Are you planning an Alaska road trip by car or RV but unsure where to start? This guide offers the perfect 7-10 day itinerary, covering must-see destinations like Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks as well as some hidden gems.
We’ll help you navigate the best routes, plan your stops, and find accommodations and dining options along the way. There’s no need for intensive research. We’ve collected all the tips you need, whether you’re a novice or an experienced road tripper.
Route Options: Alaska’s Highways
Alaska’s highways offer diverse landscapes for your road trip adventure. Here are the key routes to consider:
- Richardson Highway: This 368-mile highway connects Valdez to Fairbanks, passing through stunning landscapes and offering access to glaciers, hot springs, and historic sites.
- Seward Highway: Running 127 miles from Anchorage to Seward, this scenic coastal route offers breathtaking views of the Turnagain Arm, Chugach Mountains, and Kenai Peninsula.
- Parks Highway: Stretching 323 miles from Anchorage to Fairbanks, the Parks Highway is your gateway to Denali National Park and Preserve, as well as charming towns like Talkeetna and Nenana.
- Glenn Highway: This 179-mile highway connects Anchorage to Glennallen, offering access to the Matanuska Glacier, scenic overlooks, and historic sites like the Eklutna Village.
When planning your Alaska road trip itinerary, consider traveling through multiple of these highways and combining routes. That way, you can cover the most ground and visit as many must-see destinations as possible.
Must-Visit Destinations On Your Alaska Road Trip
Here are some iconic destinations you may want to stop and see along the way:
#1: Denali National Park
Denali National Park is home to North America’s tallest mountain, offering diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and endless outdoor adventures. To fully experience this awe-inspiring park, take a scenic drive along the Denali Park Road, hike the trails, or join a ranger-led program.
#2: Kenai Fjords National Park
Located on the Kenai Peninsula, this coastal park is known for its incredible scenery, including breathtaking glaciers, abundant marine wildlife, and pristine fjords. Take a boat tour to see whales, sea lions, and puffins, or hike to the stunning Exit Glacier.
#3: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
As the largest national park in the United States, Wrangell-St. Elias offers vast wilderness, towering peaks, and glacial landscapes. Visit the historic mining towns of Kennicott and McCarthy, or hike the Root Glacier Trail.
#4: Talkeetna
This charming town near Denali National Park is a popular base for flightseeing tours. From an aerial view, experience authentic Alaska and its stunning mountain views.
#5: Anchorage
Alaska’s largest city, Anchorage, serves as a gateway to the state’s natural wonders. Visit the Anchorage Museum, explore the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, or take a day trip to the nearby Chugach Mountains.
#6: Fairbanks
Known as the “Golden Heart City,” Fairbanks is a hub for viewing northern lights, the history of the gold rush, and Alaskan culture. Visit the Museum of the North, take a riverboat cruise, or soak in the Chena Hot Springs for some downtime on your Alaskan adventure.
#7: Palmer
Located in the Mat-Su Valley, Palmer is known for its rich agricultural history. During your stop, visit the Palmer Visitor Center, explore the Matanuska Glacier, or attend the Alaska State Fair.
#8: Eklutna
This native Dena’ina Athabascan village near Anchorage offers a glimpse into Alaska’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church, explore the Eklutna Historical Park, and see the colorful spirit houses at the Eklutna Cemetery.
#9: Horseshoe Lake Trail
Located near Denali National Park, the Horseshoe Lake Trail is a short, family-friendly hike that offers stunning views of the Alaska Range and the chance to see beavers and other wildlife. This 2-mile loop trail is a perfect addition to your Denali adventure.
Activities and Excursion Options: Unforgettable Experiences for Your Alaska Adventure
While touring Alaska by car, make the most out of your pit stops. Don’t just refill on snacks and stretch your legs, stop by these must-visit attractions.
#1: Hiking and Nature Walks
- Harding Icefield Trail: An 8.2-mile round-trip hike that offers panoramic views of the vast Harding Icefield and its glaciers.
- Savage River Loop Trail: A gentle 2-mile loop along the Savage River, perfect for all skill levels and offering stunning views of the Alaska Range.
- Matanuska Glacier Hike: Guided hikes on Alaska’s largest accessible glacier, where you can explore ice caves and crevasses. (You can also do a scenic drive along Glenn Hwy to see the sights.)
- Winner Creek Trail: This is a 6-mile round-trip hike (and part of the longer Iditarod National Historic Trail (INHT)) through the lush temperate rainforest near Girdwood in Chugach National Forest.
