Doesn’t every RV enthusiast dream of an Alaska road trip? Living one year in south-central Alaska has allotted me to explore some amazing places. This post will mostly focus on an ideal road trip for a short amount of time. Make sure to check out the following destinations, if you find yourself road tripping the 49th state.
Anchorage
Anchorage is the most populated city in Alaska. This city has the most nightlife, conveniences, as well as some great outdoor attractions. If your road trip is starting in Anchorage, I would recommend stocking up here on food, gas, etc. Some of the best places to eat in Anchorage include 49th State Brewery, Middle Way Cafe, Glacier Brewhouse, and Orso.
The more adventurous side of Anchorage involves several different hikes. The most popular is certainly Flat Top which is located in South Anchorage. I suggest Twin Peaks trail or Bird Ridge for those who want more of a challenge and spectacular views. Free camping is actually rather difficult in the city of Anchorage. Thus, it is definitely a must to plan ahead and either pay to camp or plan to camp for free somewhere outside the city of Anchorage. Click HERE for more information about Anchorage.
Seward
Next stop on your road trip should be Seward, AK. Seward is a quaint fishing town that is home to Fjords National Park. From Anchorage, it’s about a three-hour drive along the Seward Highway. Along the way, I highly recommend stopping at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC). Check out all the Alaskan animals including moose, bears, and wolves. Alyeska resort is also on the way to Seward, located in Girdwood, AK. Alyeska is an awesome ski resort which is amazing any time of the year. Take a Gondola to the top of the mountain and eat at the bore tide deli!
Once you get to Seward, I recommend walking along the water and checking out the Sea Life Center. Next, the most popular hike in Seward would have to be Exit Glacier. The hike to the front of the glacier is not difficult and some parts are handicapped accessible. If your up for a more adventurous hike, definitely check out the Harding Ice Fields hike. This is a more challenging 8.2-mile hike that takes you to to the top of the glacier and ice fields.
Cooper Landing
After spending some time in Seward, head towards the Sterling highway and start making your way towards Cooper Landing. You will know when you’re close because the road will begin to wind up and down beautiful stretches of mountain passes with bright sparkling blue lakes and rivers. Take some time to walk along the Kenai Lake or fish for some salmon in the famous Russian River. Always remember you are in bear country so be prepared, safe, and travel in groups.
Homer
Homer is the last stop on this road trip, and is my favorite town in Alaska. Something about when the ocean meets the mountains, just can’t be beat. Homer is a small sleepy town which is most famous for its Halibut fishing. If you have time, I would highly recommend going on a Halibut charter. Its seriously fun and you have the possibility of being able to enjoy halibut for the next few weeks!
Besides the halibut fishing, Homer is also extremely famous for its Spit. The Homer Spit is a large skinny piece of land the stretches out into Kachemak Bay. This land has amazing campgrounds that are worth paying for. There are a few side trips you can take from Homer. A favorite is definitely Seldovia, a cute little town that is only accessible by boat or plane. There is also a good chance you will catch a glimpse of some otters and humpback whales on your boat ride over there. Homer also has a really great art scene. Take a few hours to roam around and wander into some art galleries.
This post is the top of the iceberg when it comes to Alaska road trips. Alaska is the largest state and there is so much to see. I spent a year living there and feel like there is still so much I would like to explore.
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