Driving in Alaska
Driving in Alaska offers unparalleled freedom to explore vast landscapes at your own pace. With stunning scenery around every bend, wildlife encounters, and access to remote areas, road trips are among the most rewarding ways to experience America’s Last Frontier.
Alaska’s Road System Overview
Understanding Alaska’s Road Network
Despite Alaska’s enormous size, the road system is surprisingly limited, covering primarily the Southcentral, Interior, and parts of the Eastern regions. Many major destinations (including Juneau, Ketchikan, and Nome) have no road access. Still, the existing road network connects Alaska’s most populous areas and many spectacular natural attractions.
Major Road Corridors
Alaska’s road system includes:
- Parks Highway: Connecting Anchorage and Fairbanks, passing by Denali National Park
- Glenn Highway: From Anchorage to Glennallen through the Matanuska Valley
- Richardson Highway: Linking Valdez to Fairbanks through the Alaska Range
- Seward Highway: Connecting Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula
- Sterling Highway: Traversing the Kenai Peninsula to Homer
- Alaska Highway: The historic route connecting the Lower 48 to Alaska through Canada
The Alaska Highway Experience
Driving to Alaska from the Lower 48
The legendary Alaska Highway (also called the ALCAN) stretches approximately 1,500 miles from Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, Alaska. Completed in 1942 as a military supply route, today’s highway is fully paved and offers an unforgettable adventure through stunning wilderness.
Planning Your Alaska Highway Trip
- Distance: About 2,200 miles from Seattle to Anchorage
- Driving Time: Minimum 5-7 days one-way (recommended: 10-14 days)
- Best Season: Late May to mid-September offers optimal conditions
- Border Crossing: Valid passport and/or required documents for entering Canada
- Services: Fuel, food, and lodging available at regular intervals (typically every 50-100 miles)
Alaska’s Scenic Byways
Seward Highway
This 127-mile National Scenic Byway between Anchorage and Seward hugs the dramatic shoreline of Turnagain Arm before climbing through the Kenai Mountains. Highlights include beluga whale watching, Dall sheep spotting, and access to glaciers and hiking trails.
Richardson Highway
This historic route from Valdez to Fairbanks travels through the spectacular Chugach Mountains and Alaska Range. Notable features include Worthington Glacier, Thompson Pass, and stunning views of the Wrangell Mountains.
Denali Highway
This 135-mile mostly gravel road connects Paxson to Cantwell, offering some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery. With minimal services and remote wilderness, this road is recommended for well-prepared travelers seeking solitude and unparalleled views of the Alaska Range.
George Parks Highway
The main route connecting Anchorage to Fairbanks passes alongside Denali National Park, providing the main access to Alaska’s most visited national park and opportunities to view North America’s tallest peak.
RV and Motorhome Travel
RV Rental Options
Alaska has numerous RV rental companies offering various vehicle sizes from camper vans to large motorhomes. One-way rentals between Anchorage and Fairbanks are often available, and early booking (6-12 months in advance) is essential during summer.
RV Camping Options
- Developed Campgrounds: Range from basic to full-service with hookups
- Public Campgrounds: State parks, national parks, and forest service facilities
- Boondocking: Many areas allow dispersed camping on public lands
- Walmart Parking: Most Alaska Walmarts allow overnight RV parking
RV Travel Considerations
- Size Restrictions: Some scenic roads have length restrictions or are challenging for larger RVs
- Dumping Stations: Available in most communities but plan your route accordingly
- Generator Hours: Many campgrounds restrict generator use during evening hours
- Bear Safety: Proper food storage is essential at all times
Car Rentals and Road Trips
- Major Rental Companies: Available in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and other larger communities
- Rental Restrictions: Many companies prohibit travel on certain gravel roads (including the Denali Highway)
- One-Way Rentals: Available between major cities but often with substantial fees
- Vehicle Types: SUVs and 4WD vehicles recommended for most Alaska exploration
Popular Road Trip Itineraries
- Anchorage-Denali-Fairbanks: Classic 7-10 day route hitting major destinations
- Kenai Peninsula Loop: 3-5 day circuit from Anchorage exploring Seward, Homer, and the Sterling Highway
- Alaska Highway Adventure: 14+ day journey from the Lower 48 to Anchorage
- Ultimate Alaska Circuit: 14-21 day comprehensive loop combining multiple highways
Road Conditions and Safety
Seasonal Considerations
- Summer (May-September): Most favorable conditions with all roads open
- Shoulder Seasons: Potential for snow at higher elevations, fewer services open
- Winter (October-April): Challenging conditions with snow, ice, and limited daylight
- Spring Break-up: Frost heaves and potholes are common during spring thaw
Road Hazards and Precautions
- Wildlife: Watch for moose, caribou, bears, and other animals, especially at dawn/dusk
- Construction: Summer brings numerous road projects with potential delays
- Weather Changes: Conditions can shift rapidly in mountain passes
- Limited Cell Service: Many highway stretches have no cellular coverage
Emergency Preparedness
Essential supplies for Alaska driving include:
- Spare tire and basic tools
- Extra food and water
- Warm clothing regardless of season
- First aid kit
- Paper maps (don’t rely solely on GPS)
- Bear spray when exploring remote areas
Tips for Alaska Road Trips
Vehicle Preparation
- Headlight Covers: Protect from gravel damage on unpaved roads
- Windshield Insurance: Highly recommended due to gravel roads
- Fuel Planning: Fill up whenever below half tank
- Inspections: Check fluid levels and tire pressure regularly
Accommodation Planning
- Book accommodations 6-12 months in advance for summer travel
- Consider camping as a flexible alternative to fixed lodging
- Look for cabin rentals at state parks for unique experiences
Practical Advice
- Mile Posts: Alaska highways use mile markers extensively for navigation
- The Milepost: The essential guidebook for Alaska highway travelers
- Speed Limits: Generally 55-65 mph on highways, strictly enforced
- Fuel Prices: Significantly higher than the Lower 48, especially in remote areas
Plan Your Alaska Road Trip with Ahnapee Travel
For customized road trip itineraries, vehicle rental recommendations, and seamless planning, contact Ahnapee Travel at andrew@ahnapeetravel.com.