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All Alaska Classic Self Drive Tour

Explore alaska's scenic byways at your own pace and visit unique towns that many alaskans love to call home.

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Home » Tours » Alaska Driving Tours » Self-Drive » All Alaska Classic Self Drive Tour

Tour Overview

This ultimate “All Alaska” driving tour provides a vacation to see the best of Alaska’s scenic highways and features three of Alaska’s spectacular national parks.  This Alaska road trip takes you from Anchorage to Talkeetna, Denali, Fairbanks, Kennicott, Seward, and Homer.  You’ll enjoy a stay in the massive Wrangell – St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in North America, a glacier and wildlife cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park, and a wilderness bus tour deep into the heart of Denali National Park.  This itinerary provides ample opportunities to add optional excursions to round out a comprehensive independent self-driving vacation in Alaska.

What's Included

• 14 nights accommodation
• A 14-day midsize rental vehicle with unlimited mileage
• 4-6 hour bus tour into Denali National Park (depending on weather and road conditions)
• Roundtrip bush plane flights between Chitina and McCarthy
• 6-hour Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise with lunch
• All taxes and fees

What's Not Included

Meals, optional excursions, and gratuities. Car rental coverage (such as LDW or liability insurance), additional driver fees, gas, and GPS rental. Car rental category upgrades available at additional fee.

Tour Itinerary

Anchorage arrival.

Upon arrival in Anchorage pick up your rental car at the airport and drive to your hotel. Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city, nestled between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. Offering an abundance of shopping, cultural attractions, and gourmet restaurants, Anchorage provides an excellent start to your vacation. Overnight in Anchorage.

Important Note: Please provide us with your flight arrival information at time of booking, so that we can schedule the car rental pick up time correctly.

Anchorage to Talkeetna

Drive the Glenn Highway northbound, connecting to the Parks Highway in Wasilla. A few interesting stops along way are the Alaska Native Heritage Center and the village of Eklutna. Talkeetna is a small and unique gold mining community, famous for its special charm and as the expedition base for mountaineers seeking to summit the mountain of Denali. You’ll have time for some great optional excursions, including Denali flightseeing tours and jet boat excursions (see Tour Add-ons). Overnight in Talkeetna.

Talkeetna to Denali National Park

In the morning you may have time to take a sightseeing flight to the mountain of Denali, the tallest mountain in North America before continuing north from Talkeetna along the scenic Parks Highway. Your route will travel along the boundary of Denali State Park and Hurricane Gulch with massive peaks of the Alaska Range in view nearly the entire route. At 6 million acres, Denali National Park is one of the world’s last great frontiers for wilderness adventure. Your hotel will be at the park entrance, where most of the park services and hotels are located. Optional tours include rafting trips and flightseeing by helicopter or bush plane (see Tour Add-ons). Overnight near the Denali park entrance.

Denali National Park

Today, depart on a narrated bus tour into Denali National Park.  As you travel through the pristine wilderness, look for wildlife, such as bears, caribou, and moose, as well as views of the Mountain. Your experienced driver/guide will provide commentary.  The tour is approximately 4-6 hours long and takes you approximately 30 – 43 miles into the park, depending on weather and road conditions. The rest of the day is free for optional tours, such as river rafting and flightseeing tours (see Tour Add-Ons). Overnight near the Denali park entrance. The rest of the day is at leisure. Check out the Visitor Center at the park entrance or relax. Overnight near the Denali park entrance.

Denali National Park to Fairbanks

Drive north on the Parks Highway to Fairbanks. Accompanied by incredible forest and mountain landscapes you will drive through the communities of Healy, Nenana and Ester, an old mining camp. There are several optional Fairbanks activities available for today, including an Arctic Circle adventure or a sternwheeler riverboat cruise (see Tour Add-ons). Overnight in Fairbanks.

Today is at your leisure to explore Alaska’s second largest city, known as the “Gateway to the Arctic.” You may wish to add an optional activity, such as a tour over the Arctic Circle or a historical riverboat cruise (see Tour Add-ons). Attractions in Fairbanks include the Museum of the North, Pioneer Park, the Ice Museum, and the Santa Claus House in the nearby town of North Pole. Overnight in Fairbanks.

Fairbanks to Kennicott / McCarthy

Travel south from Fairbanks along the Alaska and Richardson Highways to Chitina, where you will leave your rental car and board a bush plane for the scenic flight into Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Your final destination is the spectacular Kennicott mines and Kennicott Glacier Lodge. Overnight in Kennicott / McCarthy.

Kennicott / McCarthy

Enjoy a full day in this unique area, which has a year-round population of about 30 people. Kennicott is an abandoned copper mining town and was built by Kennecott Copper Corp in the early 1900s, and the miners lived in nearby McCarthy. Kennecott was the richest copper mine in the world until its closure in 1938. They processed more than 536,600 tons of copper ore and employed some 800 workers. Today it is preserved as part of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and is one of Alaska’s best kept secrets. We recommend taking an optional tour, such as a glacier hike and/or a guided tour of the mine’s Mill Building (see Tour Add-ons). Overnight in Kennicott / McCarthy.