#2: Fishing
- Kenai River: World-famous for its salmon fishing, the Kenai River offers guided fishing trips for all skill levels.
- Russian River: A popular spot for salmon and rainbow trout fishing, accessible from the Russian River Campground.
- Ship Creek: An urban fishing destination in the heart of Anchorage, known for its king and silver salmon runs.
- Chena River: A scenic river near Fairbanks that offers excellent grayling and salmon fishing.
Itinerary: A 7-10 Day Alaska Road Trip Adventure
Now that we’ve covered the key highways, must-visit destinations, and unforgettable activities, let’s put together a sample itinerary for your 7-10-day Alaska road trip:
Day 1-2: Anchorage to Denali National Park (Parks Highway)
- Begin your journey in Anchorage, exploring the city’s attractions like the Anchorage Museum and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.
- Drive north along the Parks Highway, stopping to explore Talkeetna for a taste of small-town Alaska charm.
- Arrive in Denali National Park and settle into your RV or other accommodations.
Day 3-4: Explore Denali National Park
- Take a bus tour along Denali Park Road to spot wildlife and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- For a closer look at the park’s beauty, hike the Savage River Loop Trail or the Horseshoe Lake Trail.
- Optional: Take a flightseeing tour for a bird’s-eye view of Denali and the Alaska Range.
Day 5: Denali to Fairbanks (Parks Highway)
- Drive north to Fairbanks, stopping at viewpoints and attractions along the way.
- Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North or explore the city’s gold rush history.
- In the evening, take a dip in the Chena Hot Springs or go on a Northern Lights viewing tour (in season).
Day 6: Fairbanks to Valdez (Richardson Highway)
- Embark on a scenic drive along the Richardson Highway, stopping at the Trans-Alaska Pipeline viewpoint and the Worthington Glacier.
- Arrive in Valdez, a picturesque coastal town known for its stunning fjords and glaciers.
Day 7-8: Valdez to Seward (Glenn and Seward Highways)
- Take a boat tour of Prince William Sound to see glaciers, whales, and other marine life.
- Drive the Glenn Highway towards Anchorage, stopping to hike the Matanuska Glacier or explore the Eklutna Historical Park.
- Head south on the Seward Highway, enjoying the scenic views of the Turnagain Arm and the Chugach Mountains.
- Arrive in Seward and visit the Alaska SeaLife Center or take a boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park.
Day 9-10: Exploring Kenai Fjords and Return to Anchorage
- Spend a day exploring the fjords, hiking to Exit Glacier, or taking a wildlife cruise.
- Drive back to Anchorage along the Seward Highway, stopping at Beluga Point or the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
- End your trip in Anchorage, and take some time to reflect on your adventure.
Safety and Preparation: Tips for Your Alaska Road Trips
While road-tripping across Alaska is a chance to marvel at the snow-capped peaks along the Alaska Highway. But fair warning: while these are scenic drives, they can be equally dangerous.
Any road trip in Alaska requires you to be prepared. So make sure you do the following:
- Prepare your vehicle: Ensure your car or RV is in good condition, with proper tires and emergency supplies like a spare tire, jack, and basic tools.
- Pack appropriate gear: Bring warm layers, rain gear, sturdy hiking shoes, and insect repellent for your outdoor adventures.
- Be wildlife aware: Keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially bears, and carry bear spray when hiking in remote areas.
- Check weather conditions: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so check forecasts regularly and be prepared for changes in road conditions.
- Allow extra time: Alaska is a huge state, and distances between destinations can be longer than they appear. Plan for adequate travel time and rest stops.
Final Thoughts
If you choose to explore Alaska via RV, your state-wide road trip will eventually come to an end. Afterward, you’ll need to find a place to store your trusty RV until your next exciting journey (maybe to Rocky Mountain National Park or Yellowstone).
Proper storage is crucial to ensure that your vehicle remains in top condition and is ready to hit the road again without any unexpected maintenance issues.
While storing your RV on your property may seem convenient, it can lead to potential problems such as exterior damage from the elements or even violations of local homeowners association regulations. This leaves many RV owners searching for suitable covered or enclosed storage options in their area.
Fortunately, there’s an RV storage marketplace that spans all 50 states, offering secure RV storage right in your own neighborhood. Neighbor, a peer-to-peer RV storage marketplace, connects RV owners with pre-screened hosts who have available storage spaces. Not only does this provide a convenient and localized option, but it also offers significant savings, with prices up to 50% lower than traditional storage facilities.
