Exploring Alaska by road offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure. From winding mountain roads to remote highways surrounded by pristine wilderness, driving tours in the Last Frontier showcase the state’s breathtaking beauty and rich history. Whether you’re seeking wildlife, jaw-dropping landscapes, or a chance to connect with nature, these top five driving tours in Alaska promise unforgettable memories.
1. Denali Highway Jeep Tour with Denali Jeep Excursions
A rugged and remote road through the heart of Alaska.
The Denali Highway Jeep Tour offered by Denali Jeep Excursions provides an unforgettable experience of Alaska’s rugged and remote beauty. This guided tour explores the Denali Highway, a 135-mile stretch of mostly gravel road that offers stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. Starting near Denali National Park, the tour ensures guests can safely and comfortably traverse this secluded region, which lacks cell reception and amenities but is rich in natural wonders.
Participants drive their own 4-door Jeep, with automatic transmission and four-wheel drive, as part of a convoy led by professional guides. The tours are designed to provide both independence and safety, with Jeeps equipped with two-way radios for communication. Along the way, there are planned stops at scenic overlooks, making it easy to capture incredible photos of the landscapes and, if you’re lucky, some Alaska wildlife.
Guests must be at least 25 years old with a valid driver’s license to drive, though families and groups can share a Jeep. This makes the excursion a fantastic option for those looking to explore Alaska’s untouched wilderness with the support of knowledgeable guides who share stories and history about the region.
Best time to drive: Mid-June through early September, when the road is fully open and passable.
2. Seward Highway: Anchorage to Seward
An oceanfront drive packed with glaciers, waterfalls, and coastal beauty.
Rated one of America’s most scenic drives, the Seward Highway connects Anchorage to the charming coastal town of Seward. This 127-mile stretch offers endless opportunities for photo stops and outdoor activities.
Highlights include the dramatic Turnagain Arm, where you might spot beluga whales, and the Chugach National Forest, a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center to see bears, bison, and other native animals up close. The road culminates in Seward, where you can explore Kenai Fjords National Park or take a boat tour to see glaciers and marine wildlife.
Why it’s great: It’s one of Alaska’s most accessible and photogenic routes, ideal for both day trips and longer getaways.
Best time to drive: May through September, when the weather is mild and attractions are open.
3. The Dalton Highway: Fairbanks to the Arctic Ocean
The legendary road to the Arctic Circle.
For the truly adventurous, the Dalton Highway offers a remote and challenging drive that rewards travelers with unmatched wilderness experiences. This 414-mile road begins near Fairbanks and stretches north to the Arctic Ocean.
Along the way, you’ll cross the Arctic Circle, traverse the Yukon River, and marvel at the towering Brooks Range. Wildlife sightings are common, with bears, muskoxen, and foxes roaming the area. Be prepared—this is a rugged route with few services, so planning and a sense of adventure are essential.
Why it’s great: You can literally drive to the Arctic Circle. The road passes through boreal forests, alpine tundra, and high arctic plains, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
Best time to drive: June through August for better road conditions and daylight.
4. The Glenn Highway: Anchorage to Glennallen
A glacier-laced drive through the Chugach Mountains and Copper River Basin.
The Glenn Highway is a must-drive for those who love epic mountain scenery. This 189-mile route takes you through the heart of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, where jagged peaks, glacial rivers, and rolling hills create a picture-perfect landscape.
A highlight of this drive is the Matanuska Glacier, where you can stop to explore the ice on a guided tour. The Glenn Highway also provides access to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, the largest national park in the United States.
Why it’s great: The Glenn offers one of the most accessible up-close glacier experiences in Alaska. It’s less trafficked than other highways but no less scenic.
Best time to drive: May through September for the best weather and visibility.
5. Kenai Peninsula Self-Drive Tour: Anchorage to Homer
A road trip full of fishing villages, volcanic views, and ocean adventures.
The Kenai Peninsula is often referred to as “Alaska’s Playground,” and a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Homer is a must for those looking to explore diverse landscapes. This route takes you along the scenic Seward Highway and Sterling Highway, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, fjords, and mountain ranges.
Key stops include the charming town of Seward, where you can visit Exit Glacier or take a detour to Kenai Fjords National Park. Farther along, the fishing town of Soldotna offers a chance to witness or participate in world-class salmon fishing. Finally, the road ends in Homer, known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” with stunning views of Kachemak Bay and its iconic Homer Spit.
Why it’s great: This drive offers an immersive experience of coastal Alaska—complete with wildlife viewing, halibut charters, and dramatic landscapes.
Best time to drive: Late May through early September, when fishing is hot and coastal views are clear.
Why Alaska Driving Tours Should Be on Your Bucket List
Whether you’re cruising a coastal highway, navigating remote backroads, or exploring iconic routes like the Denali Highway, Alaska driving tours are the ultimate way to connect with the state’s untamed beauty. With these five options, you can craft an adventure tailored to your sense of wanderlust and discovery.
Ready to hit the road? Start with Denali Jeep Excursions and experience the rugged magic of the Denali Highway Jeep Tour—your gateway to Alaska’s wilderness at its finest!