Kennicott / McCarthy to Sheep Mountain or Wasilla area

Fly back to Chitina to retrieve your rental vehicle and then drive the Richardson Highway north to the Glenn Highway. Take the Glenn Highway towards Anchorage to either the Sheep Mountain or Palmer/Wasilla area (depending on accommodation availability). Check out scenic Matanuska Glacier before you relax for the evening. Overnight in Sheep Mountain or Palmer/Wasilla area (depending on accommodation availability).

Sheep Mountain or Wasilla area to Seward

This morning continue driving the Glenn Highway to Anchorage and continue south on the Seward Highway. The Seward Highway takes you first along beautiful coastal scenery and then through scenic mountain areas. When arriving in Seward, check out Exit Glacier. Overnight in Seward.

This morning you will depart on a 6 hour cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park, one of Alaska’s treasures. As you cruise through the park and the Chiswell Islands National Wildlife Refuge, watch for Stellar sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, eagles and whales. During the cruise, you will see examples of Alpine, Cirque, Piedmont and Tidewater glaciers. A stop will be made at either Holgate or Aialik Glacier to witness glacier calving – when large ice chunks fall off the glacier. Lunch is included onboard. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Seward.

Seward to Homer

Spend the day touring Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. You will travel along the turquoise blue Kenai River, a world-class salmon fishing area. Continue to Homer with opportunities to stop in historic villages, or take advantage of great photographic opportunities along the Cook Inlet coastline. Homer is a picturesque seaside town located on the shores of Kachemak Bay. Overnight in Homer.

Spend a free day exploring all that Homer and Kachemak Bay have to offer. Highlights include the Homer Spit, a local winery, the Islands and Ocean Center, the Pratt Museum, fresh seafood restaurants, and views from East End Road. Or you may prefer to participate in optional excursions, including halibut fishing or a bear viewing flight safari (see Tour Add-ons). Overnight in Homer.

Homer to Anchorage

This morning, drive north on the scenic Sterling and Seward Highways back to Anchorage. Possible stops include the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Portage Glacier or the quiet ski village of Girdwood for a tram ride up Mt. Alyeska. Overnight in Anchorage.

Anchorage Departure

Depending on your departure time, you might have free time for some souvenir shopping or additional excursions. Return your car to the Anchorage airport rental car station. Depart or start an additional program.

Dates & Rates

Our standard program includes:, 2 and 3 star hotel accommodations..

The program will include a combination of hotels or motels that are considered moderate to standard tourist class. Please be aware not all hotels have shuttle services.

Standard train car seating on all rail services (reserved seats).

If you would like to book the standard program but with upgraded rail seating, the option and surcharge will be listed when you save to your cart.

Our Upgraded Program Includes:

* 3 and 4 star hotels (best available) wherever possible..

The program will include standard rooms at this category of hotel where possible. Alaska has very limited hotel choices in remote areas and small towns. The properties will typically offer a wider range of services such as a full-service restaurant, room service and perhaps a pool or spa facilities. Please be aware the upgraded accommodations in downtown Anchorage do not have hotel shuttle services. Many of the upgraded hotels also offer guaranteed view rooms for additional cost. If you would like a specific room type, in addition to the upgraded program, please ask us about availability and cost difference.

Deluxe dome train car seating between Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks, or Anchorage and Seward.

All journeys between Anchorage and Whittier are in standard seating as deluxe dome cars are not available on that route.

Accommodation in Kennicott: the Kennicott Glacier Lodge opened in 1987 and is a replica of a historic mining building from the town's copper mining days. The 'main lodge' has comfortable rooms with a sink and cold running water. Bathrooms at the lodge are private use, but shared by all guests. The Standard Program tour will have the shared bathroom.

In 2004 a separate building was added offering 10 rooms, each with a private bathroom. The Upgraded Program tour will have a room with a private bathroom.

Contact us to book this Tour.

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

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Tour Add-ons

Browsing optional excursions for the all alaska classic self drive tour :.

Arctic Circle Fly & Drive Tour from Fairbanks

Length: 12-13 hours

Starting at: $499-519 / pp

Enjoy a small group day tour from Fairbanks into Alaska’s Arctic Region by air and land. Depart in the afternoon from Fairbanks in a small plane which will give you a sense of the vast scale of Alaska’s Arctic region. […]... Browse itinerary

Bear & Wildlife Viewing Flight Safari from Homer

Length: 5 hours

Starting at: $895 / pp

Enjoy a scenic flightseeing and bear viewing tour out of Homer, Alaska. First you take an approx. 1 hour scenic flight by small wheeled plane which takes you over a volcano and glacier-rich scenery to either Lake Clark National Park […]... Browse itinerary

Canyon Run Whitewater River Rafting from Denali

Length: 3 hours

Starting at: $130 / pp

Hang on – there’s Denali National Park whitewater ahead at Canyon Run! Choose to paddle as a river rafting team or let your rafting guide do all the work on this exciting Class III-IV whitewater rafting day trip near Denali […]... Browse itinerary

Riverboat Discovery Sternwheeler Cruise in Fairbanks

Starting at: $106 / pp

The perfect Fairbanks day tour combines river views and Alaska Native history and traditions! Climb aboard the Riverboat Discovery III for an unforgettable 3-hour cruise into Alaska’s history. Travel the Chena and Tanana Rivers on Alaska’s only authentic sternwheeler riverboat. […]... Browse itinerary

