Ultimate Guide to Scenic Road Trips in Alaska
Alaska is a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Its vast landscapes, towering mountains, and serene wilderness make it a perfect destination for scenic road trips. Summer is the ideal time to explore Alaska's beauty when the sun hardly sets, and the days are long and filled with opportunities for outdoor activities. This guide will take you through some of the most scenic road trips in Alaska.
The Seward Highway: Anchorage to Seward
One of the most breathtaking drives in Alaska, the Seward Highway stretches 127 miles from Anchorage to Seward. This route offers stunning views of the Turnagain Arm, where you can spot beluga whales and Dall sheep. The highway is lined with towering mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls that cascade down to the roadside.
Highlights:
Beluga Point: A great spot to stop and potentially see beluga whales swimming in the Turnagain Arm.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: Home to bears, moose, and other Alaskan wildlife.
Exit Glacier: Near Seward, this glacier offers an accessible hike where you can get up close to a glacier.
The Glenn Highway: Anchorage to Glennallen
The Glenn Highway, running from Anchorage to Glennallen, offers a diverse array of scenic vistas. The highway meanders through the Chugach Mountains and provides views of glaciers, rivers, and expansive valleys.
Highlights:
Matanuska Glacier: A massive glacier that you can hike on with guided tours.
Eklutna Lake: Perfect for kayaking, biking, and hiking, with beautiful turquoise waters surrounded by mountains.
Denali Highway: Paxson to Cantwell
The Denali Highway is a mostly gravel road that spans 135 miles between Paxson and Cantwell. This route is less traveled and offers a sense of solitude amidst the wilderness. It's known for its wide-open landscapes, wildlife sightings, and panoramic views of the Alaska Range.
Highlights:
Tangle Lakes: A series of lakes perfect for fishing and kayaking.
Panoramic Views: Uninterrupted views of the Alaska Range, with opportunities to spot caribou and other wildlife.
Hatcher Pass: A Gateway to Adventure
Hatcher Pass, nestled between Anchorage and Denali, is a renowned spot for both hiking and ATV/UTV riding in the summer, and snowmobiling in the winter. This scenic pass offers lush green valleys, wildflower-filled meadows, and rugged mountain terrain.
Hiking at Hatcher Pass
Hiking trails abound in Hatcher Pass, catering to all levels of hikers. One of the most popular trails is the Gold Mint Trail, which follows the Little Susitna River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For a more challenging hike, the Reed Lakes Trail takes you through boulder fields and past stunning alpine lakes.
ATV/UTV Riding
Hatcher Pass is a paradise for ATV/UTV enthusiasts, offering some of the best ATV tours in Alaska. The Willow-Fishhook Road and Archangel Road are popular routes that take riders through spectacular mountain scenery and open valleys. The area is also a hotspot for berry picking in late summer, adding a sweet treat to your adventure.
Independence Mine State Historical Park
Located in Hatcher Pass, this historical park offers a glimpse into Alaska's gold mining history. You can explore the well-preserved ruins of the old mine buildings and learn about the life of miners in the early 20th century.
The Parks Highway: Anchorage to Denali
The Parks Highway is a major route that connects Anchorage to Denali National Park. This highway provides access to some of the most iconic landscapes in Alaska, including views of Denali, North America's highest peak.
Highlights:
Talkeetna: A charming town known for its eclectic mix of artists and adventurers. It's also a launch point for Denali expeditions.
Denali State Park: Offers numerous trails, campgrounds, and viewpoints to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
Denali National Park: A must-visit destination with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic bus tours deep into the park.
The Richardson Highway: Valdez to Fairbanks
The Richardson Highway stretches from Valdez to Fairbanks, traversing some of the most dramatic landscapes in Alaska. This route offers views of the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States.
Highlights:
Worthington Glacier: Worthington Glacier is easily accessible from the highway, this glacier offers a chance to experience glacial landscapes up close.
Keystone Canyon: Known for its waterfalls, including Bridal Veil Falls and Horsetail Falls.
Delta Junction: Marks the end of the Alaska Highway, with historical exhibits and scenic views.
Scenic Road Trips in Alaska: Discover the Land of the Midnight Sun
Alaska's scenic road trips offer an unparalleled experience of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. From the coastal views of the Seward Highway to the rugged terrains of Hatcher Pass, each route provides unique opportunities to explore the state's diverse landscapes. Whether you're hiking, riding an ATV, or simply enjoying the drive, Alaska's summer road trips promise unforgettable memories. Pack your bags, prepare your camera, and get ready to discover the Last Frontier in all its summer glory.
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