Traveling to Alaska is an adventure that requires more logistical planning than most other domestic destinations. Because of its massive size and unique geography, reaching the Last Frontier involves a combination of air, sea, and land routes. Whether you are planning a summer vacation or need to reach a remote northern outpost, understanding the current transportation landscape is essential for a smooth trip.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to get to Alaska and how to move between its regions once you arrive. We will cover major flight hubs, the legendary Alaska Highway, the coastal ferry system, and the essential bush plane networks that connect the state’s most isolated communities.
Flying to Alaska: The Primary Entry Point
For most travelers, flying is the fastest and most common way to reach Alaska. The state is served by several major airports that act as gateways to different regions. Understanding which hub fits your itinerary will save you significant travel time.
Major International Airports
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is the state’s largest hub. It handles the vast majority of passenger traffic and offers the most frequent connections to the lower 48 states and international locations. If you are heading to the Kenai Peninsula, Denali National Park, or the Mat-Su Valley, this is your primary destination.
Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) serves as the gateway to Alaska’s Interior and the Arctic. It is a popular choice for those looking to see the Northern Lights or those traveling to the northernmost reaches of the state. Fairbanks often has direct flights from Seattle and Minneapolis, especially during the peak summer and winter seasons.
Juneau International Airport (JNU) is unique because the state capital is not accessible by road. All visitors must arrive by air or sea. Juneau serves as the main hub for Southeast Alaska, connecting travelers to smaller coastal towns like Sitka, Skagway, and Haines.
Regional and Local Airlines
Once you are in Alaska, regional carriers take over. Alaska Airlines maintains a robust intrastate network, but smaller operators like Ravn Alaska and Grant Aviation are vital for reaching smaller hubs. These flights are often on smaller turboprop aircraft and are subject to weather delays, so building flexibility into your schedule is recommended.
Driving the Alaska Highway
Driving to Alaska is a bucket-list item for many road trippers. The primary route is the Alaska Highway, also known as the Alcan. This road begins in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, and ends in Delta Junction, Alaska, covering approximately 1,390 miles.
Route Preparation and Logistics
The journey through Canada to Alaska is paved, but it remains a challenging drive. You will encounter long stretches without cell service and limited gas stations. It is standard practice to refuel whenever you see a station, even if your tank is half full, to avoid being stranded between remote outposts.
- Border Crossings: Ensure you have a valid passport and meet all current Canadian entry requirements.
- Vehicle Maintenance: Start with new tires and a fresh oil change. Carry a full-sized spare tire, as gravel breaks and frost heaves can be tough on standard wheels.
- Seasonal Timing: The best time to drive is between late May and early September. Winter driving is possible but requires specialized equipment like studded tires and engine block heaters.
The Cassiar Highway Alternative
For those looking for a more scenic and rugged route, the Stewart-Cassiar Highway (Highway 37) in British Columbia offers an alternative to the main Alcan. It is narrower and has fewer services but provides stunning mountain views and more opportunities for wildlife sightings. It eventually merges with the Alaska Highway near the Yukon border.
The Alaska Marine Highway System
If you prefer the water or want to bring a vehicle without driving thousands of miles, the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) is an excellent option. This state-run ferry system covers 3,500 miles of coastline and serves over 30 communities.
Main Ferry Routes
The ferry system operates in three main zones: the Inside Passage (Southeast), the Cross-Gulf route, and the Southwest/Aleutian chain. The most popular route starts in Bellingham, Washington, and winds through the scenic islands of Southeast Alaska, stopping in Ketchikan, Petersburg, and Juneau.
Life on the Ferry
Unlike commercial cruises, these ferries are a form of public transportation. You can book a cabin for overnight trips, but many travelers choose to “camp” on the solarium deck in sleeping bags. There are dining facilities on board, though options may be limited on smaller vessels. It is a slow, methodical way to travel that allows you to see glaciers and whales from the deck.
Internal Transportation: Moving Within the State
Once you have arrived in one of the major hubs, you have several options for exploring the rest of the state. Your choice will depend on your budget and how much of the wilderness you want to see.
The Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad is world-famous for its scenery. The most popular route is the Denali Star, which runs from Anchorage to Fairbanks with a major stop at Denali National Park. The Coastal Classic takes passengers south from Anchorage to Seward, offering some of the best views of glaciers and coastal mountains available anywhere in the world. The trains offer both standard and premium glass-domed cars.
Bush Planes and Air Taxis
Because the vast majority of Alaska is not connected by roads, bush planes are a way of life. These small aircraft (often Cessnas or Beavers) carry mail, groceries, and passengers to remote villages and wilderness lodges. If you are planning a flight-seeing tour or a remote hunting or fishing trip, you will likely find yourself on an air taxi. These flights usually depart from small airstrips or floatplane bases like Lake Hood in Anchorage.
Rental Cars and Shuttles
In the “Railbelt” region (Anchorage, Fairbanks, and the Kenai Peninsula), rental cars are the most flexible option. However, demand is extremely high in the summer, and prices can be steep. Private shuttle services also operate between major tourist destinations, such as the Park Connection Motorcoach, which links Anchorage with Denali and Seward.
Current Travel Considerations and Updates
Travel in Alaska is heavily influenced by the seasons and environmental conditions. Staying informed about current updates is vital for your safety and convenience.
- Road Construction: Summer is the only time road repairs can happen. Be prepared for “pilot car” delays on major highways like the Parks or Glenn Highways.
- Wildfire Activity: During dry summers, smoke from wildfires can occasionally impact visibility and air quality, particularly in the Interior.
- Booking Windows: Due to limited capacity, it is currently recommended to book Alaska Railroad tickets and ferry space at least six months in advance for summer travel.
Alaska offers some of the most spectacular travel experiences in the world, but it rewards those who do their homework. By choosing the right combination of air, land, and sea routes, you can ensure your journey is as memorable as the destination itself. For more practical advice on navigating unique travel destinations and solving everyday travel hurdles, explore our other guides on outdoor preparation and logistics.