Root Glacier Hike (Half Day)

Starting at: $115 / pp

On this half-day glacier hiking out of Kennicott-McCarthy, depart Kennicott hiking down a two-mile trail built in the 1920s as a wagon road.  Along the way, stops will be made to discuss glaciology and local geology and enjoy spectacular views […]... Browse itinerary

Root Glacier Hike with Kennecott Mill Tour

Length: 7 hours

Starting at: $149 / pp

On this day tour out of Kennicott-McCarthy, experience the best of Kennicott’s history and landscapes on this hiking and sightseeing combination tour!  First, enjoy a spectacular half-day hike on the Root Glacier, searching for deep crevasses, shimmering blue pools, and […]... Browse itinerary

Wilderness Excursion Jetboat Tour

Length: 2 hours

Starting at: $95 / pp

This day tour from Talkeetna treats you to a scenic journey aboard a 15- to 52-passenger jetboat on the Susitna River. It will allow you to experience wildlife, folklore, and historical artifacts. Conditions permitting, enjoy the panoramic view of Denali […]... Browse itinerary

I have been back a week from our Glaciers and Wildlife tour and we are still smiling and basking in the glow of our wonderful time. We kept being amazed at how well we were taken care of by everyone. The Major Marine Tours was a class act from seamanship to the... Read more  

Larry | Oregon

Related Alaska's Glaciers Tours

Denali & Glacier Experience

Duration: 6 days

Starting at: $1919 / pp

By train, travel along the scenic Seward and Portage Glacier Highways before entering the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, the second-longest tunnel in North America. On arrival in Whittier, embark on the 26 Glacier Cruise with lunch. Enjoy viewing... Browse itinerary

Family Fun Vacation by Car

Duration: 9 days

Starting at: $2459 / pp

An excellent family itinerary designed to allow for a leisurely travel pace with plenty of time for family-oriented activities. Top destinations include Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks. Touring highlights include riding aboard a "whistle stop" train operated... Browse itinerary

Great Alaskan Road Trip

Duration: 8 days

Starting at: $1889 / pp

Explore Denali, Seward, and the Matanuska Valley with the freedom of a rental car. These three destinations complement each other with natural beauty from mountains to valleys to coastlines. The bus tour into Denali National Park is a... Browse itinerary

Alaska Highlights Self-Drive Tour

Duration: 10 days

Starting at: $1809 / pp

This independent Alaska self-drive tour features many of the state's most popular attractions and scenic roadways. Visit Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park and the cities of Anchorage, Fairbanks, Valdez, and Seward. The circular... Browse itinerary

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Alaska Self-Drive Packages

Hop in the car and go explore, Alaska awaits.

• Alaska Vacations
• Vacation Packages

Quick Links

• Itinerary: Alaska Discovery
• Itinerary: Paddle Alaska
• Alaska Rental Cars
• Premium 4x4 Car Rentals
• Local's Advice: Top 5 Best Drives in Alaska

Trip Finder

Alaska Self-Drive Vacations

Despite the allure of scenic train and bus travel packages , many visitors to Alaska prefer the freedom and fun of driving themselves. Since these packages often go beyond where trains travel, they give you the chance to explore towns like Valdez or Cooper Landing and distant national parks like Wrangell-St. Elias .

All self-drive packages include a rental car plus all accommodations and activities so that you can travel as you please, while still enjoying a well-planned itinerary. They can also be an economical option for large groups of four or more traveling together.

Each of the below travel packages gives visitors plenty of time to travel between destinations , leaving space to discover many other hidden gems along Alaska's scenic highways. They are also fully customizable . You can upgrade your vehicle type, add destinations, and change your activities.

Renting a Car in Alaska

There are two rental categories available, a standard rental car or a premium 4x4 rental . You can do plenty with a standard rental, especially if Denali National Park , Seward , Fairbanks , and even off-the-beaten-path places like Girdwood and Homer are on your must-see list. A premium 4x4 rental gives you access to remote gravel thoroughfares in Alaska like the Denali Highway and McCarthy Road. Another benefit of a 4x4 rental is the convenient one-way drop-off option. You can pick up your rental in Anchorage and drop off in Fairbanks or vice-versa, giving you more time to travel without having to "backtrack" on highways you've already explored.

• Want to know more about traveling by car in Alaska? Check out Banned Roads in Alaska and 3 Driving Tips for Alaska Travelers .

If you'd like trip planning assistance from our team of local travel experts, you can send us a general request for information , contact us online, or give us a call at 800-208-0200.

