Itinerary for 17 day trip to Alaska

A 17-day road trip through Alaska sounds like an incredible adventure! With its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and unique culture, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and a bit of adventure. Buckle up!

Day 1: Arrive in Anchorage

Morning: Fly into Anchorage. Pick up your rental car and settle into your accommodation.
Afternoon: Explore downtown Anchorage. Visit the to learn about Alaskan history and culture.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Try some fresh salmon or halibut!

Day 2: Anchorage to Seward (2.5 hours)

Morning: Drive to Seward. Stop at the scenic Turnagain Arm for stunning views and maybe spot some beluga whales!
Afternoon: Arrive in Seward and visit the .
Evening: Stroll along the waterfront and have dinner at a cozy local eatery.

Day 3:

All Day: Take a day cruise in . Keep your eyes peeled for glaciers, sea otters, and puffins!
Evening: Return to Seward and relax. Maybe grab some ice cream to cap off the day.

Day 4: Seward to Homer (2.5 hours)

Morning: Drive to Homer, known for its beautiful beaches and artsy vibe.
Afternoon: Explore the , visit local shops, and enjoy the views.
Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant with a view of Kachemak Bay.

Day 5: Homer

All Day: Take a water taxi to for hiking and exploring. Bring a picnic!
Evening: Return to Homer and enjoy a sunset walk on the beach.

Day 6: Homer to Soldotna (1 hour)

Morning: Drive to Soldotna, a great spot for fishing.
Afternoon: Spend the day fishing on the Kenai River or visit the .
Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a local diner.

Day 7: Soldotna to (3 hours)

Morning: Head to , a charming town with a quirky vibe.
Afternoon: Explore the town, visit local shops, and maybe take a flightseeing tour of Denali (weather permitting).
Evening: Have dinner at a local brewery and enjoy some live music.

Day 8: to (2 hours)

Morning: Drive to . Stop at the Denali Visitor Center to get oriented.
Afternoon: Take a shuttle bus into the park for wildlife viewing and stunning scenery.
Evening: Camp or stay in a lodge near the park. Enjoy a campfire if possible!

Day 9:

All Day: Spend the day exploring Denali. Hike one of the trails or take a guided tour to see more of the park.
Evening: Relax and enjoy the starry night sky.

Day 10: Denali to Fairbanks (2 hours)

Morning: Drive to Fairbanks. Stop at the Gold Daughters for a fun gold panning experience.
Afternoon: Visit the .
Evening: Enjoy dinner in Fairbanks and maybe catch the Northern Lights if the conditions are right!

Day 11: Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs (1 hour)

Morning: Head to . Enjoy the scenic drive.
Afternoon: Relax in the hot springs and explore the ice museum.
Evening: Have dinner at the resort and soak in the hot springs under the stars.

Day 12: Chena Hot Springs to Tok (3 hours)

Morning: Drive to Tok, a small town known as the “Gateway to the Alaska Highway.”
Afternoon: Visit the and learn about the area.
Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening and dinner at a local café.

Day 13: Tok to (2 hours)

Morning: Drive to , the largest national park in the U.S.
Afternoon: Explore the park, take a short hike, or go for a scenic drive.
Evening: Camp or stay in a lodge nearby.

Day 14:

All Day: Spend the day hiking, wildlife viewing, or taking a guided tour to see glaciers.
Evening: Enjoy a campfire and share stories with fellow travelers.

Day 15: Wrangell-St. Elias to Valdez (3 hours)

Morning: Drive to Valdez, a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and water.
Afternoon: Visit the .
Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner and take a stroll along the waterfront.

Day 16: Valdez

All Day: Take a day cruise to see the and spot sea lions and otters.
Evening: Return to Valdez and enjoy your last night in this beautiful town.

Day 17: Valdez to Anchorage (5 hours)

Morning: Start your drive back to Anchorage. Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Afternoon: Arrive in Anchorage. Do some last-minute shopping or visit any spots you missed on Day 1.
Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant and reflect on your amazing Alaskan adventure!

Tips:

Always check road conditions and weather forecasts, as they can change rapidly in Alaska.
Make reservations for accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your Alaskan road trip! It’s going to be an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking scenery and adventure. Safe travels! 🏞️🚗✨