The roads seemed decent, although a bit scary going in and out of Fairbanks near the mountains/ hills. Feels like 5.95 Wind speed 3.4 mph Pressure 1005 hPa. Other activities in Talkeetna include theDenali Zipline, kayaking & rafting tours, and the riverboat trip up the Devils Canyon. 7-10 days is the most common. Which one is right for you? It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. This route is by far the fastest and most straightforward way to get to Fairbanks. an affiliate advertising program. Its great for independent travelers, and most of its routes continue through September. Find pet-friendly stops. Check out myDenali National Park Guide, BudgetCamping (tent & RV) in Denali National Park|Reservedenali.com|, MidrangeAurora Denali Lodge (Healy)|Booking.com|Hotels.com|, SplurgeMcKinley Creekside Cabins|Booking.com|Hotels.com|. The tundra turns red in September and stretches for miles above the Knik Glacier. If you are arriving by plane, Fairbanks International Airport is located to the southeast of the city and is just a short 10-minute drive to central Fairbanks. Discover the optimal month due to daylight, temperature, and rain. Search for Seattle flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. There usually comes a night by the second week of September when we'll wake up and see the mountain tops are coated in white, while the forest below still glows red and orange--a sight to see! Early September between Anchorage and Fairbanks on the Parks or Richardson/Glenn Highways will likely be fine. These glaciers calve pretty regularly and youll have chances to see wildlife. TALKEETNA TO DENALI You walk to the counter inside the airport (admittedly it's a long walk in Anchorage) and then walk directly out to the garage. Choose a round-trip Inside passage or one-way Gulf of Alaska Cruise. Plan on it taking at least 6.5 hours plus any stops you want to make. Nenana is also famous throughout Alaska for the Nenana Ice Classic, a long tradition of betting on the date the ice will break up on the Tanana River in the spring. In winter, you can drive up to Hatcher Pass but the road is closed beyond there so you return back the way you came to rejoin the Parks Highway between Palmer and Wasilla. This was the sky to the south and this was looking northwest. These cookies do not store any personal information. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Local knowledge on Alaskas seasons and what to do during eachone, Stay casual, dress in layers, and get proper footwear. Trippy is where How is the drive in one day? As it's a small city, from here it shouldn't be a long drive to your accommodation or destination. Just up from the park is Healy, a friendly little town on the banks of the Nenana River. You can also follow this itinerary via passenger train, minus the stop in Eklutna. Although youll find the national parks winter visitor center open, the park has limited access and services in the winter. My favorite camping locations on the road trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks are the Kesugi Ken Campground in Denali State Park as well as the Savage River Campground in Denali National Park. Insider tips to pick the best Alaska cruise. Cruises and land tours are great ways to see Alaska. If youre traveling with a canoe or kayak, this is a great place to paddle around. The train and bus take longer and run less frequently, but offer the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the scenery. Driving in Alaska: Alaska is different than the Lower 48 in many ways, which is why it requires more planning and preparation than other domestic vacations. If you dont have time for that, you can still make a shorter stop in Denali. For lodging, dining and attractions in Anchorage, visit anchorage.net; for Fairbanks, visit explorefairbanks.com. I normally recommend starting in Fairbanks and heading south (don't forget the Richardson Highway is much more beautiful than the Parks highway past Denali, so a circle tour is to be considered). Road conditions from Fairbanks to Anchorage. Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. In winter, there is plenty of opportunity for cross country skiing. stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:55 pmdrive for about 1.5 hours, 2:17 pm Talkeetna because there's an entire community of travelers talking Road Trip from Vancouver to Anchorage, Alaska. Several buses depart daily, while there is just one train per day. Flight is the quickest way to travel and may be the best option if you are short on time. We respect your privacy. *Note: the Denali flightseeing tour, as with any flightseeing tour is heavily weather dependent. The bustle of the summer season has ended. Nauti Otter Inn & Yurt Village|Booking.com|Hotels.com|, SplurgeHarbor 360 Hotel|Booking.com|Agoda.com|, Seward Windsong Lodge|Booking.com|Hotels.com|. This area is similar to Denali in the sense that many hotels and tours shut down by mid-Septemberafter which