Alaska Discovery Self-Drive - Tour 168

Visit Fairbanks, Denali National Park, Palmer, and Seward on this nine-day vacation package featuring travel by rental car for the utmost freedom to explore as you go. Learn More >

Alaska Glaciers & Wilderness Adventure - Tour 181

Enjoy the freedom to travel Alaska's remote highways on this 13-day vacation package featuring adventures in Anchorage, Seward, Valdez, Fairbanks, and Denali National Park. The package includes a 4x4 rental car. Learn More >

Alaska Kayak Exploration - Tour 180

A paddler's dlight! Road trip from Kachemak Bay and the fjords of Seward to the heart of Denali National Park with stops for several guided kayaking trips on the way. Learn More >

Both Sides of Denali Self-Drive - Tour 148

Cruise by rental car from Anchorage to the Denali National Park area for five days of Alaskan adventures. The trip includes flightseeing, rafting, and a Denali Park Road tour. Learn More >

Northern Exposure Alaska Sampler - Tour 169

Made for active adventurers eager to get out and explore Alaska, this seven-day rental car package includes exciting outdoor excursions in Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park. Learn More >

Paddle Alaska Road Trip - Tour 128

Travel by rental car on this seven-day vacation package featuring iceberg kayaking, river rafting, a coastal day cruise, and Denali Park bus tour. The trip begins and ends in Anchorage. Learn More >

Ultimate Iditarod Winter Wonderland Escorted - Tour 980

Travel from Fairbanks to Anchorage on this eight-day group tour. Celebrate the start of the Iditarod, see Denali Park draped and snow, and maybe even glimpse the northern lights. Learn More >

Pre-Cruise Alaska Road Trip - Tour 135

A weeklong, pre-cruise, self-drive itinerary that starts in Anchorage and ends in Seward. Convenient one-way rental car included. Learn More >

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Bucket-List Alaska Road Trip Itinerary

February 10, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   27 Comments

Are you looking for the best Alaska road trip itinerary that showcases the best the “Last Frontier” has to offer?

Since I have been to Alaska multiple times I can suggest exactly how to plan a trip to Alaska based on experience. I will teach you how to travel Alaska to see all the coolest locations.

I want you to see the best of what Alaska has to offer including cute small towns, scenic drives, and national parks such as Kenai Fjords and Denali which are full of wilderness and wildlife.

When planning your trip, feel free to modify my Alaska itinerary based on the time you have to spend in the state.

I recommend visiting Alaska for at least a week, but two weeks is an ideal amount of time for an Alaska vacation.

No matter how long you have to spend in the state, you are in for a real treat when visiting America’s 49th state! Alaska is so diverse with nature and wildlife like you have never seen before!

Don’t forget to check out my detailed road trip packing list so you don’t forget any essentials!

Here is my Alaska road trip guide!

Table of Contents

Stop 1: Anchorage

You will start and end your Alaska road trip in the city of Anchorage.

There are plenty of things to do in Anchorage and the town is full of all the comforts you could ask for such as large grocery stores, a mall, museums, shops, and more.

The city is also closely tied to the surrounding nature.

Most Alaska road trip itineraries begin and end in Anchorage because it is convenient and the international airport is nearby.

If you are looking for the best attractions in Anchorage, consider going to the Anchorage Museum . It has something for the whole family!

Fascinating art and cultural exhibits, a planetarium, and an entire kids section make it a great day trip for all ages!

If you want to see more of the city, Anchorage Trolley Tours is a fun and affordable way to take a tour! I learned all about how Anchorage was founded, saw cool local homes, and drove on a small plane runway!

This was certainly one of the most fun Alaska tours in town. You can book your trolley tour online and save time when you arrive. This is a great family-friendly thing to do!

Finally, if you are looking to get active in Anchorage, this Coastal Trail 3-Hour City Bike Tour may be perfect for you. It is educational, fun, and a great way to see the city while getting some exercise.

The coastal parks are BEAUTIFUL in Anchorage and filled with tons of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled and you may even spot some moose!

Anchorage is a fun and educational place to begin your road trip in Alaska!

Where To Stay In Anchorage

As a major city, there are a ton of great hotels in Anchorage for all budgets and types of travelers.

• Midtown Location. Hyatt Place Anchorage . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Mid-Range. Aspen Suites Hotel Anchorage . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Luxury. Embassy Suites Anchorage . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: Talkeetna

Next, continue your Alaska itinerary from Anchorage.

If you haven’t yet heard of Talkeetna, you are in for a real treat! It is the cutest town in Alaska and is the base for people who are hiking the mountain of Denali. Make sure to pack good hiking boots for Alaska !

Talkeetna is eclectic and so cute and a wonderful place to visit before you head to Denali National Park.

The food in Talkeetna is some of the best in Alaska so you will certainly want to try to eat at as many places as possible.

One of the best things to do in Talkeetna is to take a flight tour of Denali. This Talkeetna: Denali 1-Hour Flight Experience is based out of Talkeetna This is the best way to see Alaska from the air.

If you want the chance to walk on a glacier, you can also choose the Talkeetna: G rand Denali Flight Tour with Optional L anding .

If taking a flight, understand that a glacier landing will up the price of the flight. If you have seen enough glaciers, I recommend sticking to the flight to save money!

You can also go fishing or whitewater rafting along the nearby lakes and rivers.

Many people stop in Talkeetna for a quick stop and that is fine if that is all the time you have, but I highly recommend spending at least one night in this unique little Alaskan city!

Where To Stay In Talkeetna

As a smaller town, there are not a ton of hotel options for Talkeetna. But the handful of lodgings feature beautiful properties and reasonable prices.

• Mid-Range. Denali Fireside Cabin & Suites . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Great Views. Susitna River Lodge . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 3: Denali National Park

After Talkeetna, the next stop on your Alaska road trip itinerary is Denali National Park, one of the most iconic Alaska attractions.

