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Home » TOURISM NEWS » Essential Tips for Driving on Alaska’s Iconic Highways Safely, What To Know About Thursday, June 26, 2025Driving through Alaska’s vast wilderness is one of the most breathtaking road-trip experiences you can have. From towering mountains to pristine coastlines, the state’s highways offer endless beauty at every turn. But navigating Alaska’s remote roads requires careful planning, especially as weather conditions can change rapidly. Whether you’re heading for a summer adventure or braving the winter chill, these tips will ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected.The Best Time to Drive in AlaskaWhile Alaska’s highways are open year-round, the best time to travel is from May to September. Summer brings long daylight hours, favorable weather, and more open services, making it the ideal time to hit the road. With the midnight sun illuminating your journey, you’ll have ample time to stop for scenic photos, enjoy roadside hikes, and experience local summer events.However, if you plan to drive during the winter months (October to April), be prepared for snow, ice, and limited daylight. The roads can be hazardous, especially in remote areas. Stick to major highways like the Seward or Glenn Highways and ensure your vehicle is winter-ready with snow tires, chains, emergency supplies, and a full gas tank.Safety Tips for Every SeasonNo matter when you visit, safety is always a priority. Here are a few tips to help keep you safe during your Alaskan road trip:Know Your Route: Cell service can be spotty, so download offline maps or carry a paper one. The Milepost guide is a useful resource for navigating Alaska’s roads.Check Road Conditions: Use the Alaska 511 website to stay informed about road closures, construction, or inclement weather.Fuel Up Often: Gas stations can be few and far between, especially in remote areas. Always top up when you can.Rental Car Restrictions: Some rental companies prohibit driving on unpaved roads like the Dalton Highway. Always check your rental contract for restrictions.Drive During Daylight: Driving in the dark, especially in the fall and spring when the days are shorter, can be dangerous. If possible, plan your driving during daylight hours.Respect Speed Limits: Even on quiet highways, sharp turns, wildlife crossings, and sudden weather changes can make speeding dangerous.Bring an Emergency Kit: Pack food, water, blankets, a flashlight, first-aid kit, and a tire repair kit. Even in summer, nights can get cold.Iconic Highways You Shouldn’t MissAlaska offers some of the most scenic drives in the U.S. Here are a few not-to-miss routes for your journey:Seward Highway: This 127-mile stretch from Anchorage to Seward is one of the most scenic in the U.S. It hugs the Turnagain Arm and offers incredible views of the coast, mountains, and forests. Stop at Beluga Point for a photo op or visit the small town of Hope for a bite to eat.Richardson Highway: This historic 368-mile route starts in Valdez and takes you past the Worthington Glacier and Thompson Pass, offering access to the stunning Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.Glenn Highway: Connecting Anchorage to Glennallen, this highway provides panoramic views of the Chugach Mountains and Matanuska Glacier. It’s perfect for a scenic drive with plenty of opportunities for photos.Parks Highway: This main route to Denali National Park connects Anchorage to Fairbanks, passing through charming towns like Talkeetna and Willow. On clear days, you’ll be treated to a view of Denali, North America’s tallest mountain at 20,320 feet.Challenging Roads for the BoldSome of Alaska’s highways are remote and not recommended for inexperienced drivers. These rugged roads are often unpaved and require extra preparation. Consider these routes if you’re up for a real adventure:Dalton Highway: Known for its extreme conditions, this 414-mile gravel road from Fairbanks to Deadhorse is famous for its harsh weather, rough terrain, and lack of services. Make sure your vehicle is stocked with fuel, spare tires, and survival gear before you venture here.McCarthy Road: A 60-mile gravel road that leads into the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. It’s slow-going, with one-lane bridges and bumpy patches, so make sure you’re prepared for tire changes and take extra supplies.Denali Highway: A 135-mile route that connects Paxson and Cantwell, offering spectacular views of the mountains. It’s unpaved and has limited services, so stock up on essentials before hitting the road.Wildlife on the Road: Drive with CautionAlaska is home to diverse wildlife, and sharing the road with moose, caribou, bears, and even wolves is part of the adventure. However, these animals can pose a danger if not handled carefully. Here’s how to stay safe:Slow Down: Always reduce speed when you see wildlife on the side of the road, and be prepared to stop if an animal crosses your path.Pull Over Safely: If you need to stop to observe wildlife, pull over in a safe area—well away from curves and intersections.Stay in Your Vehicle: If you want to watch animals, stay inside your car to avoid scaring them or putting yourself at risk.Never Feed Wildlife: It’s dangerous and illegal. Keep your distance and don’t attract animals with food.Bring Bear Spray: If you plan to hike, especially in bear country, always have bear spray on hand.Conclusion: Enjoying Alaska’s Roads SafelyRoad-tripping through Alaska is a remarkable way to experience its rugged beauty, but preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re cruising along the Seward Highway or tackling the Dalton Highway, following these safety tips will help ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way. With breathtaking landscapes, wildlife sightings, and a sense of adventure at every mile, an Alaskan road trip will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

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