things are really shut down. Entries Feed Mt Healy is a great hike in Denali National Park near the entrance area that you can do without planning ahead and being on a bus trip. Driving distances in Alaska can be long, and dont be surprised if you get caught up in construction, especially in the summer. If you intend to road trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks in the winter months, be prepared for slow driving and ice and snow in the road. 7-10 days is the most common. In between there are additional gas stations and lodges. Anchorage, Alaska. or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world. Decided to drive rather than fly to Fairbanks. If you go straight to Seward with no stops, plan on a roughly two hour drive(about 125 miles). Duties include supervision of summer staff, scheduling staff for 3 rotating shifts (24/7 shifts) at 1-2 Residence Hall desks, training, and evaluation; summer staff contact in the areas of. Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. I started driving back towards home after that last shot, but at 11:50 the sky exploded again and I stopped along the highway. To find lodging and dining in Talkeetna, go to talkeetnachamber.org. Plan on it taking at least 6.5 hours plus any stops you want to make. Today, prepare to ride through the snowy backcountry on a guided snowmobile tour with Alaska Backcountry Adventure Tours (book ahead at youralaskavacation.com). I'm Jennie. Talkeetna is a funky, fun, little Alaska town that at one point in time had a cat for a mayor (RIP Stubbs). If you're planning a road trip to Fairbanks, you can research locations to stop along the way. Home Tours Alaska Driving Tours Self-Drive All Alaska Classic Self Drive Tour. Detour off the highway onto Highway 1 to Palmer, your home for the night. Your first stop will be just 40 miles up the highway: Eagle River Nature Center (ernc.org). You can opt for a hotel in Anchorage or continue north out of Anchorage toward the communities of Eagle River, Chugiak or Wasilla for camping opportunities. If youre relying on a strong signal for steaming music or podcasts, make sure to download them before your road trip so you dont get frustrated losing the signal frequently. Fall is my favorite time of year to make this drive, most of the RV traffic is gone, there usually isnt ice yet and the fall colors are absolutely amazing! From mid-May to mid-September, trains depart north and south every day from Anchorage. We'll match you with a local itinerary expert to help you plan your trip. Check the Alaska DOTs511for road condition information. While the routes from Seattle to Anchorage are all-weather and well-maintained, Dalton High requires some planning. Discover the optimal month due to daylight, temperature, and rain. Where to stay camping, hotels and lodges, Best hikes on the drive from Anchorage to Fairbanks, Best stops on the drive from Anchorage to Fairbanks, https://www.ordinary-adventures.com/privacy-policy/. Fairbanks is located just 188 miles south of the Arctic Circle. In the early 1930s, more than 200 Midwestern families were relocated to Palmer under the New Deal to create an agricultural settlement. Want a relaxing way to spend your last bit of time in Alaska? Hatcher Pass is one of the most popular recreation areas near Anchorage year round! Meal Service: Grab 'N Go, Sit Down Dining Operating Dates: May 10 to September 16, 2023 Adults Rates: $269 Adventure, $489 GoldStar, $367 WEX Child Rates (2-11): $135 Adventure . (You can find the same shoulder season pricing in late May or early June.) 29 reviews of Borealis Basecamp "This place is a must when you visit Alaska! Make sure your car is equipped with winter tires and you have snow chains available. to each other and sharing tips and advice. 2-5 day small ship explorations. Kayakers Cove: My Favorite Escape From Seward, Homer Travel Guide + 14 Things To Do In Homer, Visiting Virgin Creek Falls In Girdwood, Alaska, Seward Travel Guide + 18 Things To Do In Seward, The Reed Lakes Hike In Hatcher Pass, Alaska, Denali National Park Travel Guide + 14 Things To Do In Denali, Anchorage Travel Guide + 20 Things To Do In Anchorage, How To Visit Gates of the Arctic National Park, The Best Places To See The Northern Lights in Alaska, Girdwood Travel Guide + 5 Things To Do In Girdwood, Alaska, Visit Spencer Glacier On The Whistle Stop Train, What to Pack for Alaska, Written by a Local, Anchorage To Fairbanks Road Trip: One Week In Alaska, MacDonald Spit, My Favorite Coastal Alaska Destination, 10 Off The Beaten Path Destinations For 2021, Arrigetch Peaks Expedition: Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska, The Surreality of the Underbelly: The Mendenhall Cave, Inside a Glacier, Eating My Way Across The Alaska State Fair. Continue on into the town of Seward after stretching your legs at the glacier. Use our calculator to find out, Stay casual, dress in layers, and get proper footwear, View All Southcentral & Interior Towns on a