Scenic Driving
There is nothing better than the freedom of the open road.
The sights, sounds, smells and overall sensations create a feeling of euphoria and relaxation.
Sing along to some tunes, or simply enjoy the silence.
Scenic driving in Alaska is like no other.
If the views aren't incredible enough, there is a good chance you'll spot wildlife along the way.
Be on the lookout for bear, moose, caribou, lynx and porcupine. Also, don't forget to look up! Bald eagles are commonly spotted soaring the open skies or perched in a tree.
Around every corner is something spectacular and if you are a photographer, it's hard to even make it to your destination without wanting to pull over every few miles. Luckily, there's a decent number of pull-outs and shoulder space to accommodate this!
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ANCHORAGE
There is really one highway going in and out of Anchorage. It is AK-1, however it can also be referred to by other names depending on the location.
It is the Glenn Highway when going North and becomes the Seward Highway when going South. Sounds easy enough, right?
Well, going Northbound eventually leads to a splitting of the roads. Highway 3 (Parks Highway) will lead to Fairbanks while Northbound will take you all the way to Tok and the Canadian Alaska Highway.
There is also an opportunity at Glenallen to get on the Richardson Highway (AK-4) which leads to Valdez.
Going Southbound gives you the option of the Seward Highway, which ultimately leads to Seward, or you can continue to follow Highway 1 leading to Homer.
As it stands right now, AK-1 is definitely my favorite way to fully take in plenty of mountain and coastal views.
In addition to these highways some other popular scenic drives are Hatcher Pass, Old Glenn Highway, McCarthy Road, Denali Highway, Arctic Valley, Dalton Highway and Top of the World Highway.
Alaska is a very large state with plenty to see. You can end up on the road for hours or days if you choose. Make sure to plan accordingly as gas stations as very sparce as well as food. It is best to pack plenty of supplies well in advance, as you never know where you'll end up!
Below you will find these locations with photos that were taken right from the roads!
GLENN HIGHWAY (AK-1) - BETWEEN ANCHORAGE & GLENALLEN
OLD GLENN HIGHWAY - NEAR PALMER, AK
SEWARD HIGHWAY (AK-1) - ALONG TURNAGAIN ARM
RICHARDSON HIGHWAY - ANCHORAGE TO VALDEZ (AK-1 - AK-4)
HATCHER PASS
MCCARTHY ROAD
DENALI HIGHWAY
TOP OF THE WORLD HIGHWAY