The drive north to the park is a bit long, so budget at least four hours of driving for this part of your Alaska trip. As one of the best things to do in Alaska , the drive is worth it.

Both times I drove from Anchorage to Denali, it was raining, so I had to drive slowly. If it is a clear day, you are going to want to stop to see all the stunning mountains once you get further north!

This is one of the top road trips from Anchorage!

In Denali National Park, you have the option to drive your car 14 miles into the park, but after that, you have to either hike or pay to take a national park bus.

If you want to try something fun, consider taking a Denali Highway Jeep Excursion .

The drive is over 100 miles and highlights the best of what Denali has to offer from glaciers to epic wildlife! Book early as this one fills up quickly!

If you want to do some hiking but are a little tentative about being among wildlife such as bears and moose all alone, consider taking a guided hike.

This Denali: 5-Hour Guided Wilderness Hiking Tour  is a great introduction and a wonderful way to get active within the park. This is a great way to explore Denali National Park!

If you are a novice hiker or even a pro looking to find the best spots, a guided hike is a great thing to do on your first day or two to get a lay of the land. It is also one of the best ways to see Alaska’s beauty.

Looking for a burst of adrenaline? I suggest the Denali Park Zipline Adventure . Ziplining is SO MUCH FUN and it is even better in Alaska because of the views and amazing cool air.

Denali is the highlight of many travelers’ Alaska itineraries, so choose the top things to do in Denali that suit your interests.

If you want to add a day or two to this itinerary, you can head farther north to Fairbanks. If you visit in winter, this is one of the best places to see the northern lights.

Where To Stay Near Denali

Denali National Park is remote but there is a smattering of hotels along its perimeter on the Parks Highway. Camping here is also a popular option if you are writing an Alaska on a budget itinerary.

• Near Park Entrance. McKinley Chalet Resort . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Great Views. McKinley Creekside Cabins . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Seward

Seward should top every Alaska by-car itinerary!

You can head there from Denali, but that is an 8-hour drive, or you can spend another night or two in Anchorage or the nearby towns of Wasilla or Palmer to cut down on the drive.

The drive from Anchorage to Seward is one of the most famous in Alaska. The Seward Highway is so pretty!

The drive down the Turnagain Arm is one of the top drives in the world, and the highlight of many Alaska road trips.

This drive is totally doable in a day and I have done it before and many friends have too. If you want to stop and take your time, there are plenty of other cute towns that you can visit along the way.

If you have time, stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center where you can see bears, wolves, moose, bison, and more up close and safely!

When people set out on an Alaska vacation, they want to see glaciers! There is no better way to see glaciers up close and personal than taking a boat ride in Seward!

While there are many companies, Major Marine Tours is hands down the best company for Alaska tours of glaciers in Seward.

I went on the Kenai Fjords National Park 7.5 Hour Glacier Cruise . Honestly, almost 8 hours on a boat is long. However, it is worth it because you get to see glaciers AND animals.

You can also take a shorter tour that focuses on one or the other like this 4-hour From Seward: Half-Day Resurrection Bay Wildlife Cruise Tour .

Wildlife to see include sea otters, humpback whales, Dall’s porpoise, orca, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and puffins!

If you want to see two glaciers and have a higher chance of seeing wildlife, this Seward Glacier tour is the best option for you.

If you are looking to see glaciers from above instead, add a helicopter tour to your itinerary for Alaska!

Flying over mountains, the ocean, and glaciers is one of the top things to do in Alaska and Seward is a wonderful choice for a flight.

If you are looking to do a helicopter tour of Seward and the surrounding glaciers, make sure to book with Marathon Helicopte rs .

I had never flown in a helicopter before and while I knew it would offer stunning views for photography and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I was a little afraid!

The owner, Mike, is a professional pilot and his takeoffs and landings were as smooth as butter!

I went on a 30-minute glacier landing tour which involved 15 minutes of flying and 15 minutes of landing at the foot of a glacier so remote it doesn’t even have an official name!

Don’t forget to pack a windproof jacket if you plan to land on a glacier!

If you just want to stick to the ground, take a hike to Exit Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska.

Where To Stay In Seward

Though it is a small town, there are a ton of great hotel options in Seward from affordable to luxury.

• Central Location. Hotel Seward . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Great Views. Harbor 360 Seward Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com  

Stop 5: Homer

Found on the Kenai Peninsula, Homer is an essential stop on any Alaska itinerary. It is easy to drive to which makes it perfect to visit on an Alaska road trip. Homer is about a 3.5-hour drive from Seward.

One of the top things to do in Homer is to go fishing for halibut.

Since I don’t fish, I spent our time walking the beach, taking in the stunning mountain and glacier vistas, visiting the famous Salty Dog Saloon, and meandering through Homer’s Wednesday Farmer’s Market.

Homer is one of the best places to see in Alaska because of its proximity to the mountains and ocean. Don’t forget to check out Homer’s crazy tides and beautiful sunsets if you visit when it isn’t raining!

Many Alaska road trip itineraries don’t include Homer and if they do, it may only be a day trip.

I urge you to add more time to your vacation to see this unique and eclectic town since it is one of the best things to do in Alaska.