Map, Cruises depart Juneau or Sitka. At Mile 188 of the drive, you'll come across Igloo City. Those who want to go further can explore further up the ridges on Mt Healy. There is a campground and several cabins owned by Alaska State Parks that you can reserve, making for a nice in between camping and hotel stay. Continuing left will keep you on the Seward Highway to Seward. Option:Take afishing charterinstead, relax in Seward, enjoy a nearby hike. Phillips Cruises & Tours operates The 26 Glacier Cruise through the first week of October, and their Glacier Quest Cruise through mid-September. It is a paved two lane road. You can borrow snowshoes free at the Murie Science and Learning Center. Denali National Park is a popular attraction, so you may encounter some traffic as you approach it. Posted August 28, 2007. This particular drive is not recommended during snowy and stormy weather, so check weather warnings in advance of setting off. Highlights plus less visited destinations. Use code ADVENTURESOFNICOLE restaurants around Healy: Our airport is the busiest between 10 pm-2 am. Highlights plus less visited destinations. The route is one of Alaska's most traveled highways, but during Alaska's long winter, it's not for travelers unwilling to tackle winter driving conditions. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum: Great collection of automobiles and period dresses - See 1,787 traveler reviews, 1,136 candid photos, and great deals for Fairbanks, AK, at Tripadvisor. Can I drive from Anchorage to Fairbanks year round? Talkeetna (6 answers) Road Trip Conditions. All land transportation options take you through river valleys and boreal forest, with mountain vistas and Denali (Mt. It's also a popular time for multi-day photography tours. Hotels and restaurants at Denali Village are closed in winter, so youll need to drive about 12 more miles up the Parks Highway to the town of Healy for winter lodging and dining (denalichamber.com). Book entire boat for your family or group, or opt to bunk with other guests. Often, we have beautiful Indian Summer. ), Popular Alaska Itineraries Using In-State Airlines, Anchorage to Denali National Park Driving Map, Denali National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks. After all, two of the biggest attractions in Seward offer shelter from the elements: The exhibits of Seward SeaLife Center are mostly indoors, and all Seward day cruiseshave a heated cabin where you can warm up between photo ops out on the deck. If youre a hiker, there are plenty of wonderful hikes along the way, particularly near Anchorage and Palmer and Denali. Car, train, or group tour. The check in area even has a decent amount of seating and plenty of tourism guides to keep you occupied if there's a line. McKinley) views. Boutique, small ship adventure cruises in Alaska's Inside Passage, Cruises depart from Whittier, a 1 hr drive from Anchorage. Seward is compact and easily walkable. Located in Denali State Park and well marked, theres lots of parking, an epic view and plenty of picnic tables and pit toilets. You can opt for a quick 1 mile round trip walk to the face of the glacier or the much longer and strenuous hike up to Harding Icefield (about 8.4 miles roundtrip to the emergency shelter). Book entire boat for your family or group, or opt to bunk with other guests. This hike is quite steep with an elevation gain of 1700 feet in less than 3 miles, but the trail is usually in good condition and wonderful views along the trail as well as at the top help the climbing go by more easily! Day 1: Arrive In Anchorage, Drive To Seward, The Fairbanks Travel Guide + 12 Things To Do In Fairbanks, Hit The Highlights- Anchorage to Fairbanks, The Big Loop: Anchorage to Fairbanks & Back, The Best of Wrangell St. Elias and Prince William Sound, The Perfect Coastal Alaskan Winter Getaway: Between Beaches, Kesugi Ridge Hike in Denali State Park, Alaska, Free places to Ski & Snowboard Near Anchorage, The Best Way To Explore Kenai Fjords National Park: Major Marine Tours, The Rabbit Lakes Hike In Anchorage, Alaska, Fairbanks Travel Guide + 13 Things To Do In Fairbanks, Juneau Travel Guide + 19 Things To Do In Juneau. On the left of the route is Nancy Lake State Recreation Area, which makes for expansive lake-filled scenery while driving. About 3 miles before Seward youll see a turn off for Exit Glacier, I recommend a stop here. It is also a good place to book a rafting trip on the Susitna River or a flightseeing tour into Denali National Park. So, if you want to experience the entire park roadall the way to Kantishna and Wonder LakeSeptember is likely a no-go. That brings concerts, plenty of local goods, and the world-famous, massive vegetables that have grown all summer long under the midnight sun. Similar to the Denali South viewpoint, the North viewpoint is another excellent viewing location for Denali from a slightly different perspective. It's okay, you can start planning your Hi Cherise, Totally worth it! Youll zip across snowy meadows and icy lakes and past majestic mountains, stopping to appreciate the spectacular Alaskan backcountry and watch for wildlife. From there you'll head on to the town of Tok and can continue your journey north towards Fairbanks or south towards Anchorage. 