Alaska, the land of majestic natural wonders, is not only famous for its magnificent glaciers, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife but also a paradise for those who love long drives. With winding roads through breathtaking landscapes, Alaska offers a driving experience unlike any other in the world. If you’re looking for a memorable road trip adventure, join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around the World) to discover the most beautiful roads to drive in Alaska, where every mile is a masterpiece of nature.
1. Seward Highway: A Majestic Coastal Route
The Seward Highway, also known as Alaska Route 1 and U.S. Route 9, is one of the most beautiful driving routes not only in Alaska but also in the entire United States. Spanning approximately 125 miles (200 km), this road connects the vibrant city of Anchorage with the charming coastal town of Seward.
Seward Highway winding through mountains and along the coast
The Seward Highway follows the coastline of Turnagain Arm and Resurrection Bay, revealing stunning views of the Chugach Mountains and Kenai Mountains. Along the way, you’ll witness pristine fjords, hanging glaciers on mountain cliffs, and vast green pine forests stretching to the horizon. Especially in the summer, you have the chance to spot beluga whales swimming near the shore of Turnagain Arm.
Notable Stops on the Seward Highway:
- Chugach State Park: A haven for hiking enthusiasts and wilderness explorers.
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: A place where you can observe iconic Alaskan animals such as bears, moose, caribou, and bald eagles in their natural habitats.
- Seward Town: The gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can join boat tours to explore glaciers and marine wildlife.
Tips for Driving on the Seward Highway:
- Ideal Time: Summer (June – August) is the best time to drive the Seward Highway, when the weather is mild and the scenery is most vibrant. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you need to book accommodations and activities in advance.
- Travel Time: Although only 125 miles long, you should dedicate at least a day to explore the Seward Highway to have enough time to stop for sightseeing and participate in activities along the way.
- Safety First: The Seward Highway is relatively easy to drive, but you should still drive carefully, especially in winter when the road can be slippery due to ice and snow.
2. Denali Highway: Journey Through the Wilderness
The Denali Highway, also known as Alaska Route 8, is a 135-mile (217 km) gravel road running between Paxson and Cantwell, offering an adventurous and exploratory off-road driving experience. It is one of the few roads in Alaska that takes you deep into the wilderness, with panoramic views of the Alaska Range and the majestic Denali peak (formerly known as Mount McKinley).
Denali Highway stretching across a vast landscape with mountains in the distance
The Denali Highway is unpaved, but in return, you’ll be rewarded with pristine, magnificent, and untouched natural landscapes. This road passes through vast tundra, clear blue lakes, and winding rivers. In the summer, wildflowers bloom everywhere, creating a vibrant and colorful picture.
Notable Stops on the Denali Highway:
- Denali Viewpoint South: An ideal spot to admire the panoramic view of the Alaska Range and Denali peak on clear days.
- Maclaren Summit Trailhead State Park: The starting point for many exciting hiking trails, leading you deep into the mountains.
- Tangle Lakes: An area famous for kayaking and fishing activities.
Tips for Driving on the Denali Highway:
- Suitable Vehicle: Due to the gravel road and many rough sections, you should use an SUV or high-clearance pickup truck to drive on the Denali Highway. Two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive is the best choice to ensure safety and comfort.
- Prepare Thoroughly: Check your vehicle carefully before departure, bring a spare tire, basic car repair tools, and sufficient fuel because there are very few gas stations along the way.
- Speed: Keep a slow and careful speed, especially on bad road sections or blind curves.
- Time: The Denali Highway is usually only open from mid-May to mid-October, depending on weather conditions.
3. Parks Highway: The Road to the Heart of Alaska
The Parks Highway, also known as Alaska Route 3, is a vital 323-mile (520 km) route connecting Anchorage and Fairbanks, the two largest cities in Alaska. This road runs parallel to the Alaska Range, offering stunning views of Denali and the surrounding mountains.
Parks Highway with Denali peak visible in the distance
The Parks Highway is fully paved and easy to drive, suitable for all types of vehicles. Along the way, you’ll admire Alaska’s diverse landscapes, from vast taiga forests and expansive glacial valleys to charming small villages imbued with indigenous culture.
Notable Stops on the Parks Highway:
- Denali National Park: An unmissable destination when traveling to Alaska, where you can explore the diverse ecosystem and admire Denali peak up close.