Where To Stay In Homer

There are plenty of hotels in and around Homer whether you want luxury accommodation or something simple and affordable.

• Centrally Located. Best Western Bidarka . Check Rates: Booking.com
• Great Views.  Land’s End Resort . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 6: Soldotna

One of the top Alaska attractions in Soldotna is the Kenai River and the Salmon Fishing Run.

Whether you fish or just want to enjoy the town and the stunning [active!] volcanos in the distance, Soldotna is one of the best Alaska road trip ideas.

On your way to Homer, you will pass through Soldotna, but it is better to visit this part of your Alaska itinerary on the way back to Anchorage so you can break up the driving time.

The drive from Homer to Soldotna is only 1.5 hours, so you will be hanging out in this cute Alaskan town before you know it!

Keep an eye out for moose and bears as animal watching is one of the top things to do in Alaska, and Soldotna is the perfect place for wildlife viewing!

If you choose to stop in Soldotna, I highly recommend checking out the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. It is a wonderful spot for hiking and exploring.

In addition, the Soldotna Historical Museum is home to vintage log cabins and more which show what local life was like in the past. Break up your exploration with a little history.

Soldotna is home to MANY incredible parks that go along the Kenai River so there is plenty of space for hiking, biking, and fishing.

Whether you visit Alaska on your own or with family, this is a great place to hang out.

Where To Stay In Soldotna

There are not a ton of hotels in Soldotna since it is a small town, but there are still great choices. I suggest booking a place near the river.

• On The River. Aspen Hotel. Check Rates: Booking.com
• Central Location. Soldotna Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 7: End Your Alaska Itinerary by Flying Out of Anchorage

End your Alaska road trip in Anchorage where you started.

If you fly Alaska Air, many flights are red eyes, leaving after midnight. The benefit to this is you have the entire day to explore, drive slowly back to Anchorage, and still make your flight without missing any fun!

When flying on a red-eye, you are going to want to pack a sleep mask for extra comfort!

Alternatively, you can add one extra day in Anchorage to your Alaska itinerary if being closer to the airport on the day of your flight is important to you.

How Long To Spend On Your Road Trip In Alaska

I recommend as much time as possible for the best Alaska road trips since Alaska is a huge state and has a ton to offer. However, I know not everyone can take a lot of time off for a vacation.

To help you out, I have written some sample itineraries for Alaska to help you plan for anywhere from 3 to 10 days in Alaska .

As always, I suggest prioritizing what you want to see the most. Feel free to revise your Alaska example itinerary.

3-Day Itinerary in Alaska:

Day 1 : Anchorage – Explore Anchorage, including the Anchorage Museum and Anchorage Trolley Tours. Day 2: Seward – Drive to Seward, enjoy the scenic Turnagain Arm drive, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and explore the town. Day 3: Seward and Return – Take a boat tour to see glaciers, then drive back to Anchorage.

4-Day Itinerary in Alaska:

Day 1: Anchorage – Spend the day in Anchorage, visiting the museum and taking the trolley tour. Day 2: Drive to Seward – Journey down the Turnagain Arm, stop at the wildlife center, explore Seward. Day 3: More in Seward – Go on a glacier boat tour, consider a helicopter tour. Day 4: Return to Anchorage – Spend the day driving back, possibly stopping at scenic points.

5-Day Itinerary in Alaska:

Day 1: Anchorage – City exploration and museum visit. Day 2: Drive to Homer – Explore Homer, beach walk, visit Salty Dog Saloon. Day 3: Homer – Spend another day in Homer, enjoying local activities and scenery. Day 4: Homer to Soldotna – Drive to Soldotna, visit Kenai River and local attractions. Day 5: Return to Anchorage – Drive back with leisure, enjoying the landscapes.

7-Day Itinerary in Alaska:

Day 1: Anchorage – Explore the city, including the Anchorage Museum. Day 2: Drive to Seward – Travel down the Turnagain Arm, stop at the wildlife center. Day 3: Seward – Take a boat tour for glacier and wildlife viewing. Day 4: Seward to Homer – Drive to Homer, explore the town. Day 5: Homer Activities – Enjoy a day in Homer, perhaps fishing or beach walking. Day 6: Homer to Soldotna – Travel to Soldotna, explore the Kenai River. Day 7 : Return to Anchorage – Drive back to Anchorage, with optional stops.

10-Day Itinerary in Alaska:

Day 1: Anchorage – City exploration, Anchorage Museum visit. Day 2: Drive to Talkeetna – Explore Talkeetna, consider a Denali flight tour. Day 3: Talkeetna to Denali – Travel to Denali, begin park exploration. Day 4: Denali National Park – Spend a full day in Denali, hiking or on a Jeep tour. Day 5: Denali to Seward – Drive to Seward, enjoy the Turnagain Arm scenery. Day 6: Explore Seward – Take a glacier boat tour, explore the town. Day 7: Seward to Homer – Drive to Homer, visit local attractions. Day 8: Enjoy Homer – Spend the day in Homer, exploring the beaches and town. Day 9: Homer to Soldotna – Travel to Soldotna, visit Kenai River. Day 10: Soldotna to Anchorage – Return to Anchorage, with leisurely stops.