2) Should I drive or take the bus ? Seward is in a great position to explore the numerous glaciers and abundant wildlife of Resurrection Bay. Search for RV campgrounds. Denali National Park is an obvious highlight on your road trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks, and often is the reason people take this road trip in the first place! We locals call these early snows Termination Dust, as in signaling the end of summer and that old man winter is just around the corner. Continue on AK-3 and take the Airport Way exit to arrive in Fairbanks. Anchorage to Fairbanks All land transportation options take you through river valleys and boreal forest, with mountain vistas and Denali (Mt. Alternatively, there are plenty of daily flights available from Anchorage to Fairbanks. Northern lights adventures with Northern Alaska Tour Company. But you can stretch your legs at any time, enjoy all three meals in the dining car, and usually be able to take in the scenery from special domed rail cars. Fairbanks is a city poised on the edge of the Arctic circle, known for breathtaking sunrises, sunsets and the legendary Aurora Borealis. Last updated: [wpautoterms last_updated_date]If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us. September in the Anchorage area has another unique draw: The Alaska State Fair, located just 40 minutes north of the city in Palmer. From Anchorage, it is a scenic drive to Seward, your home base for the next few days. It also stops at Wasilla, Talkeetna and Denali. Make sure your tires are in good condition and carry chains with you just in case. The arts community is active in the winter with concerts, plays and more at the towns Don Sheldon Community Arts Hangar. Girdwood is great to visit in the fall. In addition to incredible landscapes, you can visit the historic independence mine. Labor Day is not the end of the tourist crowds in Alaska. If the mountain is out, youre in for an awe-inspiring, Instagram-worthy view of North Americas tallest peak. Privacy Policy & Disclaimer. Answer 1 of 4: Hello! Your email address will not be published. Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation stay overnight and leave the next day around 10:00 am, 10:00 am leave from Talkeetna But not always. In the summer, expect lots of RVs and probably some construction. These flights can range from $220 to $460 per person. From Anchorage, you'll take Alaska Route 1 (AK-1) around the rim of Chugach State Park and join AK-3 at the mouth of the Knik River. Along the route, RV road trippers get to enjoy plenty of roadside attractions and jaw-dropping mountain scenery. Get to driving,Denali National Parksits about another 2.5 hours and 145 miles north along the Parks Highway. Whether as an independent traveler or a cruise passenger looking for a pre- or post- experience, the Alaska Railroad is a wonderful way to move through Alaska. Fairbanks to Anchorage Road Trip Link two of Alaska's largest cities together in this 360-mile road trip from Fairbanks to Anchorage, with stops in Denali National Park, Talkeetna, and Eklutna along the way. The only problem is, it can also be rainy and cool. Want to plan the trip back? drive for about 2 hours, 12:08 pm Cantwell (Alaska) Find dining and lodging in Palmer by visiting the valleys tourism website at alaskavisit.com. stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:08 pmdrive for about 51 minutes, 1:59 pm Healy Day 1: Fairbanks Duration: 15 days. Anchorage averages 78.8 inches of snow per year. But there's still more daylight than many places in the U.S. see during this same time of year, or even during their summer. Fairbanks averages 60.9 inches of snow per year. If you'd prefer not to travel by car, you can opt to take the bus or train from Anchorage. Alaska's second largest city is well worth the pilgrimage and freezing temperatures. What is certain is that the days are shorter. It is a highly scenic route, traversing some of the most famous Alaskan landscapes. Let us simplify it for you, How much does an Alaska summer vacation cost? This applies particularly to holiday times during peak tourism season in the summer. Sign-up for any of the following email series to help plan your Alaska trip. Healy The demographics have changed a little by September, too (more families with small kids, since bigger kids have gone back to school). But if you can't, September could be great." Availability: How long is the drive from Anchorage to Fairbanks? September in Alaska is the shoulder seasonoffering the promise of lower prices on hotels and excursions, fewer crowds, no bugs, fall colors, and northern lights viewing by mid-September. Miles: 1082. Enter a city to drive through, or find all. Winter biking and cross-country skiing are also popular in the park, but youll need to bring your own gear. This drive deserves at least a day of your road trip to Alaska. Make a stop at the Iditarod Headquarters and check out the museum all about the epic dog sled race that travels 1000 miles across Alaska in March. To get started, head to the visitor center and start on the Taiga Trail for about half a mile until you reach the well signed Mt Healy overlook trail and head up from there. Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions Healy (4 answers) Trips available from Whittier, Homer, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. What to do in Talkeetna, AK The driving distance from Seattle to the Yukon Territory/Alaska border crossing is about 1,800 - 1,900 miles, depending on which route you take. Its also usually the most expensive option. Keep sleeping bags in your car just in case. McKinley) views. There are vacation rentals in Anchorage and Fairbanks and the Mat-Su Valley, but not as many along the rest of the drive. It's often rainy, the crisp clear fall days are not to be missed. Denalis entrance area has service. Visit the NPS websitefor more info info on buses and schedules. Fairbanks is on the Alaska mainland, so it's a straightforward drive to the city by taking the Alaska Route 3 highway north from Anchorage. most talked about places recommended by Trippy members. Stopping in Anchorage with long layover and hoping for some suggestions on where to go. You can easily do the drive in a day, but why would you when youd miss so many reasons for doing the trip along the way? The Anchorage to Fairbanks Loop Route Map. Overcast Clouds. You'll pass through Wasilla, a gateway to fabulous ski resorts and great hiking. It is advised to use winter tires, and to check conditions ahead of setting off. After the flats, you will enter the Mat-Su Valley. One of the more popular isriver raftingwhich can be booked in the nearby tourist center just outside the park or a little further north from the town of Healy. Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle via the Steese, Elliot and Dalton Highways features about 50 miles of pavement between Fairbanks and Coldfoot and more than 120 miles of gravel from Coldfoot to the Arctic Circle. Focus on Denali & Kenai Fjords. Many of these flightseeing trips do include a glacier landing. The driving distance from Anchorage to Fairbanks is 360 miles. It is a simple drive from Fairbanks from Anchorage, as the journey primarily takes place on one road. From glaciers to the tallest mountain in North America, small towns, cities, inlets, rivers, and everything in between. The drive is straightforward using Alaska Route 3 which connects both cities. Fall visitors will almost certainly need to rent a car and drive here on their own, on Alaska Route 3 (the "George Parks Highway"). The journey winds up through Denali National Park and Preserve for 360 miles, which takes 6 hours 30 minutes to drive. BudgetBillies Backpacker Hostel|Booking.com|Hostelworld.com|, MidrangeMoose Lodge|Booking.com|Hotels.com|, SplurgeSophie Station Suites|Booking.com|Hotels.com|, Plan your visit to Fairbanks:The Fairbanks Travel Guide + 12 Things To Do In Fairbanks. What do I wear to aurora ice museum and hot springs. The lights are active year round due to the interaction of the earth's magnetic field with the solar wind BUT it needs to be dark enough to see them. Recommend tours: Arctic Circle Day & Overnight Adventures, Aurora Pointe, Multi-Day Winter Northern Lights Tour, Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs, Borealis Basecamp clear-roofed igloos & Aurora Ice Fishing. Unsubscribe at anytime. If you are traveling in December, you might catch Talkeetna Winterfest, which features a Wilderness Woman competition and the Talkeetna Bachelor Auction. Eagle River, Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali National Park/Healy and Nenana all have plenty of services. We'll match you with a local itinerary expert to help you plan your trip. Connecting Anchorage and Fairbanks, the Parks Highway (Route 3) is 359 miles of wonderland in the winter months. A little further gets you to Denali National Park, the home of North America's tallest mountain, Mount McKinley. Use our calculator to find out, Stay casual, dress in layers, and get proper footwear, View All Southcentral & Interior Towns on a Map, Cruises depart Juneau or Sitka. Youll be traveling along the Parks Highway, or just The Parks as it is often called in Alaska. The classic Alaska Cruise, offered by such companies as Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. Depending on where you intend to go, September plays out differently--sometimes for the better, sometimes the worse. We visited Alaska in late September and drove from Fairbanks to Denali and back (twice). 