most scenic roads in the country.
Start your journey in Homer, a fishing town situated on the Kenai Peninsula, and take the Sterling Highway to Anchorage. Along the way, you'll find interesting historical sites, such as the Russian Orthodox Church in Ninilchik, the Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center, and the historic Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge. You'll also find plenty of breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and glaciers.
For a break, stop in the charming town of Cooper Landing and visit the Salmon Bake and the Russian River ferry. In Anchorage, you can explore the Alaska Zoo and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip. Enjoy your journey!
Anchorage
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Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and the perfect ending point for the Alaska Road Trip. Situated on the Cook Inlet, this city is a vibrant hub of cultural diversity and outdoor activities.
A must-see in Anchorage is the Alaska Native Heritage Center, which offers visitors a look into Alaska's eleven cultural groups through interactive exhibits and performances. For outdoor adventurers, the Chugach State Park offers 495,000 acres of alpine, sub-alpine and coastal terrain. The park is home to glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife, and is the perfect place for hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking.
If you're looking for urban entertainment, Anchorage has plenty to offer. Stop by the Anchorage Museum for a look at Alaska's history and art. Or, for a unique experience, visit the Alaska Zoo and take in the sights of snow leopards, walruses, and Arctic foxes.
Anchorage is also home to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), which offers flights to and from major North American cities. From there, you can continue your journey or end your Alaska Road Trip in style.
Anchorage is the perfect place to finish your Alaska Road Trip. From its cultural attractions to its outdoor activities, Anchorage has something for everyone. So take some time to explore this vibrant city and discover all that it has to offer.
Alaska Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Anchorage
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End:
Anchorage
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Distance:
2,178 km
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Stay:
10 days
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Getting there:
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC)
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When to drive:
June, July, August
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an unforgettable 2178 km journey through Alaska, with Anchorage as your starting and finishing point. This epic Road Trip is designed to immerse you in Alaska's majestic natural wonders, taking you from the sprawling wilderness of Denali National Park to the quaint coastal town of Homer, with significant stops in Tok and Glacier View. Over the course of 10 days, you'll traverse diverse landscapes, from towering mountain ranges to serene coastlines, with potential wildlife encounters and breathtaking vistas at every turn.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Anchorage: Not just the starting point, but a destination with its own merits, Anchorage offers a blend of culture, history, and access to stunning natural attractions like the Chugach Mountains and Turnagain Arm.
- Denali National Park: Home to the awe-inspiring Denali (formerly Mount McKinley), which at 20,310 feet (6,190 meters) is the highest peak in North America, the park spans over 6 million acres of wildland.
- Tok: Often considered the gateway to Alaska, Tok is a charming community with deep roots in the traditions of sled dog mushing.
- Glacier View: Offers a chance to witness the grandeur of the Matanuska Glacier, a 27-mile-long river of ice that is a natural masterpiece accessible via the Glenn Highway.
- Homer: Known as the `Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,` Homer's picturesque setting on Kachemak Bay and the iconic 4.5-mile long Homer Spit provide ample opportunities for fishing, birding, and marine life viewing.
Best Time to Go:
The best time for this Road Trip is during the summer months, from June to August, when days are long, nature is in full bloom, and the Alaskan wilderness becomes even more accessible.
Potential Risks:
Alaska's vast and rugged terrain comes with challenges like winding Roads and potential seasonal Road closures due to weather conditions. It's crucial to stay updated on forecasts and Road statuses, especially when traveling through remote areas.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This itinerary is thoughtfully spread out over 10 days to allow for ample exploration and downtime.
- Wildlife sightings, including moose, bears, and eagles, are a highlight, so have your camera and binoculars at the ready.
- Some stretches of your journey may have limited amenities, making it wise to carry extra food, water, and emergency supplies.
- It's important to familiarize yourself with Alaska's driving regulations and to be prepared for wildlife encounters both on the Road and during hikes.
A good choice for:
An Alaskan Road Trip is a chance to experience the untamed spirit of the `Last Frontier.` Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a casual traveler, this journey offers an array of experiences, from the thrill of adventure to the tranquility of nature. Prepare for moments that will leave you in awe, and memories that will last a lifetime.
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