Alaska Road Trip: 7 Days North of Anchorage

See how you can explore the best Alaska has to offer north of Anchorage. This 7 day road trip Itinerary will have you exploring the mountains, glaciers, and rivers of Alaska. Visit Denali, hike on the Matanuska Glacier, and drive all the way to Fairbanks!

A Road Trip is the Best Way to See Alaska

Driving down scenic Alaskan highways are the best way to cover a lot of ground and get to many of the state’s best locations. Plan your road trip to cover more of the state and make some great memories. Road trips allow you to reach hidden gems, spend time together, and be more flexible on your trip!

Plan Your 7 Day Alaska Road Trip

Lots of folks end up visiting Alaska for at least a week. With the state being so immense, you get to choose which parts of the state you want to visit the most. This road trip will have you walking on glaciers, visiting iconic towns, viewing countless mountain ranges from the road, and visiting Denali National Park for a chance to see “The Great One”.

This road trip route is great for folks of all ability levels and perfect for families too! Get ready to pack your snacks and hit the open road.

glacier blue pool on the Knik Glacier on a sunny day

Driving in Alaska

Rent a Car vs. Rent an RV

For your trip you may be debating between a rental car or an RV. A rental car is great for those that prefer to stay in cabins or hotels and have a set itinerary, or who may be traveling with a larger group.

An RV can give you more flexibility and amenities, but also comes with a learning curve. You’ll get to learn how to use an RV and you may have to drive a bit slower, but you can camp in so many locations and have more say in your trip. You can learn more about renting an RV for Alaska here!

Do You Need 4×4?

4×4 isn’t always necessary to get around Alaska, but it does open up your options to travel on some really scenic roads! Some roads, like the summit road that leads from Hatcher Pass to Talkeetna, are gravel and 4×4 is more suitable.

4×4 is a must have in the winter months to help you drive in snowy or icy conditions.

Keep Construction in Mind

Especially in the Summer months, construction can cause delays when driving. With only 3-4 months to get all the road construction done, the state is very busy in the Summer!

Construction can slow your travel so keep that in mind as you plan your travel. You can see which roads are under construction here.

Fall colors along the Matanuska Glacier lake with mountains overlooking

When to Plan Your Road Trip

Summer

Summer is known for endless sunshine and adventure. It’s when tourism season is in full swing, cruise ships come to port, and every kind of adventure experience can be found.

Summer lasts from June through mid August. Enjoy the prime time for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing.

Highlights of Summer:

Long days where the sun barely sets – perfect for getting in all the adventures.
Warmer temperatures, but it can still rain!
Great time to see wildlife, visit alpine lakes, and find wildflowers.
Adventure experiences are in full swing.

Fall

Fall is known for beautiful landscapes as the leaves start to change, cooler weather, and shorter days that can mean a view of the Northern Lights.

Fall starts in mid August and lasts through October depending on the snowfall. Be prepared for variable weather conditions and great wildlife viewing.

Highlights of Fall:

Best leaf peepin season is in early September.
Pick blueberries in the mountains and tundra.
Cooler temps with the possibility for rain and snow.
Good hiking weather with less crowds.

Winter

Alaska’s longest season brings some really unique experiences for those willing to brave the cold. Lasting from October to late March, Winter in Alaska is highlighted by the high chance to see the Northern Lights.

Try dog sledding in the snow, snowmachining, wild ice skating, or explore an ice cave among other new adventures.

Highlights of Winter:

Better chance to view the Northern Lights.
Try exciting winter activities like snowmachining or dogsledding.
Enjoy the snow, the peace, and the low tourism season.
Ski or snowboard in some incredible mountain ranges by chairlift or helicopter.

Spring

Spring in Alaska marks the transition from Winter to Summer as ice starts to melt and wildflowers start to grow. Spring runs from late March through May as much needed sunshine returns to the state.

It’s the best time to go birding or see grey whales by boat. Spring weather is variable so be sure to pack your warm layers and rain jacket!