Best Time Of Year For An Alaska Road Trip

When planning your Alaska road trip, the time of year is something you should consider. The best time of year for traveling Alaska is easily summer or fall.

Winter is not a good idea because the weather is harsher and the many Alaska driving routes are impassible because of snow.

Spring can still be very cold in Alaska as well. Depending on where you want to go, spring in Alaska can be quite snowy and cold.

If you want to drive into the mountains, the snow may not have melted yet and you will be limited in what you are going to be able to do.

Late summer and early fall are an ideal time for taking a road trip in Alaska because the weather is good, the snow is gone, and the animals are out and about.

The downside is that this is high season and prices will be at their most expensive. Even so, this is one of my favorite summer trips in the USA !

If you can visit Alaska later in the year, like September or even October you will have the chance to experience the state with lower prices.

A word of caution, if you go later in the year you will have to deal with closures as many companies shut down for the season.

You are safe to travel in late summer and early fall so keep this in mind when choosing what time of year to plan the best Alaska trip itinerary.

What To Pack For Your Alaska Road Trip

Chances are you are visiting Alaska in the summer or late spring/early fall. If you aren’t, more power to you, and let us know how it is!

If you are going in the summer, Alaska isn’t as cold as you may think, but it is still chilly for those of us who live year-round in warmer climates.

The weather in Alaska during the summer will range from 45-70 degrees Fahrenheit along this route. The weather during the late summer can also be rainy.

Make sure to stay prepared and you will have a great time on your Alaska driving trip!

• Fleece-lined Leggings.  If you are packing for a road trip in Alaska you need to bring  fleece-lined leggings ! They don’t take up much space and they keep you warm under jeans or hiking pants. I bring two pairs to double them up if I want to wear a dress!
• Thin Long Sleeve Thermal Tops.  I recommend bringing 2-3  thin thermal tops . These tops are affordable and pack up very small all while keeping you extra warm! They are  perfect for layering  and can be worn underneath other tops as a base layer.
• A Balaclava.  Weather in Alaska can get windy and blow your scarf all over the place! Cut down on chasing your clothing around and  add a balaclava  to your Alaska packing list! A balaclava is especially important for Alaska if you are doing anything on the water such as a glacier boat tour or whale watching!
• Warm Knit Hat .  S imple knit hats  or beanies are a must. You only need one of these  cable-knit hats or you can pack a few!
• Filtered Water Bottle.  I swear by my Bobble Water Bottles and they have seen multiple trips to Alaska. F iltered water bottles don’t cost much and will help you cut down on plastic waste. Refill them using any tap water and be on your way!
• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket. A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential for Alaska since it may be raining, windy, or both at any given time. I love this jacket from Columbia for women and this one for men . Make sure to add a solid jacket to stay warm and dry.
• Waterproof Rain Pants. I love my waterproof rain pants and you will too! They are affordable and pack up small. If you are hiking or walking and it starts to rain, simply whip out this waterproof shell and put it on over your clothes! They are windproof too!
• Sleep Mask. If you take your Alaska road trip during the summer, you will experience the midnight sun! Now 24-hour daylight is super cool, but some people have a hard time sleeping when it is light out! Bring along a sleep mask to help block out the light and to help you get some shut-eye before more exploring.
• Trail Mix and Protein Bars. This Alaska driving itinerary is best done on a full stomach! I love  this brand of bars ! As for  trail mix , you can make your own or buy a big bag of trail mix online or at your local store. The nuts and seeds in trail mix will help you stay satisfied longer.
• Waterproof Hiking Shoes. No matter what time of year you are traveling to Alaska, make sure to add sturdy hiking shoes to your Alaska packing list. Pack  so l id hiking shoes  that are waterproof and offer good support.  Good hiking shoes  often make all the difference when exploring Alaska!

Safety Tips For Your Alaska Road Trip

A road trip planner for Alaska would not be complete without some essential safety tips. Alaska is a beautiful but harsh state at times and it is important to be prepared.

First off, watch the weather closely . The weather can change quickly during your trip and can range from sunny to freezing and windy.

Make sure you dress in layers so you can easily take off or put on clothes based on the weather.

Download a weather app to keep track of local weather so you don’t venture out when it is too dangerous. You do not want to risk driving in Alaska if the roads are bad.

Always let a family member or friend know if you go hiking so if something happens, someone knows where to find you.

The phone service in Alaska is incredibly crappy so be prepared! Use wifi to let someone know where you will be.

Always ensure you have extra food and water in the car in case you get into an accident and are stranded for a long time. You don’t want to be stuck without provisions while you wait for help.

I recommend a reusable water bottle as well as an emergency bottle of water during your drive.

Finally, make sure to make noise and be bear aware . When you are hiking, sing or wear cans on your backpack to make noise and alert animals so you won’t surprise them.

As usual, NEVER feed any wild animals , and never get out of your car to walk up to an animal to view it more closely.

Taking these precautions to heart will help you have a safe and fun time on the best trip to Alaska!

Now you should hopefully be armed with the knowledge you need to start planning the best Alaska vacation itinerary.

I love Alaska and have been multiple times so I hope you take the tips to heart and keep an open mind to learn some things along the way too!

I know you will love exploring Alaska by car as much as I do!

