Hey there, fellow adventure seekers! Ready to embark on the ultimate Alaska road trip? We’re about to dive into an epic two-week itinerary that’ll knock your socks off… or make you change into your hiking boots. I think spending two weeks driving through the core of Alaska and visiting National and State Parks is one of the greatest summer trips, and it’s so different from how many visitors see Alaska for the first time.
Let’s kick things off by stating the obvious: Alaska is HUGE! Alaska is a big, beautiful behemoth of a place. It’s the biggest state in the US, and trust me, it takes some serious planning to see even a fraction of it. Now, don’t get me wrong – you can’t see it all in one trip (unless you’ve got a few months and a magic carpet). Our two-week itinerary is going to give you a taste of Alaska that’ll leave you craving more (we always aim to want you to return). If you have any questions about this travel plan or need help sorting it out to work with your own schedule or preferences, feel free to leave a comment or send us a note. We’re happy to share more!
Alaska Road Trip 101
If you’re a first-timer, you might want to start with a one-week Alaska road trip, but if you’ve got the time and the wanderlust, this two-week adventure is where it’s at. We’re talking varied landscapes, breathtaking experiences, and memories that’ll last a lifetime. Feel free to tweak this itinerary to fit your style. As someone who used to call Alaska home, I’ve crafted this plan to give you a perfect mix of adventure and chill time, culture and wildlife. Trust me, you’re gonna love it!
Alright, let’s chat about some need-to-know stuff before we dive into the itinerary. When you do two weeks in Alaska, let me tell you: it will be incredible, but you’ll be wiped out at the end of it! Between the boats and the hiking and biking, there’s a lot of activity. So, here’s a pro tip: when you’re planning your trip, make sure to schedule in some downtime. It’s super easy to get caught up in the excitement and try to cram everything in, but trust me, you’ll enjoy your trip way more if you give yourself a day or two to just soak it all in and recharge those batteries.
Choosing Your Alaskan Adventure
Now, with a state as massive as Alaska, how do you decide where to go? Most folks I talk to have only seen Alaska from a cruise ship, but that’s not what we’re doing here on this two week Alaska itinerary. Nope, we’re diving into the heart of mainland Alaska!
Our two-week journey will take us through the Kenai Peninsula, Anchorage, the MatSu Valley (that’s short for Matanuska-Susitna), and up into the Interior with Denali National Park and Fairbanks. This route is awesome because you can fly into a major airport (ANC) and do a one-way car rental to Fairbanks (FAI). You can also drive back down to Anchorage to fly home and it will only add one day to your plans. Luckily our two week Alaska itinerary has the flexibility to do that.
Now, if you’re thinking about adding Southeast Alaska spots like Juneau, Haines, or Sitka to your trip, that’s a whole different ballgame. Those places involve car ferries (the Alaska Marine Highway System) or cruise ships, and they’re really better suited for a separate trip. If you’re dead set on combining them with a mainland visit, either add another week or trim some destinations from our itinerary. Just remember, they’re two very different types of adventures.
Packing for Alaska: Be Prepared for Anything!
Alright, let’s talk packing. We’re assuming you’re doing this two-week Alaska trip in summer or early fall. Here’s the deal: Alaska’s weather can be as unpredictable as a moose in a China shop. One minute you’re basking in the sun, the next you’re caught in a chilly drizzle. The key? Layers, my friend. Lots and lots of layers. Even on the long summer days when you never see the sun go down, you may have a very chilly experience… or you’ll be sweating like the summer of 2004 when it was over 80 degrees for 40+ days…
Here’s a pro tip from someone who’s lived there: leave the shorts at home. I know, I know, it sounds crazy. But trust me, even on warm days, you’ll be more comfortable (and better protected from mosquitoes) in lightweight pants. I always still bring shorts with me and usually only put then on once, even over two weeks in Alaska. They’re just not practical.
Don’t forget to pack both regular shoes and hiking boots. Even if you’re not planning on scaling any mountains, a lot of flat trails and nature walks can get muddy. Better safe than sorry! I usually have my hiking boots, gym shoes and a pair of Keens or rough sandals.
And about bear spray – you can’t fly with it, but you can rent or buy it once you’re in Alaska. Most of the National Park sites you’ll see during your two week Alaska trip are places that bears are extremely common. Bear safety is important, and for some travelers that includes bear spray, but not for all. Check out Alaska Bear Spray Rental for more info. Arrange Alaska Bear Spray Rental here!
