An RV trip through Alaska offers the chance to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and encounter the raw beauty of the last frontier at your own pace.
We’ve compiled some of the top sites into a jam-packed, 10-day itinerary, but if time allows, we suggest spending a few days longer in each destination to truly soak up the experience. We’ve included a suggested campground in each spot, but there are numerous campground options in each area offering varying levels of amenities. Just be sure to make reservations ahead of time – especially if you are traveling during the summer season.
Day 1: Anchorage
Road Distance: Your journey starts here!
Begin your Alaskan adventure in Anchorage, the largest city in the state. Explore the city's rich culture at the Alaska Native Heritage Center where you can learn about the state's indigenous tribes. Ride a bike along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, taking in the breathtaking views of the city skyline against the backdrop of beautiful mountains. Don't miss the Anchorage Museum, a world-class museum dedicated to art, history, and science. For dinner, consider Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria, well-known for their handcrafted pizzas and craft beers.
Campground: Centennial Campground
Day 2: Drive to Talkeetna & Denali
Road Distance: 240 miles, approximately 5 hours
Start your journey north to Talkeetna, a small town that offers a panoramic view of the Alaska Range. Stop here for a scenic flight over Denali - an unforgettable experience and to enjoy that artistic flair of this adorable little town. Once you are done exploring, continue on to Denali National Park, the crown jewel of Alaska’s wilderness.
Campground: Riley Creek Campground
Day 3-4: Explore Denali National Park
Spend two days exploring the majestic Denali National Park. From watching grizzly bears and moose to admiring North America's tallest peak, Denali, there's no shortage of wild beauty. Spend a whole day riding the Denali bus to experience true Alaskan wilderness into the park and use your second day to enjoy short day hikes in the area. If you have kids, make sure to check out the daily sled dog demonstration at the park’s kennel – the only dog sled operation in the National Park System!
Campground: Riley Creek Campground
Day 5: Drive to Seward via Palmer
Road Distance: 365 miles, approximately 7 hours
Embark on a scenic drive to Seward, a harbor town offering abundant wildlife, scenic views, and the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Stop by Palmer, an agricultural haven, to visit local farms or the reindeer farm, and enjoy a short hike at Exit Glacier to stretch your legs. If you have additional time on your trip, consider breaking up this journey with a night at Moose Flats near Exit Glacier.
Campground: Resurrection Campground
Day 6: Explore Kenai Fjords National Park
Spend the day immersing yourself in the glacial beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. Go on a glacier and wildlife cruise, hike up the Harding Icefield Trail, or rent kayaks to explore around the Resurrection Bay.
Campground: Resurrection Campground
Day 7: Drive to Anchor Point & Visit Homer
Road Distance: 90 miles, approximately 2 hours
Drive to the small town of Anchor Point and then visit Homer, a charming town known for its vibrant arts scene, fantastic seafood, and stunning Kachemak Bay views.
Campground: Stariski State Recreation Site
Day 8: Explore Homer
Explore Homer further by going on a wildlife cruise, fishing in the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World, or kayaking around the bay. If you’re up for an adventure, consider hiring a boat taxi to take you over to Kachemak State Park to hike up to Glacier Lake. This hike is the perfect day outing. Alternatively, consider a day trip on the passenger ferry to the picturesque town of Seldovia.
Campground: Stariski State Recreation Site
Day 9: Drive to Hope, Whittier & Girdwood
Road Distance: 175 miles, approximately 4 hours
Drive to the quaint town of Hope and then onto Whittier, a city known for its abundance of marine life and surrounded by glaciers. Finish your day in Girdwood, a scenic mountain village with a gondola and ski resort. Definitely pop into the local brewery in Girdwood to enjoy a taste of Alaska while enjoying the view of the stunning glacier over the town.
Campground: Bertha Creek Campground
Day 10: Return to Anchorage
Road Distance: 40 miles, approximately 1 hour
Return to Anchorage to wrap up your journey. If there's time, stop to look for beluga whales along the Cook Inlet during your drive in. Use the remaining part of your day to explore any areas of the city you might have missed, including Chugach State Park or Kincaid Park.
Campground: Centennial Campground
Heading into the Wild
Embarking on this RV trip promises a unique encounter with nature and adventure, one that allows you to dictate the pace and direction of your travel. As you set off on your journey, here are some tips to ensure a safe and memorable RV travel experience:
- Check the Weather: Alaska's weather can be unpredictable. Stay updated on the latest weather forecasts, particularly when planning to drive on challenging routes or embark on outdoor activities.
- Road Safety: Keep in mind that some Alaskan roads can be quite remote. It’s crucial to ensure your RV is in top shape before you set off. Always carry a spare tire, tools for minor repairs, and keep emergency numbers handy.
- Wildlife Encounters: While wildlife encounters add to the Alaskan experience, it's important to remember that these are wild animals. Maintain a safe distance, do not feed them, and store food securely to avoid attracting them to your campsite. Carry bear spray if you plan on hiking, and make sure all food waste is safely stored in your RV before heading out for the day. Also keep a close eye along the road for moose and bears, as they can suddenly appear in front of your car. Drive slowly and be prepared to stop if needed.
With these tips in mind, your journey across the landscapes of Alaska will undoubtedly be a lifetime memory. Here's to the open road and the adventure that awaits in the Last Frontier! Safe travels, explorers.
