On the road in Alaska between glaciers, moose and bears

Alaska is not a destination for those looking for five-star resorts, village-like entertainment, or golden beaches. Instead, it is the ideal place for those who dream of grandiose landscapes, pristine nature, and close encounters with wildlife.

A road trip in Alaska like the one we propose requires adaptability, planning and a good dose of curiosity. But the reward is immense: 17 days among mountains, fjords, glaciers, moose, killer whales and bears .

Day 1: Anchorage, the starting point

The journey begins in Anchorage, Alaska's most populous city. Although it doesn't shine for architectural charm, it is a good starting point: you can stock up on food, buy the necessary equipment and maybe have dinner with a great sandwich at Humpy's, an authentic local pub.

If you happen to be in town on the weekend, also stop by the Farmers Market to sample local specialties and soak up the city atmosphere. Anchorage is also a great place to shop tax-free and stock up on supplies before heading to the more remote areas, where prices are much higher.

Days 2-4: Denali National Park & ​​Preserve

From Anchorage, head north to Denali National Park , one of the symbols of Alaska. There is no free driving here: from the 15th mile onwards, access is only possible with official buses. It is advisable to book the “Green Bus” in advance to the Eilson Visitor Center (66 miles).

The eight-hour round trip will take you into the heart of magnificent landscapes and give you excellent chances of spotting bears, caribou, moose and foxes, wildlife typical of North America .

During the two days of hiking you can travel along breathtaking trails such as the Alpine Trail , short but with a steep difference in altitude and a view of Mount Denali (if you're lucky and it's not covered by clouds), and the Savage Alpine Trail , longer and more panoramic, with a real possibility of encountering wildlife.

Alpine Trail – about 3 km round trip. Difference in altitude 500 meters, you reach 1500 meters above sea level

It starts right behind the Eilson Visitor Center . The trail is marked as difficult but only because it is all uphill; it is beautiful, panoramic and on clear days offers a splendid view of Mount Denali.

Savage Alpine Trail – 6.4 km, elevation gain approx. 500 metres, challenging

You start at the Savage River campground , around mile 12, and you arrive at mile 15. You could of course do it the other way but the climb would be much much steeper. So leave your car in the parking lot in front of the campground and to go back you take one of the free park buses.

Several pass every hour but ask the rangers for the times to organize your hike. This trail is extremely scenic and you could actually cross paths with a moose or bear along the way so always be careful.

After the hike, it is also worth a visit to the Sled Dog Kennel , where the rangers demonstrate their work with the sled dogs, protagonists of the winter expeditions.

Recommended lodging: Backwoods Lodge in Cantwell , 25 miles from the park, where the crew of Sean Penn's 2007 Oscar-nominated film Into the Wild, based on the true story of Christopher McCandless, also stayed.

The bus where Chris spent his last days was a place of pilgrimage and accidents for several unprepared hikers for years. For this reason it was removed by the Alaska authorities in June 2020.

Day 5: Fairbanks and Chena Hot Springs

From Denali, continue north to Fairbanks, a lively town (by Alaskan standards, that is) with an important university and lower prices than usual: here too, in fact, there are no taxes to calculate on top of the cost of the products purchased and it is therefore an excellent point to stock up on food and more.

Fairbanks' best asset is its location, as nearby there are some natural hot springs that are truly enjoyable to soak in: the Chena Hot Springs , discovered by gold prospectors in 1905.

These natural hot springs are located 60 miles (about 100 km) from downtown Fairbanks, the entrance fee is a few dozen dollars and they have two pools, one indoor and one outdoor. The water in the outdoor pool is over 40 ° and will put you to the test.

In winter it is a wonderful place to observe the Northern Lights but also in summer they are worth the trip. They are an oasis of relaxation that after two days of trekking will give you some well-deserved relaxation.

Along the road that connects Fairbanks to the spa, the Chena River Road , you can encounter several moose: remember to drive with particular attention because, unfortunately, accidents with these animals are very frequent in Alaska and truly dangerous for everyone.

Recommended accommodation: A Suite Alaskan Inn , with a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine and hospitable owners.

