Into the Wild: Alaska’s Most Beautiful Road Trip Routes

19 February 2025

If the call of the wild whispers to your soul and the thought of rugged, untouched landscapes excites you, Alaska needs to be at the top of your travel bucket list. This Last Frontier is not just a state; it’s an adventure waiting to happen. And what better way to explore Alaska’s dramatic beauty than by hitting the open road?

Alaska isn’t just a place—it’s an experience, one that needs to be savored mile by mile. From towering mountains and sweeping glaciers to remote highways and quirky roadside towns, Alaska’s road trip routes redefine the idea of a scenic drive. So, buckle up because I’m about to take you through some of the most beautiful, jaw-dropping road trip routes Alaska has to offer.

The Dalton Highway: Journey Into the Arctic Wilderness

Why It’s Worth the Drive

Let’s kick off with the Dalton Highway—a.k.a. one of the most legendary routes in Alaska. Stretching 414 miles from Livengood to Deadhorse near Prudhoe Bay, this route is not for the faint of heart. It's wild, remote, and rugged, just like Alaska itself. But trust me, the payoff is totally worth it.

You’ll drive alongside the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, cross the Arctic Circle (yes, the Arctic Circle!), and catch jaw-dropping views of the Brooks Range. And don’t even get me started on wildlife—moose, bears, caribou, and even musk oxen might be your co-passengers (okay, maybe not literally, but you get the idea).

Pro Tips for the Dalton

The Dalton Highway is not your run-of-the-mill road trip. It’s mostly gravel, cell service is practically non-existent, and gas stations are few and far between. Be prepared—pack extra fuel, food, and spare tires. Oh, and remind yourself that part of the adventure is the unpredictability!

Seward Highway: Ocean Views and Mountain Majesties

Scenic Wonderland

The Seward Highway runs about 127 miles from Anchorage to Seward, and boy, it’s a showstopper. Think of this route as Alaska’s highlight reel—glaciers, coastal views, and towering peaks, all in one drive.

When you first leave Anchorage, you’ll hug the Turnagain Arm, where you might spot beluga whales swimming alongside the shore. From there, the road twists and turns through the lush Chugach National Forest, past waterfalls, and into the quaint harbor town of Seward.

Must-See Stops Along the Way

- Beluga Point: A perfect spot to pull over and watch for beluga whales in the Turnagain Arm.
- Portage Glacier: A slight detour, but trust me, standing in the shadow of this massive ice field will give you goosebumps (and not just from the cold).
- Exit Glacier: Just outside of Seward, you can hike up close to this beauty and see a glacier without needing a helicopter ride.

The Alaska Highway: Iconic and Nostalgic

A Road That Built History

The Alaska Highway is the OG of Alaska road trip routes. Built during World War II, this 1,387-mile marvel starts in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, and winds its way to Delta Junction, Alaska. Sure, it’s not technically all in Alaska, but this road is steeped in history and offers some of the most picturesque views you’ll ever see.

From rolling prairies to rugged mountains, this highway delivers a new view around every bend. It’s one of those drives where you’ll constantly find yourself pulling over to take photos or just breathe it all in.

Highlights of the Alaska Highway

- Kluane National Park and Reserve: Home to Canada’s highest peak, this stop offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the route.
- Sign Post Forest in Watson Lake: A quirky roadside attraction where you can leave your own “mark” on the world.
- Muncho Lake: The turquoise waters here will make you double-check that you’re not in some tropical paradise.

Denali Highway: The Road Less Traveled

Off the Beaten Path

Want to get far away from the crowds and into the heart of the wild? The Denali Highway is calling your name. Spanning 135 miles between Paxson and Cantwell, this gravel road offers some of the most underrated views in Alaska.

You’ll be treated to expansive tundras, sparkling lakes, and views of Mount Denali itself (on a clear day, of course). The best part? Few travelers venture this way, so you might just have the wilderness all to yourself.

Denali Highway Essentials

- Maclaren Glacier Lodge: Stop here for a hot meal or a guided glacier hike if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for moose, caribou, and even grizzly bears.
- Photography Heaven: Every mile of this road is Instagram gold, so bring your camera (and maybe an extra memory card).

Haines Highway: From Ocean to Alpine

Beauty in Every Direction

The Haines Highway is short but sweet, running 146 miles from Haines, Alaska, to Haines Junction, Yukon. This route takes you from ocean views to towering alpine landscapes, and the transition is nothing short of magical.

You’ll cross through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, which is home to the largest gathering of bald eagles in the world. Pro tip: Visit in fall when the eagles are out in full force. Along the way, you’ll also see the Chilkat River, lush forests, and eventually, the snowy peaks of the Yukon.

Must-Visit Spots Along the Haines Highway

- Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve: Bring your binoculars for some of the best eagle-viewing opportunities on earth.
- Three Guardsmen Pass: Snap a photo at this stunning mountain pass with jaw-dropping views.
- Klukshu Village: A historic fishing village, perfect for those wanting to dive into local culture.

Anchorage to Fairbanks (via the Parks Highway): Alaska’s Core

Connecting the Dots

This route is like Alaska’s greatest hits, connecting two of its biggest cities—Anchorage and Fairbanks—via the George Parks Highway. Sure, it’s a main thoroughfare, but that doesn’t mean it lacks beauty.

As you cruise the 360-mile stretch, you’ll pass by Denali National Park (hello, North America’s tallest mountain!) and be surrounded by dense forests, rivers, and mountain ranges. It’s the kind of drive where you can soak in the essence of Alaska without breaking too much of a sweat.

Highlights Along the Parks Highway

- Denali National Park: It’s a no-brainer. Whether you detour for a day trip or spend a whole week, this park is the crown jewel of Alaska.
- Nenana River: Consider stopping for a whitewater rafting excursion if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Fairbanks: Once you arrive, you can chase the Northern Lights or wind down with some hot springs.

Wrapping Up Your Alaskan Road Trip

There’s no doubt about it—Alaska’s road trip routes are unlike anything else on earth. Each mile feels like stepping into a postcard, where nature unapologetically shows off. And sure, the drives can be long, the roads might be rough, and cell service is meh at best, but that’s all part of the charm, isn’t it?

So, whether you’re chasing glaciers, wildlife, or just the feeling of absolute freedom, Alaska’s roads are ready to take you on an unforgettable journey. Just pack some snacks (okay, a lot of snacks), a sense of adventure, and maybe a playlist that matches the epicness of the landscapes you’ll encounter. Happy driving!