Driving to Alaska—like living in Alaska itself—is a total adventure. Enjoy the trip, and don't forget to stop and enjoy the scenery every once in a while! It's a long drive, but well worth it.
People Also Ask
Most visitors spend seven to fourteen days in Alaska. Much of this decision depends on where you want to go and how you're getting around. Cruising is one of the most popular ways to visit Alaska – especially for first-time visitors – with most cruises lasting seven to ten days.
While you can make the drive in as little as 3 days, we recommend planning for a week of driving so you can take your time and fully experience the stunning scenery, campgrounds, lodges, and wildlife along the way. Ready to start planning your journey North to Alaska?
Many visitors want to know if you can drive to Alaska on the Alaska Highway. The answer is yes! If you drive to Alaska you must drive through Canada. If you drive to Alaska you will need to drive through the province of British Columbia and the Yukon Territory.
Under Alaska State Statutes:You are not required to obtain an Alaska driver's license or learners' permit if you have a driver's license from another U.S. state, country or an international driver's license, since you are deemed to be here on a temporary or non-permanent basis.
It is a dirt road, but you should not need 4 wheel drive in the summer (if seen plenty of motorcycles and RVs) but it is a good idea to have a 4x4/awd if you plan to stay in Alaska. The road closes in the winter and it likely not passable (a part from snow machine).
Can I take a train from Seattle or Vancouver to Alaska? No.At this time there is no connecting rail between Canada or the Lower 48 and Alaska. The Alaska Railroad travels between Fairbanks and Anchorage, Seward and Anchorage, and Whittier and Anchorage.
There are several ways to get to Alaska, including flying, taking the ferry, or driving. Of these, by far the quickest and most popular is flying into Anchorage.
The best time to see the aurora borealis in Alaska is from August 21 to April 21. We call it the Aurora Season. So yes, there are some very lucky cruise passengers who will see the northern lights in the Inside Passage late in the summer and fall, but don't bank on it.