Highlights of Spring:

The days start to get longer and warmer.
Breakup season is here as ice in the rivers melt.
The mountain tops still hold snow and the sunsets are beautiful.
There are fewer tourists and it’s a great time for skiers and wildlife viewers.

rafting in the grand landscape on the Matanuska River

glacier blue ice in golden afternoon light

rafting rapids between steep canyon walls in Hope, Alaska

driving a dirt road in Alaska with fall colors and a glacier in view

Must Haves For Your Road Trip

Along with some downloaded playlists, audio books, and podcasts, here are some things you’ll really want to bring with you on your road trip to Alaska. Remember to check the forecast before your trip to get an idea of what to bring, and always be prepared for weather.

Ideas for What to Pack:

Rain jackets.
Warm layers and base layers.
Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots.
Wool hiking socks.
A hat, beanie, and gloves.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug spray.
A good hiking backpack.
Binoculars and your camera! travel mug, reusable water bottle and all the snacks.
A phone charger for the car.

tour boat riding down six mile creek among tall canyon walls

Alaska Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Anchorage

Land in Anchorage, pick up your rental car or RV, and get ready to hit the road! Anchorage is a great spot to stock up on groceries before you head to your next destination.

If you have some time, be sure to explore the city before setting out on your road trip. There’s lots of culture, history and excellent restaurants to be found in Anchorage.

Day Itinerary:

Visit the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center for some history and culture.
Go for a short drive to visit Eklutna Lake or hike Thunderbird Falls.
Grab a bite to eat at Moose’s Tooth, 49th State Brewing, or Club Paris to experience an Alaska staple.
Hike Flat Top Mountain or gor for a walk in Kincaid Park to enjoy the beautiful views.
Walk around downtown Anchorage to find some souvenirs before hitting the road.

Day 2: Palmer

43 miles from Anchorage to Palmer.

Palmer is a great first stop as you head North to explore mountains and glaciers. Take some time in this little town to enjoy its cute shops, grab something to eat, and go on one of the many adventures in the area.

Start your adventure off with excitement and a helicopter ride, or head up into Hatcher Pass to hit the trail and explore.

Day Itinerary Ideas:

Go on a helicopter adventure in collaboration with Outbound Heli Adventures let us guide you on fun adventure! Choose from glacier trekking, ice climbing, or paddleboarding to explore the Knik Glacier!
Visit the Musk Ox or Reindeer Farm to see and learn about some wildlife.
Walk around downtown Palmer to grab coffee at Vagabond Blues, souvenirs at Poppy Lane, or a drink at one of the bars.
Grab dinner at the Palmer Ale House or Turkey Red to enjoy some yummy food.
Go to the Alaska State Fair if you are visiting from mid August-September 1st. Eat local food, shop at local vendors, ride some rides, and go to an exciting event like vegetable weigh ins or lumberjack shows!
Head up into Hatcher Pass to hike in the mountains or at Independence Mine, go blueberry picking, or go skiing at Skeetawk depending on the season.

Day 3: Talkeetna

81 miles from Palmer to Talkeetna.

Your next stop is a town full of mountaineering history, views of Denali, and unique outdoor activities. Be sure to walk around downtown Talkeetna to explore the local artist shops and get some of the best street food in the state.

This can be your window for seeing the mountain herself, and offers some great ways to explore the Alaska Range from boat or plane without having to make any wild summit pushes.

Day Itinerary Ideas:

Walk the downtown area and visit the historic sites and shops, meet the mayor (a cat!) at the Nagley Store, get the famous Talkeetna Spinach Bread, and have a drink at the Fairview Inn for some local culture.
Go flightseeing around Denali and land on a glacier with K2 Aviation.
Go for a jet boat ride to see Denali from the Talkeetna River.
Stop at the Denali South View or Denali North View on your drive for a chance to see the mountain.
On your way to the National Park, hike at Kesugi Ridge or Ermine Trail in Denali State Park for great views of the Alaska Range.

Day 4: Denali National Park

163 miles from Palmer to Healy.