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A special thanks to our partners Alaska Air, Major Marine Tours, and Marathon Helicopters. All opinions are our own and are honest because lying sucks! Please note that some links may be affiliate links which means that we may make a small profit of the sales at no additional cost to you. All the products we recommend are what we personally use and trust. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases.

Reader Interactions

September 4, 2017 at 10:41 pm

OHMYGOSH!!! Your post was awesome! The pictures were stunning. Someday I hope to make it to Alaska and your itinerary is perfect!

September 12, 2017 at 11:40 pm

Thanks for this wonderful and exhaustive post. A road tirp through Alaska would be a dream trip. Thanks especially for the little reminders of reality–like bringing a wind-proof jacket, waterproof shoes and a balaclava! It’s Alask, after all!

September 13, 2017 at 12:15 am

Despite growing up in Northern Canada, I’ve still never been to Alaska. That wildlife and glacier tour in Seward looks absolutely fantastic! Will not miss it when we finally make our way north.

September 13, 2017 at 9:48 am

So did you fly for $700 round-trip in first class? Or did you get upgraded? Cause this photo definitely looks like a great travel experience on AA!

Happy continued travels! C

September 13, 2017 at 5:11 pm

Alaska is so huge- I think a 1-week itinerary would be too short to see all of this cool stuff. I would love to take that heli ride- it looks amazing.

September 14, 2017 at 12:55 am

Wow! You stayed in some pretty nice airbnb’s — love the one with a slide! My kids would have adored that one. Thanks for sharing your itinerary and photos. It all sounds (and looks) like a truly amazing road trip!

September 14, 2017 at 5:22 am

You know we’re big fans of your pics but your travel advice is spot on as well! Thanks for sharing!

September 14, 2017 at 11:55 pm

Alaska is still unfamiliar territory for me. To be honest, I’m reading most of these names for the first time. But your post gave me a great inspirational start. Those pretty vacation homes are really sweet. How does one manage the meals?

September 15, 2017 at 8:11 am

Still yet to try Airbnb. I guess I’m a bit fearful of the scams – good to know there are resources out there to help with that, but surely the onus should be on Airbnb to do more careful vetting.

September 17, 2017 at 10:47 am

Alaska is surprising me with every post I’ve read about it! Denali for one looks gorgeous and the glacier tour in Seward is breathtaking. Your post has definitely put Alaska on my bucketlist. Oh, and btw, what a cool airbnb in Anchorage you had. The slide seems an odd yet fun addition to the place. 😀 ..

September 17, 2017 at 9:05 pm

What an epic road trip this is! I’ve only done Alaska by cruise ship. But I would LOVE to get back and hit the road for some stops like this.

October 26, 2017 at 9:27 pm

This makes me seriously miss Alaska! You hit all the great spots, love it!

January 15, 2018 at 9:01 pm

What time of year were you on this adventure in Alaska?

January 15, 2018 at 9:55 pm

This was in mid-late August!! The weather in Alaska is great from May to September time

March 14, 2018 at 4:06 pm

Beautiful pictures!

April 21, 2018 at 7:50 am

What is the best place to stay and take glacier cruise? Whittier or Seward? I’m a bit confused which one to select.

May 7, 2018 at 1:07 pm

Wow, what a great post! You guys really seem to know your way around Alaska. I’ll be borrowing a couple of these suggestion.

May 8, 2018 at 1:52 am

Yes!! Have so much fun! Before this trip I [Victoria] had been twice before as well! Have a good trip!

May 23, 2020 at 11:05 pm

This itinerary is not doable in a week. Not even close. I hope that people who read this, realize that this is more of a 2 week, minimum, itinerary.

May 24, 2020 at 5:04 pm

With a lot of driving, it is entirely doable and I have friends that did it just a week after I got home from my most recent trip. It really isn’t that bad when people road trip Iceland they do far more driving and it happens quite often!

November 23, 2018 at 11:55 pm

Hello there, I enjoyed reading your itinerary for alaska. Since we coming to alaska the second time. This time we arrive at fairbanks and be leaving from anchorage airport on jan 6th, 2019. We are going to spend new years in fairbanks( we spent new years last time in anchorage). Any suggestions of places to visit? I really appreciate your reply, and we are renting a car. 2 adults only. Thank you.

November 24, 2018 at 12:52 pm

Yes!!! In the north area of Alaska we highly recommend Alaskaland in Fairbanks [a fun little area] as well as driving through Denali just to see the mountains on your way down to Anchorage. Also Talkeetna for sure! It is a very cute town! Have fun!

September 19, 2019 at 2:30 am

A great article! Have you ever compared costs of renting a camper vs renting a vehicle and staying in hotels. We are planning a trip to Alaska in 2020 and I’m debating between camping and staying in hotels or Airbnb.

April 1, 2022 at 2:17 am

I used to live in Alaska. If you really want to explore Alaska, go to Juneau or Kake. They are both islands, so you have to take a plane or ferry, but so worth it. Don’t just look at a glacier, go walking on one or climb into the caves (at your own risk). The best way to see wildlife is by kayaking, not tour boats. Go with the lobster over the fish.

April 2, 2022 at 2:58 pm

Thanks for sharing!! I have down Juneau growing up! A very unique place!!

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