This Alaska Scenic Byway Is The Road Trip Of A Lifetime

Planning a road trip through Alaska takes you along the 230-mile George Parks Highway, one of the most scenic routes in the state, connecting Fairbanks to Anchorage and the Gulf of Alaska coast. The route passes mountains, rivers, and wilderness, providing access to natural and cultural sites along the way. While it can be driven in a few hours, taking several days allows you to visit destinations like Denali National Park, where glaciers, peaks, and wildlife can be observed. Traveling the highway presents a clear view of Alaska’s interior landscapes and key points of interest, allowing you to experience the diversity of the state’s terrain.

First Stop: Fairbanks

Your journey begins in Fairbanks, a city along the Chena River in the Tanana River Valley. Fairbanks combines modern amenities, such as restaurants, lodging, and museums, with easy access to Alaska’s natural landscapes. In winter, you can travel outside the city to view the Northern Lights, while in summer, activities like guided reindeer walks at Running Reindeer Ranch and riverside trails offer opportunities to see local wildlife and seasonal plants.

The city also has museums where you can learn about Alaska’s history, including its gold rush heritage and native culture. For overnight stays, you can choose downtown hotels with comfortable amenities or the campgrounds at Tanana Valley Campgrounds. If you're traveling by RV, park at Rivers Edge RV Park and Campground, which provides full hookups and a scenic base for exploring Fairbanks.

As you leave Fairbanks, make a stop in Nenana, a small historic town where the old railroads meet the rivers. From there, continue south toward Denali National Park, one of Alaska’s crown jewels.

Denali National Park To Denali State Park

Covering nearly six million acres, about the size of Massachusetts, Denali National Park includes diverse terrain and wildlife, with nearly 40 mammal species and more than 150 types of birds. Vehicle access beyond Savage River is limited, so plan ahead if you want to explore deeper into the park. In summer, animals such as caribou, moose, and wolves can sometimes be seen in open meadows or along streams. Several trails and designated stops, including the Eielson Visitor Center, provide stunning views.

Continuing south, the highway passes Broad Pass, a section of the Continental Divide where rugged peaks rise on all sides. A stop at Hurricane Gulch provides one of the route’s most striking views, with a bridge spanning a deep gorge and mountains extending into the distance.

Further along, Denali State Park, the fourth largest in Alaska and nearly half the size of Rhode Island, includes rivers, ponds, and glacier views along trails such as the Kesugi Ridge and Byers Lake Loop. The park contains several campgrounds and lookout points where you can observe wildlife, including moose, bears, and waterfowl.

Talkeetna To Palmer

As you leave the park area, stop in Talkeetna, a small town that serves as a base for climbers heading to Mount McKinley. The downtown area features historic buildings, rustic shops, and local cafés. Nearby, Nancy Lake State Recreation Area has lakes, marshes, and forests that support several bird species and other wildlife. You can fish, camp, or hike along the designated trails and return to Talkeetna for a meal or to pick up supplies before continuing south.

Your next stop is Wasilla, which offers a mix of outdoor recreation and community amenities. Pay a visit to Hatcher Pass for alpine hiking and to explore its gold mining past. Next, stop at the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race Headquarters to learn about the race’s history and see exhibits on dog sledding. For more attractions nearby, the Wasilla Museum highlights the area’s cultural and historical background. Wasilla's parks and recreation areas also offer endless opportunities for activities before heading further.

The route ends in Palmer, where rivers formed by ancient glaciers flow through farmland with a strong agricultural heritage. While there, you can visit Pioneer Falls, a cascading waterfall, or stop at the Reindeer Farm for a self-guided tour and a chance to interact with Alaskan wildlife. From Palmer, it’s a short drive to Anchorage, where you can see the Gulf of Alaska coastline or explore nearby mountain trails.

George Parks Highway Tips

• Take Your Time: Spending a few days allows you to enjoy the scenery and visit towns along the route.
• Seasonal Considerations: The highway is open year-round, but winter travel requires caution due to snow, ice, and reduced daylight.
• Accommodations: You’ll find hotels, cabins, campgrounds, and RV parks in Fairbanks, Talkeetna, Wasilla, and Palmer.
• Wildlife Safety: Keep a safe distance from animals like bears, moose, and wolves, and never approach or feed them.

Traveling Along Alaska's Most Scenic Byway

From Fairbanks to Anchorage, the George Parks Highway allows you to experience Alaska’s interior at your own pace. Along the route, you’ll pass the winding rivers and rugged mountains near Denali State Park, explore the scenic trails and abundant wildlife of Denali National Park, visit small towns like Talkeetna and Wasilla, and see Palmer’s fertile farms and cascading waterfalls. Each stop highlights a different aspect of the state’s landscapes and communities, providing a well-rounded view of Alaska’s natural and cultural features.