ALASKA BEST OF

Gateway to the wild nature of Alaska, Anchorage rises between the waters of Cook Inlet and the snow-capped peaks of the Chugach Mountains, framed by a unique northern light. Though it is the state's largest city, it retains a frontier feel: from downtown you may spot moose crossing the streets and, on clear days, glimpse the profile of Denali, the highest peak in North America, on the horizon. Walking the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail leads between ocean and forest, while the museum devoted to native cultures tells the ancestral soul of this land. From here, excursions set out toward glaciers, fjords and boundless parks, with sightings of bears, whales and northern lights. Anchorage is the ideal starting point for Arctic adventure.

You travel along the Seward Highway, a scenic coastal road carved into the side of the Chugach Mountains. Also known as the National Forest Scenic Byway, it follows the first 50 miles along the arm of the sea that extends inland from Turnagain Bay and leads to Seward, passing through bays, glaciers, and alpine valleys. Seward looks out over the deep waters of Resurrection Bay, set among the snow-capped mountains of the Kenai Peninsula in southern Alaska. This port town is famous as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where tidewater glaciers, dramatic fjords and the vast Harding Icefield form one of the most spectacular landscapes in the state. Wildlife cruises depart from the harbour, offering the chance to spot whales, sea lions, otters and colonies of puffins, while the Alaska SeaLife Center brings the region's marine life up close. Hikers can walk to Exit Glacier, one of the few glaciers reachable directly on foot. Between excursions, fishing and the authentic atmosphere of the Far North, Seward is an unforgettable stop for travellers exploring Alaska.

The drive from Seward to Talkeetna follows the Seward Highway (Alaska Route 1) and the George Parks Highway (Alaska Route 3) for about 220–230 miles (350–370 km), taking roughly 6–7 hours without stops. The route offers spectacular scenery, traveling from the Gulf of Alaska through fjords, mountains, and river valleys into the forested and mountainous interior near Talkeetna. Scenic stops along the way include the Kenai River, Beluga Point, and Turnagain Arm, before reaching Talkeetna, a charming historic town and gateway for excursions into the Alaska Range. Talkeetna is a picturesque village in central Alaska, at the confluence of three rivers, famed as the main departure base for expeditions and scenic flights toward Denali, the highest peak in North America. Its eccentric historic centre, with wooden cabins, restaurants and artists' shops, retains a bohemian, timeless atmosphere, so much so that it inspired television series. From here depart flights for glacier landings, rafting and wildlife watching. Between majestic mountains, pioneer spirit and rustic charm, Talkeetna is an Alaskan gem.

The drive from Talkeetna to Denali National Park takes place mainly along the George Parks Highway (Alaska Route 3) for approximately 150–160 miles (about 240–260 km) and requires around three hours of driving without stops, depending on traffic and road conditions. It is a scenic route through Alaska’s interior, with broad views of boreal forests and river valleys and, on clear days, glimpses of the Alaska Range and Mount Denali as you approach the destination. Along the way, travelers can stop for photo opportunities at scenic viewpoints and in areas such as Byers Lake, or pause in small communities and service areas before reaching the park, where the landscape opens up to the towering mountains and wild nature of the region. Denali immediately conjures the image of Alaska's wilderness, dominated by the mountain of the same name which, at 6,190 metres, is the highest peak in North America. Denali National Park and Preserve protects a vast expanse of tundra, forests, glacial rivers and mountain ranges, home to grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves and Dall sheep. A single road runs through the heart of the park, and shuttle buses allow visitors to venture deep into the landscape, spotting wildlife in its natural habitat. Adventure seekers can enjoy hiking, scenic flights over the glaciers, white-water rafting and guided excursions, while on clear northern nights it is sometimes possible to admire the northern lights. An unmissable stop on any journey through the Far North, Denali offers an authentic and majestic encounter with untamed nature.

The drive from Denali National Park to Anchorage follows the scenic Parks Highway (Alaska Route 3) south for about 240–250 miles (380–400 km) and typically takes around 4 to 5 hours without long stops. The road is fully paved and well-maintained, winding through classic Alaskan landscapes of dense forests, wide river valleys, and towering mountain ranges. Along the way you pass small towns such as Cantwell, Talkeetna, Willow, and Wasilla, and you’ll have frequent opportunities for scenic views of the Alaska Range and possibly wildlife along the roadside. The route is straightforward and one of the most beautiful highway drives in Alaska, making the journey itself an enjoyable part of the overall experience. If you want a more scenic detour or photo stops, there are viewpoints and small nature areas along the highway, making the return trip both relaxing and visually rewarding.