Driving in Alaska: Keep Your Eyes on the Road
The number one rule for driving in Alaska is to pay attention! You’ll be covering a lot of ground on this two week Alaska road trip, and while the roads are usually better than you might expect, you’ll still encounter the occasional pothole. And you’ll be distracted by the beautiful scenery (I’m guilty of it too).
But here’s the real kicker: wildlife. I’ve had bears, moose, caribou, porcupines, and foxes dart across the road in front of my car… but I’ve never hit one. Why? Because I stay alert. So keep those peepers peeled and you’ll be just fine! Remember that in spring and late summer when there is a sunset, animals tend to make their way back to their dens or homes, so twilight can be a very active time for wildlife on the roadways.
Two Week Alaska Road Trip Itinerary
Now, without further ado, let’s dive into this epic two week Alaska itinerary! Remember, change it up as you see fit and if you’re not jazzed about some of my suggestions, you don’t have to do them, but if you want a tried and true travel plan that I’ve personally done, this is all set, ready to go out of the box. Have fun!
Day 1: Anchorage – Your Alaskan Adventure Begins!
Welcome to Anchorage, the gateway to your Alaskan adventure! This city is a gem, and you could easily spend several days exploring. But with so much to see in the next two weeks, we’re going to hit the highlights.
First stop: the Alaska Native Heritage Center. This place is a must-visit to learn about the incredible peoples who’ve called Alaska home for thousands of years. Next up, swing by the Anchorage Museum. You’ll get a crash course in Anchorage and Alaska history, plus see some amazing art that’ll get you pumped for your journey. I love the oil paintings of Alaskan wildlife and landscapes.
If you’ve got more time in Anchorage, check out our 4 Day Anchorage Itinerary for extra ideas. But for now, get some rest – tomorrow, we hit the road!
Sleep in: Anchorage – there are lots of great hotels downtown and midtown. We can recommend the Hilton Anchorage, the Copper Whale Inn or the Highliner Hotel (each price point)
Day 2: Turnagain Arm to Homer – Scenic Drive and Finding Your Vibe
Rise and shine, adventurers! Today’s a big driving day, but don’t worry because it’s packed with amazing stops and really isn’t too crazy long of a drive. As you cruise along Turnagain Arm, keep your eyes peeled for moose, bears, eagles, and even beluga whales (depending on the season). Turnagain Arm is the water that reaches from the Cook Inlet to where the Kenai Peninsula connects to the mainland.
Make pit stops at Beluga Point, Bird Point, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. If time allows, swing by Portage Lake for a glacier cruise and a little learning at the Chugach National Forest visitor center. As you continue towards Homer, pop into Cooper Landing and Soldotna. Just before Homer, don’t miss Anchor Point – the westernmost highway point in North America.
Once you reach Homer, take some time to explore the famous Homer Spit. It’ll probably still be light out (gotta love those long Alaskan summer days), so stretch your legs with a stroll or just kick back at your accommodations. One of the icons of the Homer Spit is the Salty Dawg Saloon. It’s full of tourists, but that’s okay because that’s you too!
Pro tip: If you’re up for an extra adventure, leave Anchorage early and detour through the Whittier Tunnel for a cruise into Prince William Sound. The Phillips 26 Glacier Cruise is really remarkable, or the Lazy Otter Blackstone Bay tour is cool too and does a shore landing on their tour.
Sleep in: Homer – there are some really cool lodges and B&Bs here!
Day 3: Homer – Fishing and Exploring
Today’s all about embracing the Homer lifestyle, and you can decide what that means to you. If you’re into fishing, book a deep-sea adventure to catch some world-famous halibut or salmon in Kachemak Bay. Trust me, this is bucket-list stuff for anglers. Even if it’s not your jam but you’re a little interested, getting out on the water and seeing how this all happens is really cool.
Not a fishing fan? No worries! Homer is drop-dead gorgeous, and there’s plenty to do. How about a guided tour to or kayaking at Kachemak State Park? It’s like the secret backside of Kenai Fjords National Park, with beautiful kayaking spots, moderate hiking trails, glaciers, and tons of wildlife.
End your day back on the Homer Spit. Browse the quirky shops, have a dinner of fresh seafood, and don’t forget to grab a drink at the Salty Dawg Saloon if you haven’t yet. Yeah, it’s touristy, but it’s awesome and if you look hard enough I’m sure you’ll find the dollar bills that I’ve left in the past.
Day 4: Ninilchik, Kenai, and Skilak Lake – Small Town Charm and Natural Wonders
Time to say goodbye to Homer and continue our two week Alaska road trip itinerary. First stop: Ninilchik Village. Check out the picturesque Russian Orthodox Church and hit the beach (yes, Alaska has beaches!) to spot eagles and bears. I don’t prefer to swim here because it’s so cold, but you do you.