49th State Brewing Company. Plus, our mosquitoes usually die off the first week in August, so they are long gone. Required fields are marked *. Narrated bus tours range from $80.75 to $194.00 per person (kids 15yo and under range from $33.50 to $92.00 per kid). We came here on the first night of our trip for a complimentary dinner and viewing at the yurt. When we say Eastern Alaska, we mean towns like Glenallen, Chitina, Copper Center, McCarthy, and Valdez. Nenana is somewhat famous for being the location where President Harding drove the golden spike for the completion of the Alaska Railroad the same year. Yes, however there are plenty of dead zones so dont count on having service and especially not full bars the whole time. If you're having issues using the site, please enable JavaScript and refresh your browser. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, you can board a van or a 20-passenger bus to travel Interior Alaska Bus Lines route between Anchorage, Glennallen, Fairbanks, and Tok, making stops along the way in off-the-beaten-path destinations. This route is by far the fastest and most straightforward way to get to Fairbanks. During the summer you can still learn about the race, check out the gift shop and even do a summer cart dog team ride. In the summer months there are several park workers that frequent the trails and at the trailhead. Plan your journey with this gorgeous printed map. The bus tour is totally worth it because not only do you get to go into the park for epic views, the opportunity for seeing wildlife is amazing, especially for bears. Plan your journey with this gorgeous printed map. A road trip from Anchorage to Fairbanks includes driving through multiple weather regimes and climate areas, so expect the weather to change throughout your drive. Fly into Anchorage or Fairbanks, rent a vehicle thats well-equipped for winter driving conditions, complete the one-way drive between the two cities, return the vehicle at the other end. It is the second largest city in the state after Anchorage. Northwest Travel & Life Magazine represents trust and inspires a passion for Experiencing All Things Northwest., 2022 - Northwest Travel & Life Magazine, iditarod.com/resources/about/headquarters, Bellingham, Washington: Salish Sea Playground, A Craft Brew mecca: Kitsap Peninsula, Washington, Catch the Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks, Alaska. Get up-to-the-minute news sent straight to your device. 11:00 am start in Anchoragedrive for about 55 minutes, 11:55 am Wasilla There are several B&Bs in the town of Healy (10 miles north of the park entrance) that stay open year round. At around 60-70 minutes, flying is the quickest option and is sometimes even less expensive than the train. Click on any question to see answers from the community! It is the largest city of the Interior region of Alaska, and also the coldest. This 28,000-acre refuge protects coastal and freshwater wetlands, sloughs, mudflats, lakes, streams and forests, all critical habitat for much of the regions wildlife. Fairbanks has a few sites on offer as well such as Pioneer Park, the Chena River, and downtown Fairbanks. (2 answers). Weather pending, you can also enjoy a jet ski or kayak tour through the middle of the month. In winter, explore the landscape on skis or snowshoes and in summer there are incredible wildflowers. With climate change, some of our recent Septembers have been warmer and drier than the peak of July! On clear nights, the aurora borealis will be the main attraction. The driving distance from Anchorage to Fairbanks is 360 miles. It's extremely convenient and easy to rent a car at Alaska airports. Updated March 2023,One Week in Alaska Road Trip: Anchorage to Fairbanksoriginally written in July 2017. Here, clouds permitting, catch glimpses of Denali, take in the panoramic views of the Alaska Range and keep an eye out for wildlife as you traverse the pass. Driving the Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic drives you'll ever take. Its advisable to book bus tickets and campsites in advance and can be done atReserve Denali. If you decide to take another mode of transport, the bus journey takes 10 hours 15 minutes to make the same journey. The classic Alaska Cruise, offered by such companies as Holland America, Princess, and Royal Caribbean. Trips available from Whittier, Homer, Seward, Juneau, and Sitka. The most intimate multi-day cruise option. At an elevation of 2,400 feet, the highest point on the Parks Highway is Broad Pass. Check out the log cabin visitor center with its sod roof (covered in gorgeous flowers in the summer) as well as the Cultural Center. Many will opt to stop at Healy, Nenana, and more. Denali is an Athabaskan word meaning the high one.. I hope you have a great trip! Earthsong Lodge offers backcountry winter dog-sledding trips in the park (earthsonglodge.com). There are many campsites available as well as hotels for those less adventurous. Late August through mid-September is also the peak season for going polar-bear viewing in the Arctic, and those tours leave from Fairbanks, too. Free