- Talkeetna Town: The gateway to Denali National Park, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and outdoor activities such as Denali flightseeing, rafting, and fishing.
- Princess Wilderness Lodge Resort: An ideal place to relax and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.
Tips for Driving on the Parks Highway:
- Ideal Time: Summer is the best time to drive the Parks Highway, when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing.
- Travel Time: You can drive straight from Anchorage to Fairbanks in about 6-8 hours, but you should spend at least 2-3 days to explore the interesting stops along the way.
- Wildlife Awareness: Moose and caribou frequently cross the road, especially at dawn and dusk. Drive slowly and pay attention to observe to avoid collisions.
4. Glenn Highway: A Historic Route with Scenic Beauty
The Glenn Highway, also known as Alaska Route 1, is a historic and scenic route spanning 135 miles (217 km) connecting Anchorage and Glennallen. This road was built during World War II, initially as a military supply route, and later became an important tourist route.
Glenn Highway alongside a river and mountains
The Glenn Highway passes through the fertile Matanuska-Susitna Valley, follows the Matanuska River and the glacier of the same name, offering spectacular views of the Chugach Mountains and Talkeetna Mountains. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the massive Matanuska Glacier, one of the few glaciers in Alaska accessible by road.
Notable Stops on the Glenn Highway:
- Matanuska Glacier: Join a glacier walk tour to explore the majestic beauty of the glacier and learn about the glacier formation process.
- Palmer Town: The agricultural center of Alaska, where you can visit local farms and vegetable gardens.
- Thunderbird Falls State Park: Admire the magnificent waterfall cascading down from a high cliff.
Tips for Driving on the Glenn Highway:
- Ideal Time: Summer is the best time to drive the Glenn Highway, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are bustling.
- Travel Time: You can drive from Anchorage to Glennallen in about 3-4 hours, but you should spend at least a day to explore the attractions along the way.
- Combine with Seward Highway: You can combine the Glenn Highway and Seward Highway to create a loop exploring South Central Alaska, offering a diverse and rich driving experience.
5. Dalton Highway: The Road to the Arctic
The Dalton Highway, also known as Alaska Route 11, is one of the most challenging and unique driving roads in the world. Spanning 414 miles (666 km), this road extends from Livengood, north of Fairbanks, to Prudhoe Bay on the Arctic coast. The Dalton Highway was originally built to serve the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, and today it remains a vital supply route for the Arctic region.
Dalton Highway winding through a remote and rugged landscape
The Dalton Highway is not for the faint of heart. Most of the road is gravel, rough, and dusty, with many steep sections and dangerous curves. Harsh weather conditions, especially in winter, further increase the difficulty of the journey. However, if you are someone who loves conquering and exploring unspoiled lands, the Dalton Highway will provide an unforgettable driving experience.
Notable Stops on the Dalton Highway:
- Arctic Circle Sign: Take souvenir photos at the Arctic Circle marker, marking the point where you crossed the Arctic Circle.
- Yukon River: Admire the legendary Yukon River, one of the longest rivers in North America.
- Brooks Range Mountains: Traverse the majestic Brooks Range, the natural boundary between North and South Alaska.
- Prudhoe Bay and the Arctic Ocean: Reach the end of the road, Prudhoe Bay, and touch the frigid Arctic Ocean.
Tips for Driving on the Dalton Highway:
- Specialized Vehicle: It is mandatory to use an SUV or two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive pickup truck with high clearance and strong tires.
- Prepare Thoroughly: Check the vehicle thoroughly, bring a spare tire, specialized car repair tools, spare fuel tank, drinking water, food, warm clothes, and a radio or satellite phone.
- Drive Slowly and Carefully: Keep a slow speed, highly concentrated, and always be aware of large trucks and other vehicles.
- Communication: Inform relatives or friends about your itinerary and estimated time of arrival.
- Time: Summer is the best time to drive the Dalton Highway, but you still need to prepare for unpredictable weather. Winter is almost impossible to travel on this road.
Conclusion
The most beautiful roads to drive in Alaska are not just means of transportation, but also gateways to a world of pristine, majestic, and enchanting nature. From romantic coastal routes to journeys through the wilderness, Alaska promises to give you a driving experience unlike any other in the world. Pack your bags, plan your trip, and start a memorable road trip adventure on the stunning roads of Alaska!