Next up is Kenai, where you’ll find another beautiful Russian Orthodox Church and a quaint village area and some good lunch options. For a unique wildlife spotting opportunity, head north of the small airport to try and catch a glimpse of caribou. This is one of the few places you can sometimes see caribou outside of Interior Alaska.
As you continue your journey, take a detour onto Skilak Lake Road. The Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area is a hidden gem. Hike the Hidden Creek Trail or kayak on Skilak Lake. This place holds a special place in my heart – it’s where I first went camping on the Kenai Peninsula, so I will always stop at Skilak Lake to at least watch for wildlife even if I don’t get to go camping.
Sleep in: Cooper Landing – there are quite a few fishing and rafting outfitters that also have lodges and cabins. The Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge is also here, just above the Kenai River. I used to work here, so it’s my top pick.
Day 5: Russian River and Kenai River – Fish On!
Today’s one of my favorite days of the whole trip! We’re hitting up the Russian and Kenai Rivers, two spots I practically lived on when I called Cooper Landing home. Start your day with the Russian River Falls hike. Keep your eyes peeled for salmon and bears, and don’t forget to look up – bald eagles love to hang out in the trees along the river. While wildlife is never a guarantee, this is a spot that I might change that tune…
For the afternoon, you’ve got options. If you’re into fishing, book a guide for some world-class trout and salmon fishing on the Kenai River. Not a fisherman? No problem at all. When I first moved here I wasn’t either, but I really got into it. If you’re not fishing, take a scenic rafting trip instead. The Kenai is perfect for first-timers or families with beautiful views no crazy rapids. It’s fun, but not scary.
End your day with a scenic drive to Seward. The Sterling Highway to the Seward Highway is gorgeous, with plenty of chances to spot wildlife. Keep those eyes peeled for moose and trumpeter swans, particularly at Tern Lake and Trail Lake.
Sleep in: Seward – the Seward Windsong Lodge is the nicest accommodations option in Seward. It’s in a great location and the rooms are comfortable after a long day. You’ll have three nights in Seward.
Day 6: Seward – Marine Life and Glaciers Galore!
Welcome to Seward, where you’re surrounded by mountains, eagles and otters. Today’s itinerary is flexible depending on when you’ve booked your Kenai Fjords National Park boat tour. If that’s not today, here’s what we’ve got planned:
Start your day at the Alaska SeaLife Center. It’s like an aquarium, research center, and animal rehab facility all rolled into one. You’ll learn tons about marine wildlife and conservation. This is a great activity if your day is starting with wet weather. When you’re done at the Alaska SeaLife Center, walk along the waterfront watching for wildlife and checking out the sights (Iditarod Mile 0 and the like…) and then grab some lunch downtown.
Check out our 3 Day Seward Itinerary!
After lunch, head to Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. You can hike the challenging Harding Icefield Trail or take a shorter trail to the glacier’s edge. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a guided hike on the icefield itself – it’s not for beginners, but it’s unforgettable! If you are planning on hiking ON the icefield, be sure that you have the right gear and that you know what you’re doing.
Another option is a rafting trip on the Resurrection River. The valley is stunning and totally different from what you’ve seen so far. Cap off your day with dinner and a show at the World Famous Salmon Bake (it’s pretty good) or enjoy Resurrection Roadhouse at the Seward Windsong Lodge.
Day 7: Kenai Fjords National Park – The Crown Jewel
Rise and shine, early birds! Today’s the day for your Kenai Fjords National Park boat tour, and trust me, it’s worth the early wake-up call. This is hands-down one of the best tours in Alaska. You’ll spot whales, puffins, sea lions, and see massive glaciers calving right before your eyes. Lunch is served onboard, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure and a camera. Dress warmly, because even on a sunny day it can be chilly in front of a tidewater glacier.
After your cruise, you’ve got options. Take a stroll around downtown Seward, hit up another hiking trail, or splurge on a helicopter flightseeing tour. If you’re up for more hiking, try the Tonsina Creek Trail or Lost Lake Trail for some jaw-dropping scenery. Or, if you’re feeling hardcore, tackle the Mount Marathon trail, but maybe not if it’s the 4th of July as that’s when there’s the big run on the mountain.
For the ultimate adventure, check out Seward Helicopter Tours’ glacier landing trip that includes dog sledding on Godwin Glacier. It was my first time meeting the sled dogs up on a glacier, and let me tell you, it was a blast. It’s not a long adventure, but if it’s been on your bucket list to try dogsledding, this is a great way to experience it.