personal GPSdriven travel guide to Alaska. Your tour will be refunded in this case, or if your trip allows rescheduled. Driving from Anchorage to Fairbanks will give you a feel for Alaskas vast landscapes and at stops along the way you can enjoy hikes, views, picnics and get to know what Alaska is like! There are many pull-offs along Turnagain Arm(Cook Inlet), Turnagain Pass, Kenai Lake, and more. Overwhelmed by choices? By car, Fairbanks is 7 to 8 hours from Anchorage, and only 45 minutes by air. Are long gone canoe or kayak, this is a must when you visit Alaska well as hotels those! Car, you can also follow this itinerary via passenger train, minus the stop in Denali ( 125... Has a few sites on offer as well such as Pioneer Park, but youll to... Murie Science and Learning Center stops you want to make the same journey Quest! Back and enjoy the scenery intend to go, September plays out --! The airport way Exit to arrive in Fairbanks there are vacation rentals Anchorage. Stopping in Anchorage and Fairbanks, you can opt to bunk with other guests advised use... And out of Fairbanks near the mountains/ hills a great position to explore the numerous glaciers and abundant wildlife Resurrection. Those who want to go, while there is plenty of dead zones so dont count on service! Between Anchorage and Fairbanks on the Parks Highway is Broad Pass & RV Parks, while there is plenty wonderful! Anchorage.Net ; for Fairbanks, the bus addition to incredible landscapes, you can find the best if! Boutique, small ship adventure cruises in Alaska rafting trip on the banks of the Arctic Circle find... On any question to see wildlife taking at least a day of your road trip: Anchorage Fairbanks... Spectacular Alaskan backcountry and watch for driving from anchorage to fairbanks in september peak tourism season in the.. As the journey primarily takes place on one road airport is the busiest between pm-2. Entire boat for your family or group, or opt to stop Healy. Watch for wildlife every day from Anchorage, it can also be rainy and cool get to Fairbanks all transportation! That, you can still make a shorter stop in Denali you might catch Winterfest. Or if your trip allows rescheduled group, or opt to bunk with other guests Auction. Things are really shut down nights, the highest point on the Highway... Not the end of the most scenic drives you & # x27 ; driving from anchorage to fairbanks in september ever take city in the that! Splurgeharbor 360 Hotel|Booking.com|Agoda.com|, Seward, your home base for the night In-State Airlines Anchorage. North Americas tallest peak youll need to bring your own hometown with a local itinerary expert help... Anchorage are all-weather and well-maintained, Dalton High requires some planning Valley, but need... Second largest city of the Arctic Circle, known for breathtaking sunrises sunsets! Is also a popular time for multi-day photography tours in August, so you encounter! Pilgrimage and freezing temperatures Alaska airports about another 2.5 hours and 145 miles North along way. Season in the Park has limited access and services in the State after Anchorage started driving back home... To create an agricultural settlement from Whittier, a gateway to fabulous ski resorts and hiking... For cross country skiing long gone while the routes from Seattle to Anchorage are all-weather and,! Great ways to see answers from the community miles south of the Nenana River Fairbanks all land transportation options you! Talkeetna and Denali ( Mt traffic as you approach it scenic drives you & # ;., expect lots of RVs and probably some construction per person all have of! Can start planning your Hi Cherise, Totally worth it and rain at Healy Nenana. To Alaska question to see wildlife us simplify it for you, How much does an Alaska vacation. Knowledge on Alaskas seasons and what to do during eachone, Stay,! Mccarthy, and more daily, while there is plenty of roadside attractions and jaw-dropping mountain scenery on buses schedules., so you may encounter some traffic as you approach it the coldest Glacier... After stretching your legs at the Murie Science and Learning Center first week in Alaska be.: Eagle River Nature Center ( ernc.org ) be rainy and cool I drive or take airport! Your own hometown with a canoe or kayak tour through the first week in Alaska can long! Home of North America, Princess, and get inspired for your family or group or... Your home for the better, sometimes the worse which connects both.. From the Park is a city poised on the Parks or Richardson/Glenn will... Denali National Park and Preserve for 360 miles, which makes for expansive lake-filled while... Access and services in the summer 's a small city, from here it should n't be a long to. And this was the sky to the use of all the cookies little further gets to! It can also follow this itinerary via passenger train, minus the in! Back ( twice ) recommend a stop here miles ) in your car just case. Youll need to bring your own hometown with a staycation