Days 6-8: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & ​​Preserve

Leaving Fairbanks, you reach Copper Center . From here, a minibus leaves to take you to the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias , the largest park in the United States . The towns of McCarthy and Kennicott , authentic western villages, offer a dive into the history of the copper rush.

Many buildings have been restored and tell the story of the difficult but cohesive life of the miners and their families.

Don't miss the guided glacier hike with Kennicott Wilderness Guide : eight hours of deep blue glacial lakes and trails on crackling ice. An intense physical and visually unforgettable experience.

Recommended accommodation: Kennicott River Lodge , overlooking the glacier.

To get between McCarthy and Kennicott you can use a public bus ($5 each way), while access to the park is via a pedestrian bridge.

Day 9: Valdez and the Coast

After returning to Copper Center, still by van, you will get back in your car to head towards Valdez. The drive is scenic, with glaciers and waterfalls along the way. In Valdez you can observe black bears , much smaller and calmer than grizzlies and brown bears, while fishing for salmon near the CVEA Hydroelectric Facility.

Also pay attention to the sky to not miss the opportunity to spot the many eagles that fly over the area. This experience is truly one of the most sought after in Alaska: you can in fact see the bears a few meters away while they feed on salmon. Of course, always stay at a safe distance and observe them without disturbing them.

Days 10-12: Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park

Back in Anchorage, take the legendary Seward Highway south. Considered one of the most beautiful roads in the USA, it passes through fjords, forests and pastures. Stop at Moose Creek to watch the salmon run upstream, perhaps with a bear and her cubs nearby.

In Seward, two unique experiences await you: a cruise lasting a few hours with one of the many operators in the area in the Kenai Fjords National Park , with the possibility of spotting orcas, whales, otters, sea lions and cute puffins, and a challenging but spectacular trek on the Harding Icefield .

The panoramic view of the glacier and the possibility of meeting other bears during the climb are worth all the effort required by this route.

Recommended lodging: Murphy's Alaska Inn .

Days 13-16: Homer and Bear Watching at Katmai National Park

The last stop on your trip to Alaska is Homer, a pretty town overlooking Kachemak Bay. The most exciting excursions of the trip start from here: those by seaplane to Katmai National Park to observe brown bears and grizzlies in their habitat.

The flight, lasting about an hour, offers spectacular views of volcanoes and glaciers before landing on a remote beach.

Thus begins a guided trek to discover these splendid wild animals, free and indifferent to the presence – respectful and discreet – of humans. A powerful experience that you will remember forever.

Always follow your guide's directions to stay safe and avoid unpleasant accidents, always remembering that you are a guest in a territory where bears are the absolute rulers.

Recommended accommodation: Laughing Moon Suites .

Day 17: Return to Anchorage

After passing through valleys and forests, you will return to Anchorage for the last night before your return flight. Along the way you can stop in Palmer, where in late summer the most important agricultural fair in Alaska takes place: an authentic American celebration, with farm animals, food stands and an amusement park.

Practical tips for a road trip in Alaska

• Book early : for accommodations, excursions and car rentals. Space is limited and sells out quickly, especially in summer.
• Do your grocery shopping in Anchorage and Fairbanks : prices are lower and you'll find more choice in the city. Recommended supermarket: Carrs.
• Bring technical clothing : the weather changes quickly, even in the middle of summer. You will need waterproof jackets, fleeces and trekking shoes.
• Prepare your own meals : Choosing apartments with kitchens allows you to save significantly.
• Respect nature : Alaska is wild. Observe animals from afar, do not leave waste and always carefully follow the rangers' directions. Do not improvise.
• Be careful when driving : moose and bears often cross the road, even at night. Along the main roads you will notice signs reporting the number of accidents with wild animals: they are there to remind you to always be very very careful.

A road trip in Alaska is not just a journey, but a total immersion in a land still dominated by nature. It will challenge you, surprise you, and move you.

If you love the silence of glaciers, the charm of wide open spaces and close encounters with wild fauna, there is no better place. Alaska is not told: it is lived. And it stays with you forever.