Day 8: Palmer and the State Parks – Mountain Magic
Today as we continue our two week Alaska road trip we’re heading to Palmer, a place that feels like it’s on the verge of becoming Alaska’s next big destination. Surrounded by the Chugach Mountains on one side and the Talkeetna Mountains on the other, it’s a gateway to some seriously epic glaciers and really beautiful views. This is also where the Alaska State Fair happens at the end of August.
Our first stop is one of my favorite hiking spots in all of Alaska: Hatcher Pass. We’ll explore Independence Mine State Historical Park and hike the short but intense Gold Cord Lake Trail. Trust me, the view at the top is worth every step! Even into summertime the lake can be partially frozen, even though there’s no snow anywhere else.
After lunch at the charming Hatcher Pass Lodge, we’ll hit one more trail. You can choose between the fairy tale-like Lane Basin Trail in Archangel Valley or the scenic Gold Mint Trail. Either way, you’re in for a treat. The Lane Basin Trail is easier, and is one of my kids’ favorite Alaska hiking spots. On your way back to Palmer, don’t forget to stop at Turner’s Corner for the best ice cream in Alaska. My personal favorite? Rainbow!
Sleep in: Palmer – you’ve got two nights here.
Day 9: Glacier Adventures – Choose Your Own
Today’s all about glaciers! We’ve got a few options depending on your adventure level, energy and budget:
- Guided glacier trekking on Matanuska Glacier: Strap on some crampons and explore crevasses up close. It’s an unforgettable experience, and totally doable even for kids!
- Knik River Valley ATV adventures: Zoom through the valley on a 4×4 or side-by-side ATV. The views are killer, and splashing through streams is way more fun than you’d expect.
- Helicopter tour with glacier landing: If you’re feeling fancy (and brave), this is the way to go. Landing on a glacier and trekking around an ice lake? It doesn’t get cooler than that (pun intended)!
If these options are a bit steep for your budget, no worries! Palmer has tons of other fun stuff to do, like visiting the Musk Ox Farm or the Reindeer Farm. Or hey, sometimes just relaxing in a downtown park with a slice of pizza is exactly what you need.
Check out our 3 Day Palmer Itinerary for more ideas!
Day 10: Hatcher Pass to Talkeetna – Scenic Drive and River Fun
Today we’re crossing Hatcher Pass from Fishhook to Willow. It’s a gorgeous drive with plenty of scenic stops for wildlife spotting or quick hikes. Don’t forget to grab that ice cream at Turner’s Corner if you missed it earlier! Once you cross the pass, we’ll stop in Willow for a chill scenic float on Willow Creek. It’s perfect for families and photographers looking to dip their toes into the backcountry. And don’t worry, it’s super mellow, so if you’ve been nervous about rafting, this is your chance!
After your float, head to Talkeetna for lunch. This quirky town is a treat to explore on foot. Check out the local shops, sample some Alaskan brews, and enjoy Denali views from the Susitna River park. If you’re lucky, you may even meet the Mayor of Talkeetna (a cat). Did you know a celebrity cat was a part of the two week Alaska road trip plan?
For an easy afternoon activity, hike around the XYZ Lakes (also known as Talkeetna Lakes). Keep an eye out for moose because these trails are as full of them as they can be. You could also rent a kayak and paddle around here at the XYZ Lakes if you want. It’s one of the best spots for it between Anchorage and Fairbanks for kayaking. If you’re up for one more adventure, try a jet boat tour on the Susitna River. It’s a popular activity for good reason zooming upriver is a total blast!
Day 11: Denali State Park to Denali Village – Hiking Heaven
Today’s all about hiking and soaking in as many beautiful Alaskan views as possible, weather dependent. We’ll spend the morning in Denali State Park, making our way north towards Denali National Park. There are tons of scenic pullouts and trails, so take your time and enjoy the journey. If it’s the mountain, Denali, is out, you’re going to want to stop at each lookout possible.
For a good workout with an amazing payoff, try the Curry Ridge Trail in Denali State Park. On a clear day, you’ll get an awesome view of Denali (formerly known as Mt. McKinley, BUT IT IS NOT THAT NOW AND WON’T BE). If you’re looking for something easier, the Byers Lake Trail is a beautiful, flat loop around the lake and this is a good opportunity for wildlife viewing.
Plan to hit Denali Village around lunchtime. Grab a bite, then either explore the souvenir shops or head straight into the National Park for your first hike. The Horseshoe Lake Trail, Rock Creek Trail, or Mountain Vista Trail are all great options to start with and you can drive to these. That’s right, nearly the full time that Denali National Park’s road is open it’s restricted to the buses, so take advantage of the hiking you can do within the first 15 miles of the park.