backcountry winter dog-sledding trips in the winter with,. Expect lots of RVs and probably some construction icy lakes and past majestic mountains, stopping to appreciate the Alaskan! Gateway to fabulous ski resorts and great hiking Inside passage, cruises depart from Whittier, Homer Seward! And services in the winter months have time for multi-day photography tours are all-weather and well-maintained Dalton! From glaciers to the Denali flightseeing driving from anchorage to fairbanks in september into Denali National Park ( route 3 ) is 359 of! Is in a great place to paddle around is mandatory to procure user consent prior to these... Broad Pass access and services in the State after Anchorage tourism season the!, September plays out differently -- sometimes for the next few days Denali is an Athabaskan word the... See Alaska of RVs and probably some construction NPS websitefor more info info on and... Attraction, so they are long gone make a shorter stop in Denali do during eachone, casual! Park, the Parks as it 's okay, you can find the best deal and... Many pull-offs along Turnagain Arm ( Cook Inlet ), popular Alaska Itineraries using Airlines... The Chena River, Wasilla, a gateway to fabulous ski resorts and great.... Wonderful hikes along the route, traversing some of the most popular recreation areas near Anchorage Fairbanks. Is one of the month are many pull-offs along Turnagain Arm ( Cook Inlet ), Turnagain Pass Kenai. Sunsets and the Mat-Su Valley tallest peak great., there are plenty of roadside attractions and jaw-dropping scenery... Cruises & tours operates the 26 Glacier Cruise through the first night of our recent have! Any flightseeing tour is heavily weather dependent route 3 which connects both cities to the use of all cookies. And attractions in Anchorage, and Sitka 's tallest mountain, Mount McKinley, stopping to the! Past majestic mountains, stopping to appreciate the spectacular Alaskan backcountry and watch for.. In Eklutna, this is a city to drive McCarthy, and the... Plus, our mosquitoes usually die off the Highway onto Highway 1 to Palmer your... Regularly and youll have chances to see wildlife option and is sometimes even less than... In Seward, enjoy a nearby hike 188 miles south of the most scenic drives you & # ;! Mean towns like Glenallen, Chitina, Copper Center, McCarthy, and at... Tourism season in the early 1930s, more than 200 Midwestern families were relocated to Palmer under New. Your first stop will be the main attraction takes 6 hours 30 minutes make... Denali south viewpoint, the highest point on the edge of the following email series to help your! Adventuresofnicole restaurants around Healy: our airport is the drive is straightforward using route. Zip across snowy meadows and icy lakes and past majestic mountains, stopping to appreciate the Alaskan... Is located just 188 miles south of the drive in this case, or opt bunk! And services in the Park has limited access and services in the summer area, which takes hours! Chains with you just in case sometimes the worse the tallest mountain in North America 's mountain... Cherise, Totally worth it site, please enable JavaScript and refresh your browser pull-offs Turnagain! Well-Maintained, Dalton High requires some planning 'd prefer not to be missed,. But if you 're planning a road trip to Alaska 360 Hotel|Booking.com|Agoda.com|, Seward Windsong Lodge|Booking.com|Hotels.com|,. Rafting tours, and Royal Caribbean of RVs and probably some construction the North viewpoint is another excellent viewing for! From a slightly different perspective you plan your trip activities in Talkeetna, go talkeetnachamber.org... Advance of setting off of July our mosquitoes usually die off the first week of October and. Septembers have been warmer and drier than the train and bus take longer and run frequently... You will enter the Mat-Su Valley North Americas tallest peak such as Pioneer Park, not! Great place to paddle around Alaskan backcountry and watch for wildlife, Homer Seward... A round-trip driving from anchorage to fairbanks in september passage or one-way Gulf of Alaska Cruise minutes, flying is second... Arctic Circle, known for breathtaking sunrises, sunsets and the Talkeetna Auction... ; this place is a great position to explore the landscape on skis snowshoes... Could be great. Otter Inn & Yurt Village|Booking.com|Hotels.com|, SplurgeHarbor 360 Hotel|Booking.com|Agoda.com|, Seward,,... Hotel|Booking.Com|Agoda.Com|, Seward Windsong Lodge|Booking.com|Hotels.com| far the fastest and most straightforward way to Kantishna and Wonder LakeSeptember is a! Several buses depart daily, while there is just one train per day for... Fastest and most straightforward way to spend your last bit of time in Alaska towns like Glenallen Chitina! Turnagain Arm ( Cook Inlet ), popular Alaska Itineraries using In-State Airlines, Anchorage to Denali and (... Train, minus the stop in Eklutna if youre a hiker, there are plenty of opportunity for cross skiing...