Denali National Park is a must visit. Get another chance to see Denali and visit one of Alaska’s top National Parks. Hike in Denali National Park for a chance to see the Alaska Range, or go on one of the many great adventure experiences nearby.

Stay anywhere from Denali Park to Healy to be close to the park entrance and choose from inclusive lodges to backcountry cabins.

Day Itinerary Ideas:

Go on a narrated bus tour through the park to learn about the landscape and see plenty of wildlife.
Meet the sled dog team that helps protect the park in the winter and educates visitors in the summer.
Eat at one of the many great restaurants in the area: get dinner and show at the Music of Denali, eat at the Alpenglow for great views, or Prospector’s Pizzeria depending on what you are in the mood for.
Hike Savage Alpine Trail or Horseshoe Lake to take in the beautiful landscape.
Go for a Jeep or ATV tour to get some adrenaline pumping and see the sights from down a dirt road. Choose between a guided tour or rent your own experience.
Raft the Nenana River for an exciting way to hit some rapids and take in the beauty of the area from the river.

Day 5: Fairbanks

110 miles from Healy to Fairbanks.

Fairbanks is known as the land of the Midnight Sun or has the best Northern Lights depending on the season you visit in. You can get up to 21 hours of daylight in peak summer months!

In the months when the sun does set, check the aurora forecast and keep your eye on the night sky for a chance to see the aurora borealis in all its glory.

Fairbanks has quite a few adventures you can go on to enjoy your time there.

Day Itinerary Ideas:

Head to the Museum of the North to learn all about Fairbanks and the local culture.
Soak in Cheena Hot Springs for natural relaxation. Depending on when you visit you may get to see the Northern Lights from the springs.
Grab breakfast at The Cookie Jar, and eat at the Alaska Salmon Bake or The Pump House for Alaska inspired cuisine.
Be on the lookout for Northern Lights. Due to its location, Fairbanks is a perfect spot for Northern Light viewing during high activity and enough darkness.
Go dog sledding for a chance to play with some pups and learn about a historical mode of travel still used in the state.

Day 6: Scenic Drive & Glacier View

324 miles from Fairbanks to Glacier View.

Getting to your final glacier destination will include a long, scenic drive to Glacier View. Enjoy incredible mountain views, chances to see wildlife, and scenic overlooks as you travel along the Richardson Highway.

You’ll know you’ve reached Glacier View when you spot the Matanuska Glacier sprawling from the mountains it once carved. Take in the views, find opportunities to stretch your legs, and eat well before exploring the glacier the next day.

Day Itinerary Ideas:

Enjoy the scenic drive towards Glennallen. Stop at spots like the Santa Claus House in North Pole, AK, Delta River & Alaska Range Overlook, and Rainbow Ridge Scenic View for a chance to stretch your legs and to take in the landscape or fun roadside attractions.
Stop in Glennallen to fuel up. Eat at Ernesto’s Mobile Grill or Tok Thai before continuing your drive.
Stay and have dinner at Sheep Mountain Lodge, Majestic Valley Wilderness Lodge, or Long Rifle Lodge.
Hike Lion’s Head Trail to stretch your legs after the long drive.

Day 7: Explore the Matanuska Glacier & Head Back to Anchorage

103 miles From Glacier View to Anchorage.

Explore the Matanuska Glacier by a scenic walk, adventurous trek, or ice climbing experience. Enjoy your time out on the glacier, opt to go white water rafting or hiking in Glacier View, and then head back to Anchorage before your flight departs.

You can take in some other stops along the way back, or check out some attractions in Anchorage before bidding farewell to Alaska.

Day Itinerary Ideas:

Hike, trek, or ice climb on the Matanuska Glacier for your last big adventure in Alaska!
Go whitewater rafting on the Matanuska River(link) for an exciting ride with epic views.
Grab a bite in Glacier View or Palmer as you head back to Anchorage for your flight.
Explore along your drive back to Anchorage, or explore more of Anchorage you may have missed on your first day in Alaska.