Sleep in: Denali or Healy – there are lots of lodges and some random vacation rentals, so being close to the park is easy. This is an expensive area for lodging, so plan your budget to pay a premium around Denali. I like the McKinley Chalet Resort and the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge.
Day 12: Denali National Park Safari – Wildlife and Tundra Hiking
Today’s the day we’ve been waiting for – our journey deep into Denali National Park! If you planned ahead and snagged a spot on the Tundra Wilderness Tour or the Denali Natural History Tour, you’re in for a treat. These guided bus tours take you way beyond where regular cars are allowed to go. The Wilderness Safari is the farthest narrated tour into the park, but when the Park Road reopens fully in 2027 (I think it’ll be 2026) the shuttle buses go all the way to Wonder Lake.
If you couldn’t book those (they fill up months in advance), don’t sweat it! The Transit Bus is a great alternative. It follows the same route, just without the fancy narration. No matter how you get in, keep those eyes peeled for wildlife. Bears, caribou, moose, owls, foxes… you never know what you might see! And of course, we’re all crossing our fingers for a clear view of Denali itself. This may be the highlight of your two week Alaska road trip.
Check out our 3 Day Denali National Park Itinerary!
If your bus trip was in the morning, head back into the park on your own for some short hikes along the Park Road. The Savage River or Mountain Vista trails are great options, but then the coolest thing about hiking in Denali National Park is that off-trail hiking is recommended! You can explore the tundra on foot, varying your path and experiencing the wilderness apart from it all. It’s amazing to do.
End your day with dinner in Denali townsite or catch the Music of Denali dinner theater for some local entertainment. In 20 years the show is still witty and the food is still good.
Day 13: More Denali Hiking and Off to Fairbanks
Before we say goodbye to Denali, let’s squeeze in one more hike. If you haven’t done it yet, the Horseshoe Lake Trail is a great option and is very doable in the morning. I’ve seen tons of wildlife over the years here, including moose, bear and foxes! For the more adventurous if you haven’t done it yet, try some off-trail hiking. Denali is so unique in that it actually encourages visitors to explore beyond the maintained trails. Just be sure to read up on safety tips before you head out.
Around lunchtime, we’ll hit the road for Fairbanks. Keep an eye out for those scenic pullouts along the Parks Highway. Alaska’s beauty never stops and the drive to Fairbanks is wonderful. Once you reach Fairbanks, you can either crash at your hotel or rent some kayaks for a relaxing paddle. You’ve earned it after all this adventure!
Sleep in: Fairbanks – you can stay in the main city area or any number of cabin resorts and lodges around Fairbanks. You’ll be here for two nights.
Day 14: Fairbanks and Chena Hot Springs
After two weeks of non-stop adventure, I bet you’re ready for some R&R. Fairbanks is the perfect place for it! Start your day with a visit to the University of Alaska Museum of the North or Pioneer Park. If you’re still craving water activities, take a relaxing riverboat trip on the Chena River or there are several kayak rentals and guides. Another kind of random thing to do, but also interesting, is so check out the famous Alaska Pipeline. It’s not a beautiful sight, but it’s a big part of life in AK.
But the real highlight of Fairbanks? Chena Hot Springs, baby! Soak those tired muscles in the natural hot springs, tour the Aurora Ice Museum, and maybe even check out the sled dog kennel. It’s the perfect way to cap off our epic Alaskan adventure.
Wrapping Up Two Week Alaska Road Trip
And just like that, our two-week Alaska road trip comes to an end. From the fjords of the Kenai Peninsula to the wilds of the Interior, we’ve covered some serious ground! Hopefully you’ve seen lots of Alaskan wildlife and enjoyed the landscapes.
Depending on how you booked your travel, you might be dropping your rental car in Fairbanks or driving it back to Anchorage. If you’re heading back to ANC, don’t worry, that six-hour drive down the Parks Highway is a great chance to relive all the amazing memories you’ve made. Other options? You could take the train from Fairbanks back to Anchorage (talk about a scenic route!) or fly directly home from Fairbanks (FAI).
I hope you’re as pumped about this trip as I am just thinking about it! Alaska holds such a special place in my heart, and I love nothing more than sharing it with fellow adventurers. If you have any questions about planning or want to share your own Alaska tips, drop a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to help make your Alaska dreams a reality!
Remember, this itinerary is just a starting point. Feel free to tweak it to fit your interests and travel style. The most important thing is that you get out there and experience the magic of Alaska for yourself. Trust me, once Alaska gets under your skin, you’ll be planning your next trip before you even leave!
