The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip Itinerary (Updated January 2026)
Alaska’s vast wilderness, glaciers, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes make it a dream road trip destination. This flexible itinerary starts in Anchorage (easiest entry point) and covers the highlights in 3-4 weeks. Rent a car or campervan—roads are mostly paved, but prepare for gravel sections (e.g., Denali Highway, McCarthy Road) with a spare tire and full tank.
Best Time: Mid-June to early September for warm weather, long days, and open services. Shoulder seasons (May/September) offer fewer crowds but potential snow/closures.
Tips: Book accommodations/cruises early in peak summer. Gas up often; wildlife crossings common—drive cautiously.
Week 1: Anchorage to Homer (Kenai Peninsula South)
Focus: Glaciers, fjords, marine wildlife.
- Anchorage (Days 1-2): Explore downtown, hike Flattop, or bike the Coastal Trail.
- Girdwood (Day 3): Ski/hike at Alyeska, visit Virgin Creek Falls.
- Whittier/Portage (Day 4): Glacier cruise in Prince William Sound; hike to Byron Glacier.
- Seward (Days 5-6): Kenai Fjords boat tour (whales, glaciers); hike Exit Glacier.
- Homer (Days 7): Explore the Spit; halibut fishing or bear viewing flight.
Week 2: Anchorage to Fairbanks (Interior North)
Focus: Mountains, parks, northern lights potential.
- Eklutna/Eagle River (Day 8): Hike Symphony/Eagle Lakes or Thunderbird Falls.
- Hatcher Pass (Day 9): Explore Independence Mine; hike Reed Lakes.
- Talkeetna (Day 10): Flightseeing over Denali.
- Denali National Park (Days 11-13): Bus tour for wildlife/Denali views; hikes.
- Fairbanks (Days 14): Chena Hot Springs; aurora viewing (fall/winter).
Optional Week 3: Dalton Highway (Arctic Adventure)
From Fairbanks north—gravel road, remote. Prepare thoroughly.
Week 4: Eastern Loop (Wrangell-St. Elias & Valdez)
- Wrangell-St. Elias → Visit Kennicott Mine; glacier hikes/flights.
- Valdez → Glacier cruises; Keystone Canyon.
- Matanuska Glacier → Walk on ice.
End back in Anchorage. This loop covers Alaska’s icons—customize based on time/interests. Safe travels! 🚗🐻🗻